“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.
set on a hillside overlooking rethymno, thesis is an impressive contemporary villa enjoying sweeping panoramic views across the historic fortezza, the city’s picturesque coastline and the endless blue of the cretan sea. just 3 km from the heart of rethymno, the property combines a peaceful, private setting with easy access to one of crete’s most charming coastal towns.
set within 4,007 sq.m. of beautifully landscaped grounds, the 510 sq.m. villa is arranged across three levels, with clean architectural lines, expansive glazing and generous terraces that make the most of its remarkable position.
manicured lawns, elegant palm trees and carefully designed outdoor spaces complement the villa’s contemporary architecture, creating an inviting environment for both relaxation and entertaining.
inside, the interiors are bright, spacious and thoughtfully appointed, with a soft, neutral palette, natural wood accents and contemporary furnishings creating a relaxed yet refined atmosphere. the main living area features comfortable seating, a modern fireplace and large sliding glass doors opening onto terraces with uninterrupted sea views. a beautifully equipped kitchen with a central island connects with the dining area, where generous windows frame the surrounding landscape and bring natural light into the heart of the home.
the villa offers six en-suite bedrooms, each designed with comfort and privacy in mind. the upper-level bedroom enjoys a particularly privileged position, opening onto a generous private veranda overlooking the sea and the historic fortezza, complete with its own jacuzzi. throughout the villa, carefully positioned windows and terraces maintain a close connection with the views, while additional living areas provide flexibility for family life and visiting guests.
outdoors, thesis truly comes into its own. an impressive 70 sq.m. infinity swimming pool takes centre stage, its waters appearing to merge with the blue horizon beyond.
surrounded by sun loungers, shaded relaxation areas and beautifully maintained gardens, the pool terrace offers an idyllic setting from which to admire the sweeping views over rethymno and the cretan sea. a separate children’s pool adds to the appeal of this thoughtfully designed outdoor environment.
a spacious covered entertaining pavilion, complete with a fully equipped outdoor kitchen, barbecue, dining area and comfortable lounge seating, provides a wonderful setting for long summer lunches and evenings spent with family and friends. beyond, expansive lawns, palm-lined pathways and a dedicated children’s playground create an exceptional sense of space, with different areas of the garden offering opportunities for recreation, entertaining or simply enjoying the mediterranean climate.
as evening approaches, the illuminated pool and the twinkling lights of rethymno create an entirely different atmosphere, with the historic fortezza and the coastline forming a memorable backdrop .
combining generous accommodation, beautifully designed outdoor spaces and an extraordinary outlook over one of crete’s most historic towns, thesis offers a distinctive mediterranean living experience, where privacy, contemporary comfort and proximity to rethymno come together with effortless ease.
this property is eligible for both the golden visa and the greek non dom program.
