Located in the quiet village of Kyrianna, a fifteen-minute drive from Platanes Beach on the north coast of Crete, this laidback villa feels just like home. With two living spaces, a roof deck and a large garden, there’s plenty of room for a family or group of friends to spread out. Mornings begin around the dining table in the kitchen, drizzling local honey over dollops of Greek yoghurt and planning your day’s itinerary.

But before you begin your island adventure, splash about with your loved ones in the pool or recline in a deckchair on the lawn with a glass of something fruity in hand. Fire up the barbecue and treat your brood to a tasty grilled lunch, then once the plates are cleared, jump in the car and make haste to the dazzling seaside. If you like to keep active on your holidays, take the twenty-five-minute drive to Prassano Gorge – look out for the griffon vultures nesting in the rock walls.

Home truths:
*We recommend hiring a car for ease of getting around – free parking is available on the premises
*This home can be rented alongside the neighbouring property if you wish to stay as a larger group
*Your host can provide cots and high chairs upon request
*Pool cleaning takes place once a week