Latest news with #Rethymno
New York Times
23-05-2025
- New York Times
$1.5 Million Homes in Crete, Greece
Rethymno | $1.53 million (€1.35 million) This three-story villa with a large courtyard is in the Old Town of Rethymno, on the northern coast of Crete, the largest and most populous of the Greek islands. Rethymno, with about 36,000 residents, faces the Aegean Sea and is the third largest city on Crete, situated between the larger metropolitan areas of Heraklion and Chania. Rethymno's Old Town dates mostly to the 16th century, when the Venetians controlled Crete and constructed a protective wall and the star-shaped Fortezza (the remains of which still exist) to protect the city from pirates. There are narrow alleys, mansions with Renaissance facades, picturesque arches and Venetian, Turkish and Egyptian monuments. The Venetian harbor, with its clusters of fishing boats, has a seafront promenade bordered by tavernas. The spires of Byzantine churches and the domes of historic mosques add flavor to Rethymno, which offers several museums and other cultural attractions. The Old Town is adjacent to the western end of the eight-mile beach on Rethymno Bay. Chania International Airport Ioannis Daskalogiannis is about 45 miles west of Rethymno, and Heraklion International Airport is about 50 miles east. Size: 2,077 square feet Price per square foot: $737 Indoors: The three-bedroom, three-bath villa has been refurbished to retain historic details, including exposed stone, niches and arches, while adding modern amenities. Located behind the notable Rimondi Fountain in Rethymno's Old Town, the property has a large landscaped courtyard with an entrance that leads to an open living and dining/kitchen area. The kitchen has white cabinets and a white-painted wood ceiling framed by an arch. A wood staircase ascends to the second floor, where there are two en suite bedrooms. One bedroom has a balcony, and the other has a large traditional fireplace. The third floor has the primary en suite bedroom and a large terrace with views of the surrounding city. The house has air-conditioning and a security system. Outdoor space: The house has an expansive courtyard with bougainvillea and an orange tree, as well as two balconies on the second floor and a large terrace with a pergola on the third floor. Costs: Annual taxes are about 800 to 1,000 euros ($900 to $1,125). Typical closing costs, which include transfer tax and fees for the notary, lawyer, engineer and real estate agency, are 8 to 10 percent of the purchase price. Contact: Despina Laou | Greece Sotheby's International Realty | +30-210-968-1070 Plakias | $1.47 million (€1.3 million) These two contemporary villas, one with three bedrooms and one with two bedrooms, make up a self-contained complex near the tourist resort of Plakias, on the southern coast of Crete. The villas, perched in the hills with views of the Mediterranean Sea, sit about a half mile from Plakias, a resort area on Crete's southern coast where the main beach abuts mountains and sheer cliffs. Monasteries and traditional mountain villages, such as Myrthios and Asomatos, attract travelers, as do the gorges of Kotsifos and Kourtaliotis and the palm-fringed lake of Preveli with its junglelike forest. The town of Plakias is has a marina, banks, medical practices, pharmacies and gas stations. Entertainment options abound, from tavernas and hotels to businesses offering water sports, scuba diving and bicycle rentals. There is frequent bus service to Rethymno, which is about 20 miles north of Plakias. Chania International Airport Ioannis Daskalogiannis is about 60 miles northwest of Plakias, and Heraklion International Airport is about 70 miles east. Size: 2,906 square feet Price per square foot: $506 Indoors: The two villas, one above the other, are connected by a stairway. Each has a swimming pool, floor-to-ceiling openings onto the pool areas, and skylights to illuminate the interiors. The upper villa is on three levels, and includes three en suite bedrooms, an open-plan kitchen and a living area with a fireplace. The kitchen has wood cabinets, an island and stone countertops. The two-story lower villa has a double-height living area that opens out to the pool and an open-plan kitchen with sleek black cabinets and an island. There are two bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms, including one with a large window overlooking the living area. Both villas are sold furnished and have air-conditioning. Outdoor space: The property has two swimming pools and several patios, balconies and terraces, including on the rooftops. Some are shaded by pergolas, including one with a barrel sauna. There is parking for four cars. Costs: Annual taxes are about 800 to 1,000 euros ($900 to $1,125). Typical closing costs, which include transfer tax and fees for the notary, lawyer, engineer and real estate agency, are 8 to 10 percent of the purchase price. Contact: Despina Laou | Greece Sotheby's International Realty | +30-210-968-1070 Ligaria | $1.47 million (€1.3 million) This six-bedroom, six-bath villa, built in 1986 and renovated in 2023, is in the hills near Ligaria, a resort village on the northern coast of central Crete. Ligaria is primarily known for its sheltered beach, situated in a turquoise bay protected from the frequent northwest winds, and offers activities including snorkeling, kayaking, jet skiing, paddleboarding and scuba diving. There are hotels, tavernas, beach bars and supermarkets. The nearby village of Agia Pelagia, also a resort area, has several hundred residents and a fuller range of services, while the city of Heraklion, with about 180,000 residents, is 30 minutes away. Ligaria is surrounded by traditional villages and the ruins of ancient civilizations. Larger cultural sites, such as the Heraklion Archaeological Museum and the Palace of Knossos, are within 30 minutes, as is Heraklion International Airport. Size: 5,490 square feet Price per square foot: $268 Indoors: The main entrance is on the second floor. Doors open to a large open space with a dining area, a living area with a fireplace and doors to a terrace, and a second split-level living area that also opens to a terrace. The eat-in kitchen has royal blue cabinets and opens to a veranda for al fresco dining. Stairs descend to the first floor where the primary en suite bedroom opens to a large terrace. This level also has another bedroom, a gym, a linen room, a utility room and a garage, as well as access to the outdoor kitchen. The third floor has four en suite bedrooms. The villa is furnished and has air-conditioning. Outdoor space: The property, on slightly more than an acre, has a swimming pool, a barrel sauna and a covered outdoor kitchen and barbecue area. The indoor kitchen has a veranda for dining, and the primary bedroom has a large terrace. There are numerous terraces off the other bedrooms with views of the Aegean Sea. The property has a landscaped garden and garage parking. Costs: The annual property tax is about €1,216 ($1,375). Typical closing costs paid by the buyer on a home sale, which include transfer tax and fees for the notary, lawyer, engineer and real estate agency, are 8 to 10 percent of the purchase price. Contact: George Mouchsiadis | Grekodom Development | +30-697-250-4496
Jordan Times
22-05-2025
- Climate
- Jordan Times
6.1-magnitude quake hits off Greek island of Crete — USGS
By AFP - May 22,2025 - Last updated at May 22,2025 ATHENS — A 6.1-magnitude earthquake rattled the Greek islands of Crete and Santorini on Thursday, the US Geological Survey said, with no major damage immediately reported. The strong quake struck 82 kilometres northeast of Crete's capital Heraklion at 0319 GMT at a depth of 68 kilometres, the USGS said. AFP journalists said it was felt as far away as Athens and Egypt. State television ERT said many residents in the Cretan regions of Rethymno and Lasithi were woken by the quake just after 6:00 am and quickly exited their homes as a precaution. The tremor "occurred at a great depth and there is no particular reason for residents to worry," Athanassios Ganas, general director of Research at the Geodynamics Institute of the National Observatory of Athens, told the station. State news agency ANA said fire department units in Crete had been placed on general alert, with vehicles patrolling to assess the situation. The mayor of Heraklion, Alexis Kalokerinos, told ERT that there were no particular problems in the city and that closing schools would not be necessary. The quake struck just over a week after a 6.1-magnitude tremor hit near the island of Kasos near Crete, and was felt in the outlying area. The region, popular with tourists, has been hit with multiple tremors in recent months, prompting schools in Santorini and neighbouring islands to temporarily close. Thousands of earthquakes, mainly of low magnitude, have been recorded since January between the islands of Santorini, Amorgos, Ios and Anafi in the Cyclades group southeast of the Greek mainland. They have not caused casualties or significant damage. Located where the African and Anatolian tectonic plates converge, the Aegean Sea is often hit by quakes. But the region had not experienced a phenomenon of such magnitude since records began in 1964, experts say.
Telegraph
09-05-2025
- Telegraph
Luxury experiences in the heart of the Greek islands
If 'all-inclusive' once meant a basic buffet restaurant and a few watered-down drinks, today that couldn't be further from the truth – and Grecotel's LUXME concept is the perfect example of an all-inclusive offering that goes above and beyond your expectations. The group's collection of LUXME resorts across Crete, Corfu, Rhodes and other Greek islands put the emphasis on high-end experiences and as an added bonus, children up to 12 stay free. We've rounded up some of our favourite LUXME spots for families as well as couples after a luxury Greek island stay. An elegant retreat on Crete's north coast Set in postcard-pretty Rethymno, on the north coast of Crete, Grecotel's LUXME White is all about airy elegance, with crisp, white hues throughout. Several of its rooms are swim-up and there are spacious family options – including a handful of new, ultra-plush Yali Seafront Villas with their own pools. The resort sits on its own beach with a tranquil adults-only area and there's a sprawling, palm-fringed pool and a new family activity pool to cool off in. PADI courses, water skiing, beachfront yoga, wine masterclasses and e-bike tours are among the activities on hand. If you'd rather indulge with a spa treatment, drop little ones off at the kids' club and head to the Hippie Spa. On the food front, there are seven restaurants – among them adults-only tasting menu venue The White and Lobsteria, where creative lobster dishes are served on an ocean-facing terrace. Finish it off with a sweet treat at the pâtisserie and chocolaterie, before dancing the night away at one of the renowned LUXME White Parties. Deluxe dining and standout facilities in Rhodes A 100m-long pool, a shiny new beach club, lush gardens and excellent fitness facilities are among the lures of LUXME Dama Dama, which sits in the picturesque beach town of Kallithea in Rhodes. A 15-minute drive from Rhodes's medieval Old Town, it makes an ideal base for island explorations – if you can tear yourself away from the sweep of amenities. For families, there's a 700 sq m pool complex with water slides, a Blue Flag beach and a raft of activities at the kids' club. Adults can enjoy fitness sessions at a new Yoga & Pilates Club, alongside an indoor gym, sauna and glass-roofed pool. Beyond this, you'll find water sports, island tours, cooking classes and more. If all that works up an appetite, you won't be disappointed – nine bars and restaurants span the gamut from adult-only tasting menus to Greek, Italian, Japanese and beyond and, under a new dine-out concept, you can enjoy a complimentary meal at a selected local taverna. Accommodation includes rooms, apartments and suites with fresh décor and a palette of blue, gold and coral inspired by the island's vibrant colours. And vibrant they are; expect sunsets painting the sky in peach and magenta as you explore this striking island. Fun at heart For a holiday that really puts the focus on fun, look to LUXME Costa Botanica, which perches on a gold-sand beach in Acharavi, on Corfu's north coast. On top of a brand-new spa centre with a huge indoor pool, hammam and Jacuzzi, this recently renovated property has a 40,000 sq m Aqua Park; here you'll find slides and lazy rivers meandering through the palms, adding to the resort's four outdoor pools. There's also a cutting-edge gym with an all-new boxing ring plus fitness classes, a tennis academy, new padel courts, basketball and water sports. If you're looking to explore the area, hire an e-bike or e-scooter to explore the surrounding trails, head out on a tour of the local villages or take a trip to colourful Corfu Town. Keep younger ones entertained with a trip to the Botanist Lab to see the resort's edible garden. When hunger strikes, you'll have 12 bars and restaurants to choose from, including Botanica Fine Dining, which serves wine-paired farm-to-table dishes and a collection of elegant degustation menus offering a flavourful journey through Corfian cuisine. Expect standout service and a warm, friendly welcome that's quintessentially Greek to the core. British Airways Holidays packages include a generous checked baggage allowance for each customer and come with full Atol protection for complete peace of mind. Secure your all-inclusive holiday to Grecotel Resorts with a low deposit and enjoy flexible payments until you fly*.
Telegraph
08-05-2025
- Telegraph
Some of the best beach hotels for a Greek getaway
From lush peninsulas to idyllic islands, Greece is a dreamy destination for beach lovers. Here, everyone can find their perfect stretch of sand, from sweeping beaches to secluded coves. And when you're not diving into crystal-clear waters, you can combine beach time with gorgeous old towns, atmospheric ruins and incredible food. Whatever kind of breakaway you're looking for, British Airways Holidays has the hotel that's right for you, and you can enjoy direct British Airways flights to these Greek hotspots. Travelling with British Airways Holidays also comes with benefits that include low deposits*, Atol protection and generous baggage allowances. Pure elegance Grecotel is one of Greece's leading luxury hospitality groups, proudly celebrating 50 years of excellence. These 40 properties are spread across 15 iconic destinations in Greece and can be found on some of its most enviable coastlines. They offer the epitome of beachfront elegance, with chic, contemporary design and sweeping sea views, all wrapped up in natural landscapes. The upscale all-inclusive concept focuses on pampering experiences and impeccable service, while exquisite à la carte and buffet restaurants offer unforgettable gourmet experiences. LUXME White, Rethymno, Crete Set on Crete's northern shores, this luxury resort offers brand new seafront suites with private pools and luxury swim-up rooms. Lounge around sparkling zero-edge pools or escape to the half-mile curve of sand for unforgettable beach days. Bliss out at the serene Hippie Spa, and enjoy music, dancing and festivities that capture kefi – the Greek concept of joy and euphoria. LUXME Dama Dama, Kallithea, Rhodes Indulge in a luxurious beachside getaway at this stunning coastal resort. Choose from expansive suites and bungalows with serene gardens overlooking the Blue Flag beach then cool off in the picture-perfect Grand Pool. There are premium culinary choices for you to savour at the six restaurants, including the stylish Beach Club, and two bars, and you can let the children run wild at the Grecoland Kids' Club, with water slides, shows and parties. LUXME Costa Botanica, Acharavi, Corfu Circled by lush gardens, olive groves and the silken sands of Acharavi beach, this resort enjoys a breathtaking location. When you're not relaxing at the Beach Club, you can make the most of the new spa and innovative gym, which has its own boxing ring. That's not all – there are 12 restaurants and bars to choose from, a water park and a tennis academy where you can work on your game. Luxury without limits Sprinkled across some of the most coveted coastlines in Greece and Spain, Ikos Resorts offers gorgeous accommodations, menus designed by Michelin-star chefs and complimentary Tesla car hire for local adventures. The Ikos Kissamos, Crete's first Ikos resort, will be available for bookings later this year with British Airways Holidays, and Ikos Porto Petra in Mallorca offers an Iberian hue to this high-end experience. Ikos Dassia, Corfu This peaceful haven on the island of Corfu offers stunning views of the Ionian Sea. There are seven pristine pools that you can dive into, or you can stretch out on the sublime sands of the Blue Flag beach or relax at the Anne Semonin Spa. Epicurean delights are waiting to be discovered at the seven à la carte restaurants, and the children's football academy will make sure the little ones have the holiday of a lifetime. Ikos Olivia, Halkidiki This stylish, newly renovated resort is set among ancient olive trees and shady pines on a stunning beachfront overlooking Toroneos Bay. Exquisite Mediterranean flavours are served up at the all-new The Garden and Asian-inspired delights are the specialty at Anaya, all paired with a selection of delicious wines. For sundowners with unforgettable views, the new Potami Bar is the place to be. A world of elegance The enchanting island of Rhodes is home to three distinctive Atrium Hotels & Resorts hotels in three different destinations. They are all united by their dedication to creating a world of unparalleled luxury, so you can rest assured knowing you'll enjoy authentic Greek hospitality, premium all-inclusive stays and exquisite cuisine. Atrium Platinum Luxury Resort & Spa, Rhodes Situated on the captivating west coast of Rhodes, just outside Unesco-listed Rhodes Town, this idyllic resort combines dreamy sunset views and a gorgeous pool-dotted sanctuary with access to the island's cultural highlights. All rooms offer full or partial sea views, and suites come with private pools. Gourmet food is served at the five restaurants and you can toast your stay with premium drinks at the three bars. Atrium Palace Thalasso Spa Resort & Villas, Rhodes Located on sparkling Kalathos Bay, just a short drive from the historic Acropolis of Lindos, this gorgeous resort offers the perfect blend of serenity, adventure and exploration. Renovated rooms, suites and private villas are inspired by Greek architecture, while the palm-fringed pools and Blue Flag beach create the ambience of a summer oasis. Atrium Prestige Thalasso Spa Resort & Villas, Rhodes Nestled on the beachfront of the south-east coast of Rhodes, this sophisticated spot is perfect for privacy and tranquillity. Choose between airy rooms, suites, bungalows and villas, some of which come with private pools. Tempting culinary delights can be found in abundance at the six restaurants which offer a range of different global cuisines. If you're seeking adventure, nearby Prasonisi offers Europe's most exhilarating windsurfing and kitesurfing destinations.
