Crete
The local area
The largest of the Greek islands, Crete's landscape flows from sleepy, sandy beaches, to beautiful mountain ranges, and endlessly explorable cliffs and coves. Surrounded by inviting sparkling seas, the crystalline light adds a radiance to the already stunning landscape, where you can wander around mountain villages, soak up the sun or enjoy the warm nights at beach-front bars.
Our luxury villa can be found in the small fishing town of Elounda, where fishing boats bob on a warm ocean that just begs to be swam in and the neighbouring island, Spinalonga, adds to the unforgettable view. Combining visually striking scenery with an affable and welcoming atmosphere, Crete will take you in with open arms.
The History of Crete
According to myth, Zeus was born in a cave on Crete (causing headaches to nymphs from that day forward) and you can find the Caves of Zeus on the slopes of Mount Ida, filled with interesting stalagmites, stalactites and offers made by worshippers from across the centuries. But even without the fascinating Greek myths and legends, Crete's history is captivating. The Minoans, who formed the earliest recorded civilisation in Europe, came from Crete and ruled 4000 years ago. Their presence is still felt in Europe's oldest city, the archaeological site The Palace of Knossos, while other influences from the Venetians, Byzantines and Ottoman Turks are to be found in the architectural fabric of the island.
What to See and Do in Crete
Unsurprisingly given its uniquely rich heritage (there's not many islands that can call themselves the crucible of European civilisation), there's a variety of activities to enjoy. The Heraklion Archaeological Museum contains 5,500 years of history within its walls, allowing you to wonder at the beautiful and precious things it has been possible to preserve from Greece's ancient history. You can experience culture of a different kind through the island's superb wine, with Iraklio wine country showcases indigenous Cretan grape varieties.
Samaria Gorge, a Cretan national park, is just one location to enjoy a day of hiking on the island, while a trip over to the former leper colony Spinalonga gives you the chance to wander around somewhere with a unique and affecting history.
Traditional Cuisine
For food lovers, there's a world of enjoyment to be had from our luxury villa. Like most places that take living well seriously, Crete has a brilliant food culture, informed by its strong traditions and distinct personality. Cretan cuisine stands alone even from Greek cookery, and rural tavernas often produce much of their own food, with the meat, cheese, olive oil and wine varying enticingly from place to place, and restaurants catching their own seafood. Cretan cheese pies, lamb with stamnagathi and Cretan brandy are a few local specialities to try on a trip to Crete.
The Experience
Kanali
Advance Booking Required
In Alykes of Elounda, perfect scenery meets amazing fresh seafood and excellent service. An...
The Ferryman
Advance Booking Required
In the heart of Elounda you'll be sure of a warm welcome from this well-known chef....
Migomis Restaurant
Advance Booking Required
This piano bar and restaurant needs no introduction. A renowned dining establishment located...
Nikos Taverna
A family run restaurant in Elounda's main square. If you enjoy fresh fish - this is the place...
Megaron
Advance Booking Required
Megaron is a family run restaurant situated in the central square of Elounda by the seaside in...
Heraklion Archaeological Museum: A Treasure Trove of Minoan History
Unveil 5,500 Years of History
One of the most important museums in Greece, Heraklion...
Phaestos: Ancient Stone Foundations
Discover the Stone Foundations of Phaestos
While there isn't much left of Phaestos,...
Cretaquarium: Greece’s Premier Marine Attraction
Discover the Wonders of the Mediterranean
The first large aquarium in Greece and one...
Acqua Plus
Acqua Plus Waterpark is by far the most popular water park in Crete, welcoming over 100,000...
Dinosauria Park: Cinematic Adventures
A Journey Through Prehistoric Times
Enjoy a rare collection of bones and fossils in...
Samaria Gorge: A Cretan National Treasure
Crete's Natural Wonderland
Together with the surrounding slopes and several smaller...
Elounda: A World-Renowned Coastal Paradise
A Slice of Heaven by the Sea
Elounda is a world renowned tourism resort located to...
Agios Nikolaos: Crete’s Coastal Gem on Three Hills
A Perfect Blend of Relaxation and Buzz
Agios Nikolaos, built upon three hills, is a...
Kritsa, Limnes & Kroustas: Discover Crete’s Authentic Heart
Uncover Crete's Living Heritage
Explore the rich local culture and history in the...
Plaka: A Serene Escape by the Elounda Lagoon
Enjoy Clear Waters and Quaint Taverns
Directly across from the island of Spinalonga,...
Almyros Beach: A Serene Wetland Oasis
A Natural Gem South of Aghios Nikolaos
South of Aghios Nikolaos, about 2 km from Kalo...
Ammoudara Beach: Adventure by the Sea
Sand, Shops, and Water Sports
A beautiful small sandy beach situated 3km from Agios...
Ammodi Beach: Agios Nikolaos’s Hidden Gem
A Seaside Escape Close to Town
Amoodi Beach Club is located 1km north of Agios...
Kitroplatia and Amos: Heart of Aghios Nikolaos
Dining by the Marina
Right in the heart of Aghios Nikolaos very close to the Marina...
Blue River: Sun, Fun, and Nightlife
A Beach Day Turned Party
Blue River is the perfect place in the vicinity of Agios...
Havania Beach: A Sandy Escape in Agios Nikolaos
Crystal Waters and Water Sports
Havania Beach in Agios Nikolaos is a wonderful sandy...
Voulisma Beach: A Sun-Soaked Escape
Relax, Sunbathe, and Enjoy Nearby Taverns
Just outside Kalo Chorio, this long and...
Agios Panteleimonas Beach: A Peaceful Coastal Escape
Enjoy Water Sports and Explore Natural Beauty
A beautiful and well organized beach...
Knossos: The Ancient Heart of Minoan Civilization
Explore Vibrant Ruins and Early Bronze Age Art
Knossos was the Bronze Age hub of...
The Porto Elounda Golf Club
Advance Booking Required
Golfing Excellence at Porto Elounda Golf Club
The Porto Elounda Golf Club hosts a...
Crete Golf Club
Advance Booking Required
Test Your Skills in Paradise
Recently opened the amazing Crete Golf Club situated in...
Rock climbing in Crete
The field Peza consists of the rocks Minoas, Talos Istronas and Panas - located 12Km east of...
Scuba diving in Crete
There are many diving centers that operate throughout the island and nearby smaller islands....
Walks and hikes in Crete
There are many of sign posted walks and cycling paths in the areas. Your Local Concierge will...
Sailing around Crete
Advance Booking Required
Hire your own sailing or speed boat with or without skipper or join a boat excursion to...
Tennis lessons in Crete
Advance Booking Required
Enjoy private tennis lessons in your own home, the equipment is all taken care of. Whether you...
Six Senses Spa at Porto Elounda Spa Resort
Advance Booking Required
Six Sense Spa offers a wide selection of tailor made treatments and packages like advanced...
Espace Vitalite' Chenot
Advance Booking Required
This amazing Spa located in Elounda Beach Hotel offers a wellness centre with a wide range of...
Ananea Wellness
Advance Booking Required
An exceptional spa at the Minos Beach Art Hotel. Enjoy your treatment watching soft,...
The Elounda Spa & Thalassotherapy
Advance Booking Required
Thalassotherapy and the virtues of the sea are of utmost importance at this spa: The treatment...
Day trip to Spinalonga Island
Advance Booking Required
Discover Greek History and Scenic Beauty
From Elounda, take a boat to the island of...
Discover Santorini on a Day Trip
Experience the Beauty of Santorini
"Day trip to Santorini Island. Take the 9am...
Adventure Crete: Gorge Hiking and Kritsa Exploration
Advance Booking Required
Gorge Hike and Kritsa Town Exploration
"Embark on a half-day hike through a nearby...
Craft Your Ideal Cretan Excursion
Advance Booking Required
Discover Crete Your Way
There many bus tours and private excursions throughout the...
Elounda Shopping: Designer Stores and Local Markets
Designer Boutiques and Fresh Local Produce
Along Akti Oloundos in Elounda, you'll...
Roussou Koundourou Street: Authentic Arts, Crafts, and Local Delicacies
Crafts and Cretan Specialties in Agios Nikolaos
Located in the heart of Agios...
Gerasimos’ Ceramics: Handcrafted Beauty
Hand-Made Souvenirs
Step into Gerasimos' Ceramic Store, a charming shop offering...
Marianna’s Herbal Shop: Homemade Teas and Essential Oils
Natural Teas, Creams, and Medicinal Herbs
At Marianna's Herbal Shop, you'll find a...
Explore Local Wineries in Crete
Advance Booking Required
Unveil Crete's Wine Secrets
There are several excellent local wineries on the island...
Lotus Eaters
Advance Booking Required
Located in the beautiful fishing village of Elounda, Crete, right on the seafront. Established...
Ostria Taverna
Advance Booking Required
Seafood Beach Restaurant
Despina Taverna
Advance Booking Required
The restaurant provides a fantastic setting and views over the bay.
Macrame
Advance Booking Required
A place with delicious food, good music and a nice view.
Olio Restaurant
Advance Booking Required
This Pizzeria is located on the picturesque little port in the graphic village of Elounda. In...
Giorgos Taverna
Advance Booking Required
This restaurant is situated near the jetty overlooking the bay of Elounda and the island of...
Olondi Restaurant
Advance Booking Required
The restaurant offers Seafood, Mediterranean, and Greek food. They are Vegetarian Friendly and...
Taverna Spinalonga
Advance Booking Required
The fish tavern "Spinalonga" is located right next to the beach viewing the Spinalonga...
Skala Taverna
Advance Booking Required
The restaurant offers Seafood, Mediterranean, and Greek food.
Moon Spinners Restaurant
Advance Booking Required
Indulge your taste buds at Moon Spinners Restaurant and bar. Request what you want and their...
Vritomartes Tavern
Advance Booking Required
Situated at the centre of the port of Elounda, literally in the sea, in a magnificent,...
Marilena Restaurant
Advance Booking Required
Marilena Restaurant is a family-run, traditional, Greek/Cypriot restaurant, established in...
Ergospasio Restaurant
Advance Booking Required
Great location, not busy part of area, lovely and relaxing atmosphere!
Porto Rino Restaurant
Advance Booking Required
We have family of our own...and we follow what our father taught us: to satisfy as much as we...
