Villa Plaka Danae | 5-Bedroom Villa with Private Pool in Elounda Plaka

Ten guests, five bedrooms, one commanding view of the Elounda Gulf that dominates every moment of your stay—this is what awaits at Villa Plaka Danae, a contemporary luxury villa rental in Elounda perched above the waterfront in the village of Plaka. Built into the hillside across three storeys, the property commands panoramic vistas stretching toward Spinalonga Island, combining architectural sophistication with the raw beauty of Crete’s northeastern coast. The warm stone façade appears almost organic against the backdrop of olive-covered slopes, while the interior marries minimalist design with curated art and furnishings that echo the sea.

Inside Villa Plaka Danae

Villa Plaka Danae sleeps 10 guests across 5 bedrooms and 5 bathrooms, each with its own en-suite facilities. The accommodation divides logically across the villa’s three levels, creating distinct spaces for different groups within your party.

On the lower ground floor, three bedrooms offer direct access to the internal garden courtyard with its mature palms and sightlines toward the sea. The first two bedrooms feature king-size beds paired with walk-in showers and marble-appointed bathrooms; the third bedroom similarly hosts a king bed with high-level glazing that frames hillside views. A dedicated guest bathroom, sauna, and external gym space complete this level, offering respite and wellness facilities without ascending stairs.

The ground floor opens into an expansive living, dining, and kitchen zone designed for group entertaining. The kitchen showcases professional-grade appliances, generous counter space, a dedicated wine refrigerator, and the kind of workflow that transforms reluctant cooks into willing dinner volunteers. The adjoining dining area features formal seating beneath modern artwork—metalwork fish sculptures, shell installations, and sculptural mirrors in sophisticated neutrals. Generous doors flood this level with southern light and open directly onto the main terrace, where the infinity pool and sea beyond dominate the sightline.

Two additional bedrooms occupy the first floor, each a king-bed suite with private balconies facing seaward. Morning coffee here, or an evening glass of wine, becomes a ritualistic pause in your day—the view ensures it. Each en-suite bathroom continues the marble and high-end fixture specification throughout.

Outdoor Spaces and Living

The exterior of Villa Plaka Danae represents the true heart of the property. An enormous stone terrace cascades down the hillside, anchored by a contemporary infinity pool that appears to spill directly into the Elounda Gulf beyond. Premium loungers and daybeds face the water; this is where hours disappear between swimming, reading, and watching light shift across the horizon toward Spinalonga’s silhouette.

Shaded dining pavilions frame the terrace—one equipped with a full barbecue and outdoor kitchen setup, the other configured for aperitifs and sunset-watching with luxurious seating that encourages lingering into the evening. The architectural design creates multiple microclimates and semi-private zones, so ten guests never feel crowded.

Descending further, a lower garden section introduces lawn space and a children’s play area surrounded by Mediterranean plantings. Stone pathways lead through terraced levels down to the waterfront itself, creating a sense of private beach access and absolute seclusion. From any vantage point—pool, terrace, garden—the view dominates. On clear mornings, you can distinguish individual features on Spinalonga Island across the water, approximately 2km away.

Location: Elounda and the Surrounding Area

Plaka sits on the Mirabello Bay coast in the Apokoronas region, 16km north of Agios Nikolaos and adjacent to the upmarket resort town of Elounda. The village retains authentic Cretan character—whitewashed tavernas, family-run restaurants, and a pebbly beach backed by tamarisk trees. Walk downhill from Villa Plaka Danae in fifteen minutes to reach waterfront dining establishments serving fresh fish, locally-produced cheese, and Cretan wine.

Elounda itself, 3km south, functions as the area’s sophisticated hub. This emerald-swept coastal town hosts multiple Blue Flag beaches, a vibrant harbor lined with authentic Greek tavernas, and shops ranging from boutique galleries to supermarkets. The town’s reputation among the affluent and famous—Greek royalty, Saudi Arabian dignitaries—reflects its combination of natural beauty and refined hospitality infrastructure. Several watersports centers operate from Elounda’s beaches; boat trips to Spinalonga Island depart regularly, a 20-minute crossing.

Spinalonga Island itself, visible from your villa terrace, carries profound historical weight. This Venetian fortress—the name derives from Venetian: spina (thorn) and longa (long)—functioned as a leper colony between 1903 and 1957. Patients entered through the tunnel known as Dante’s Gate and received food, water, and medical care on this barren rocky island for decades. Today it stands as a recognized archaeological site and poignant historical monument, accessible by organized boat tours.

The broader region offers substantial exploration. Almirida, a resort village 2km distant, provides dining and beach access. The adjacent villages of Kampia and Kokkino Chorio reward hiking—paths wind through olive groves and mountain terrain with sweeping coastal views. The submerged ancient city of Olous lies 8km south near Elounda; five enormous Minoan windmills excavated from the seabed now stand beside a bridge and remain open to visitors. The Minoan Palace of Malia, dating to 1450 BC, sits 30km southwest and offers unfettered exploration among Bronze Age ruins.

Agios Nikolaos, 16km south, serves as the district’s main town—home to supermarkets, pharmacies, restaurants, and a waterfront promenade around its natural harbor. From this coastal base, you can access Crete’s interior: the Samaria Gorge (approximately 90km away, requiring organized tours), the Imbros Gorge near Rethymno (75km), and Kourtaliotiko Gorge inland. Heraklion International Airport, Crete’s largest, lies 70km southwest—approximately 75 minutes by car. Rethymno, Crete’s third-largest city on the northwest coast (100km), offers Venetian architecture, sandy beaches, and wineries. Explore our villas in Rethymno, browse our luxury villas in Crete, and review our full collection of properties in Greece. For destination planning, read our Elounda travel guide covering seasonal highlights, dining recommendations, and activity planning.

Late May through early June and September through October represent optimal travel months—warm Mediterranean temperatures (25-28°C), calm seas for swimming and boat excursions, and smaller crowds. July and August attract peak summer visitors but also bring intense heat and crowded beaches. Winter brings milder weather but reduced daylight and occasional rainfall.

Who This Villa Suits Best

Villa Plaka Danae accommodates multiple guest profiles effectively. Multi-generational families benefit from five independent bedroom suites, allowing grandparents, parents, and children separate sleeping arrangements while the shared living and terrace spaces encourage group connection. The children’s playground, shallow pool areas, and nearby family-friendly beaches make it suitable for younger guests; the sauna and gym appeal to adults prioritizing wellness.

Groups of couples—whether friends celebrating milestone birthdays or extended family—find the villa’s generous entertaining spaces and private bedroom suites ideal for maintaining both social time and relationship intimacy. The formal dining table accommodates ten comfortably; the multiple shaded lounge areas prevent forced proximity.

Professionals and creative groups conducting working retreats appreciate the reliable Wi-Fi, quiet garden spaces for calls or deep work, and chef availability for meal preparation that eliminates daily restaurant logistics. The location’s proximity to Elounda’s cultural sites (Spinalonga, Olous ruins) suits cultural tourism groups.

Couples seeking extended luxury travel without standard hotel constraints appreciate the fully-equipped kitchen, private pool, waterfront access, and ability to structure each day without predetermined schedules. The proximity to restaurants (15-minute walk) balances privacy with dining flexibility.

Practical Information

Villa Plaka Danae accommodates 10 guests maximum in 5 bedrooms with 5 bathrooms. All bedrooms feature en-suite facilities. The villa includes air conditioning throughout, Wi-Fi internet access, heated pool operation, sauna and steam facilities, an external gym, parking, and travel cot/highchair provision on request. A chef or cook is available for hire at additional cost; professional transfers from Heraklion International Airport (70km, approximately 75 minutes) can be arranged.

The nearest supermarket is in Agios Nikolaos, 16km distant (approximately 20 minutes by car), or closer local shops in Elounda (3km). Waterfront restaurants operate within walking distance downhill in Plaka village. Check-in flexibility depends on final booking terms; confirm specific timing with the villa management directly.

Frequently Asked Questions about Villa Plaka Danae

How many guests does Villa Plaka Danae sleep?

Villa Plaka Danae sleeps 10 guests across 5 bedrooms, each with a king-size bed and en-suite bathroom. All bedrooms accommodate adult sleepers; travel cots for infants are available on request. No sofa beds or convertible seating adds extra sleeping capacity beyond the five bedrooms.

What is the nearest airport to Villa Plaka Danae in Elounda?

Heraklion International Airport (HER), Crete’s largest airport, sits 70km southwest of Villa Plaka Danae. Standard driving time is 70-90 minutes depending on traffic conditions and exact routing through or around Heraklion city. Direct transfers can be arranged through the villa management; alternative car rental options support independent exploration of Crete’s interior and western regions.

What is the best time of year to rent Villa Plaka Danae?

May through June and September through October offer optimal conditions: water temperatures support comfortable swimming (20-24°C), air temperatures hover between 25-28°C, and visitor numbers remain manageable compared to peak July-August. Spring brings occasional rainfall but lush vegetation; autumn features stable weather and warm sea temperatures ideal for extended pool and waterfront use. Winter (November-March) delivers mild daytime temperatures (15-18°C) but significantly reduced daylight, occasional rain, and reduced restaurant/activity availability. Summer (July-August) combines warmest conditions but intense midday heat (32-35°C), crowded beaches, and higher accommodation demand.

Is Villa Plaka Danae suitable for families with children?

Yes, with specific considerations. The heated infinity pool allows safe supervised swimming; however, parents should note the pool lacks formal safety barriers—constant adult supervision is essential. The lower ground floor garden courtyard and children’s play equipment provide contained outdoor space. Nearby Plaka pebbly beach and Elounda’s Blue Flag sandy beaches (3km) suit family swimming. The sauna and steam facilities appeal to older children and teenagers. Supermarkets in Agios Nikolaos (16km) stock baby supplies and children’s groceries. The villa’s three-floor layout and multiple staircases require careful supervision of very young children. Travel cots are available on request for infants.

What is included in the rental price at Villa Plaka Danae?

Villa rental includes accommodation, utilities (electricity, water, heating), Wi-Fi internet, air conditioning, heated pool operation, sauna and steam facilities, external gym access, towels and linens, cleaning on departure, and parking. Chef or cook services, private transfer arrangements, in-villa massage appointments, and extra cleaning sessions are available at supplementary cost. Confirm final inclusions and any optional services with villa management during booking.

What restaurants and shops are near Villa Plaka Danae?

Plaka village offers authentic waterfront tavernas within 15-minute walk downhill from the villa—establishments serving fresh local fish, traditional Cretan mezze, and regional wines. Elounda (3km south) hosts numerous restaurants, cafés, shops, and a weekly market. Agios Nikolaos (16km) provides supermarkets (Carrefour, Sklavenitis), pharmacies, bakeries, and formal dining establishments. Almirida village (2km) offers local tavernas and beach café facilities. Most dining within walking distance of the villa requires uphill return journey; organizing driver services enhances evening flexibility. Supermarket shopping typically necessitates car access unless utilizing smaller local shops in Plaka village.