An architectural sea-view retreat where conscious design, clean-lined minimalism, and elevated leisure exist in quiet harmony. Crafted for refined group living, the villa accommodates up to 15 guests across 6 bedrooms, with generous living and dining spaces, an outdoor pool with BBQ area, indoor pool, gym, sauna, massage room, yoga platform, cinema lounge, mini basketball/tennis court, and children’s play area. A serene private haven for wellbeing, connection, and contemporary island living.
The space
*The Private Luxury Retreat forms part of ThinkVilla’s elite collection of bespoke stays, where hand-picked exceptional residences, attentive 24/7 service, tailored experiences, and authentic cultural charm come together to inspire every moment. The villa has been honoured with the ThinkVilla Seal of Approval, a...
LUXE
DEISGN
NATURE
HIGHLIGHTS
UNIQUE FEATURES
Indoor Area: 455 m²
Outdoor Area: 4000 m²
Maximum Occupancy: 15 guest/s
Views: Swimming pool
THINGS TO KNOW
CHECK IN & CHECK OUT
Check-in time should be strictly after 16:00 and check-out time should be strictly before 11:00, as sufficient time is required, to conduct a thorough cleaning and disinfection at the Villa between stays.
Set above the northern coastline of Rethymno, Maroulas Village is an atmospheric Venetian settlement where stone-built lanes, historic architecture, sea views, and authentic Cretan character create a setting of rare quiet charm. Officially recognised as a traditional settlement, the village carries a timeless sense of place, with traces of Venetian heritage, old doorways, narrow alleys, and panoramic views towards the Cretan Sea. From Esse Villa, guests are beautifully placed between the tranquillity of village life and the easy pleasures of the coast. The long sandy shoreline of Platanes, Adelianos Kampos, and Rethymno Beach lies within a short drive, offering organised beach settings, seaside cafés, and relaxed summer days by the water. Rethymno Beach stretches east from the town towards areas including Perivolia, Platanes, Adelianos Kampos, and Skaleta. Beyond the beach, the wider region invites discovery through Rethymno Old Town, the Venetian Harbour, the Fortezza, Arkadi Monastery, Mili Gorge, Chromonastiri, and traditional mountain villages, a graceful blend of culture, nature, and Cretan heritage.
INDEPENDENT MINDS
Mr. Giannis and Mrs. Katerina are passionate and well-established entrepreneurs in Rethymno who, together with their wonderful family, have created a truly distinctive retreat. Guided by their refined sense of design and deep understanding of high-end hospitality, they have crafted an accommodation that combines elegance, spaciousness, and functionality, offering everything a guest may need. Rooted in the values of Cretan hospitality, they place great importance on family and genuine care, ensuring every guest feels welcomed and enjoys a stay that fully meets and exceeds expectations.
An architectural sea-view retreat where conscious design, clean-lined minimalism, and elevated leisure exist in quiet harmony. Crafted for refined group living, the villa accommodates up to 15 guests across 6 bedrooms, with generous living and dining spaces, an outdoor pool with BBQ area, indoor pool, gym, sauna, massage room, yoga platform, cinema lounge, mini basketball/tennis court, and children’s play area. A serene private haven for wellbeing, connection, and contemporary island living.
The space
*The Private Luxury Retreat forms part of ThinkVilla’s elite collection of bespoke stays, where hand-picked exceptional residences, attentive 24/7 service, tailored experiences, and authentic cultural charm come together to inspire every moment. The villa has been honoured with the ThinkVilla Seal of Approval, a 300-point criteria rating, recognising its distinctive design, innovation, individual quality, and inspiring offerings, available exclusively with ThinkVilla.
Introducing Esse Villa
Esse, meaning “to be” in Latin and closely connected to the Ancient Greek ousía, meaning essence or true nature, reflects the villa’s philosophy of conscious living. Here, clean-lined architecture, natural light, and serene proportions come together to create a retreat shaped around balance, wellbeing, and quiet sophistication. Poised to embrace sea views and the gentle rhythm of island life, Esse Villa is conceived for guests who appreciate both privacy and connection. Its minimalist character, curated leisure spaces, and restorative atmosphere create an elegant setting for unhurried Cretan days, meaningful gatherings, and moments of pure ease. A contemporary private haven where design, wellness, and elevated comfort invite guests simply to be.
External Living : The exterior spaces unfold as a private sea-view sanctuary, where conscious architecture meets the natural beauty of the Cretan landscape. Across approximately 4000 m² of outdoor grounds, including a 260 m² green nature area, sunlit terraces, generous lounge corners, and open-air gathering spaces invite effortless island living. Days flow from swims in the 100 m² design-led pool to tranquil moments in the 6-seater spa whirlpool connected to the pool. A spacious BBQ area with outdoor kitchenette sets the scene for refined al fresco dining beneath the evening sky. Younger guests are thoughtfully considered with a children’s pool and a fully fenced open-air, featuring a swing, playhouse, and slide. Beside it, a mini basketball/tennis court invites active moments and friendly games. Fully standalone and private, the villa is ideal for secluded group stays and intimate events. Complimentary parking is available within the grounds for up to 7 cars, with an EV charger provided.
Pool Area
- 100 m² private infinity swimming pool, with a graceful depth range from 0.20 m to 1.40 m
- 5 m² integrated children’s pool compartment, set within the main pool, with a depth of 0.55 m
- In-pool six-seater whirlpool with hydromassage features, designed for moments of pure relaxation
- 13 premium sun loungers, 1 gazebo, 2 pouf lounges, a swim-up built-in lounge bed, and premium umbrellas, thoughtfully arranged for refined poolside leisure
- Fire Pit (gas) with a dedicated lounge area, creating an atmospheric setting for evening gatherings
- Multiple sofa lounge areas positioned around the pool, offering elegant corners for connection and repose
- Signature outdoor shower for added comfort and ease after sunlit swims
- Dedicated outdoor yoga platform, inviting mindful movement in the open air
- Expansive 1,300 m² pool area, ideal for sun-filled relaxation, serene lounging, and elevated outdoor living
Outdoor Dining & Social Living
- Shaded terraces and open-air lounge areas overlooking the pool and sea, composed for effortless outdoor living
- Elegant al fresco dining areas designed for relaxed entertaining and shared meals of up to 14 guests
- Fully equipped outdoor kitchen area with gas BBQ, sink, oven, and fridge, ideal for graceful summer dining
- Maximum Event Capacity: 40 guests
- Events are permitted only with prior notice, and additional fees may apply
- A nearby church adds a beautiful sense of occasion, making the villa especially well suited for intimate weddings and refined celebrations
Children’s Outdoor Games & Sports Play Area
- A dedicated 260 m² children’s outdoor play area is set within the villa grounds, offering a safe and inviting setting for carefree outdoor fun.
- The open-air play space features a Swing, Playhouse, Slide, and Climbing elements, creating joyful moments beneath the Cretan sky.
Outdoor Fitness & Wellness Area
- A stand-alone Yoga Platform overlooking the sea offers a serene setting for meditation, stretching, and quiet relaxation.
- The Basketball / Tennis court invites active play and relaxed sports time with loved ones.
- A TeqBall Table is also available for plenty of Fun-Play time with loved ones
Internal Living : Conceived as an elegant private residence, Esse Villa unfolds gracefully across three levels, revealing 450 m² of refined interior space and 6 beautifully appointed bedrooms, alongside an indoor heated pool, sauna, gym, massage room and cinema lounge area. Its conscious architecture is complemented by a serene island sensibility, where expansive glass walls invite natural light in and frame beautiful sea views from within. The villa’s thoughtful layout balances privacy and connection, with generous spaces designed for relaxed gatherings, quiet moments, and effortless shared living. With its calm aesthetic, considered proportions, and polished residential feel, Esse Villa is especially suited to large families, groups, and extended stays of elevated coastal ease.
Accommodation Capacity
- 6 bedrooms in total
- 12 guests accommodated in real beds
- 3 Extra Single Beds are located in three of the bedrooms
- Maximum capacity: 15 guests
Ground Floor Living Space
- Open-plan living room with a 75’’ Smart TV and Bluetooth dock, designed for relaxed gatherings and effortless entertainment
- Fully equipped kitchen and elegant indoor dining area, creating a seamless setting for shared meals and everyday comfort
- Direct access to the pool area, allowing indoor and outdoor living to flow beautifully together
Ground Floor | Three Bedrooms
- Double Bedroom with King-Size bed (1.80 x 2.00 m), an additional Single Bed (0.90x2.00), 40’’ Smart TV, en-suite bathroom with walk-in shower, fan and access to the pool
- 2 Twin Bedrooms featuring each : two single beds (0.90 x 2.00 m), 49’’ Smart TV, en-suite bathroom with walk-in shower, fan and access to the pool (a baby cot can fit in those rooms)
First Floor | Three Bedrooms & Kitchenette
- Double Bedroom featuring king-size bed (1.80 x 2.00 m), 40’’ Smart TV, en-suite bathroom with walk-in shower, and access to a sea-view balcony
- Double Bedroom with king-size bed (1.80 x 2.00 m), an additional Single Bed (0.90x2.00), 40’’ Smart TV, en-suite bathroom with walk-in shower, and access to a sea-view balcony
- Double Bedroom with queen-size bed (1.70 x 2.00 m), an additional Single Bed (0.90x2.00), 40’’ Smart TV, en-suite bathroom with walk-in shower, and access to a sea-view balcony
- Kitchenette with Nespresso Machine and mini fridge
*Lower Floor Indoor Pool, Wellness & Entertainment Area
Indoor Heated Pool
- A heated 10 m² indoor saltwater pool creates a serene wellness setting, complete with a water cataract and hydromassage features. Reaching temperatures of up to 28°C, it offers a comfortable retreat for year-round relaxation.
- Premium relax loungers and a bespoke lounge sofa area complete the space, inviting guests to unwind in effortless comfort.
Massage Room
- A dedicated massage room, complete with a professional massage bed and sink, further enhances the experience, offering an intimate space for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Wellness & Fitness Area
- A bespoke fitness area is available for guests wishing to maintain their wellness routine during their stay, featuring a treadmill, elliptical machine, multifunctional station machine, free weights, workout bench, and yoga mats.
- A sauna located next to the gym adds a further sense of restoration, creating a complete setting for movement, balance, and relaxation.
- A shared bathroom with walk-in shower is also available for extra comfort.
Cinema Lounge & Billiard Room
- A stylish internal recreation area is dedicated to relaxation, play, and shared downtime, featuring an 100’’ Smart TV, PS5 PlayStation, and a comfortable lounge sofa.
- A Kitchenette with sink, mini-fridge, and Nespresso machine adds extra convenience for leisurely moments indoors.
- A Signature Billiard table sets the tone for relaxed evenings with family and friends.
- A dedicated workspace with desk, chair, two monitors, mouse, and keyboard offers a practical corner for remote work or quiet focus.
Lower Floor | Living Spaces
- Indoor Heated Pool with Sun Loungers
- Massage Room
- Lounge area with Kitchenette and comfortable seating
- Cinema lounge with 100’’ Smart TV, PS5, and Bluetooth dock
- Billiard (Pool table)
- Gym Area with Fitness Equipment
- Sauna
- Shared Bathroom with walk-in shower
- Laundry and storage with iron, washing machine, dryer, cleaning equipment and first aid kit
Your Home Stay Includes
Welcome basket courtesy of the owner • Soft daily housekeeping • Fresh towels and linen change every four days (for stays of 6+ nights) • Pool maintenance twice weekly
Baby Friendly Villa (Available Upon Request)
Baby cot and high chair • Non-breakable children’s dining set • Stair Gates • Baby monitor
Practicalities
Free parking inside the villa garage for up to 7 cars with EV Charger • Ground floor fully equipped kitchen • Two kitchenette (Nespresso & mini-fridge)located in the first and lower floor • Refrigerator with freezer • Electric stove with oven • Nespresso machine and filter coffee machine • Microwave • Multi food processor • Juicer • Kettle • Toaster and sandwich maker • Dishwasher • Washing machine and tumble dryer • Iron and ironing boards • Hair dryers • Safety box • First aid kit • Alarm system • Fire extinguisher • Smoke detector • Emergency exit
Mod Cons & Signature Amenities
High-quality bath and pool towels • Premium mattresses • Premium bathroom amenities & Bathrobes • Starling Wi-Fi coverage throughout the villa • 8 Smart Satellite TVs: 75’’ 4K Smart TV in the living room, 40’’ Smart TVs in all six bedrooms, and 100’ Smart TV in the cinema area • Bluetooth dock • PlayStation 5 • Outdoor shaded dining, sitting, and lounge areas • Mosquito nets in all areas • Pre-stock grocery service available • Smoking permitted outdoors only • 24/7 ThinkVilla Concierge Service included
Guest access
Guests enjoy exclusive use of the villa, with full access to all interior and exterior living spaces, including the private pool and expansive terraces, ensuring a seamless sense of privacy and comfort throughout.
Other things to note
ThinkVilla Tailored Experiences – Curated Exclusively for You
We have thoughtfully curated a collection of bespoke experiences, each designed to reveal the authentic beauty and cultural richness of Crete. From the privacy of your villa, allow our dedicated regional associates to anticipate every need, delivering service with warmth, discretion, and effortless precision.
- Car Rental or Private Transfers
- Private Boat Experiences & Sea Escapes
- Personal Shopping Delivery & Pre-stocking Service
- Culinary Journeys: Private Executive Chef & bespoke dining experiences
- Signature Adventures: Hiking, horse riding, water sports & curated excursions
- Holistic Wellness: In-villa massage therapies & personal training sessions
- Wine & Cocktail Experiences: Private tastings & mixology sessions
- Special Occasions: Honeymoons, celebrations & tailor-made events
- The Essentials: Babysitting, doctor on call, private guides & more
*Our trusted associates are among the finest in the destination, carefully selected for their professionalism and commitment to sustainability, ensuring a “green & fair” ethos that respects both our guests and the local community.
Registration Details
1041Κ134Κ0434400
A 12,00 euros/night/villa tax (subject to change) isn’t included in booking prices. It must be paid in euros at check-in to your Host.
BED & BATHS
NUMBER OF BEDROOMS: 6
7 Single Beds
1 Queen sized bed
3 King sized bed
BATHROOMS
Bathrooms with shower: 7
Change Bed Clothes
Towels: Provided
AMENITIES
Fully Equipped Kitchen
Fridge
Freezer
Washing Machine
Dishwasher
Dryer
Coffee Filter Machine
Toaster
TableWare / Cutlery
Kitchen Utensils
Microwave
Oven with Stove
Smart TV
Satellite TV
Garden
Garden Furniture
Iron
BBQ
Terrace
Fenced Plot
Security Box
Balcony
Juice Squeazer
Electric Kettle
Hair Dryer
Children Area
Fitness Equipment
Tennis
Mosquito Nets
Handicapped Facilities
No Smoking Allowed
WiFi
Linen Changes
ADDITIONAL FEATURES
Garden View
Pool View
Private Entrance
Indoor Heated Pool
Spa Whirlpool
Sun loungers
Outdoor Dining Area
Outdoor Kitchen
Outdoor Shower
Outdoor Firepit
Sauna
EV charger
Blender
Espresso Machine
Bluetooth Dock
Game Console
Books and reading material
Board Games
Dedicated Workspace
Air conditioning
Hangers
Baby Cot
High Chair
Children’s books and toys
Smoke Alarm
First Aid Kit
Fire extinguisher
ALL STAYS INCLUDES
ThinkVilla’s 24/7 Dedicated Concierge Service
Complimentary Welcome Basket
Fully Equipped Kitchen Essentials
Bathroom Starter Kit
Family-Friendly Amenities
Premium Towels for Every Occasion
Premium Quality Linens
Complimentary Housekeeping Service
Towel & Linen Refresh
SERVICES
Private Chef
Wine & Dine
Private Mixologist
Best Restaurants & Bars
Wineries Visit
Culinary Academy
Holistic Wellness
The Art of Tennis
Swimming Courses
Sports Instructor
Special Events
Floral Design
Entertainment
Events Catering
Boat Trip Adventures
Snorkeling
Water Sports
Sailing
Scuba Diving
Horse Riding
Mountain Climbing
Gorge Exploring
Car Rental
Private Transfer
Delivery of Personal Shopping
Pre-Stock Service
Baby Sitting
Doctor on Call
Private Tour Guide
OUT & ABOUT
DISTANCE TO Adele Beach
0 KM
DISTANCE TO Rethymno
8 KM
DISTANCE TO Maroulas
2.99 KM
DISTANCE TO Maroulas
2.99 KM
TO SEE
Maroulas offers a beautifully authentic dining experience, with traditional tavernas and local village hospitality close at hand. Here, meals feel rooted in the landscape: generous Cretan flavours, local produce, slow evenings, and views that carry towards the sea and countryside. For more variety, the nearby coastal areas of Platanes, Adelianos Kampos, and Rethymno seafront offer beachside tavernas, cafés, cocktail spots, and casual summer dining. Rethymno Old Town brings a more atmospheric culinary scene, from candlelit courtyards and Venetian alleyway restaurants to refined Greek dining, wine bars, and elegant waterfront venues.
TO DO
Esse Villa is perfectly positioned for guests wishing to experience Crete through both stillness and discovery. Mornings may begin in the calm of Maroulas, with sea views and village quietness, before drifting towards the beach for sunlit swims or heading into Rethymno for culture, shopping, and dining. The surrounding area reveals Crete in beautifully layered ways: the Venetian grace of Rethymno Old Town, the sacred history of Arkadi Monastery, the natural beauty of Mili Gorge, and the traditional character of nearby villages such as Chromonastiri, Prasies, and Adele. With easy access to the northern road axis, the villa also offers a refined base for exploring both Chania and Heraklion, while returning each day to the privacy and serenity of Maroulas.
CHECK IN & CHECK OUT
Check-in time should be strictly after 16:00 and check-out time should be strictly before 11:00, as sufficient time is required, to conduct a thorough cleaning and disinfection at the Villa between stays.
CANCELLATION POLICY
Cancellations made more than 30 days prior to arrival get a full refund.
Cancellations made less than 30 days prior to arrival, no show or departure prior to the scheduled date, result to a cancellation fee of the 100% of the total accommodation cost.
BOOKING POLICIES
While booking with us, the first named person on the booking agrees on behalf of all persons named on the booking that they:
a. have read these terms and agreed;
b.consent to our use of personal data in accordance with our Privacy Policy and are authorised on behalf of all persons named on the booking to disclose their personal details to us, including where applicable special categories of data (such as information on health conditions or disabilities and dietary requirements);
c. are over 18 years of age and where placing an order for services with age restrictions declare that they and all members of the party are of the appropriate age to purchase those services; and
d. accept financial responsibility for payment of the booking on behalf of all persons named on the booking.