Surrounded by 1.5 hectares of land and just 30 metres from the sea, this laidback, sun-soaked villa began its life as a storehouse. Recently renovated, the place has been transformed into a contemporary yet comfortable homestay. Inside, it’s all exposed stone walls, warm earthy tones and natural materials, creating a rooted and cosy atmosphere.

Slide open the floor-to-ceiling glass doors and step out onto the terrace. A natural pool with water lilies and bamboo slots in seamlessly with the surroundings. Spend your mornings swimming gentle laps before reclining on soft loungers in the sunshine. When it’s time for lunch, a summer kitchen makes light work of cooking up fresh Cretan dishes. In the late afternoon, skip down to the seafront and snorkel in the shallows. Retreat home salty-haired and freckle-flecked to your rooftop terrace to uncork a bottle of local wine and watch the sun dip into the inky ocean.

Home truths:
*A cot and a high chair can be provided upon request
*This home is suitable for two adults and one child – the child will sleep on the sofa bed in the living space
*Breakfast is delivered daily
*While the beach is not private, it’s rarely crowded due to the remote location
*Free parking is available on the premises
*Chania International Airport is 75 kilometres from the villa