WINTER IN CRETE by Stelios Stylianopoulos

INDULGE INTO CRETE www.travelid.gr

Have you ever thought spending the winter in Crete and live like a Cretan?Crete is the place where myths look like history and history is like a myth. from the distant past to the present day, every place on the island has a short or long story to tell.

INDULGE INTO CRETE

CONTENT ISLAND’S HISTORY

GEOGRAPHICAL POSITION

4-5

CLIMATE – WEATHER

HIGHEST AND LOWEST AVERAGE TEMPERATURE MONTHLY

LIVE LIKE A CRETAN

8-13

ACCOMODATION IN CRETE DURING WINTER - KAMILARI VILLAGE

14-15

ACCOMODATION PROPOSALS IN KAMILARI

16-25

AROKARIA

16-17

KAMILARI

18-19

LITHOS

20-21

OASIS

22-23

PASIPHAE VILLA COMPLEX

24-25

AGIOS MYRONAS VILLAGE

26-27

ACCOMODATION PROPOSALS IN AGIOS MIRONASS

28-31

TRADITIONAL STONE BUILT CRETAN HOUSES COMPLEX SOFIA AGAPI

28 29 30

ISLAND’S HISTORY Crete is the birthplace of the first European civilization, the Minoan, which flourished between 3000 BC and 1200 BC mainly in Central and Eastern Crete. Even today, the majestic palaces of Knossos, Phaestus, Malia, Zakros, Tylissos, Arhanes, Monastiraki, Galatas, Kydonia and the luxurious mansions at Agia Triada, Zominthos, Amnisos, Makrigialos, Vathipetro and Nerokouros reflect the splendor of the Minoan civilization through architectural, pottery, jewelry and painting masterpieces. After a natural disaster that destroyed the Minoans, the Achaeans and Dorians dominated the island. Classical Greek civilization flourished in the years that followed. In 67BC Crete was conquered by Rome. Gortyna was the town that became the capital of the Roman province of Crete and it was one of the first towns to welcome the Christian religion. During the Byzantine period Crete became an important center for Christianity. From 824AD to 961AD, Saracens seized the island and from 1204 Crete was taken over by the Venetians until 1669 when it fell to the Ottoman Turks after a 22-year siege. Crete regained its autonomy in 1897 and was united with Greece in 1913. Its troubles were not over as it suffered under Nazi seizure in World War II.

GEOGRAPHICAL POSITION Crete, the largest island of Greece, is located at the crossing of three continents, south-eastern Europe, the south-western part of Asia and northern Africa. This position, besides having a huge geopolitical importance, has also influenced the development of the climate in general and, consequently, the biodiversity (flora and fauna) of the island, which is extremely rich. Crete occupies an area of almost 8.000 square kilometers, with a length of about 260 km. The coastline of the island is more than 1.000 km in length.

INDULGE INTO CRETE

The morphology of the Cretan earth is described as intensely mountainous, with an imposing mountain range that crosses the island from the west to the east. The mountains defining the morphology of the island are the “Lefka Ori” with a maximum altitude of 2.452 meters, the Psiloritis, with a maximum altitude of 2.456 meters and Mount Dikti, with a maximum altitude of 2.148 meters. To realise how intensively mountainous Crete is, it is enough to observe the Lefka Ori, the most extensive mountain range, with more than 50 summits of more than 2.000 meters altitude.

The large and impressive plateaus, like Omalos, Askyfos, Niatos, Nida and Lasithi, the numerous gorges, the swallow-holes, like that of Omalos, the cliffs and numerous caves, like the cave precipice of Gourgouthakas (the largest in Greece, and, having depth of about 1.200 meters, one of the deepest in Europe) complete the mountainous and wild profile of the geomorphology of the island. In the Lefka Ori alone, more than 1.500 caves have been recorded, as well as the three deepest precipices of Greece. In Crete there are more than 5.000 recorded caves. More specifically, as regards gorges, Crete could be well characterised as the land of the gorges. The formation of gorges is very important, from geological and environmental view, and is the result of the combined effects of the water, the limestone rocks that are prevalent on the island and the tectonic movements of the area, as the plate of Africa is sinking deeply under the European plate, causing intense pressures to the Hellenic Arrow. The vicinity of Crete to the convergence point of the tectonic plates has caused, over the geological years, important elevations of the soil, the most characteristic being the 9 – meter elevation after an 8 Richter scale degrees earthquake in 365 A.D.

The gorges of Crete, basically orientated from the north to the south, cause awe and amazement. They have very special soil, biodiversity and local microclimatic conditions. The most famous of them, the gorge of Samaria, is about 16 kilometers in length and is one of the largest gorges of Europe. It is an internationally recognized place of environmental and cultural importance. Apart from the gorge of Samaria, there are many more impressive gorges one can visit and cross in Crete: The gorges of “Imbros”, “Aradaina” and ”Agia Irini” in the regional unit of Chania, the “Kourtaliotiko” in the regional unit of Rethymno, the “Agiofarango” and the gorge of “Karteros” in the regional unitof Heraklion, the gorge of “Cha” and the “Gorge of the Dead” (or gorge of “Zakros”) in the regional unit of Lasithi.

1. Location of Crete 2. Gorge of Ha in Lasithi 3. Gorge of Samaria in Chania

CLIMATE - WEATHER The climate of Crete is generally described as mild Mediterranean, differentiating itself with continental characteristics in the mountains. In general, a basic characteristic of the local climate are large deviations from place to place. The geographical position and the morphology of the soil of Crete drastically affect the climate of the wider area, which, in turn, is affected by the climatic characteristics of three continents, as well as by the insular character and the local changes caused by the mountainous morphology, especially between the northern and the southern positions of the island. The yearly temperatures fluctuate between 14 and 15 degrees Celsius, the mainland has generally warmer summers and colder winters, while the southern coasts are warmer both in winter and summer in relation to the northern coasts. Crete has a privileged geographical position in the Mediterranean, which gives it a mild climate with mild changes of the weather. The winter, which usually starts in the middle of December, is mild. Its colder months are January and February. The plains of Crete are among the warmer areas of Greece, especially their eastern and south-eastern part, which resembles North Africa. This is particularly obvious in the vegetation of the area, which is very similar to that of North Africa (e.g. the beautiful palm forest of Vai). The sunshine lasts almost the whole year with greater intensity from April to October. The hottest months are July and August, but generally because of the sea breeze and the effect of the etesian winds, the summer is relatively cool. The presence of clouds is small and decreases as we move from the west to the east. The rains increase as we move from the east to the west and from the coastline to the mainland. The changes from place to place are strong. The White Mountains (Lefka Ori), for example, accept about 2 meters of rainfall and snowfall every year, while the south-eastern coasts of Crete to accept a considerably less quantity.

INDULGE INTO CRETE

In Crete, as in almost all parts of the world, the climate change has started to manifest itself. A typical example is the desertification of mountain areas of the island, which are â&#x20AC;&#x153;strippedâ&#x20AC;? of their vegetation and look like lunar landscapes. These landscapes, however, are significant pockets of biodiversity, while some species have adapted themselves to the new conditions and survived. In fact, they can be found only there and nowhere else in the world.

HIGHEST AND LOWEST AVERAGE TEMPERATURE MONTHLY

INDULGE INTO CRETE Crete is an ideal place to visit all year round. Its mild climate and its unique mountainous features attract visitors before and after the established touristy summer season. Crete’s stunning natural beauty awakens in visitors an imperative need to discover its mountains, its gorges, its paths. A ‘return to nature’ through alternative tourism is a unique experience. Visitors have the opportunity to come to contact with traditional life by staying in one traditional built stonehouse and experience the life of a peasant exactly like it is. All the houses that the guests will stay are renovated but at the same time maintain the tradiotional style and decoration.Also each house will have its own garden that you can plant and grow your own vegetables with the help of local people.In a short time you will be able to consume the vegetables you grow. Our guests will have the chance to experience the olive harvesting and oil production procedure exactly like it is.Participate in traditional Rakokazana during the traditional Raki distillery and have the chance to learn how to cook Cretan traditional dishes from women that live in the village.

Activities during your stay on Crete Every month in winter on Crete has its own unique activities that occur only specific months and period of the year. From the famous Rakokazana and olive oil production to the Chrisian Christmas and New Year ’s Eve, its day of your stay on Crete will be different with unprecedented experiences. RAKOKAZANA - TSIKOUDIA DISTILLERY

INDULGE INTO CRETE

THE WINES ARE IN THE BARRELS AND THE BOILING HAS BEEN COMPLETED. Autumn is already there and the stoves smoke in the villages. Everywhere there is a smell of wet soil. It is the time when chestnuts accompany a glass of tsikoudia. Slowly the preparations for the harvest of the olive begin. The remains of the pressed grapes have been sealed in the barrels and after the completion of the fermentation they are ready for distillation. Tsikoudia, according to the legislation in force, must have 37,5% alcohol and its maximum methanol concentration should not be more than 8 gr. per litre.

The distillation all over Greece is allowed only with a special permit. In all villages there are special cauldrons in which the remains of the grapes and the liquid of the barrels are placed, sealed airtight and boiled until the temperature is proper for the distillation to start. From the cover of the cauldron begins a pipe which is usually cooled externally with water so that the steam produced becomes liquid and then comes out as tsikoudia.

The â&#x20AC;&#x153;protorakiâ&#x20AC;?(=first raki) is the first distillation that flows from the cauldron and is particularly high-degree. In Crete, in many villages, berries are still distilled to make mournoraki (=berry raki). In the past even arbutus berries were distilled. The host usually invites friends and a barbecue party is organized in the autumn landscape, with coals from the fire of the cauldron, makeshift tables and Cretan snacks: excellent wild mushrooms, chestnuts, cheese pies and greens, all products of this specific season. Even today the tradition continues, showing, through the agricultural activities, how important the gatherings of people are in the Cretan society.

OLIVE TREES HARVESTING AND OLIVE OIL PRODUCTION There are 30 million olive trees on Crete, which produces more olive oil than all of the Greek islands and mainland combined. Due to its mild climate, Crete is an ideal place for the development of olive trees and thousands of families make a living from cultivating these trees. Both the climate and the composition of the Cretan soil guarantee the fine aroma and superb flavor of the Cretan olive oil, which is internationally acknowledged for its high quality. Winter is the time that olives are picked and olive oil is produced at olive-oil mills. The olive harvest period starts in November and lasts till March. The olives are ready to be picked when the fruit is 3/4 ripe. This means that it should be purple or close to black. If it is allowed to ripe fully then the quality of the olive oil deteriorates and the acidity increases. In Crete the olive harvest is mechanical. Special portable equipment is used. This results in a fast harvest when the weather conditions allow it. The weather should NOT be windy or rainy. Special nets or big pieces of synthetic fabric are placed under the trees. Their use is to collect the olives that drop from the trip and their placement is a job for women and children. Men operate the harvesters. It is very common for relatives and friends to help each other for the olive harvest. Everything 9

has to be done efficiently and fast because the whole procedure is weather dependant and weather in the winter is rarely good. The harvesters consist of a portable generator and a T-shape rod with elastic sticks attached to it. The rod is 2-3 meters long and it is connected to the generator with a long cable (15 meters). The head of the rod rotates fast and the elastic sticks hit the olives and throw them on the nets under the tree. When almost all olives have been harvested from a tree, then they proceed to the next tree. This means that the nets have to be emptied into sacks and then placed under the next tree. Harvesting starts early in the morning and lasts till late afternoon (8:30 - 16:00) with a noon break for lunch. At then end of the day the full sacks are taken to the oil mills. This is done at the end of each day, even if harvesting lasts for several days and the reason is that if the olives wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be processed immediately, then the oxidation will result in a lower quality olive oil. The oil has to come out perfect. With 70% of all production in Greece being Extra Virgin Olive Oil, it is not a quantity but a quality game and everybody abides by the rules.

INDULGE INTO CRETE

At the Oil Mill At the oil mill the fruit is put into a bid feeding hopper attached to a moving belt and the leaves are removed. Afterwards the fruit is washed to remove any foreign materials. The olives are crushed and the olive oil is separated. Finally the olive oil is delivered to the produced and he stores it into metallic tanks or glass bottles. Plastic tanks are not suitable for storing olive oil.

CHIRSTMAS AND NEW YEAR’S EVE ON CRETE In Greece when we talk about the “holidays” we are referring to the holiday period of Christmas, New Year and Epiphany. Traditionally the Christmas holiday period lasts 12 days in Greece. There are many customs associated with the “twelve day of Christmas,” some very old and others relatively recent, like the decorated tree and the turkey on the Christmas-day table. Historically, in 354 A.D. it was arranged for the birth of Christ to be celebrated on December 25, the same day that they celebrated the birth of the ancient god Mithra, known as the “invincible sun god” and god of all solar deities in idolatry. With the change, and the turning of people towards other gods, the popularity of the “invincible sun god” dropped and Christ took his place.

CHRISTMAS TRADITIONS IN CRETE AND GREECE In olden times, Christmas was simpler, warmer, perhaps much closer to the true spirit of the holiday. Many of the traditions of eons ago continue to exist unchanged, so Christmas in Greece maintains its originality and many of the customs. FASTING AT CHRISTMAS In Greece, a fasting period would start almost 40 days before Christmas. While the fasting was predominately for religious reasons, many considered the period to be a healthful practice as well. The faithful would not eat any animal or its related products, i.e. meat, dairy or eggs. 11

CHRISTMAS PREPARATIONS As Christmas drew near, preparations began so all would be ready for the big holiday. Houses would be cleaned with extra care, and a few days before Christmas housewives would prepare the Christmas cookies, which would be eaten on Christmas Day when the fasting ended. In the past the honey cookies (melomakarona) were made exclusively for Christmas, while sugar cookies, or kourabiedes were prepared for the New Year. Today, though, that distinction is not observed and both melomakarona and kourabiedes are prepared and consumed during the Christmas and New Year holidays period. THE CHRISTMAS HOG In olden times in Crete it was the custom for each family in the village to raise a pig, or “hog” (hiros in Greek), which would be slaughtered on Christmas Eve and served as the main holiday dish the next day.

INDULGE INTO CRETE

On the second day of Christmas the villagers would cut up the pork meat and make: • Sausages • Apakia - the pork is cut into chunks and then smoked • Pihti - the hog’s head is boned and all the meat is boiled. Then the stock, after special preparation, is made into a delicious gelatin mold with pieces of the meat in it. • Siglina - the pork meat is cut into small pieces, then cooked and stored, covered with lard, in large pots. This way the meat could be kept for many months • Omathies - the pig’s intestines are stuffed with rice, raisins and bits of liver • Tsigarithes - pieces of lard cooked with spices and eaten with leaven bread for the mid-morning meal when they picked olives

The Christmas hog was the basic source of meat for many weeks. Of course, we are referring to a diet particularly poor in meat - the famous Cretan (Mediterranean) diet which provided Cretans of yesteryear with good health and longevity. Nothing was wasted from the Christmas hog, as there was a use for each piece of the animal. Even the bladder, or “balloon” as it’s known, would be washed out and cleaned, then blown up and used as a ball - a precious gift for the children of that day. In many areas around Greece in the past, parts of the pig would be used as a basis for several home remedies, while other pieces were used for sooth-saying. The slaughterer, or one on the elders in a diviner role, would study and interpret the animal’s entrails. Then he would make predictions of the future for such things as the home, the harvest and the weather.

Additional activities that can be done on request during winter CERAMIC LESSONS

CHEESE MAKING

TRADITIONAL FESTIVALS

On Crete you can find different kind of workshops with individual and unique pieces including ceramic tiles and useful and practical art objects. These pieces are created using the following methods: wheel throwing combined with manual techniques and slabrolled hand painted tiles, all created in the workshop-gallery.

Participate in the procedure of cheese making by local shepherds

Every winter occur many traditional festivals that attract thousands of people. Be a part of them and live the local culture.

KNITTING LESSONS Learn how to knit traditional embroidery from experienced knitters of the village. TREKKING AND HIKING The best way to explore Crete is to walk beyond the places reached by car, follow ancient paths, discover the exquisite scents of herbs in the canyons, climb on the tops of the highest mountains and enjoy the viewof the deep blue Cretan and Libyan Sea on the horizon COOKING Learn how to cook traditional dishes with local products from experience women in the village

CYCLING Rent a bike and cycle in unique routes in nature of Crete accompanied by professional guides. CULTURAL SIGHTSEEING Visiting Crete without visiting its famous archeological sites is incomplete. Visit Knossos, Phaistos and the archeological museum of Crete with experienced multilingual guides

CAR RENTAL Rent a car and explore Crete. We are here to advise you for Routes, places and things you may visit by your own while you say on Crete.

WINE TASTING Crete is famous for the production of Wines. Take the chance to taste a variety of different wines in the most famous wineries of Crete. VISIT OF MONASTERIES AND CHURCHES On Crete there are hundreds of monasteries and churches that all one of them has its own unique history. Visit the most important of them and admire their architecture and history.

ACCOMODATION IN CRETE DURING WINTER After a lot of research we have chosen for you the ideal places for a winter stay in Crete. Our accommodation proposal consists of two different villages in Crete . each of them with its unique characteristics.

Kamilari Village

INDULGE INTO CRETE

KAMILARI

• Has 340 permanent inhabitants • Is located in south Crete, very close to Tymbaki • 4 km from the Phaistos archaeological site • Belongs to the municipality of Phaistos • The population was stated in 2001 after the last census with 452 inhabitants

Kamilari is located in south Crete, very close to Tymbaki, Mires and the seaside villages of Kalamaki and Matala. Kamilari is 4 km from the Phaistos archaeological site and is the ideal base from which to explore the lovely plain of Messara, with its traditional villages, rich history and, of course, its beautiful bay and beaches on the south coast of Crete. Kamilari, a quiet traditional village in southern CreteKamilari is built on three hilltops, Goulas, Alevrotas and Evgoras, and has about 340 permanent inhabitants. It’s a quiet, traditional village with a panoramic view of the olive groves of the Messara Plain, the peaks of Psiloritis (Mt. Ida) and the Libyan Sea Kamilari may not be on the sea, but it’s only a short distance from the local beaches. The village have a traditional atmosphere, with its pretty houses, picturesque alleyways and stunning view. The old houses of Kamilari are built of stone, with lovely courtyards and bougainvillea’s climbing the walls.Many of the houses you see have been restored by foreign owners, who use them as summer homes or rent them out to tourists.Kamilari is very pretty and scenic, with all the features of a typical Cretan village: a small main square, a church and colorful kafeneia full of character, frequented by locals and visitors alike. Kamilari belongs to the municipality of Phaistos with 23.882 inhabitants (57,86 inhabitants per square kilometre). Kamilari has the responsibility for the municipal administration on the three villages of Kamilari, Agios Ioannis and Kalamaki. The population of Kamilari district was stated in 2001 after the last census with 452 inhabitants. The next census will be at the end of 2011 The Kamilari people are known for their hospitality, calmness and kindness. Many “Kamilarians” are still farmers or at least live from the animals they raise and what they grow in the garden, and they all follow the ecological balance approach. People, who grow vegetable and fruits, never use chemicals.Kamilari still keeps it’s familiar atmosphere and is quite unspoilt from mass tourism although it offers many interesting sites in the local area like for example the popular archaeological sites of Agia Triada and Phaistos. HEALTH CARE NEAR KAMILARI Here in Kamilari you can be sure, that everybody cares about your health and is a reliable contact, if you need any health care. On this site we have nevertheless gathered some useful information on health care on Crete.EU nationals are entitled to free medical services under the reciprocal health care agreements by using the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).Free emergency treatment in emergency cases is provided for all EU visitors.The Greek national health system is operated by the Social Insurance Institute (I.K.A). The local IKA office will provide a list of doctors who work within the national health system.For any recommendation on doctors, dentists or hospital, please ask your host – if he personally doesn’t know, he will identify someone with experience and let you know. Doctors There are general practicioners as well as specialists in Mires and Timbaki. Most of the doctors have spoken English and sometimes also German and Italian and have immaculate surgeries and waiting rooms. Dentists There are also dentists in Mires and Timbaki. You can choose which to see and you do not have to register with them. Hospital The next hospital for emergency cases is Mires Health Centre. But there are several more in Heraklion. In a medical emergency you should phone 166 for an ambulance. Emergency treatment is free to all those with an international insurance.

ACCOMODATION PROPOSALS IN KAMILARI | TRADITIONAL STONE BUILT HOUSES INDULGE INTO CRETE

Arokaria Arokaria is a renovated stone-made traditional house situated in the traditional village Kamilari. The house is on two levels and provides two bedrooms, two bathrooms (the one with whirlpool bathtub 1.55x1.55m and the other with shower cabin (having hydro-massage,hammam,perfume therapy),fully equipped kitchen, dining-room, living-room with 3 fire places. Ground floor One bedroom with a double bed and a single bed and a fireplace,a bathroom with whirlpool bathtub 1.55x1.55m,fully,hair dryer, full equipped kitchen, dining-room, living-room with a fire place also. 1st floor Stone-made stairs next to the entrance lead to the 1st level which provides one bedroom with a double bed and a single bed, a bathroom with shower cabin (having hydro-massage, ham-am, perfume therapy) full equipped kitchen, dining-room, living-room with a fire place also,balcony. Is furnished and decorated with authentic pieces of furniture in combination with careful selection of synchronous in order to be quality and comfort. Total interior space 135 m2. Exterior In the outside area is the swimming pool (4.00mx8.00m-deep 1.30m), the BBQ area-traditional oven,large verandas and garden around the pool, balcony in the 1st floor level. Has total privacy and quiet and it’s open all over the year. OCCUPANCY 4-6 persons

FACILITIES

• satellite TV LCD • DVD player • CD player • Radio • 3 fire places • Wireless internet access • Safe box • Hair dryer • First aid box • Washing machine • Iron and ironing board • A/C with individually controlled heating & cooling • Cot and chair for baby

• Life buoy by the pool • Sun beds and umbrellas • Mattresses and pillows made from natural materials • Bath towels • Outdoor balcony - veranda and dining facilities • Barbeque & traditional oven • Automatic exterior lights • Complimentary welcome basket with local products • Linen and towels changing twice per week

FULLY EQUIPPED KITCHEN WITH: • Kettle • Toaster • Refrigerator • Dishwasher • Microwave oven • Filter coffee maker • Four ring cooker with oven

INTERIOR AREA

135 m2

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8.

Ground floor (overview) Ground floor (bathroom1) Ground floor (bedroom 1) 1st floor (overview) 1st floor (bathroom2) 1st floor (kitchen) Exterior view Exterior view

ACCOMODATION PROPOSALS IN KAMILARI | TRADITIONAL STONE BUILT HOUSES INDULGE INTO CRETE

Kamilari KAMILARI is a stone made traditional house built in 1903 that is renovated by attention to detail in 2004.It is situated into the village Kamilari. The entrance to the house area leads to a private parking and a small garden with an open sitting area. Entering the house you see a spacious living-room with a fireplace, traditional pieces of furniture, comfortable sofas convertible to single beds ,TV satellite, DVD, HI-FI system with excellent view of the swimming pool. A stone made arch leads to the dining area and the fully equipped kitchen (with microwave, percolator, electric cooker, fridge, dishwasher, toaster and countless useful things). In the basement there is also a spacious bedroom with a double and a single bed, a bathroom with a cabin (having hydro-massage, ham-am, perfume therapy),hair-dryer and washing machine. Wooden stairs lead to another bedroom with wooden floor (ontas) with a double bed and a sofa convertible to a single bed, which looks out on a terrace tidied up to a garden which offers a great view. Total interior space 110m2.At the back side of the house in front of the living- room there is a garden with a sitting area, a swimming pool (3.5m x 7.00m ,1.30m deep) and a barbeque. There is also a/c(cooling-heating),safe box and electric iron. All the outside parts of the house have a total privacy and quiet. Can accommodate 2 up to 6 persons. It is open all over the year.

FACILITIES

• 2 satellite TV LCD • DVD player • CD player • Radio • Piano • Fire place • Wireless internet access • Safe box • Hair dryer • First aid box • Washing machine • Iron and ironing board • A/C with individually controlled heating & cooling

• Gym equipments • Cot and chair for baby • Life buoy by the pool • Sun beds and umbrellas • Mattresses and pillows made from natural materials • Bath towels • Outdoor balcony - veranda and dining facilities • Barbeque • Private parking • Automatic exterior lights

FULLY EQUIPPED KITCHEN WITH: • Kettle • Toaster • Refrigerator • Dishwasher • Microwave oven • Filter coffee maker • Four ring cooker with oven

INTERIOR AREA

110 m2

4 6 5

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.

Exterior view Living room Bedroom 1 Swimming pool Bedroom 1 Living room

ACCOMODATION PROPOSALS IN KAMILARI | TRADITIONAL STONE BUILT HOUSES INDULGE INTO CRETE

Lithos LITHOS is an old stone house built in 1823 and renovated in 1990, located 500 m away from the village Kamilari. It appeals to anyone who prefers to holiday in a simple and rusting setting .It is furnished and decorated according to cretan tradition. Entering the outside door you can see a beautiful exotic garden with a private swimming pool, and entering the house you can see a spacious dining room- living room with a fire-place and two sofas convertible into single beds. From there you enter in a bedroom with a double bed and after that the in kitchen and the bathroom. The magnificent is that all parts of the house are made from stone. LITHOS is a very romantic hideaway for couples who want a truly quiet life with piece. It can accommodate 2-4 persons.Total interior space 60 m2. In the outside area is the swimming pool (20m2-1.30m deep), the BBQ area-traditional oven, a terrace with pool, garden and fields view, garden around and a private parking. The house has total privacy and quiet and it’s open all over the year.Total exterior space 300 m2. OCCUPANCY 2- 4 persons

FACILITIES

• Satellite TV • DVD player • CD player • Radio • Fire place • Wireless internet access • Safe box • Hair dryer • First aid box • Washing machine • Iron and ironing board • A/C with individually controlled heating & cooling • Cot and chair for baby

• Life buoy by the pool • Sun beds and umbrellas • Mattresses and pillows made from natural materials • Bath towels-Pool towels • Outdoor balcony - veranda and dining facilities • Barbeque & traditional oven • Private parking • Automatic exterior lights • Complimentary welcome basket with local products • Linen and towels changing twice per week

FULLY EQUIPPED KITCHEN WITH: • Kettle • Toaster • Refrigerator • Microwave oven • Filter coffee maker • Four ring cooker with oven

INTERIOR AREA

60 m2

1. 2. 3. 4.

Interior view Swimming pool Traditionaloven Interior view

ACCOMODATION PROPOSALS IN KAMILARI | TRADITIONAL STONE BUILT HOUSES INDULGE INTO CRETE

Oasis Oasis is a renovated stone made traditional manor-house situated in the traditional village Kamilari in Heraklion Prefecture. Is on three levels and provides four bedrooms, three bathrooms (the one with whirlpool bathtub 1.55x1.55m and the others with shower), gym room, fully equipped kitchen, dinning-room, living-room with a fire place and a piano antique. Is furnished and decorated with authentic pieces of furniture in combination with careful selection of synchronous in order to be quality and comfort.In the outside area is the swimming pool (3.00mx9.50m-deep 1.30m), the BBQ area-traditional oven, a terrace tided up on a garden with sea view, garden around the villa and a private parking. Has total privacy and quiet and it’s open all over the year. OCCUPANCY Up to 8 persons

FACILITIES

FULLY EQUIPPED KITCHEN WITH: • Kettle • Toaster • Refrigerator • Dishwasher • Microwave oven • Filter coffee maker • Four ring cooker with oven

INTERIOR AREA

170 m2

1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Bedroom Bathroom Kitchen Living room Exterior view

ACCOMODATION PROPOSALS IN KAMILARI | TRADITIONAL STONE BUILT HOUSES INDULGE INTO CRETE

Pasiphae In the center of the village Kamilari, there is Pasiphae. It has been built in 1903 in neoclassical style, restored in 1996, provides accomodation for 10 persons and has a spacey yard and a panoramic view of the sea and the mountains. It’s a three-storey 200 m2 and provides: On the ground floor, a Maisonette with a living room that has a fire place and a piano antique, a dining room, a spacey fully equipped kitchen with a fireplace, two bathrooms one with home-spa shower cabin. On ground floor there is also an apartment with bedroom , kitchen and bathroom with whirlpool bathtub 1.55x 1.55m. On the first floor is located an individual apartment with one bedroom . kitchenette and shower.On first floor is also located the gym. On the second floor there is one apartment with bedroom with bathroom with shower. In the outside area there is a large swimming pool as well as a smaller one for children. In addition to this there are large verandas, a garden around the pool a barbeque and private parking. Has total privacy and is open all over the year. OCCUPANCY: Up to 10-12 persons

FACILITIES

• Gym equipments • Cot and chair for baby

INTERIOR AREA

200 m2

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7.

Interior view Fireplace Bathroom Bedroom Gym Swimming pool Bedroom

Agios Myronas Village

AGIOS MYRONAS VILLAGE

• Is the capital of the Malevizi province • Has population of 730 • Is located 19km to the south-west of Heraklion • The Ottomans named Kioygioy – Ģatal Köyü Tsatal (= two hills village)

INDULGE INTO CRETE

• High quality raki is produced

Agios Miron is the capital of the Malevizi province with a population of 730. It is located 19km to the south-west of Heraklion. The village is on top of a hill and the whole area is covered in vineyards and olive groves. There are panoramic views all around and the village itself has some impressive examples of traditional architecture. One of the main features of the town is the schools clock tower which is visible from almost everywhere in the area of Malevizi. The famous Malevisian wine is produced in this region from grapes cultivated in the local vineyards and, furthermore, the water of Agios Myron is of excellent quality and is considered to be one of the villages most important resources.

The village was named after the local Saint, Agios Myron who was ordained bishop of Gortys at the end of the 4th century and was born in the ancient town of Rafkos which was a significant city-state and, according to Homer, took part in the Trojan war The present village stands on the site of this ancient city. Saint Myron was martyred during persecutions held by the Roman Emperor Dekius and many miracles have been attributed to this patron saint. For example, a nearby rock is known as the Dragon and, according to tradition it is the remains of a dragon who used to eat humans and animals and was killed by St. Myron who touched it with his crosier, striking it dead and saving the local people. With the name Agios Miron the village meets in Venetian documents of 1281 for first time and since then in several papers and in all censuses from 1577 until today. The Ottomans named Kioygioy – Ģatal Köyü Tsatal (= two hills village) and the face as a center of rebel operations and shelter rebels due to the strong fortress of and position. The great urban image of the village (historic buildings, superb architectural edifices of earlier eras, etc.) was completely destroyed by the earthquake of 1856. The destruction was completed by the Heraklion Resit Pasha on November 4, 1866 (desecration of churches, destruction of the tomb of the Saint, village burning, etc.). Despite all the disasters suffered by the town, the visitor will be impressed with the samples of traditional architecture with most features the majestic three-aisled Church of the patron, the impressive school clock, the stone fountains (1906), will “heard” myths and traditions (fossil Dragon), will ‘communion’ history. You will enjoy in addition to the wonderful views, rich traditional dishes from fresh local products in restaurants and cafes, you’ll taste the local wine “Olympia”, Places to visit in the village is the church of Agios Myron where one can visit the hermitage and tomb of the Saint. Every year, on 8th August a village feast is held in honour of him. Other churches in the village include the church of Agii Apostoloi with impressive wall paintings and the church of Agia Paraskevi which has a perennial eucalyptus in its grounds. Also, in the village, are three stone fountains which relate to the local custom of “klidodnas” fortune telling and a further festival is held in each year celebrating this art. Finally, nearby is the area of Drakos where there are three caves: “Agiasma”, “Anonymo” and “tou Manoura o spilios”. This is an interesting place to visit, not only to see the caves themselves but also to listen to the rare phenomenon of sounds that are created by the wind around the caves. The village produces high quality raki.Each October and November the visitors have the opportunity to attend and participate actively in the production of raki. Places of interest near Agios Myronas • Heraklion Town • Knossos Palace • Museum of Heraklion • Tylissos Archaeological Site • Minoan Megaron at Vathypetro • Archanes Archaeological collection • Phourni Archaeological Site

HEALTH CARE NEAR AGIOS MIRONAS Doctors There are general practicioners as well as specialists in Heraklion Hopsital. Most of the doctors have spoken English and sometimes also German and Italian and have immaculate surgeries and waiting rooms. Dentists There are also dentists Herakliom. You can choose which to see and you do not have to register with them. Hospital The next hospital for emergency cases is 14 kms from Agios Myronas and it is the biggest hospital on Crrete. In a medical emergency you should phone 166 for an ambulance. Emergency treatment is free to all those with an international insurance.

ACCOMODATION PROPOSALS IN AGIOS MIRONASS

Traditional Stone Built Cretan Houses Traditional Cretan Houses, classified as protected monument, is a group of 3 traditional buildings, located in Agios Myron’s central streetstone-built guest house offers year-round accommodation in fully furnished and contained apartments The buildings are stone-built, and have been fully renovated, using old restoration techniques and local materials from the adjoining mountains, without interventions that could alter their initial character, the location’s memories and aroma alive. With a view to the mountaintop of Psiloritis and the surrounding olive groves and vines, the Traditional Cretan Houses boast character. Modern comforts such as air conditioning, free Wi-Fi and a TV are standard, while features also include a living room with fireplace and courtyard or balcony with spectacular views.The fully equipped apartments are self-catered, allowing guests to prepare their own meals.

INDULGE INTO CRETE

FACILITIES

• TV LCD • Radio • Fire place • Wireless internet access • Safe box • Hair dryer • First aid box • Washing machine

• Iron and ironing board • A/C with individually controlled heating & cooling • Bath towels • Outdoor balcony – veranda and dining facilities • Automatic exterior lights

FULLY EQUIPPED KITCHEN WITH: • Kettle • Toaster • Refrigerator • Filter coffee maker • Four ring cooker with oven

INTERIOR SPACE

60 m2/each

Sofia

2 1

1. Interior 2. Interior

Agapi

INDULGE INTO CRETE

1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Bedroom Bedroom Bathroom Kitchen Kitchen

INDULGE INTO CRETE

INDULGE INTO CRETE 38, Aretousas Str. 71202 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Heraklion +30 2810335227 www.travelid.gr www.facebook.com/Travelid.gr