In a charming village in the heart of Crete

The village of Margarites, where the Villa Mesogea stands, is on the outskirts of Rethymno, in the foothills of Mt. Ida—one of the tallest mountains in Greece. It’s a traditional village, with roots dating back to Byzantine times. Known internationally for its pottery making, travelers around the world flock to Margarites to buy its wares at the many ceramic shops.

Despite a population of only 300 residents, the village is home to multiple bustling tavernas, all packed throughout the spring and summer months with people from all corners of the island.

And the island of Crete is massive—journeying from one side to the other takes five hours. But Margarites is surprisingly central, within easy driving distance to the major cities of Heraklion, Chania, and Rethymno’s old town, which is only 25 minutes away.

People have always flocked to this part of the island—drawn to the spectacular mythology of Mt. Ida. After all, Zeus was born in a cave on that mountain. And ancient civilizations roamed these lands for millennia. The 9th-century B.C.E. ruins of Eleutherna are only three kilometers away. And in nearby Melidoni Cave, where ancient Minoans congregated, they built shrines to the god Talos—a bronze giant who strolled the perimeter of Crete three times a day, guarding it from evil. 

Clearly the gods still protect this land today. Now you’ll find a never-ending calm. Shepherds amble alongside grazing sheep; locals stroll among the olive trees; and visitors sip on small-batch raki and drizzle freshly pressed olive oil on farm-fresh produce.

Whether you’re here for a short stay or a long stretch, the welcoming vibes of Margarites will make you feel right at home.