The Private Retreat is part of an Elite group of ThinkVilla bespoke stays, where hand-picked exceptional properties of outstanding 24/7 service, incredible tailored experiences and unique cultural charm await to inspire you. The private retreat has been certified with the Seal of Approval, a 300’ Criteria Rating, for the unique design, innovation, individual quality & inspiring offerings only with ThinkVilla.
Introducing Hawk Villa
Nestled in the picturesque village of Gerakari, the villa combines effortless access to local taverns and markets with a sense of complete privacy. Inside, every detail reflects classic country charm, with calming natural tones and touches of vintage glamour. Soft pillows, inviting lounges, and sunlit rooms create spaces for leisurely mornings and restful afternoons. Outside, flower-filled courtyards, terraces, and intimate seating areas offer endless spots to relax, soak up the sun, or simply unwind in peace. Every moment at Villa Hawk is designed for rejuvenation, ensuring your stay is both tranquil and memorable, a private haven where the magic of the countryside lingers long after you leave.
External Living | Private Pool with hydromassage, BBQ and Dining Area
Set within 500 m² of beautifully landscaped grounds, the villa invites guests to indulge in effortless outdoor living. The 25 m² private swimming pool, 1.5 m deep, is a sanctuary of refreshment, with one side featuring soothing hydromassage jets for moments of pure relaxation. Sun loungers and umbrellas line the terrace, offering the perfect setting to bask in the golden Cretan sun. For al fresco dining, a stylish charcoal BBQ and traditional wooden oven provide an enchanting backdrop for leisurely meals, while the shaded outdoor dining area invites evening cocktails and convivial gatherings. Younger guests are also catered for, with two swings, one for babies and one for older children, ensuring playful delight for all ages. Every element has been curated to balance comfort, elegance, and the simple joy of outdoor living.
Internal Living | Beds & Baths
The villa’s 150 m² interior unfolds over two thoughtfully designed floors, offering a harmonious blend of comfort and refined style. It features three elegantly appointed bedrooms and three bathrooms, accommodating up to 9 guests, 6 in sumptuous beds and 3 additional guests on sofa beds integrated seamlessly within the bedrooms. Every space has been curated with attention to detail, combining warmth, sophistication, and an effortless sense of home, ensuring a tranquil and restorative stay for families or groups seeking both tranquility and shared moments of indulgence.
Ground Floor
• Living Room with 45” Smart TV with Play Station 3 • Dining Area • Fully Equipped Kitchen • Twin Bedroom with two single beds (0.90 x 2.00), that could be joined and form a king size bed upon request, and a single sofa bed for one more guest. The bedroom offers direct access to the outdoor area. • Shared Bathroom with overhead rainfall shower and hammam features.
First Floor
• Bedroom with Queen Size Bed (1.60 x 2.00), with its own separate living room area with TV, and two single sofa beds for two more guests. The bedroom features also direct access to the outdoor area and en suite bathroom with overhead rainfall shower. • Bedroom with Queen Size bed (1.60 x 2.00), sitting area and wood burner. The bedroom features also direct access to rooftop terrace and en suite bathroom with overhead rainfall shower. Access to the bedroom is also possible via a private outdoor staircase.
Your Home Stay Includes
• Welcome basket included, courtesy of the owner • Housekeeping service with fresh towels and linen changes every four days (included for stays of 6 nights and above) • Pool and garden maintenance twice per week • Baby cot, high chair and Children’s Plastic(non-breakable) plates & cups are available upon request
Practicalities
There is secure parking space inside the Villa’s premises for 2 cars. • The property is well-equipped with: Fridge with freezer, Electric (& Gas) stove with oven, Espresso machine (capsules) & Filter coffee machine, Microwave, Food Processor (Multi), Kettle, Sandwich Maker, Dishwasher, Washing Machine, Detergents, Iron & Board, Hair dryers (one in each bathroom), First Aid Kit, Fire Extinguisher, Smoke Detector, open plan fully equipped kitchen!
Mod Cons
High quality bath towels and pool towels are available • Bathroom amenities, bathrobes and slippers are available • Air-conditioning in all areas is included • Wi-Fi coverage is available throughout the villa • Outdoor BBQ facilities (charcoal) & wooden oven available • Outside shaded dining area • Indoor area 150m2 • Outdoor area 500m2 • Playground • Smart T.V 45’’ in the living room area • All of the bedrooms boast 28” flat screen T.Vs • Mosquito nets in all areas • Fireplace • Bluetooth Dock • Playstation 3 console with two controllers and games • Pre stock service available • 24h/7days ThinkVilla concierge service included • Pool operates seasonally (end of March - middle of November)
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Location Overview – Meet Gerakari
TO SEE: Villa Hawk is nestled in the mountainous village of Gerakari, in the Rethymno regional unit of Crete, situated below Mount Kedros and approximately 35 km south of Rethymno city. Within a short 200–300 meter walk, guests will find two local tavernas, a supermarket, and an ATM machine, offering convenient access to daily necessities. For a wider selection of shops, cafés, bakeries, bars, and banks, the nearby Spili Village is only a 15-minute drive away. Gerakari’s elevated location provides easy access to both the north and south coasts, with beaches ranging from 29–40 km away. On the south coast, guests can explore the stunning beaches of Preveli, Damnoni, Amoudi, Skinaria, and Plakias, while the northern beaches of the Rethymno municipality are also within reach. The surrounding countryside features charming settlements such as Helenes, Kardaki, Vrises, Meronas, and Amari, each offering a glimpse into authentic Cretan life.
TO DINE: Within Gerakari village, you’ll find a few traditional tavernas serving authentic Cretan dishes in a cozy, local setting. A short drive will take you to nearby villages such as Spili, Patsos, and the surrounding Amari Valley, where charming tavernas line the village squares and mountain roads, offering a warm welcome and seasonal local specialties. Heading further south toward the coast, the beaches of Plakias, Damnoni, and Preveli are dotted with seaside tavernas where fresh seafood and grilled dishes can be enjoyed with stunning ocean views. The surrounding region is also renowned for its fresh local produce, cherries, apples, pears, plums, and the celebrated Liatiko wine, ensuring every meal is an authentic taste of Crete.
TO EXPLORE: The villa’s surroundings are rich in cultural and natural attractions. Nearby highlights include Spili Monastery (10.7 km), Patsos Gorge (16.2 km), Arkadi Monastery (18.6 km), Kourtaliotis Gorge (21.2 km), Fortezza Fortress (39.7 km), Preveli Beach (28.7 km), and the Armeni Minoan Cemetery (30 km). Guests can also visit the Amari Dam Reservoir (Fragma Potamon) for its serene natural beauty, the archaeological site of Syvritos, and the Byzantine Church of Saint John Fire, adorned with frescoes from 1100 AD. Villa Hawk offers a perfect base for exploring Crete’s mountainous landscapes, historic landmarks, and pristine beaches, blending adventure, culture, and authentic Cretan charm.
Out & About
Nearest Tavernas: 230 m | 3 minutes walking distance (Gerakari Village)
Nearest Beach: Preveli Beach – 29 km | 35 minutes driving distance
Nearest City: Rethymno Port & Town – 37.5 km | 53 minutes driving distance
Heraklion International Airport: 99.5 km | 1 hour 47 minutes driving distance
Chania International Airport: 99.4 km | 1 hour 44 minutes driving distance
*Car Rental is optional, for uncovering the hidden corners of southern and eastern Crete – from secret coves to hilltop chapels and cosmopolitan towns – and we are happy to assist with your rental arrangements.