Tucked on the eastern coast of the superb island of Crete, Exi Estate promises a perfect location to enjoy a little of the local flavour, not to mention breath-taking sea views!
Just a 10-minute drive away is Elounda, once a small fishing town and now a picturesque area that attracts a range of celebrities – and it’s not hard to see why! 4 and 5-star resorts and villas aplenty create a thriving social scene and an excellent array of tourist infrastructure – yet its relatively recent rise to fame ensures a greater sense of peace. The locals, like across much of Greece, are tremendously friendly and welcoming and will ensure you can enjoy this spectacular spot on the coastline with joy.
Just a 15-minute drive away is Spinalonga island, a fascinating place with a rich history. A Venetian fortress that was later occupied by the Turkish, it became the last Turkish outpost of the Ottoman Empire, before, in 1903, it was turned into a leper colony! A visit here shows an interesting architectural history, as well as an insight into the lives of the exiled lepers.
Crete is the largest of the Greek islands, and is abounding with beautiful crystal-clear waters, soft sand beaches, picturesque coloured pebbles, monasteries, caves and rich, verdant nature! Across the island, you will find a vast array of beaches, including larger, more developed, traditional beaches, and much more secluded ones, ranging all the way to thousands of deserted coves and isolated bays! Small seaside villages punctuate the coast, with the occasional larger town.
Crete, like most of Greece, is well-known for its warmth, hospitality and strong culture and with a long-established history of tourism, the infrastructure across the island is excellent! Vast skies, sparkling white-sand beaches and huge stretches of brilliant blue seas define this country and its many islands, where the thriving nature complements elegant architecture throughout. For a little adrenaline, try your hand at kitesurfing, wreck diving, and rock-climbing, or simply set up on a beautiful beach and soak up the long days of sunshine.
The food of Greece is famous for its rich flavours and delicate recipes of Mediterranean delights. Feta and olive oil are universal, while all kinds of fresh fish, fragrant herbs, in-season fruits and crunchy greens, all found in the back garden of the average Greek, await your enjoyment. Be sure to tuck into some of the classic Greek cuisine while you’re here, including the local specialities! As well as this, if you like the occasional tipple you ought to try Ouzo and Raki, two grape-based alcoholic drinks, in your time on the island, both firm favourites of the locals. There is also a lot of wine produced across the island!
A warm, passionate people and such a beautifully sociable country, both young and old will welcome you with open arms in Greece. Whether in pavement cafes, cosy restaurants or the thriving town squares, the people love nothing more than to enjoy a coffee or an ouzo in the company of the local community.
