They say Crete is a work of art come to life. The impressionistic landscapes, classical treasures and surrealistic coastlines all combine to paint a picture of spellbinding beauty. It might just be the reason why creative couple Antonis (a Greek artist) and Sofia (a Swedish art curator) built a pair of striking concrete cabins on a hillside surrounded by olive groves.
“The villagers were baffled at first,” says Antonis, whose family have owned the land where Cabanon sits for centuries, “but this is Crete from a new angle.” And what an angle. With a nod to Le Corbusier’s famous home, Cabanon consists of two concrete 1-bedroom cabins with brutalist exteriors that open to soothing, minimalist, open-plan interiors. Each has a compact kitchen, living area, fire stove, bathroom and private terrace. Centre stage is the showstopping floor-to-ceiling window (also your front door) which provides astonishing views of Crete’s northwest coastline.
Surrounded by countryside yet close to the beaches, Cabanon is all about the simple things. Still, you’ll want for nothing. A fully-stocked fridge of local produce awaits on arrival. There’s a ‘help yourself’ organic vegetable garden, plus picnic tables and private hammocks. You won't want to be scrolling here; instead, you’re connected to nature, and the stargazing is out of this world. If you’re looking for something a little less ordinary, Cabanon is unlike anything else you’ll find on Crete.
Highs
- Originality. This is one-of-a-kind accommodation for Crete (and Greece)
- Bewitching views. Your eye never leaves that huge floor-to-ceiling window
- Super-helpful owners Sofia and Antonis will show you all the secret beaches, authentic tavernas and best craft shops
- A fully-stocked fridge of local produce on arrival, plus a ‘help yourself’ organic vegetable garden
- Elegant simplicity. Cabanon is all about unplugging devices and reconnecting with nature and the universe (the stargazing is mesmeric)
Lows
- The two cabins are quite close together, slightly compromising your privacy. (This is being rectified with the planting of divider trees)
- Taller guests will find the compact bathroom a challenge
- No swimming pool, but secluded beaches are a stone's throw away
- No kids under 12. To be honest, this is a couples’ retreat
Best time to go
Crete is stunning no matter the time of year, but to experience the island in all its glory visit in the shoulder seasons of April-May, when the land is in full bloom, or late September-October, when the summer hordes have vanished and the sea is still gloriously warm.
Our top tips
Order a cocktail and watch the best sunset in Crete at the cliffside Orange Blue Bar on Falasarna beach. The sun sinks directly into the Mediterranean Sea, causing you and everyone else to gasp in awe.
Location
Cabanon Concrete Retreat is located near Kissamos town in northwest Crete, about 50kms west of Chania Town and 5kms inland from Nopigia beach.
By Air
From April to October, there are charter flights from various airports to Heraklion (175km) and Chania (55km). There are also year-round scheduled flights via Athens.
From the Airport
Hiring a car is essential for getting to Cabanon Concrete Retreat (see below), and the best way to explore the beaches and towns of northern Crete.
By Boat
You can fly into Athens (as above) and take an overnight ferry from Piraeus into Heraklion or Chania (daily or near-daily departures).
By Car
You will want to hire a car on Crete, as it is a large island and Cabanon is quite isolated (but has free private parking). See our car rental recommendations.
Detailed directions will be sent to you once you book through i-escape.
More on getting to Greece and getting around
Airports:
- Chania International Airport 55.0 km CHQ
- Heraklion International Airport 175.0 km HER
Other:
- Beach 5.0 km
- Shops 2.0 km
- Restaurant 2.0 km
Our guests' ratings...
Based on 6 independent reviews from i-escape guests
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