The Offbeat Goat Collection

Milia Mountain Retreat

Crete, Greece

Greece / Crete / Milia Mountain Retreat

Off-grid eco-chic hideaway in an ancient mountain village surrounded by chestnut trees and mountain goats

In a sleepy mountain enclave surrounded by chestnut trees sits a settlement of 14 stone houses that have become Crete’s poster child for eco-tourism. Beautifully reconstructed with robust, chunky stone walls, dark wooden beams, and built-in platform beds, these tiny shepherd homes exude simplicity and old-world charm.

Interiors are beautifully pared-back with a minimalist aesthetic and a scattering of Cretan accents throughout.

“30 years ago, when we started ‘flirting’ with the idea of making an alternative and sustainable project, implementing the terms ecology and tourism in it, locals could only think it was a crazy and daring plan.”

—Milia Mountain Retreat

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the look.

Creatively restored, each stone cottage blends exposed stone, wood-beamed ceilings, and brushed concrete floors. Spaces are defined by time-worn surfaces full of character, warm woods, and rustic charm. Stylish yet modest with comfy beds, locally handcrafted furniture, handwoven kilim rugs, cozy fireplaces, and plenty of romantic candles for ambiance. Milia’s stone cottages are all connected to the main farmhouse by cobbled pathways fringed with leafy chestnut trees, trickling springs, and the occasional curious goats.

the experience.

mountain views

Chill and soak up the mountain views from the picture-perfect wrap-around terrace. Sunset meals are spectacular, so grab your table early!

savory local treats

Relish farm-to-table breakfasts with fancy spreads of creamy Greek yogurts, fresh-baked breads, locally-sourced honey, jams, and cheeses.

farmlife

Try your hand at milking the offbeat goats (always fun!) or learn the ins and outs of Cretan cooking with local chefs (classes offered).

hiking galore

Enjoy access to beautiful hiking trails to Lower Milia and the circuit of Milia. The staff is happy to send you off with trail recommendations, a map, and snacks for a day of hiking.

the impact.

Milia is the poster child for sustainable tourism and is recognized by National Geographic as one of the top 25 ecolodges globally (2013).

Eco-design

Tastefully restored and rebuilt to its original form with all locally-sourced materials.

Conservation-focused

Recognized as part of the Natura 2000 Network conservation area, Milia is committed to conservation, actively planting trees and farming ecologically.

Community-driven

Food and products are sourced locally to support local farmers. Collaborates with farmers and artisans on workshops and seminars and involves local youth to encourage sustainability practices.

Culinary sustainability

All food is sourced on location or through a long-term collaboration with local food producers.

Waste, water, and energy management

Milia is entirely off-grid, with all electricity produced through a photovoltaic system. Heating is covered by gas and wood-burning (with the allowance of the Forest Service). Water is filtered through biological wastewater treatment and filtered with zero energy consumption. Economical lighting is encouraged (with a charging station for gadgets in the restaurant). Wastewater is filtered and used to water the nearby trees.

at a glance.

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good to know

15 rooms. Guests should be mindful that the hotel is off-grid, so all gadgets must be charged in the main house. All meals are available at the Hotel’s restaurant.