“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.
akron occupies a waterfront position above the cretan sea, with panoramic views across the rocky coastline and open water. set on 1,832 sq.m. between the bays of lygaria and agia pelagia, the five-bedroom property enjoys a close connection with its coastal setting, with two beaches within walking distance and the sea visible from many of its principal spaces and terraces.
the house follows the contours of its elevated plot, with terraces arranged across different levels and the swimming pool positioned overlooking the water. from around the property, the outlook moves between open sea, rocky coves and the surrounding headlands, giving the coastline a constant presence.
throughout the house, the architecture maintains a close connection with the setting.
offering a total built area of 413 sq.m., akron comprises the main house, two independent guest houses and additional auxiliary space. the main house is arranged over two levels and includes three generously proportioned bedrooms, each with an en-suite bathroom. the principal bedroom opens onto a private balcony overlooking the coastline and sea.
light-filled living and dining areas are arranged across different levels, with large windows, glazed doors and arched openings framing the scenery beyond. a fireplace anchors the living room, while the kitchen offers generous preparation space, a breakfast bar and an adjoining dining area. white and soft neutral tones keep the interiors bright, allowing the blues of the sea and sky to provide the colour.
surrounded by endless shades of blue, filling every outlook with coastal beauty.
balconies and terraces extend from the interiors, while broad areas of glazing bring the horizon into the living spaces. a 50 sq.m. atrium provides an additional area within the house, while a sea-view fitness room adds to the amenities.
two independent guest houses, each with a private bathroom, provide additional accommodation for family and guests while remaining separate from the principal house.
outside, the focus turns naturally towards the sea. terraces create a series of areas for dining, entertaining and relaxing, including a covered dining terrace looking directly across the water. the swimming pool occupies its own elevated terrace with wide sea views, accompanied by a pergola for shade. an outdoor kitchen with built-in oven and barbecue provides a dedicated setting for summer dining and entertaining.
a further 50 sq.m. auxiliary area incorporates storage, a shower and wc serving the swimming pool and exterior spaces. established planting and stone-paved terraces follow the natural levels of the site and soften the architecture.
what sets akron apart is its relationship with the coastline, woven into daily life.
from the terraces and balconies to the pool and living spaces, views extend across the water, rocky shoreline and surrounding headlands, while the beaches of lygaria and agia pelagia are within walking distance. here, the sea is not simply something to look towards, but an integral part of the setting.
this property is eligible for both the golden visa and the greek non dom program.
