Spanish Royals Take “Secret” Vacation in Greece

King Felipe and Queen Letizia of Spain, along with their daughters, are enjoying a private summer vacation in Greece, according to reports from Spanish and Greek media. The Spanish royal couple, accompanied by their children, Princess Leonor and Infanta Sofía, reportedly flew to Athens last Wednesday night.

This trip is described as a “real escape from the limelight” by Andrea Caamano, Digital Content Director at Hello magazine. Unlike their traditional summer holidays in Mallorca, which are very public, this Greek getaway allows the family to relax in a more private setting.

Spanish royals staying at the Dutch royal’s estate in Greece

King Felipe and Queen Letizia are believed to be staying at the luxurious mansion of King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima of the Netherlands in Kranidi, a seaside town in the Argolida region. The Dutch royal couple, who also have a close relationship with the Spanish monarchs, are reportedly spending an extended eight-week holiday at their Greek property, a decision that has caused controversy in the Netherlands.

The Greek mansion, purchased by King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima in 2012 from German photographer Manfred Rieker, is an impressive estate. Spanning over 4,000 square meters, it includes three separate buildings, a tennis court, a swimming pool, a private beach, and an exclusive harbor, all surrounded by dense vegetation for maximum privacy.

A Greek connection for Queen Sofía

The Spanish royal family’s connection to Greece is rooted in its history. King Felipe’s mother, Queen Sofía, was born in Athens and is the sister of the former King Constantine of Greece. This familial link makes a trip to Greece a homecoming of sorts.

It is also a potential opportunity for the Spanish royals to meet with their Greek cousins, such as Pavlos, former Crown Prince of Greece, and his wife, Marie-Chantal, if their holidays coincide.

Related: Greek Holidays Spark Controversy for British, Dutch Royals