Queen Máxima of the Netherlands has once again found herself at the center of controversy during her summer vacation in Greece. What is usually a private retreat on the island of Spetses has become a focus of media attention. According to some media outlets, the royals' summer stay forced the Greek government to act, taking extraordinary measures to manage the situation.
This summer, as in previous years, Máxima has sought to enjoy a few days of rest away from the spotlight. However, decisions surrounding her luxury residence have sparked local and national debates that the Dutch royal family had not foreseen.
This is the luxurious Greek mansion of the royals
Máxima and Willem-Alexander of the Netherlands have turned the island of Spetses into their summer refuge. Every year, the couple leaves the Netherlands to enjoy a summer away from the public eye.
After selling their estate in Mozambique, the couple decided to invest 4.5 million euros in a mansion overlooking the Aegean Sea. The property, acquired in 2012, covers 43,056 sq. ft. (4,000 m²) and is divided into three large white-fronted houses on a cliff.
The complex combines luxury and privacy: a pool, tennis court, and a private dock allow the family to come and go unseen. Máxima fell in love with the location after attending a wedding in Greece in 2010. Since then, this paradise has become her favorite place every summer.
The Greek government forced to intervene
According to some sources, the Greek government was forced to take exceptional measures due to the presence of Queen Máxima and King Willem-Alexander at their Spetses retreat. To ensure the safety of the Dutch royal family, a public coastal area was privatized. In addition, access to the luxurious property was strictly controlled, which sparked a major debate in the area.
Not stopping there, the royal couple built an adjoining house for the security team on land where construction was prohibited, causing even more controversy among locals. Over time, the controversy has faded and today Máxima and Willem-Alexander enjoy their enclave above the Aegean Sea, a place that combines luxury, privacy, and paradisiacal views.
The Greek refuge of the Dutch royals has not only attracted media attention, but has also served to strengthen the relationship with the royals of Spain. Felipe and Letizia reportedly stayed there last year. According to sources, they could return this summer, showing the excellent relationship between both royal families.
Despite the commotion caused by the intervention of the Greek government, Máxima and Willem-Alexander fully enjoy their house in Spetses during the summer holidays. The family takes advantage of these days to rest and share private moments away from the media spotlight, consolidating the enclave as their personal refuge. Thus, amid tranquility and privacy, the royals make the most of their family time above the Aegean Sea.