From a History:

Crete is considered as the cradle of the Western Civilization. The term “Minoan” was coined by the British archaeologist Sir Arthur Evans after the mythic King Minos, whose palace was the renowned Knossos.

The palace is about 130 meters on a side and since the Roman period has been suggested as the source of the myth of the Labyrinth, an elaborated mazelike structure constructed for King Minos of Crete and designed by the legendary artificer Daedalus to hold the Minotaur, a creature that was half man and half bull and eventually killed by the Athenian hero Theseus.

During the medieval times, Crete was acquired by the Venetians from the Marquess of Montferrat.  During Venetian rule, Crete enjoyed a spectacular cultural renaissance, as a stream of refugees arrived from the east, especially after the fall of Constantinople in 1453 A.D.

Candia – as the island and its capital were known to the Venetians – became the centre of the Byzantine and Italian Renaissance, and the vast majority of works of art and architecture now associated with the Venetian era originated there.  The great painter, Dhamaskinos, who studied alongside El Greco, (Domenicos Theotokopoulos) at the school of Ayia Ekatirini in Iraklion (Heraklion) and other highly respected individuals, such as Marcos Mousouros and Vitsentzos Kornaros, were also children of Crete.

It was during this period that some inhabitants chose to build a village in a unique location that overlooks the remarkable view, situated in an area with an extraordinary climate.  The village is called Achlada.  Achlada is mentioned in several archives in the medieval ages between the years 1577 to 1583.  During Venetian rule, Achlada was a feudal estate of the brothers Giorgio and Francisco Modinos.

This beautiful village is located near the village of Agia Pelagia, where the area is rich in vegetation, with amazing landscapes and featuring four different beaches.  Today, Achlada is an ideal place for visitors to leave urban stress behind and enjoy the beauty and tranquillity of nature and the ecotourism outdoor activities available in the area.

Greek fire, first used by the Byzantine Navy during the Byzantine-Arab Wars.

to a Family:

The Mourtzanakis family history in Crete dates back to 961 A.D, after Saracens rule, and the family was granted privileges reserved for the nobility.  Over the centuries the family has migrated to Asia Minor, Egypt, Lebanon, Belgium and France.

We would be delighted to welcome you to the Mourtzanakis Eco Hotel Residence where you will experience the traditional hospitality of Crete in a spectacular setting of peace, tranquillity, and truly breathtaking scenery.

Let nature, history and beautiful weather transport you from the stress and strain of urban living, while enjoying all the comforts and amenities of modern life in our Ecotourism Residence set amidst medieval surroundings.

from a Residence:

 The Mourtzanakis Residence enjoys panoramic views over the medieval village of Achlada and to the sea beyond, the famous Cretan Mountains which have protected the island from Saracen times onwards.  A fabulous, golden sunset adds a romantic touch to the scenery.

to You:

 The Mourtzanakis Ecotourism Residence offers you:

• Cosy & comfortable Residence in its traditional luxury four villas, comfortable maisonettes and apartments
• 10 minute drive to 4 stunning beaches
• 20 minute drive from the centre of Iraklion (Heraklion), capital of Crete. We are located 25km from the the airport of Heraklion and the ferry port.
• A nature lovers paradise
• The Main Reception Building where you can read in the Library, meet with other guests in the Lounge, or relax and enjoy the views from the Terrace of our Eco Tourism Resort

• Interesting lectures on the history of Crete
• Spoken languages: English, French and Greek