Crete is an absolute dream place for many travelers. The largest Greek island impresses with its diversity. The excursion options really offer something for everyone - dream beaches, old hippie villages, lively old towns, impressive gorges or historical sites such as the famous palace of Knossos. And there is healthy and irresistible Mediterranean cuisine everywhere.
After many years outside of Greece, Marco's family returned to this place of their heart to fulfill their dream of owning an eco-resort. The Mourtzanakis Residence is picturesquely located in the village of Achlada with a view of the sea. The whitewashed houses are lined up around two pools and a courtyard. The houses and studios of different sizes are decorated in light colors. They immediately radiate cosiness with lots of wooden furniture, colorful curtains and successful decoration. But you spend most of your time outside anyway and, if you want, you can talk to the other relaxed guests.
On Wednesdays and Fridays you can eat here in the evenings at sunset - delicious moussaka, hearty befteki and fresh salads with the best olive oil and feta. In the morning there is a continental breakfast with fresh fruits from the garden. So you can head to the island's diverse sights with renewed strength. The charming hosts can help with planning in four languages. Tradition and hospitality are celebrated here while supporting the region.
Rooms + Rates
| Studio | from70 € |
| Villa | from90 € |
Sustainable
ArchitectureA successful mix of traditional rural architecture and a modern touch, developed by local architects and artists. Plus handmade lamps, furniture, curtains and decorative elements. The stone walls were designed and built by local stonemasons.
Locals cook and garden here and offer guided tours with lectures on botany and birds - there is an eagle's nest nearby.
EnvironmentEverything is done here to preserve nature, protect native plants and support local shepherds. The olive trees are several hundred years old and are protected. The hosts continue their education in environmental seminars. There are solar panels and fresh spring water from the mountains that can be used to irrigate the plants.
Characteristics
- Idyllic agriturismo in the traditional village of Achlada, in rural Crete
- Panoramic view of village, sea, mountains and sunset
- Local traditional and homemade Greek cuisine
- Large garden and lots of peace and quiet
- Organizing tours to explore nearby authentic Crete
- Interesting lectures on the history of Crete
- Beaches only 15 minutes (by car) away
- Many activities possible: horse riding, cycling, hiking, sailing, yoga and shiatsu can be organized
- Interesting excursion destinations in the area: Samaria Gorge, Lasithi Plateau, the Orthodox Arkadi Monastery, the Palace of Knossos, and much more
Features
- Small hotel complex with 4 houses + 3 studios
- Villas for up to 6 people, studios for up to 4 people
- All houses and studios have their own cooking facilities
- Breakfast + dinner evenings twice a week
- Main house with fireplace, small library, lounge cafeteria and terrace
- Two outdoor pools (for children / for adults)
Testimonials
The Achlada Mourtzanakis is a remote, family-friendly eco-residence, 20 miles west of Heraklion, set amid rocky slopes and ancient olive groves in great hiking territory. The heritage village of Achlada is a short walk away and there are marked trails in the hills. The closest beach for swimming and snorkelling is 10 minutes’ drive away. There are bikes for hire, and horse riding, canyoning and caving. The 4,000-year-old Minoan Palace of Knossos is within easy reach too.
A family-run eco-friendly hotel, the beautiful estate offers studio apartments and villas. The place is complete with a wide range of interesting activities. Guests can enjoy olive picking, hiking, and also take cooking classes. There’s also a pretty pool and Jacuzzi for the relaxation of guests.
This resort was dedicated to sustainability long before it became fashionable. You can stay either in one of the cozy villas or in the main building. From the minute you arrive, you’ll feel integrated and very welcome. All meals are taken at a long table in the dining room together with the owners and the other guests, many of whom come year after year from all over the world. Only local foods are used, and many are grown in the residence’s gardens and fields. Sadly, the owner’s wife, who was the soul of the place, recently passed away, but her secret recipes are still adhered to.
Certificates + Awards
ECOTOURISM GREECE
zertifiziert
Rooms + Rates
| Studio | from70 € |
| Villa | from90 € |
Location + Directions
By car
Unfortunately, the accommodation is not easily accessible by public transport; the nearest bus stop is about 3 km away. From Heraklion it takes about 30 minutes to reach Achlada (29 km) and from Chania it takes just under 2 hours (120 km). The exact address can be found on the website.
Meet the family
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