Albion House

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House |1 bedroom |Sleeps 3

Elounda in Aghios Nikolaos

from £79 / night

£550–£700 / weekBookable online

This property can be booked securely online within a few minutes. Just click on the ‘Check availability and book’ button.

Short stays welcome

Changeover flexible

4.5 out of 5

6 reviews | Write a review

Key info  Beach or lakeside relaxation, air conditioning, balcony/terrace, car not necessary, no pets allowed

Check availability and book

About the home

Offering a perfect blend of a peaceful and tranquil location with the sophistication and excitement of nearby Elounda town, the house is ideal for couples of all ages. Equipped with modern facilities and providing comfortable accommodation, it is full of old world character and charm. Please note that there are no enclosed bedrooms. The house is open plan and cool and airy in summer and warm and cosy in winter. As in all traditional houses, there are few windows, but the views from the small balcony or secluded roof terrace more than make up for this. Antique furniture and original artwork help to give the house a real sense of place, far removed from the average holiday let and this, combined with the warm welcome from neighbours and the unique atmosphere of the village, will make your holiday an experience to remember. Many of our guests return year after year and there is always something new to see and delight.

Albion House is a 200 year old stone house which retains much of its quirky character. It gives visitors a chance to experience life in a traditional Cretan village and to understand a little of how life would have been for the people who lived there. It is an ideal base for people who want to explore the area - its history, culture and its wonderful flora and fauna. Albion House is suitable for guests who are looking for more unusual and interesting holiday accommodation. For guests wanting a beach holiday, the Blue Flag sandy beaches of Elounda port are just a short walk away. Despite its old world feel, Albion House offers free Wi-Fi connection and all modern facilities.

The spacious roof terrace offers a secluded area for sun bathing, reading, sharing a bottle of wine or an evening barbeque as the moon comes up over the nearby islands.

The lower storey of the house is built into the bedrock of the mountain and at night its myriad crystals sparkle in the light. On the lower floor is a well equipped kitchen with dining table and chairs and a large separate bathroom with full size bath, over bath shower, toilet, wash basin and washing machine.

Smoking is not allowed inside the house, but ashtrays are provided in outside areas, i.e. roof terrace, balcony, courtyard.

Facilities

Further details indoors:
Please read the information about the layout of the house carefully. Albion House is a traditional Cretan house and has many unusual features. If you are not sure of anything regarding the house or your stay, please ask. we are happy to help and advise.

In view of a recent issue regarding the air-conditioning, could guests please note that it is essential to close all doors and windows when using the units. For optimum results, please do not run the units at less than 24 degrees and do not run the free standing fan at the same time. The normal consumption expected for reasonable use of the air con units is 40 euros per week per unit. Many thanks, Julia

Full of quirky details and original artwork, this house is unique. It was furnished by an English artist and writer who has preserved many of its delightful original features, including its old Cretan sink. Weathered doors and shutters blend with Persian rugs and Turkish couches to give an original feel to a house built some 200 years ago. Pots of herbs, bougainvillia and gardenias surround the courtyard where guests can relax over a leisurely breakfast, whilst the spacious and secluded roof terrace provides a perfect area for sun bathing, a family barbecue or simply enjoying a quiet drink as the sun sets over Mount Oxa. Please note that this is a traditional village house built during the Turkish occupation of Crete. It is open plan in style and suitable for a small family, a small group of friends or a couple. The layout of the house is as follows - upper floor comprising sitting room with one single sleeping couch, raised Turkish platform with an antique carved wooden double bed. Lower floor comprising kitchen and bathroom. The kitchen has a further single sleeping couch. Outside courtyard and large roof terrace with stunning views over Mirambello Bay offer the chance to sunbathe or share a meal al fresco. The house is a comfortable home rather than a simple holiday let. Albion House is an old traditional Cretan house with all its quirks and character. Its surroundings are quiet and life in the village continues much as it has for centuries. The house is not suitable for infirm guests or toddlers.

The owner is happy to offer advice about trips, exploring the area, etc and also offers mountain trips to see wild flowers, remote Minoan sites and the rugged scenery of the island.

Further details outdoors:
The conservation village of Pano Elounda consists of many tiny streets - most too narrow for cars - so as you explore you may encounter a donkey or even a flock of goats and sheep. Village life continues here much as it has done for centuries. Three kafenions provide focal points for getting to know the neighbours, but Maria makes the best (and cheapest) Greek coffee in the area! For those in search of entertainment, a short walk (20 mins) down the 'donkey track' will take visitors into the centre of Elounda with its beaches, restaurants, bars and delightful Friday market. During the summer months Elounda has a vibrant nightlife, but by day still retains its leisurely pace. A taxi from Elounda will cost approx 5 euros.

Although the streets are very narrow, it is possible to drive a car through the village to unload luggage or shopping and plenty of parking spaces are available just two minutes walk away in the local Church car park.

Since late summer 2011 there has been a newly opened traditional taverna just a short walk from the house. The atmosphere is lively and the food simple but excellent. For guests not wanting to make the journey down to Elounda for their evening meal, this offers the perfect solution. An evening meal with wine at the village taverna will cost around 20 euros for two.

Further details

*Guest wishing to smoke are requested to do so outside or on the roof terrace where ashtrays are provided. Please do not smoke in the house.

* For those guests without transport, we are happy to arrange a shopping trip to Lidl or Champion Supermarkets to obtain reasonably priced groceries at the start of the holiday.

*The house has FREE WIFI internet connection and telephone - telephone calls will be charged at cost Air conditioning and electric heating charged at cost (40 cents per unit) meter readings taken at the
beginning and end of your stay. Please note that the telephone, air conditioning and electric heating are optional extras and not included as standard features of the house.
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* Please note that the house welcomes children, but guests are asked to respect the traditional nature ot the village and the effort put into making the house comfortable and welcoming. The house contains quality and antique furniture and original artwork.

Conditions

*Linen change and light cleaning provided weekly for guests staying for more than 7 days.

*Breakages or damage will be charged at replacement cost.

*Bed linen and towels are provided, including beach towels.

Photos

 

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At the end of a day experiencing the beauty of the area, lounge on the terrace with a glass of wine

 

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Be sure of sweet dreams in this antique carved wooden bed with its handmade quilt

 

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Enjoy your morning coffee and cake in this secluded corner outside the kitchen door..

 

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The original wooden front door looks out onto the quiet village road

The Crete region

Crete has a long and varied history , so there is plenty to do and see. Interesting architecture, spectacular and varied scenery, sandy beaches, rocky coves and bustling towns. Hot summers and mild winters make this a perfect holiday destination, just a short flight from major UK airports. Elounda has lovely, sandy Blue Flag beaches which are well-maintained and have views over the Causeway at Olous and Kolykythia island. Close to the town of Aghios Nikolaos, there is plenty of nightlife and restaurants, but also wonderful walking and cycling routes - there is really something for everyone. The archaelogical sites of Driros, Lato and Gournia are just a short drive away. In early winter and spring the mountains are clothed with orchids, crocus, wild narcissus and much more. Elounda is a great place for bird watching, as the salt pans are a stop-over for migrating birds and from time to time we even see flamingo amongst the kingfishers and herons. The mother of the owner of the house, Julia Jones, is a writer and artist who has founded a charitable trust 'Flowers of Crete' devoted to the protection and preservation of endangered and endemic wild flowers of the island. Julia is available to take visitors on unique day trips and specialist holidays. These trips involve some off road driving in order to reach wild and remote locations.

The Aghios Nikolaos / Elounda area

Albion House is just the place for a complete 'get-away' - quiet, relaxing and comfortable. Many guests choose to do nothing but sunbathe on the roof terrace with a glass of wine and a good book. However, for those who prefer a more active holiday there is plenty to do and see. Pano Elounda is the setting for the film set for the Greek TV series based on Victoria Hislop's 'The Island' - many of the locals can be seen in the film including 'little Maria' who lives just down the road from Albion House. Come and experience the wonderful ambience of the village which has changed little since the times Victoria writes of in her novel. Or just laze on the sandy Blue Flag beaches, relax in local tavernas or enjoy great hospitality in the many restaurants of Elounda town , before returning to the contrasting peace and tranquillity of the old village of Pano Elounda. Here you will find very little traffic, and are more likely to see the neighbour's flock of sheep and goats passing by. Elounda port contains all the shops, restaurants, bars and amenities required by visitors, including bank, post office, doctor, chemist and, of course, several supermarkets. To help with catering for guests who choose not to rent a car, We are happy to take you into Aghios Nikolaos on your first day to collect foodstuffs and supplies for your stay. Elounda town also offers boat trips (some with barbeques on quiet beaches), water sports, nightlife, snorkelling, and much more. From March onwards the island is a paradise for wild flowers and is famous for its orchids. For those interested in birds, the salt pans of Olous provide many and varied migrant species and on the nearby Katharo plateau it is possible to find vultures,golden eagles and many other large birds of prey. During the summer months the nearby town of Aghios Nikolaos hosts a series of cultural events, such as the Lato festival, where visitors and residents alike can enjoy concerts, art exhibitions, and outdoor celebrations and events. The area is rich in archaelogical remains and museums and for the more active, there are walks, hikes and rambles in the stunning and ever changing countryside. Pano Elounda is a traditional Cretan village and offers guests a chance to experience the real life of Crete away from the beaten track. The village continues a way of life that has been the norm for many centuries and Pano Elounda is the choice of guests wishing to sample this fast disappearing way of life, which is far removed from the purpose built tourist developments of more recent years. Stop Press: A traditional taverna has re-opened in the village. The food is excellent, local and reasonably priced. A meal for two - meze, beers and raki only costs around 10 euros each.

How to get there

Albion House What's nearby: Attractions Restaurants Click map icons for more information

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We are happy to provide transfers for guests arriving at Heraklion airport at a cost of 40 euros per journey. Taxis are readily available at the airport; the standard fare is around 90 euros. Taxis can also be be booked online at a discount. Guests wishing to hire a car can pre-book online at discount rates if travelling with EasyJet. Otherwise, discounted car hire can be arranged at a rate from 160 euros a week. A car can be waiting for you at the airport or can be delivered to Pano Elounda at your convenience. There is also a regular and inexpensive bus service from Heraklion to Aghios Nikolaos and then on to Elounda.

Activities near Aghios Nikolaos

Reviews

Review: 1 to 3 of 6

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31 Aug 2012

“Superb, characterful, accommodating, great views.” We would highly recommend this house. It is situated above the lovely town (mini- port)) of Elounda, fantastic views of the bay and isthmus. The village where the house is situated is just as you... more

08 Nov 2011

“GREEK VILLAGE HEAVEN” Spent an idyllic week in Pano Elounda in the beautiful restored very special albion house-wasn't long enough-Julia the owner was extremely helpful and the villagers were friendly and with a bit... more

07 Nov 2011

“Rustic beauty” Julia was a fantastic host! Picked us up from Heraklion and brought us to the house. Epano Elounda is up a sizeable hill about a 30 minute walk down to Elounda. The house was beautiful if not quaint.... more Response: It was unfortunate that the whole village water supply was down for 24 hours during these guests' stay. We did, however, arrange for a considerable amount of bottled water to be delivered to the... more

Review: 1 to 3 of 6

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Review: 4 to 6 of 6

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29 Sep 2011

“Perfect Honeymoon hideaway in real Crete!” We stayed for 6 nights at Albion House, at the very start of our honeymoon. Julia was great, meeting us at the harbour in Elounda in the small hours (our flight was delayed!!) and directing us to the house. It is a character property set in a small village just up from the main resort of Elounda, where you feel you are really part of a more traditional way of Cretan life during your stay. The property is stone and wood, with steps connecting the three floors - kitchen & bathroom, living and sleeping, and the roof terrace. Julia makes it clear in her advertising that those with mobility issues may struggle but we found it of no problem to us (but we're reasonably fit twenty-somethings!) The bathroom is great, proper full bath and shower (unlike other places across Greece we have stayed in) and the kitchen is fully equipped with anything you could possibly need to self-cater! We had a fantastic time in Pano Elounda, Elounda and Albion House, and know it will always be very special to us. If you book, be sure to say hello to Maria, she runs the Kafenio next door. She kept us in Fix, Sprite and Tomatoes all week, as well as teaching us some basic Greek!

20 Aug 2011

“Traditional Crete” The house is delightfully traditional and atmospheric but also well provided with modern equipment. It is ideal for two people, though any more might find it cosy. The steep stairs might prove a little challenging to small children or mature hips. The village is quiet and charming and the views breathtaking. Although not essential, car or motorcycle is useful as the town and beaches are a 15minute stroll down hill through the olive groves but a steep climb back or a 5 euro taxi ride. Julia, the owner, is most welcoming and helpful and is willing to deal with any little problem straight away. We found Albion House the perfect base for exploring the island and also to relax and unwind.

17 Jun 2011

“A perfect hideaway” Albion House is a property of real character. We recently stayed for a week, and enoyed every minute. Although the house is very old, it is very tastefully furnished and has all mod cons, including... more

Review: 4 to 6 of 6

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Rental prices

Prices for group size 2
Period	From	To	Weekly	Nightly rate		Minimum  stay
				Weekday	Weekend
Low season	16 Jan 13	1 Apr 13	450£ 450	-	-	1 Week
Mid season	1 Apr 13	1 Jun 13	550£ 550	-	-	1 Week
High season	1 Jun 13	9 Oct 13	650£ 650	-	-	1 Week
Mid season	9 Oct 13	1 Dec 13	550£ 550	-	-	1 Week

Prices for group size 3
Period	From	To	Weekly	Nightly rate		Minimum  stay
				Weekday	Weekend
Low season	16 Jan 13	1 Apr 13	500£ 500	-	-	1 Week
Mid season	1 Apr 13	1 Jun 13	600£ 600	-	-	1 Week
High season	1 Jun 13	9 Oct 13	700£ 700	-	-	1 Week
Mid season	9 Oct 13	1 Dec 13	600£ 600	-	-	1 Week

The property does not have weekend tariffs.

NB: Prices may be subject to change at the advertiser's discretion.

*A 20% non-refundable deposit on booking is required with the balance payable a minimum of 8 weeks before arrival.<BR><BR>*Payment can be made by UK Sterling Cheque, Bank transfer UK Bank or by PayPal. <BR><BR>*Before booking guests should carefully read the information provided on this website about Albion House. We are happy to answer any questions about the house and village. The house is full of character and quirky features and guests are kindly asked to familiarise themselves with these details before booking.<BR><BR>*Cancellations received 8 weeks or less before arrival date will be liable to pay balance in full.<BR><BR><BR><BR><BR><BR>

Availability

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