The Offbeat Goat Collection
White River Cottages
Crete, Greece
Boutique-chic shepherd cottages nestled in the forested hillsides of Southern Crete
Plucked straight out of a Tolkien novel, these quirky hobbit-like stone cottages are a slam dunk for travelers seeking full-on cozy. These cozy cottages feel far off the beaten path, a dreamy green oasis lost in time.
Rooms are tastefully pared-back blending earthy hues, stone floors, and natural materials throughout. The hobbit dwellings might be tiny in size, but they hit the style spot for charm and snugness.
“The guiding principle in our work was the architectural tradition of the area, and the use of local natural materials.”
—White River Cottages
the look.
Tiny, lime-washed shepherd huts were converted with great style retaining the old stable doors, exposed stone walls, wonky beams, domed ceilings, and protruding slabs of rock seamlessly integrated into the décor. Décor is minimalist yet stylishly furnished with handcrafted furniture, and thoughtful touches like hand-cut flowers, natural woven baskets, scented candles, and olive tree branches bring nature into the space. Think soft blanket-covered beds carved into walls, built-in sofas, quirky but spotlessly clean bathrooms, and delightful terraces perfumed with lemon, olive, and fig trees.
the experience.
pool-worthy
Lounge poolside and soak up the solitude of the surroundings in this quiet corner of the island.
savory local treats
Savor delightful home-cooked meals at the nearby Taverna Piperia in Pefki (located in a beautiful village behind the hotel).
hiking galore
Enjoy easy access to hiking the gorges or visiting the secluded beaches in the area. Our favorite hikes are the Pefki Gorge walk (starting right next to the cottages) or, for hardcore hikers, try the Afendis Estravromenos (the highest peak of the Thriptis Mountains). The staff is happy to send you off with trail recommendations, a map, and snacks for a day of hiking.
the impact.
Hotelier Vangelis Mavrakis designed White River Cottages as a refuge for lovers of solitude and nature.
Eco-design
Thoughtfully restored shepherd's cottages seamlessly blend into the natural landscape and were built by integrating traditional building traditions, techniques, and materials.
Culinary sustainability
All produce, and ingredients used in their kitchens are seasonal and grown or sourced locally.
at a glance.
$$
good to know
13 traditional stone cottages (2-4 persons). Self-catering.
location
Aspros Potamos, 72055, Makrigialos Lasithi Crete.
Photos courtesy of: White River Cottages
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