With this luxury villa's typically Greek whitewashed exterior, you'd be forgiven for expecting a traditional take on modern, but the open-plan living room in this home has a distinct mid-century meets warehouse style. Outside is where the real magic happens though – we love the Cretan countryside and sea views that greet you as you step onto the terrace, beyond the azure pool. If the sizzling sun gets too hot, recline on a sun lounger under the sail shades. For lunch, enjoy a feast in the garden with goodies from the local bakery in Gerani Village, a ten-minute walk away. It's the same distance to beautiful Gerani Beach if you fancy feeling its warm, golden sand between your toes – utter bliss.

Home truths:
*At full capacity, this villa can sleep seven, although it means two guests on a sofa bed
* The pool is easily accessible, so extra vigilance maybe needed if you have little ones with you