* Pumped 100 mln since 1999 in Crete, Paros, Santorini *
BY ANGELA KOMODROMOU
The Leptos Group, one of the leading Cyprus property developers, plans to invest some 600 mln euros in two new ventures in Crete – the 500 mln euro Costa Nopia resort and the 100 mln euro Canea Corniche residential project in the heart of Chania.
Having already pumped about 100 mln euros during the past decade in various projects in Paros and Santorini, as well as the purchase and refurbishment of the Panorama Hotel near Chania, the Leptos Group is taking advantage of recent relaxations in regulations for title deeds, especially for EU citizens, that should encourage more investors from Cyprus, as well as buyers from the colder northern European countries.
“The Greek property market is one of the fastest growing in the Mediterranean,” explained Group Marketing Manager Sakis Hadjialexandrou.
He said that “the island of Crete with its 3 mln tourist arrivals per year, healthy climate, two internationals airports and prices lower than in any other South European destination, the second home and residential resort market is poised for growth at a strong pace in the years ahead.”
Chania town officials who accompanied a visiting group of Cypriot journalists said that visitors can live unique experiences with archaeological sites, museums, temples and historical areas, as well as local traditions through the unique lifestyle, the music and gastronomic wonders. Chania has also become an economic and transportation centre serviced by an international airport and the largest natural port in the Mediterranean.
The Costa Nopia is located along the north-west coast with its breathtaking natural beauty and easy access making it an ideal opportunity to develop an integrated resort capable of leading Crete’s holiday homes industry.
It enjoys 1,300 meters of sea front, sea views for all villas and units, a 5-star luxury hotel and spa that will include 20 treatment rooms, relaxation areas, hydrotherapy baths, saunas, steam rooms, whirlpools and health and fitness areas. The project will also have a sports centre with a tennis academy, a lounge, state of the art fitness facilities, games rooms a children’s activity centre, a pitch and putt golf course, a bowling green and other indoor and outdoor facilities.
The resort will have its own themed food and beverage outlets, a private marina, village facilities and resort services for residents.
The Canea Corniche is a residential development in the heart of Chania town, overlooking the medieval harbour. It will include 210 sea-view residences and will include recreational and shopping facilities, a private club with leisure activities including spa and swimming pools and ample parking. This is a six-storey multi-facet, mixed use contemporary development offering a unique opportunity to “live, work and play” in the most exclusive sea front location of the city.
The project will be developed around the two landmark 19th century factory chimneys of 44 and 29 meters height which Leptos has carefully maintained respecting the history of the area.
