Leonidas

Leonidas is one of several old stone houses dating from the 19th century in the settlement of Mavrikiano, just outside Elounda, that has been revived and restored in strict accordance and with respect to the past. For those wishing an authentic Cretan experience, this is likely as close as it gets. Leonidas is probably the truest of all the traditional homes since most of the materials used, wood and stones, belonged to the original house, and those that were added were from derelict houses in deserted villages scattered in the region of Elounda. The original House was bought in 1905 by the from a rich Turkish landowner and it is assumed that the House was built in or around 1895.

The staircase, door handles, bath taps, lamps and basins in both kitchens are all original pieces, but the best feature is the stone fireplace, which is typical in old Cretan houses of the 19th century. The attic/loft area (the master bedroom) and the veranda have been added to meet modern requirements. Leonidas has a sitting area with a fireplace, dining area and a fully equipped kitchen area. The sofa converts to a child-sized single bed. The bathroom is located through a door on the left. On the right is the stone staircase to the upper floor. On the mezzanine floor, there is a single bed and a few steps more lead to the master bedroom and the terrace equipped with a summer kitchen and dining area.