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Welcome to a traditional Cretan village, 3km from the sea. Happy New Year
Holiday home in Malevizi with kitchen and balcony
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Reviews
9.8 out of 10
Exceptional
2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 470 sq m
Popular amenities
Explore the area

Heraklion, Crete
- Place, Museum of El Greco10 min walk
- Place, Fódele Beach7 min drive
- Place, Heraklion Port39 min drive
- Airport, Heraklion (HER-Nikos Kazantzakis)39 min drive
Rooms & beds
2 bedrooms (sleeps 4)
Bedroom 1
1 Queen Bed
Bedroom 2
1 Queen Bed
1 bathroom
Bathroom 1
Bathtub or shower · Toilet
Bathroom 2
Toilet · Shower only
Spaces
Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Balcony
Garden
Dining area
About this property
Welcome to a traditional Cretan village, 3km from the sea. Happy New Year
DAISY AND THE VILLAGE OF FODELE.
Daisy is in a small development (Mandarin Grove) of 8 properties with a shared pool. It is located close to the heart of an authentic Cretan village. The local people have made a decision for the village to retain its original character. There are:
NO cash machines;
NO British newspapers.
The tavernas DO NOT take Travellers Cheques and few tourists stay in the village.
Daisy is situated in a lovely location...’Orange valley' enjoying unspoilt MOUNTAIN VIEWS which can be seen both from the bedroom balconies and the roof terrace.
Some guests like to visit local resorts such as FODELE BEACH and AGIA PELAGIA before returning to the village for their evening meal.
The village itself has a special character. Very little has changed over many decades. The locals are proud of their association with EL GRECO and the fact that the village can sustain itself through local crafts, farming, farm produce and the visitors who come to see this special village. The local tavernas provide a variety of cuisine and some provide a take-away service.
The CHURCHES in the village are beautiful and remain the focus of village life. Christenings and weddings are attended by the whole village. You can witness the feast in the village square accompanied by local musicians and traditional Greek dancing.
DAISY ACCOMODATION.
LOUNGE...
New, comfortable SOFA and CHAIR; ample room for 4 people;
Toshiba TV with integral DVD;
A selection of fiction/non-fiction BOOKS;
Mirror;
Table Lamps;
Table and coasters;
Air conditioning (remote control).
KITCHEN...
Oven + induction hob;
Fridge;
Dishwasher;
Toaster;
Kettle;
Crockery;
Cutlery;
Pans
(the washing machine is located in an enclosed area in the back garden).
DINING AREA...
Table (which can be moved) and breakfast bar;
4 height adjustable chairs;
Table mats and coasters.
Ample room for 4 guests.
DOWNSTAIRS BATHROOM...
Bath with shower;
Toilet,
Sink;
Shower curtain;
Mirror;
Fully tiled.
SPIRAL STAIRCASE TO UPPER FLOOR.
UPSTAIRS.
FRONT BEDROOM...
New king size bed + linen;
Wardrobe;
Drawers;
Bedside cabinets and lights;
Hairdryer;
Mirror;
Chair;
TV with integral DVD (for DVD use only);
Air conditioning (remote control);
Patio doors (plus fly screen) onto the balcony;
Shutters to the outside for privacy.
FRONT BALCONY...
Table and 2 chairs;
Beautiful mountain views.
BACK BEDROOM...
New king size bed and linen;
Wardrobe;
Drawers;
Bedside cabinets and lights;
Mirror;
Air conditioning (remote control);
Patio doors (and fly screen) leading onto a small BALCONY;
Shutters to the outside of the doors for privacy).
UPSTAIRS SHOWER ROOM...
Shower cubicle;
Toilet;
Sink;
Fully tiled.
SPIRAL STAIRCASE UP TO THE ROOF TERRACE.
BACK GARDEN...
Table + 4 chairs;
Washing machine in an enclosed area;
Clothes rail;
Flower border and tubs.
FRONT PATIO...
Tiled undercover area;
Table and 2 chairs.
SWIMMING POOL, HOT TUB, and OUTDOOR SHOWER.
These facilities are shared by the 8 properties and provide a focal area for Mandarin Grove.
OUTDOOR TABLES, CHAIRS, SUNBEDS and UMBRELLAS.
These are situated around the pool for your comfort and convenience.
DURING YOUR STAY - CARE OF DAISY...PLEASE NOTE...
Daisy is furnished to a high standard...a Cretan feel with a touch of John Lewis! We would appreciate it if our guests would LOOK AFTER Daisy as if it was their own home and ensure that children are supervised for their own safety and well being. We appreciate that damage can occur but do not want the type of damage that is caused by children who are out of control or adults who have little respect for a holiday property. If this note of caution is acceptable to you, we have no doubt that your stay will be an enjoyable one.
Providing there are no new guests arriving on your day of departure, there will be no pressure for you to check out before you are due to leave for your flight home. If new guests are arriving that day, we will make every effort to ensure that you can use the facilities on site.
MANDARIN GROVE.
Daisy is situated within the GATED community of Mandarin Grove. It is separated from the village by a river; hence away from traffic so children can play safely.
TRIP ADVISOR 2017 CERTIFICATE OF EXCELLENCE.
We are very proud that Daisy has been awarded the 2017 Certificate of Excellence from TripAdvisor. This is a testimony to the care shown by our guests and the diligence of our site managers. Thank you.
SAFETY AND SECURITY.
The safety and security of our guests is paramount. As such, and we DO NOT allow unauthorised guests to visit Mandarin Grove or use the facilities. Owners and guests ONLY, please. Thank you.
UPON ARRIVAL.
Prior to departure we will issue you with 2 KEY CODES...
1. to access the key for the front GATE (located just inside the gate within easy reach);
2. to access the house keys in a key safe outside DAISY.
THINGS TO DO.
You will find much to occupy you in the village...
Multiple TAVERNAS each with their own specialities;
Gentle exercise on the various NATURE TRAILS;
Visit the local CHURCHES churches which are very beautiful;
Visit the MUSEUM that commemorates El Greco and Fodele, his birthplace.
Unlike the resorts, Fodele remains open throughout the year. For many visitors, it is a reminder of the 1950's.
PROXIMITY TO THE SEA.
.
Fodele will appeal to those who wish to be close to sea but would prefer to stay in a proper Cretan village. Fodele Beach is only 2 miles away from the village and it is lovely bay with a sandy beach.. Buy a drink at the taverna and your deck chair is provided FREE!
YOUR JOURNEY TO CRETE.
Direct flights to Crete are available from APRIL - OCTOBER. HERAKLION airport is approximately a 30 minute car ride from Fodele.
BOOKING A TAXI.
Should you wish to pre book a taxi at the airport, we can assist you. Please ask.
NB. Please tell your driver to take you to Fodele VILLAGE (not Fodele Beach).
CAR HIRE
You will probably find the cheapest deals on comparison websites like Travel Supermarket.
Alternatively, you can book direct with companies like Athens cars.
Our advice is to get “full to full” petrol and to be aware of the pressure with some firms to upgrade your policy. If you need the peace of mind of extra cover, it is cheaper to book it in advance
DIRECTIONS TO FODELE VILLAGE BY CAR.
Fodele village is approximately 30km from Heraklion airport. The CAR HIRE depot is ACROSS THE ROAD from the airport building.
Detailed DIRECTIONS as follows:
1 Leave the airport parking area, towards the traffic lights and bus stop. Stay in the RIGHT HAND lane;
2. Turn RIGHT at the lights (stay in the RIGHT HAND lane);
3. Look for a sign to RETHYMNON/ CHANIA. The slip road is about 200 metres further on;
4. Now on the HIGHWAY. Drive for approximately 25km;
On this road you will encounter the following...
The Highway will change from dual to SINGLE carriageway, you will pass a power station on your RIGHT.
The road becomes winding and uphill. Continue on this road.
.
Pass a BP petrol station; you are now in the Agia Pelagia area;
The highway now goes DOWNHILL; you will pass another petrol station on the right. Fodele BEACH is to your right;
Continue for a further 300 metres, where there is a large junction signposted FODELE.
5. TURN RIGHT here.
6. Follow this winding road for about 3km until you pass through the village and reach the VILLAGE SQUARE (a large TREE, El Greco TAVERNA and SOUVENIR STREET will be on your LEFT). Park anywhere in the village square.
TO WALK TO DAISY:
1. Retrace your steps back down the narrow high street for about 150 METRES. You will reach a FOOT BRIDGE on the left (DOMENICO’S TAVERNA and THE 4 SEASONS SHOP will be on the right).
2. Walk across the footbridge and immediately turn left;
3. Walk along the path adjoining the river for 150metres and you will see a high wall on your right, sign posted Mandarin Grove. You have ARRIVED.
You will be given a code for the box to open the GATE. Go inside and pass the pool. Daisy is the FOURTH PROPERTY ON THE RIGHT.
There is a key safe by Daisy’s front door. Again you will be given the code to open it. There will be 2 keys inside : one to the outside gate and one to Daisy. Please RETURN THEM to the key safe on your DEPARTURE.
Please do not hesitate to ask further questions before you go.
Thank you.
WHY SHOULD YOU VISIT DAISY?
1. Fodele is an authentic working village, with a unique history and old world charm;
2. It is cheaper than the holiday resorts;
3. The tavernas are abundant, reasonable and on the doorstep. Their home made dishes are wonderful;
4. Eat by the village stream or barbecue in the privacy of Mandarin Grove.
5. It is a safe environment for children ; there is no road access to Mandarin Grove.
6. A lovely beach is under 5 minutes drive away;
7. Should you hire a car you will find Crete to be a magical island; we are centrally placed to visit all areas.
8. Daisy is a proper home and not a characterless tourist property;
9. TV/DVD combo, satellite (not Sky); internet access.
10. The views from the balcony and roof terrace are beautiful;
11. The surroundings are orange groves and a wooded park.
12. The visitors' comments are all positive.
13. If all this fails to impress you, the local Raki is 5 Euros for a large bottle!
Thank you for visiting our website.
With best wishes,
Peter and Ann.
Daisy is in a small development (Mandarin Grove) of 8 properties with a shared pool. It is located close to the heart of an authentic Cretan village. The local people have made a decision for the village to retain its original character. There are:
NO cash machines;
NO British newspapers.
The tavernas DO NOT take Travellers Cheques and few tourists stay in the village.
Daisy is situated in a lovely location...’Orange valley' enjoying unspoilt MOUNTAIN VIEWS which can be seen both from the bedroom balconies and the roof terrace.
Some guests like to visit local resorts such as FODELE BEACH and AGIA PELAGIA before returning to the village for their evening meal.
The village itself has a special character. Very little has changed over many decades. The locals are proud of their association with EL GRECO and the fact that the village can sustain itself through local crafts, farming, farm produce and the visitors who come to see this special village. The local tavernas provide a variety of cuisine and some provide a take-away service.
The CHURCHES in the village are beautiful and remain the focus of village life. Christenings and weddings are attended by the whole village. You can witness the feast in the village square accompanied by local musicians and traditional Greek dancing.
DAISY ACCOMODATION.
LOUNGE...
New, comfortable SOFA and CHAIR; ample room for 4 people;
Toshiba TV with integral DVD;
A selection of fiction/non-fiction BOOKS;
Mirror;
Table Lamps;
Table and coasters;
Air conditioning (remote control).
KITCHEN...
Oven + induction hob;
Fridge;
Dishwasher;
Toaster;
Kettle;
Crockery;
Cutlery;
Pans
(the washing machine is located in an enclosed area in the back garden).
DINING AREA...
Table (which can be moved) and breakfast bar;
4 height adjustable chairs;
Table mats and coasters.
Ample room for 4 guests.
DOWNSTAIRS BATHROOM...
Bath with shower;
Toilet,
Sink;
Shower curtain;
Mirror;
Fully tiled.
SPIRAL STAIRCASE TO UPPER FLOOR.
UPSTAIRS.
FRONT BEDROOM...
New king size bed + linen;
Wardrobe;
Drawers;
Bedside cabinets and lights;
Hairdryer;
Mirror;
Chair;
TV with integral DVD (for DVD use only);
Air conditioning (remote control);
Patio doors (plus fly screen) onto the balcony;
Shutters to the outside for privacy.
FRONT BALCONY...
Table and 2 chairs;
Beautiful mountain views.
BACK BEDROOM...
New king size bed and linen;
Wardrobe;
Drawers;
Bedside cabinets and lights;
Mirror;
Air conditioning (remote control);
Patio doors (and fly screen) leading onto a small BALCONY;
Shutters to the outside of the doors for privacy).
UPSTAIRS SHOWER ROOM...
Shower cubicle;
Toilet;
Sink;
Fully tiled.
SPIRAL STAIRCASE UP TO THE ROOF TERRACE.
BACK GARDEN...
Table + 4 chairs;
Washing machine in an enclosed area;
Clothes rail;
Flower border and tubs.
FRONT PATIO...
Tiled undercover area;
Table and 2 chairs.
SWIMMING POOL, HOT TUB, and OUTDOOR SHOWER.
These facilities are shared by the 8 properties and provide a focal area for Mandarin Grove.
OUTDOOR TABLES, CHAIRS, SUNBEDS and UMBRELLAS.
These are situated around the pool for your comfort and convenience.
DURING YOUR STAY - CARE OF DAISY...PLEASE NOTE...
Daisy is furnished to a high standard...a Cretan feel with a touch of John Lewis! We would appreciate it if our guests would LOOK AFTER Daisy as if it was their own home and ensure that children are supervised for their own safety and well being. We appreciate that damage can occur but do not want the type of damage that is caused by children who are out of control or adults who have little respect for a holiday property. If this note of caution is acceptable to you, we have no doubt that your stay will be an enjoyable one.
Providing there are no new guests arriving on your day of departure, there will be no pressure for you to check out before you are due to leave for your flight home. If new guests are arriving that day, we will make every effort to ensure that you can use the facilities on site.
MANDARIN GROVE.
Daisy is situated within the GATED community of Mandarin Grove. It is separated from the village by a river; hence away from traffic so children can play safely.
TRIP ADVISOR 2017 CERTIFICATE OF EXCELLENCE.
We are very proud that Daisy has been awarded the 2017 Certificate of Excellence from TripAdvisor. This is a testimony to the care shown by our guests and the diligence of our site managers. Thank you.
SAFETY AND SECURITY.
The safety and security of our guests is paramount. As such, and we DO NOT allow unauthorised guests to visit Mandarin Grove or use the facilities. Owners and guests ONLY, please. Thank you.
UPON ARRIVAL.
Prior to departure we will issue you with 2 KEY CODES...
1. to access the key for the front GATE (located just inside the gate within easy reach);
2. to access the house keys in a key safe outside DAISY.
THINGS TO DO.
You will find much to occupy you in the village...
Multiple TAVERNAS each with their own specialities;
Gentle exercise on the various NATURE TRAILS;
Visit the local CHURCHES churches which are very beautiful;
Visit the MUSEUM that commemorates El Greco and Fodele, his birthplace.
Unlike the resorts, Fodele remains open throughout the year. For many visitors, it is a reminder of the 1950's.
PROXIMITY TO THE SEA.
.
Fodele will appeal to those who wish to be close to sea but would prefer to stay in a proper Cretan village. Fodele Beach is only 2 miles away from the village and it is lovely bay with a sandy beach.. Buy a drink at the taverna and your deck chair is provided FREE!
YOUR JOURNEY TO CRETE.
Direct flights to Crete are available from APRIL - OCTOBER. HERAKLION airport is approximately a 30 minute car ride from Fodele.
BOOKING A TAXI.
Should you wish to pre book a taxi at the airport, we can assist you. Please ask.
NB. Please tell your driver to take you to Fodele VILLAGE (not Fodele Beach).
CAR HIRE
You will probably find the cheapest deals on comparison websites like Travel Supermarket.
Alternatively, you can book direct with companies like Athens cars.
Our advice is to get “full to full” petrol and to be aware of the pressure with some firms to upgrade your policy. If you need the peace of mind of extra cover, it is cheaper to book it in advance
DIRECTIONS TO FODELE VILLAGE BY CAR.
Fodele village is approximately 30km from Heraklion airport. The CAR HIRE depot is ACROSS THE ROAD from the airport building.
Detailed DIRECTIONS as follows:
1 Leave the airport parking area, towards the traffic lights and bus stop. Stay in the RIGHT HAND lane;
2. Turn RIGHT at the lights (stay in the RIGHT HAND lane);
3. Look for a sign to RETHYMNON/ CHANIA. The slip road is about 200 metres further on;
4. Now on the HIGHWAY. Drive for approximately 25km;
On this road you will encounter the following...
The Highway will change from dual to SINGLE carriageway, you will pass a power station on your RIGHT.
The road becomes winding and uphill. Continue on this road.
.
Pass a BP petrol station; you are now in the Agia Pelagia area;
The highway now goes DOWNHILL; you will pass another petrol station on the right. Fodele BEACH is to your right;
Continue for a further 300 metres, where there is a large junction signposted FODELE.
5. TURN RIGHT here.
6. Follow this winding road for about 3km until you pass through the village and reach the VILLAGE SQUARE (a large TREE, El Greco TAVERNA and SOUVENIR STREET will be on your LEFT). Park anywhere in the village square.
TO WALK TO DAISY:
1. Retrace your steps back down the narrow high street for about 150 METRES. You will reach a FOOT BRIDGE on the left (DOMENICO’S TAVERNA and THE 4 SEASONS SHOP will be on the right).
2. Walk across the footbridge and immediately turn left;
3. Walk along the path adjoining the river for 150metres and you will see a high wall on your right, sign posted Mandarin Grove. You have ARRIVED.
You will be given a code for the box to open the GATE. Go inside and pass the pool. Daisy is the FOURTH PROPERTY ON THE RIGHT.
There is a key safe by Daisy’s front door. Again you will be given the code to open it. There will be 2 keys inside : one to the outside gate and one to Daisy. Please RETURN THEM to the key safe on your DEPARTURE.
Please do not hesitate to ask further questions before you go.
Thank you.
WHY SHOULD YOU VISIT DAISY?
1. Fodele is an authentic working village, with a unique history and old world charm;
2. It is cheaper than the holiday resorts;
3. The tavernas are abundant, reasonable and on the doorstep. Their home made dishes are wonderful;
4. Eat by the village stream or barbecue in the privacy of Mandarin Grove.
5. It is a safe environment for children ; there is no road access to Mandarin Grove.
6. A lovely beach is under 5 minutes drive away;
7. Should you hire a car you will find Crete to be a magical island; we are centrally placed to visit all areas.
8. Daisy is a proper home and not a characterless tourist property;
9. TV/DVD combo, satellite (not Sky); internet access.
10. The views from the balcony and roof terrace are beautiful;
11. The surroundings are orange groves and a wooded park.
12. The visitors' comments are all positive.
13. If all this fails to impress you, the local Raki is 5 Euros for a large bottle!
Thank you for visiting our website.
With best wishes,
Peter and Ann.
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Amenities
Pool
Hot tub
Kitchen
Washing machine
Air conditioning
Outdoor space
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House Rules
Flexible check-in available (contact host in advance of arrival)
Flexible check-out available (contact host to arrange)
Children
Children allowed: ages 0–17
Young children should be accompanied on the stairs
Events
No events allowed
Pets
No pets allowed
Smoking
Smoking is not permitted
Important information
You need to know
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property
We should mention
Cash transactions at this property cannot exceed GBP 500, due to national regulations; for further details, please contact the property using the information in the booking confirmation
A car is not required for transport to and from this property
About the area
Fodele
Located in Malevizi, this holiday home is in a rural area and by the sea. Museum of El Greco and Nikos Kazantzakis Museum are cultural highlights, and travellers looking to shop may want to visit Dedalou Shopping Street and Heraklion Central Market. Looking to enjoy an event or a game while in town? See what's happening at Pankritio Stadium or Theodoros Vardinogiannis Stadium. Discover the area's water adventures with waterskiing and sailing nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with hiking/biking trails and mountain climbing.

Heraklion, Crete
What's nearby
- Museum of El Greco - 10 min walk - 0.8 km
- Fódele Beach - 7 min drive - 2.3 km
- Heraklion Archaeological Museum - 37 min drive - 31.5 km
- Palace of Knossos - 38 min drive - 34.5 km
- Heraklion Port - 39 min drive - 32.2 km
Getting around
Restaurants
- The Red Pepper Mediterranean Restaurant - 13 min drive
- Γρηγόρης - 11 min drive
- Almyra - 13 min drive
- Ambrosia - 5 min drive
- Mythos - 14 min drive
Frequently asked questions
About the host
Hosted by Peter Jones
I am a retired teacher who actually misses the classroom and the busy life in a large Secondary school. Daisy has given my wife and I a wonderful opportunity to become part of Cretan village life and to communicate with a wide mix of guests, most of whom we never actually meet but seem to know so well.
Why they chose this property
It is in the centre of northern Crete, in an unspoilt village 3km from the sea. It is surrounded by trees, the village stream and the village church. The locals are proper ‘Cretans' and there is a unique atmosphere without cash machines or English newspapers. Fodele is open throughout the year. Daisy has been furnished as a home for you to share and enjoy.
Our total aim has been to make you comfortable. The beds are king size and the mattresses are of good quality. The door and patios have nets so there is a welcome breeze without the company of our flying friends. The kitchen is fully equipped with its own seating area. The lounge has settees for your comfort and contains both a small library and a television/DVD for your enjoyment. Internet is available. There is a roof terrace and balconies so that you can appreciate the views and the sky at night.
Fodele is 3km from the main highway in Crete and so has easy access to most area of the island.
Daisy has been awarded a Certificate of excellence for 2017, so you can be assured that we will try our best to make your holiday as memorable as possible.
Our total aim has been to make you comfortable. The beds are king size and the mattresses are of good quality. The door and patios have nets so there is a welcome breeze without the company of our flying friends. The kitchen is fully equipped with its own seating area. The lounge has settees for your comfort and contains both a small library and a television/DVD for your enjoyment. Internet is available. There is a roof terrace and balconies so that you can appreciate the views and the sky at night.
Fodele is 3km from the main highway in Crete and so has easy access to most area of the island.
Daisy has been awarded a Certificate of excellence for 2017, so you can be assured that we will try our best to make your holiday as memorable as possible.
What makes this property unique
The village is very special in Crete, not least because it is the birthplace of El Greco, the famous painter .It is a favourite village for many of the Crete people, particularly on Sundays.
The village stream is fed by the mountains and it flows throughout the year. It is also home to a unique fauna and flora. It is a society more reminiscent of the 1950's and the area feels very safe. Our house is separated by 2 bridges and 100 metres from any form of motorised transport. The builders found it very difficult !
You can see many reviews on our own website at to see how our guests have enjoyed their holiday. The guest book in Daisy has reviews spanning over 10 years. They are a testimony to the appeal of Daisy, Mandarin Grove, the village of Fodele and the island of Crete.
Many of our guests are repeat customers who have fallen in love with the Cretan life in the village. Some try all the Tavernas, others stay in Domenicos where they are regaled with stories and made a fuss of by Smoothy George.
It has such a central position, 2 miles from the main highway in Crete that you can visit so many places of interest. The historical sites of Knossus and Spinalonga are well documented and the beautiful coastline and mountain splendour is close at hand. You will not be short of advice from the local community.
The village stream is fed by the mountains and it flows throughout the year. It is also home to a unique fauna and flora. It is a society more reminiscent of the 1950's and the area feels very safe. Our house is separated by 2 bridges and 100 metres from any form of motorised transport. The builders found it very difficult !
You can see many reviews on our own website at to see how our guests have enjoyed their holiday. The guest book in Daisy has reviews spanning over 10 years. They are a testimony to the appeal of Daisy, Mandarin Grove, the village of Fodele and the island of Crete.
Many of our guests are repeat customers who have fallen in love with the Cretan life in the village. Some try all the Tavernas, others stay in Domenicos where they are regaled with stories and made a fuss of by Smoothy George.
It has such a central position, 2 miles from the main highway in Crete that you can visit so many places of interest. The historical sites of Knossus and Spinalonga are well documented and the beautiful coastline and mountain splendour is close at hand. You will not be short of advice from the local community.
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