2013 Crete Scenes

Elounda Mare Hotel was a curious mixture of a modern central accommodation block and traditional-styled villas scattered through beautifully kept gardens. As part of our reason for staying in places was to research the moth species of the area, our choice always includes plenty of foliage and flowers for wildlife, where possible. Where possible, hotels will usually try to match client's requests, and this one was no exception. Our garden villa had nice views but also looked across the gardens along the coast, which proved to be ideal. Our thanks to the staff for accommodating us.

Another view of the gardens at the Hotel. Our villa is one of those overlooking the gardens top right front row in this picture, overlooking plenty of flowers in the garden below them.

Another general garden view at the Elounda Mare Hotel.

There were butterflies throughout the garden, but not as many as expected. This is the only notable species seen, otherwise we could have been at home with most of the others seen. We were informed by a staff member that the best time to visit was in June when there are many more seen.

Another picture of the single specimen which flew through the gardens one day, visiting the Lantana border flowers.

Much of the coastline here were jutting rocks, but they have been cleverly adapted to create lots of private sun terraces. This little cove was very sheltered, and also had a little sandy beach.

Another hotel sun terrace right on the sea edge, and with the rentable sailing ship moored produced the opportunity for a picture.

The main private beach for the hotel at dusk provided a tranquil deserted scene.

One of the two hotel cats, which spent their time lounging on walls near the restaurant. Some residents seemed to disapprove of them, but they were never intrusive.