Not only does this hilltop villa close to the northern coastline of Crete gaze out over the deep azure Cretan sea, but you can also spot the city of Rethymno and its medieval citadel while standing in the garden.

This glorious backdrop makes it a pleasure to pass hours in the home's two acres of verdant grounds, whether that's paddling in the swimming pool with an adjoining children's section, playing a little ping-pong on the terrace or enjoying dinner fresh off the barbecue on the alfresco table. It probably won't be a surprise to learn that this beautiful outdoor space can be used for weddings or events.

When you eventually head inside, you'll be pleased to discover a thoroughly contemporary interior filled with natural light from the floor-to-ceiling windows and glass doors, plus chandeliers and a fireplace to light up once the sun goes down for the night. The red kitchen is both striking and sleek, as is also the case with the master bedroom's en-suite bathroom and its sunken tub complete with a sea view.

After looking out to Rethymno for so long, you'll probably want to pay the city a visit. Thankfully, it's only 2km away and has a wealth of historic architecture, museums and restaurants that warrant multiple trips. It's also fair to say that this corner of Crete isn't short of sandy beaches, either.

Home truths:
*The villa is spread over three floors with no elevator, but there's a double bedroom and sofa bed on the ground level
*There’s free parking for up to four cars on the driveway
*Your host can provide a cot, high chair, children's tableware, a changing table, safety gates and fireplace guards for free upon request
*A welcome basket, pre-arrival shopping list, a 24/7 landline service, linen and towels changes, pool towels, garden maintenance, and pool cleaning two or three times per week are all included in the cost