greek - θαλασσόκρινος; latin - pancratium maritimum ; english - sea lily
This type of sea lily is the only plant of its genus that exists in Greece, and predominantly grows in Crete. It was a favorite decorative ornament in Minoan art and is now a protected flower species.
Just like the intoxicating aroma of the sealily, the view of this house is breathtaking. Starting with the outdoor area, a place of recreation and relaxation filled with endemic flowers and herbs, the outdoor dining area, the furniture and the hammocks around the pool, finishing with the Cretan mountains and clear blue sky in the background.
The view and the pool is shared by the adjacent house Elichryso as well.
greek – ελίχρυσο; latin - helichrysumitalicum; english – everlasting flowers
The word Helichrysum comes from "helios", which in Greek means sun and "chrysos" meaning gold. We believe it is the perfect name for this house, as it is surrounded by light and has an everlasting rustic style, creating a safe, relaxing space great for private enjoyment.
The stunning view and the pool is shared with Thalasocrino.
greek – ιριδα ; latin – irideae ; english – iris
In Greek mythology, Iris was the rainbow goddess and messenger of Zeus and Hera, that drove the rainbow, like a colorful bridge from heaven to earth and carried messages. From there remained the word iris which means "eye of heaven". Just like its name, the house is meant to be a piece of heaven, where our guests can relax and enjoy the simple pleasures of life. The ground floor and the upper floor are connected by an external staircase which offers an independence between the two floors. The pool and the colorful luscious outdoor area is shared with Anemone.
greek– ανεμωνη ; latin – anemone coronaria ; english – poppy anemone
These flowers are also called "aeolianflowers", from the Greek word of the same etymology, meaning "daughter of the wind". It holds a special place in the local culture, as it is commonly used for decorations during the days of the Holy Week, at Easter. The traditional rustic Cretan style isvisible throughout the rooms of the house, with a lovely veranda, that is theperfect place to bask in the sun and feel the breeze of the mountains or the salty Mediterranean Sea. The outdoor area is filled with beautiful flowers and green trees that cast their cooling shade on the outdoor diningarea. The pool area and the outdoor area, as well as the stunning views are shared with the other house on the property, Iris.
greek: Μαργαρίτα, latin - Bellis perennis; english - daisy
In Greek mythology, daisies symbolized innocence and purity, new beginnings, joy and cheerfulness. We couldn’t find better words to describe the newest addition to our houses than these. “Margarita” is a newly renovated old house in the village of Elia, that has traditional feel brought out by the old reclaimed wood and stone. The outdoor area is filled with beautiful flowers and green trees that cast their cooling shade on the outdoor dining area.
The CRETAquarium offers its visitors the unique chance to plunge into the great marine world of the Mediterranean. From the big hunter sharks to the tiny sea horses, the sensational jelly fish and multitude of varieties of colorful fish. Located in Gournes, 14km from the city of Heraklion and the International Airport Nikos Kazantzakis. It is easily accessible and the national road connects it with the most important destinations of the area.
The Riding Academy of Crete (Ippikos Riding Club) is the largest equestrian center in Crete and is located 5 km from the airport of Heraklion and only 400m from the sandy beach of Karteros. The club offers riding tours both in the nearby mountains as well as the beach.
A cycling tour of average distance and altitude ascending on asphalt road, characterized by the constant ascending, reaching the most difficult points just before Skalani. This route that passes through a farm scenery of particular charm and ten picturesque villages is ideal for training as well as visiting the many cafes, two museums, as well as the historical Agkarathos Monastery just after the village of Sgourokefali.
ROUTE: Elia -Episkopi - Myrtia- Karteros.
Heraklion or Iraklio is the capital and largest city on the island. It is a vibrant city anda mixture of "old" and "new", where streets are full of historical remnants but modern urban places as well. The city center is the perfect example of old and new, where tavernas, shops and cafes are surrounding the old architecture of the Venitian Loggia and the Morozini fountain.
Heraklion is also close to the ruins of the "Palace of Knossos", which in Minoan times was the largest center of population in Crete.
Are you in love with the food that Crete has to offer, and would like to know the secrets of their recipes? Your host is more than happy to take you on a tour around the village, where you can learn how to make delicious Cretan dishes. For more details please contact your host.
Karteros Gorge is located east of Heraklion. It is integrated in the wider area of Ecological Park of Giouchtas, in Archanes. The scenery is beautiful, distinguished by the richness of its natural, geomorphological and cultural features. It is a green path with springs and small lakes, and a very well organized path with bridges, wooden railings along the course, with visible markings to guide the visitors. The gorge is suitable for hiking or mountain bike rides. The duration of the whole trip is 3:30 hours and the route is not a problematic one, making it ideal for families with children.
Arina Beach is located in the Kokkini Hani area, and is just 5 minutes away from Elia. It is a long sandy beach, where locals gather daily to enjoy swimming! It is full of umbrellas, lively beach bars and has many options for beach sports. East of Arina you will find the small cove of Agii Theodori with the carved Minoan shipyard still visible in the sea.
Watercity Waterpark gives young and old the opportunity to enjoy a holiday full of play, activities, sun & fun, drinks, relaxation and adrenaline. Do you want to have an unforgettable experience with your family, partner or friends? Watercity Waterpark promises the most unique experience for your Summer in Crete!
