“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.
elysia occupies an exceptional seafront position in hersonissos, just 30 metres from the coastline and 80 metres from a sandy beach. extending across 379 sqm, the contemporary five-bedroom villa commands unobstructed views across the sea, with its architecture conceived to place the waterfront at the centre of everyday life.
with no possibility of future construction directly in front of the property, its open outlook is protected, while the setting combines privacy and tranquillity with convenient access to hersonissos and the surrounding coastal destinations.
defined by clean architectural lines, generous proportions and a sophisticated contemporary aesthetic, elysia opens towards the sea through expansive floor-to-ceiling glazing. slim-profile aluminium frames maximise natural light and the outlook, while premium materials and carefully considered finishes bring a restrained sense of luxury to the interiors.
contemporary architecture just 30 metres from the cretan coastline.
arranged across three levels, the villa features five en-suite bedrooms, including an impressive 39 sqm principal suite with a private dressing room and generous 56 sqm terrace. a second bedroom on the upper level enjoys an open outlook across the water, while the ground-floor guest suite overlooks the pool and coastline.
the main living level brings together an elegant italian-designed kitchen with open-plan dining and living areas. an all-season lounge enclosed by folding glass panels can be opened completely during the warmer months, allowing the living spaces to extend naturally onto the terraces.
the lower level is dedicated to wellness and leisure, with a private hammam and gym complemented by an additional lounge area. an internal elevator connects all three levels, while underfloor heating, central air conditioning, heat-pump technology, knx automation, a small-scale photovoltaic system and an a+ energy rating ensure exceptional comfort and efficiency throughout the year.
outdoor living forms an integral part of the architecture. the expansive terrace is centred around a 53 sqm heated infinity-style swimming pool with concealed overflow, finished in indian verde marble. oriented towards the coastline, the pool creates a striking visual connection between the water and horizon beyond.
a 53 sqm heated infinity pool creates a seamless connection with the horizon.
large-format anti-slip tiles and discreet waterproof architectural lighting define the surrounding terraces, while an electrically operated aluminium pergola provides a sheltered setting for outdoor entertaining. beneath it, a fully equipped outdoor kitchen incorporates a refrigerator, sink with hot and cold water, gas cooking facilities, generous worktop space, barbecue and wood-fired oven, alongside a dining area accommodating up to ten.
above the villa, an additional elevated terrace provides a more private setting for relaxing and entertaining, with far-reaching views across the surrounding coastal landscape.
just metres from the water, elysia brings together contemporary architecture, exceptional outdoor living and private wellness in a privileged cretan setting. from its infinity pool and expansive terraces to its light-filled interiors, every element has been designed to embrace its surroundings, creating a sophisticated mediterranean home shaped by light, water and the horizon.
