Overview
From its slow living aura, carefully aligned with the island’s tempo, to its authentically Cretan ambience, Elea is a microcosm of the island on which it resides. Nestled amongst olive groves in the small village of Gouves, expect a warm Greek welcome at this family run boutique bolthole, a beautifully pared back collection of 1, 2 & 3 bedroom residences. Centred around a spectacular pool where long lazy breakfasts and lunches are served, beautiful beaches and traditional tavernas are only a short stroll away, meaning no one has to forgo the vino. Recently renovated and filled with artisanal touches, the Elea experience easily exceeds its super affordable price tag
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Flight
4 hours from Gatwick to Heraklion airport
Transfer
15 minute drive from Heraklion airport
Best time to visit
Crete is blessed with long, hot summers from June until the end of September, with up to 12 hours of sunshine a day and highs of 30°C. Those with younger babies might find an autumn break more enjoyable as temperatures start to decrease in October & November (alongside prices and crowds, too!)
Favourite room
The star of the show at Elea is the brand new Three Bedroom Suite, perfect for larger families – sleeping up to 6 adults very comfortably with a super slick open plan kitchen, living and dining area
For those travelling with just one tiny traveller, the Superior Suite with Balcony is beautifully spacious with a light, bright and airy bedroom, separate living space with a sofa bed, kitchenette and large private balcony with a pool & partial sea view
There are also plenty of options for groups of all sizes in between, including the Deluxe Suite with Balcony (2 bedrooms, sleeping 5) or Villa (3 bedrooms, sleeping 7) both with fully equipped kitchens, separate living spaces and generous private outdoor areas. The villa also benefits from a BBQ & outdoor oven
Nearby
Tucked in quiet and safe surroundings, just a short walk from Kato Gouves promenade, everything you could need is less than a 10 minute walk away, from beaches and playgrounds to supermarkets and tavernas – our absolute favourite being Mylos, which is well worth a visit!
Heraklion is in easy driving distance, just 15 minutes away, or for an unforgettable day out, venture a little further afield to former leper colony Spinalonga, in under an hour
Price
From £71 p/night in low season and £115 p/night in high season
Meet the family...
Becky
Parent to Tiny Traveller Maggie, aged 2
Elea was everything we look for in a holiday - unbelievably warm and welcoming, with infectious chilled vibes, plenty of space and beautiful surroundings to explore. We felt like we really got to experience Crete, from the beautiful, unhurried breakfasts made with ingredients grown in the owners garden, to the charming, traditional tavernas a 2 minute walk down the lane, where local wine was sold by the litre and we were greeted like long lost family. The whole place has been recently renovated and is absolutely pristine, and the thoughtful touches (like a cold beer waiting on arrival) say everything about the brilliant hospitality on offer. It is a true hidden gem (at an unbelievable price)
Worth waking the baby for
01
Kato Gouves promenade
Less than 5 minutes away, Kato Gouves promenade is a relaxed seafront stretch promising family fun – expect quiet beaches, a large children’s playground with bouncy castles, chilled beach bars and sea view tavernas (check out Island Restaurant for unbeatable views and a secure outdoor play area)
02
Cretaquarium Thalassocosmos
Considered one of the best aquariums in Europe, and the largest in Greece, Cretaquarium is dedicated to marine conservation and education, Cretaquarium is home to over 2,000 kinds of marine life
03
Heraklion
A vibrant port city with plenty of sights to see, explore museums and churches, stumble upon water fountains, wander down streets lined with brightly coloured market stalls and enjoy lazy alfresco lunches at one of many quaint cafes
