“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
lose 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. cretan diet is renown to the world for its longevity effect: it is made of earth’s simplest ingredients such as olive oil, fresh fruits, vegetables, herbs, and light fish as well as red wine and poultry yet rich for their healthy benefits and quality of living.
the largest of the greek islands, measuring 160 miles in length, crete 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. 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.
positioned on an elevated hillside above elounda, villa phaedra occupies a commanding setting overlooking mirabello bay and the island of spinalonga. the property combines privacy, direct proximity to the sea and uninterrupted views across one of crete’s most recognisable coastal landscapes. from its elevated position, the villa follows the natural contours of the hillside, with a series of terraces and outdoor spaces arranged to maximise the relationship between the residence and the bay below. a private beach can be reached within a three-minute walk through the surrounding grounds.
completed in 2021, the residence extends across 632 sqm of interior space and is defined by a contemporary architectural language softened by natural materials including cretan stone, marble, timber and woven textiles. the palette remains restrained throughout, allowing the changing light and sea views to become integral elements of the living environment.
the principal living areas are arranged in an open-plan configuration, creating a strong sense of continuity between the interior spaces and the landscape beyond. wide glazed openings frame the sea from almost every angle and connect directly to the terraces, while the layout has been carefully organised to balance openness with privacy. different living zones are distributed across separate levels, creating distinct areas for relaxation without compromising the overall flow of the house.
the villa comprises six bedrooms and six bathrooms, including two principal suites positioned independently from one another. the accommodation is arranged to provide both privacy and direct access to outdoor spaces, with the upper-level suite benefiting from a panoramic terrace overlooking the bay. additional guest accommodation occupies the lower level, which functions almost as a self-contained retreat within the residence and enjoys its own independent access. a separate guest house is positioned discreetly within the grounds, connected to the main residence by a private pathway.
outdoor living forms an integral part of the property. the heated infinity pool sits at the centre of a series of terraces that extend towards the sea, while landscaped gardens create a natural buffer around the residence without interrupting the views. covered and open-air living areas are distributed throughout the grounds, allowing the outdoor spaces to be used comfortably throughout the day and across different seasons.
the architecture combines a contemporary mediterranean aesthetic with practical year-round living. deep overhangs, sheltered terraces and carefully considered circulation spaces provide protection from the summer sun, while the orientation and design encourage natural airflow throughout the residence. the result is a house that feels closely connected to its coastal setting while remaining comfortable and functional beyond the peak summer months.
located within easy reach of elounda and the wider northeastern coastline of crete, villa phaedra enjoys a privileged position above the bay, where the sea remains a constant presence from almost every part of the property. as evening light settles across mirabello bay, the changing colours of the water and the outline of spinalonga become the defining features of the view.
