Dutch throne prince buys villa in Greece

"The heir apparent to the Dutch throne prince Willem-Alexander and his charming wife Princess Máxima bought a holiday villa in Greece, worth 4.5 million euros and locates near to Kranidi, small town in the Peninsula Peloponnese."

History. The heir apparent to the Dutch throne prince Willem-Alexander and his wife Princess Máxima  met in 1999 in Sevilla, Spain. Máxima, an economy major, whose father was a minister of agriculture in the dictatorial regime under General Videla in Argentina. Because of that their relationship was accompanied by fierce public debate and only officially sanctioned after quiet diplomacy, resulting in Máxima's father agreeing not to be present on their wedding day (2 February 2002).

Máxima closed her eyes to the past and behaved as an exemplary- she visited the right places, smiled and waved when needed, almost without accent spoke in the local language and gave birth every two years for three times, bringing in life three granddaughters to Queen, look alike her eldest son Willem-Alexander, Prince of Orange.

And now this family will "almost unnoticed" appear in Greece to quietly enjoy holiday, away from curious eyes, on their 40 acres land with private beach and marina. A place to relax they have chosen very correctly, because to get to Kranidi with car is not so easy, most of the property owners are getting there by sea or by air.

Happy Easter!!!!!

Did you know that....?

Some interesting facts about Crete:

• Crete – Motherland for the most ancient European civilization, whose history was written by Homer, Plato and Aristotle.
• Crete still is the most biggest historical mystery in Europe.
• The history of Crete – is more ancient than the history of Europe as continent.
• Crete is identified as The Legendary Atlantis - the huge island, that sank to the bottom of the sea 11 thousand years ago.
• The Minoans had ships with perfect hydrodynamics.
• In Crete Europe’s first code of law was established.
• Minos, if true according to the legend, was one of the Zeus sons.
• In Minoans community the woman's role was decisive.
• In Crete Europe’s first code of law was established.
• The first wine came to Europe from Crete.
• During the ancient times the cultivating of olives was started.
• In Crete Europe’s first code of law was established.
• According to a legend, the king of the Olympian gods- Zeus was born in Crete. As the legend says, he was also buried here, in a cave near the village Archanes.
• There was a time when the whole Mediterranean and even Athens were paying the taxes to the king Minos.
• In the beginning of XX century an English archeologist Arthur Evans excavated the remains of the legendary palace of Minos in Knossos and this sensational discovery showed to the world the great ancient civilization, called The Minoans. 
• Minoan laws were the basis for the law system in Sparta and Ancient Greece.
• The labyrinth of the Minotaur is the famous Minoan palace of Knossos, which is in a suburb of the capital of Crete, Heraklion.
• Daedalus - the architect and creator of the palace of Knossos. He made his escape from Crete by making wings to fly away.
• The Icarian Sea is called in the honor of Icarus, the son of Daedalus, who fled in the sky together with his father and died in the see.
• Until now no one can decipher the famous disk that was found in the Minoan city of Phaistos.
• During the ancient times the cultivating of olives was started.
• Crete is located on the crossroads of three parts of the world: Europe, Africa and Asia, almost at equal distances from the three continents. Crete belongs to Greece and is the most southern point in Europe.
• Hippocrates prescribed the air of Crete as pure for the healing of many diseases.
• For many years the fresh waters of Crete were recognized as the best in the Mediterranean.
• Many beaches of the Crete are marked with “Blue Flag” of the EU (this award is the most ecologically clean beaches and resorts).
• Water clarity in the coastal waters of Crete sometimes reaches 40 m.
• In Crete there are more than 3,000 caves and 100 canyons and also the longest gorge in Europe.
• Some types of Cretan flora and fauna can not found anywhere else in the world.

Popular Residential areas

Short facts about some popular residential areas from Heraklion district to the east:

View to Agia Pelagia

Agia Pelagia is a famous holiday place near to Heraklion with an amphitheatric bay, luxury villas and the breathtaking view of a Greek postcard.

Kokkini-Chani is a small holiday resort located 15 km from Heraklion. Here you will find many
souvenir shops, disco-bars and picturesque taverns in the traditional Greek style. Outstanding sandy beaches stretch out for many kilometers.

The holiday resort village Gouves is located 17 km from Heraklion airport. Sandy beaches are stretched out along the coast sloping gently down to the sea, separated from the hotels by a narrow road. The resort is divided into two parts: Pano Gouves(upper) and Kato Gouves(lower, nearer to the sea). In the old part of the village you will find typical Cretan architecture, with narrow streets and snow white houses. It is interesting to visit the numerous ancient churches located near the village. From Gouves it is only a short distance to the island of Dia, which can be reached by a hired boat.

Evening in Gouves

Not far from the village you can go to the aquapark or aquarium. Gouves is conveniently situated for visiting the sights of the entire island.

The green and small village Agriana is located close to Chersonisos, and only a five-minute drive from the sea. In ten minutes you can reach The International Golf Course, and in twenty minutes - the airport. 

The administrative center of Chersonisos is in around half an hour drive from the airport of Heraklion and includes the following populated areas: The harbour of Chersonisos, Koutouloufari, Piskopiano, Anissaras, Potamies, Avdou, Gonies and Kera. There are practically no local residents in the harbour of Chersonisos; in fact the town is only active in the tourist season, when it becomes the most lively holiday resort on the Northeastern coast of Crete, with numerous shops, bars, discos and clubs. In summer there is a mini golf course, go-carting, a small aquapark, diving centers and horse-riding. The beaches in the region of Chersonisos are partly sandy and partly pebbles. In the winter this place is silent- the shops and taverns are closed and the village is silently waiting for the following tourism season.

Cherssonisos

The excellent sandy beaches and the clean sea of the city Malia attracts tourists to explore the sea
and enjoy various forms of water sport. In the eastern part of the city, on the coast, you will find the ruins of a Minoan palace, in which the golden image of bees was found, which still is the talisman of Crete and is still made by local jewellers.

Sisi- a small village 39km from Heraklion and 15km from Chersonissos, attracts tourists for an easy and quiet holiday. Beautiful bay, few sandy beaches, a small port with plenty of taverns and cafes, narrow streets with souvenir shops remain for a long time in the tourist’s memory and is often calling them to go back again and again to enjoy this friendly seaside village.

Milatos – beautiful and calm fishing village is situated 16 km from Chersonisos. From the road to Milatos there is an extraordinarily beautiful panoramic sea view. Here you will find many coastal
tavernas, which serve all kinds of dishes from fresh seafood. Many Greeks, even from Heraklion, are coming here to enjoy the delicious fish. This is an ideal place for walking and bicycle trips. Milatos is located 45 km from Heraklion airport, in the center of the eastern part of Crete, and six kilometers from the village of Sissi. 

Agios Nikolaos in winter time

The environment of the city of Agios Nikolaos is very picturesque and attracts a great number of
tourists. A special attraction of the city is the deep freshwater lake of Voulismeni which is connected to the sea by a narrow channel. Somehow the water is not mixed and the city thus has a seashore and a lake shore. Agios Nikolaos is rightfully considered as the most beautiful coastal town of Crete. It is sometimes called the Saint Tropez of Crete. 

More popular villages in the neighbourhood of Agios Nikolaos is Elounda, located 7km from the centre in the Mirabello Bay and the fast growing village Plaka, a three minutes drive from Elounda. Beyond these areas are the most prestige and exclusive hotels of Crete. In the Gulf one finds the expensive yachts but from the highest land plots you will have the most wonderful views over to the Islands of Kolokytha (Κολοκύθα) and the Best Known Island «Spinalonga».

Districts of Crete

The island of Crete is divided into four districts- Chania, Rethymno, Heraklion, and Lassithi.

Heraklion district - is the largest, centrally located region of Crete. It is named after the ancient Greek mythical hero Hercules. In this region is situated the most developed tourist infrastructure, as well as the most popular holiday resorts of Crete and most of the archaeological sites of the island. The city of Heraklion is the capital of the island, with a population of more than 150.000. In Heraklion there is a large commercial and passenger port and in the suburb the Island’s largest international airport.

Rethymno District - the most mountainous of all the districts of Crete, located west of the Islands center. The administrative center of the district is Rethymno. Rethymno- a picturesque resort city, with its narrow streets, Venetian buildings, fountain in the old city center and the Fortezza - a great Venetian fortress above the old harbor.

The capital of the most west district of Crete is Chania, the city with the second biggest population, which once was the capital of the Island until the year 1971. The city reached its peak when the Venetians came to the Island. Until now Chania has the palaces, mansions and fountains of that time. In the suburb there is the second international airport of Crete. The district of Chania is considered to be the greenest one in Crete, as in the winter time it rains often.

The Lassithi Region - is the most eastern region of Crete. The administrative centre is the city of Agios Nikolaos. The region is well-known for its mild climate, the highest number of sunny days annually, and a minimum amount of rainfall, attracts a large number of tourists. According to the statistics, the permanent population of Agios Nikolaos is 10.000, whereas this increases to 500.000 in the tourist season. The most prestigious and luxurious hotels of Crete are located on the coast of the Mirabello Bay in region of Elounda.

The largest cities of Crete, the administrative centres of four districts, are located at the northern coastline of the island and most inhabitants live exactly there. The population of south side is small enough but at the present a lot of attention is paid to infrastructure development in this area.

7 reasons in favour of Crete

Prestige Greece and its islands are taking a high position in the ranking of European tourist destinations. The Island of Crete is known for its many luxurious and prestigious hotel complexes in the Mediterranean and is a favorite place for senior politicians and international celebrities.

Exclusive The law system in Greece about land-use of the island is strictly regulated, the building density ensures the preservation of the landscape. The island is not crowded. Acquisition of property in the territory of Greece need certain legal requirements.

Profitable The growing demand among the foreign investors implies the stable rise of property price. There is flexible taxation, although there is an annual tax on real estate ownership.

Convenient Unlike other island resorts, Crete has a year round wonderful transportation network. On the island there are two international airports and three seaports. There are plenty of charter flights from the major EU cities during the summer season.

Safe The foreign policy of Greece is evaluated as neutral. Crete has the lowest figures in the crime and the highest security rate in Europe.

Beneficial The prices of real estate are much lower than in other European countries. Also the interest of mortgage is lower.

Comfortable The Greek mentality. They are enormously generous, easy-going and very friendly. Their hospitality makes everybody to feel comfortable.

Why Crete?

General information about Crete and Greece

Crete is an exquisite and unique island on the cross-road of three continents, three cultures and many civilizations, the native land of Zeus and Europe.

Crete divides the Aegean and Libyan seas. The island is 260 km long from east to west, and the maximum width is 60 km from north to south.

The population of the island is approximately 650.000, predominantly Greek. Two international airports, in Heraklion and Chania, connect the island with the entire world. The duration of flights from Moscow to Crete is slightly more than three hours.

Time is Eastern European, one hour behind Moscow time.

Capital: Heraklion is a modern city with a rapidly developing infrastructure and a rich and interesting history.

Archaeology: Many remarkable treasures have been found in Crete, bearing witness to the culture and skills of the past. Unique exhibits dating from the Minoan civilization are shown in the archaeological museum in Heraklion. Admirers of Byzantine art and skills will find the monasteries and temples of Crete of great interest.

Safety: There is practically no criminality in Crete. In the daytime and at night you will find an atmosphere of tranquility and calmness.

A few statistics about Greece:

• Capital: Athens
• Population: 10,7 million
• Total area: 131.957 kmІ
• Average life expectancy: 79 years
• Religion: orthodox Christians (97,6%)
• Language: modern Greek
• Highest mountain: Olympus (2.904 m)
• Largest island: Crete

The Nature and Landscape

Spring on Crete

A considerable part of Crete is protected by law of the protection of nature and is declared as a nature reserves. The island is different because of the great variety of landscape, which in itself is unique for such a relatively small territory. First of all, Crete is a mountainous island. Mountains are all over the island- coastal small hills are growing into the high rocky peaks, replacing the fertile valleys and plateaus. In the mountains of Crete more than 3000 caves and different karst formation can be found. Three mountain ranges divide the island into four parts.

Samaria george

The highest mountain is The Idi Range (Psiloritis), 2.456 meters above sea level. Fertile soil and the mild climate are ideal conditions for a wealth of more than 2000 plants species, 250 of them are found only on Crete. More than 40 species of wild orchid is growing in gorge of Samaria, which is the longest gorge in the Europe. Crete has around 100 gorges, where very rare plants are growing. For the Cretan people the gorges are associated with many historical events, along with myths and legends. Highly intended coastline stretching over 1000 km hides the small and cosy bays and natural ports. Crystal clear sea water allows one to see the bottom of the sea even in very deep locations. 

Vai, Eastern Crete

Sandy or pebble beaches are hidden in coastal cliffs or they are scattered in many kilometers. The beaches of the Bay of Messara - is the place where sea turtles Careta-Careta lay their eggs. The districts of Crete are all different: oak, chestnut, fir and cedar forests in the west, palm trees, olives and fruit plantations in the east, green fertile valleys in the center, hills on the southern and northern coast line and the flowers and herbs that literally are growing under the feet all over the island. There are areas with almost arctic or opposite, almost tropical climate. There are much more rare plants growing than on any other European Island and most of them are not familiar to the European traveler.

What about climate?

The subtropical climate on the island of Crete is considered to be the most favorable and the healthiest in Europe. Even in the times of Hippocrates (born 460 BC), this climate was recommended for patients.

According to the statistical data, Crete enjoys at least 300 days of sunshine annually. Crete's climate is milder than that on the Greek mainland.

Xrisi island, Southern Crete

Mean temperature in summer:  29°, the hottest months being July and August.

The heat is not oppressive and it is easily dispersed, thanks to the high humidity of the air (35-55%) and a constant sea breeze.

The bathing season normally starts in May and continues until October, but even in January the sea water is warmer than in lake in summer.

Thanks to the warm sea currents, the water on the north coast of Crete warms up earlier than at other Mediterranean holiday resorts.

Rainfall only occurs in the winter months, showers being rare and short. From April until November the skies above Crete are mostly cloudless.

Winters are soft and short, with a mean temperature of 16°. Snow is very rare and confined to the mountain peaks.

Trees and bushes do not discard their foliage, but the grass turns dry during the hot summers. Throughout the winter, the fruit trees in the orchards are adorned with juicy mandarins, oranges and lemons.

In winter the temperature of the water does not go below 16°.