Ethical-Escapes-Fall-Back-Image
Sorry, no records were found. Please adjust your search criteria and try again.
Sorry, unable to load the Maps API.
This is not a conventional hotel, but a restored 16th-century village that offers guests a simple and sustainable way of living in the heart of the Cretan mountains. With no TVs, radios, or hairdryers, but plenty of fresh air, organic food, and stunning scenery, Milia is a place to slow down, relax, and enjoy the simple pleasures of life.
The Setting
Milia is nestled in a secluded valley in the western foothills of the White Mountains, surrounded by chestnut and oak trees, wildflowers, and herbs. The village overlooks the impressive Topolia gorge, and offers panoramic views of the rugged landscape. The area is rich in biodiversity and cultural heritage, and is ideal for hiking, biking, or exploring the nearby villages and monasteries.
The Style
Milia is a blend of traditional architecture and ecological design. The 14 stone houses have been carefully restored using local materials and techniques, preserving their original character and charm. The interiors are cozy and rustic, with wooden floors, stone walls, and colourful fabrics. The houses are powered by solar panels and heated by wood-burning stoves. The bathrooms have spring water showers and composting toilets. The village has a communal dining room, where guests can enjoy delicious meals made with organic produce from the farm, as well as a lounge area with books and board games.
Sustainability
Milia is more than just a place to stay; it is a visionary project that aims to preserve the natural resources and cultural heritage of the area for the benefit of both people and wildlife. Milia follows the principles of permaculture and biodynamic farming, and produces most of its food on site. It also recycles its waste, uses renewable energy sources, and minimizes its environmental impact. Milia works closely with the local communities to provide them with employment, education, and empowerment. It also supports various social and environmental initiatives, such as reforestation, wildlife protection, and cultural preservation. By staying at Milia, guests contribute directly to these efforts and help support the long-term sustainability of this unique region.
Rooms
The rooms at Milia are simple but comfortable, each with its own personality and style. They range from single to quadruple occupancy, and can accommodate up to 30 guests in total. The beds are covered with soft mattresses, pillows, and blankets, and have mosquito nets for the summer months. The rooms have solar-powered lights, but no sockets or plugs. The bathrooms are attached to the rooms, and have hot water buckets for showers and eco-friendly toiletries. The rooms have lovely views of the valley or the mountains, and some have balconies or terraces.
Things to do
Milia offers a variety of activities to suit different interests and abilities. Guests can go on guided walks or bike rides to explore the diverse habitats and wildlife of the area, such as vultures, orchids, and endemic plants. They can also visit the local villages and learn about their culture, history, and traditions. For those who want to relax, they can enjoy yoga sessions, massages, or simply soak in the natural beauty of the place. Milia also organizes workshops on topics such as cheese making, bread baking, beekeeping, pottery, and herbal medicine.
Wider region
The wider region of western Crete is one of the most diverse and beautiful parts of the island. It offers a range of attractions and activities for all tastes and preferences. Guests can visit the stunning beaches of Elafonisi, Falassarna, or Balos, the charming towns of Chania or Kissamos, the ancient sites of Aptera or Polyrinia, the spectacular gorges of Samaria or Agia Irini, or the serene monasteries of Chrysoskalitissa or Gonia. The region is also rich in gastronomy, folklore, and festivals, offering a taste of the authentic Cretan culture.
Getting there
The easiest way to get to Milia is by flying from Athens or other European cities to Chania airport (about 1 hour), which is about 60 km away from the village. Alternatively, guests can take a ferry from Piraeus or other Greek islands to Chania or Kissamos ports. From there, guests can rent a car or take a taxi to Milia (about 1 hour). The road to Milia is paved but narrow and winding, so guests should drive carefully and follow the signs.
- Actively reduces consumption
- Sustainable build
- Recycling
- Local or organic food
- Nature
- Rural
- Mountains
- Restaurant
- Up to 2
- Up to 4
- Up to 8
- Family
- Lodge
- Hiking
- Cookery
