“there is a kind of flame in crete...something more powerful than either life or death. there is pride, obstinacy, valour, and together with these something else inexpressible and imponderable, something which makes you rejoice that you are human being, and at the same time tremble” - nikos kazantzakis
loose yourself on crete, europe’s southernmost frontier and an island of stark contrasts. from the snow-capped mountains of the interior, looming imposingly over tiny, crumbling villages, to the elegant seafront resorts that fringe the changeable waters of the mediterranean sea, crete is sure to enrapture your soul. the island’s rugged landscape hosts a particularly bountiful crop of herbs, and the heady scents of rosemary, thyme, oregano, chamomile and fennel perfume the air throughout the year.
the largest of the greek islands, measuring 160 miles in length, the cretan landscape is a kaleidoscope of towns and villages all with their own unique aura. from heraklion, the capital and fourth largest city in greece, to tiny loutro and its quiet pebble beach, there’s something for everyone on this eclectic island. every summer, the international jet-set descend on the chic village of elounda, overlooking the sparkling waters of the mirabello bay and a favourite of international personalities from leonardo dicaprio and lady gaga to the saudi royal family. dinner at the calypso elounda peninsula is a unique experience and particular favourite with yacht-owners moored nearby, whilst the more laid-back lotus eaters serves fresh, local fare in a luxuriously peaceful location.
the island’s long coastline also offers a range of conditions suited to different water sports, from jet skiing and parasailing to kitesurfing and sailing. ikite provides premium, professional kiteboarding in heraklion, whilst the best surfing is found during the winter at phalasarna beach in the chania region.
epochal times is a carefully restored historic residence situated within the hillside village of maroulas near rethymno, where narrow stone lanes, venetian towers and traditional houses preserve the atmosphere of old crete. recognised as a protected landmark by the ministry of culture, the property traces its origins back to the late minoan iii period and has been thoughtfully renovated to preserve its architectural character while introducing contemporary comfort across three separate levels.
from the quiet village pathways, the house reveals a warm composition of natural stone, timber detailing and softly rendered walls that sit naturally within the surrounding settlement. elevated approximately 150 metres above sea level, maroulas enjoys open views across the cretan coastline and countryside, while maintaining a slower rhythm shaped by local life and long-established traditions.
inside, the restoration has retained many of the property’s original features, including exposed stone walls, dark wooden ceilings, wide plank flooring and traditional fireplaces that bring warmth and texture throughout the interiors. natural materials and soft lighting create an atmosphere that feels intimate rather than formal, with each room reflecting the layered history of the building without losing functionality for modern living.
the principal living spaces unfold across generous open-plan rooms where original structural elements remain visible alongside contemporary finishes and furnishings. large fireplaces anchor the sitting areas, while timber ceilings and polished wood floors soften the stone architecture. the kitchen introduces a more modern contrast, with clean-lined cabinetry and central preparation areas integrated carefully into the historic shell of the house.
the residence includes three bedrooms, each positioned to maintain privacy across the separate levels of the property. warm timber finishes, traditional proportions and deep-set windows create calm and comfortable interiors, while the bathrooms combine contemporary fittings with textured stone and mosaic detailing that complement the building’s historic character.
a lift connects all three floors, allowing practical movement throughout the house while preserving the original staircase and internal layout. the balance between restoration and functionality has been handled with restraint, allowing the architectural history of the property to remain the defining feature.
above the village rooftops, the upper terrace opens toward wide views of the sea and the coastline surrounding rethymno. a covered outdoor area and hot tub create a more private setting from which to watch the changing light across the hills and distant water. by evening, the lights of rethymno begin to appear along the coast below while the village itself remains quiet apart from the occasional sound drifting from the local taverna nearby.
located within one of crete’s best-preserved traditional villages, epochal times combines historical significance, restored craftsmanship and everyday comfort within a setting deeply connected to the island’s architectural and cultural heritage.
