From the colourful town of Chania, where the Venetian Port and Fortress sit proudly upon the coastline, you’ll be in awe of Cretan architecture and history. But while you’ve got this urban environment to explore, there’s plenty waiting for you in the rich countryside. A fourteen-minute drive from the delights of Chania, through groves of olives and oranges, this villa sits within its own private 349 square-metre gardens. Built in a warm, honey-hued stone, it has a rustic feel despite its modern design. Glass doors and asymmetric pillars bring stylish modernity to the exterior, where you’ll also find the heated pool, outdoor lounge, vegetable and herb garden, plus sun loungers and a barbecue. Linger on the wooden decking to gaze out at your own Cretan kingdom before heading inside. We love the high ceilings of the sun-flooded living space. With a huge L-shaped sofa by its futuristic wood-burning fireplace, find yet more 21st-century ideals in an otherwise rustic space, with exposed brickwork and chunky wooden dining table. And the marble bathroom has every luxury you could possibly need. A jacuzzi bathtub, bathrobes, and slippers come as standard, but you can also have massages and manicures upon request. Not bad for a country retreat.

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Additional fees

• The swimming pool can be heated for an additional €40 per day

• Your host can help arrange wellness activities, sailing trips, private chefs, luxury concierge, fully-stocked drinks fridges, events, weddings, and private yachts, helicopters, and jets for an additional fee

Additional fees subject to a 3.5% handling charge.