Your Cretan journey begins here

AT THE COTTAGESPECIAL OFFERS

Author: Tonia

5/1/20243 min read

Hi! My name is Tonia, and I’m so excited to finally launch this website and share a piece of my heart with you. For almost 20 years, Crete has been my home. The moment I arrived, I fell completely in love with this island, its vibrant culture, breathtaking landscapes, and the warmth of its people.

That love has only grown deeper over time. Now, I’m thrilled to open the doors of my holiday cottage, nestled in the charming village of Alagni. This wasn’t just a project; it was a journey. My husband and I poured our hearts into renovating this space, corner by corner. Every detail has been thoughtfully crafted to blend modern comfort with the timeless spirit of Crete.

This home also has a long history in the village. It once belonged to a local winemaking family and has been part of the community for generations. Over the years, it served as a coffee shop where neighbors would meet, a small shop where people still remember buying little things, and later as a gathering place for the winemaking family. Its walls are full of stories, memories, and the everyday life of Alagni, making it more than just a holiday cottage—it’s a place with heart and history.

Curious to learn more about me and what led to this adventure? Read more about me here.

An Invitation from my heart

This website is my invitation to you. Step into my little corner of Crete, make the cottage your home away from home, and let your senses guide you through the treasures this island holds.

I’m truly grateful you’re here, sharing the beginning of something made with love and inspired by Crete.

With warmth and joy ❤️
Tonia

Before and after - the journey

Take a look at the video showing the renovation process. We couldn’t have made this dream a reality without the incredible talents of our designer and photographer.

Designer: Eirini Sifaki
Photographer: Manos Chalampalakis

My dream for Tonia’s Cottage

The dream:
My dream is simple but deeply meaningful. I want Tonia’s Cottage to be more than a place to stay. It’s about travel that goes beyond the ordinary, offering a way to experience Crete and it's community that leaves a positive mark not just on visitors, but on the village of Alagni itself.

The vision:
I imagine a welcoming home where guests can live alongside the local community, immerse themselves in authentic Cretan life, and feel the heartbeat of village culture. A place where travel fosters real connections — with the land, the people, and the traditions that make this island so alive.

The mission:
I hope guests will embrace genuine hospitality, support family-run businesses and artisans, and take part in local festivals and celebrations that honor Crete’s heritage. This dream is also about slowing down, discovering hidden corners of Crete, and leaving with memories filled with care, respect, and a sense of belonging. For me, travel is a shared story of heart and regeneration, a way to honor the timeless traditions, the beauty, and the soul of Crete that I love so much and am excited to share.

Holiday home in Crete host, Alagni village, Crete

Your Cretan journey begins here

A journey into the heart of Cretan culture and hospitality

Address

Contact details