Crete

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Prepare to do some serious sun worshipping, stargazing and swooning from the one-of-a-kind ocean deck and infinity pool of this oh-so-slick villa. Jutting right out above the glistening Loutraki Bay, it’s a sensational setting. And don’t even get us started on the sunsets – seeing is believing, folks.

Pad barefoot across the wooden promenade to your sun-kissed panoramic veranda for lazy breakfasts of flaky bougatsas and freshly brewed coffees. Then the rest of the day is yours, hopping between the suntrap terraces and pool as the fishing boats and mega-yachts cruise on by. 

When it’s time to escape the heat of the day indoors, the free-flowing and light-filled living area is a joy. Spill out onto the modular sofa with a good book, or simply lose yourself to the knockout sea vistas seen through the floor-to-ceiling picture windows. Or, for a change of pace, the games room with ping-pong, table football and games console will be a hit.

Nestled amidst five acres of private lands brimming with century-old olive groves, this villa offers peace and seclusion in equal measure. But if you fancy a change of scene, your nearest beach with white sands and seafront taverna for Cretan plates and chilled glasses of Retsina is a mere five-minute flip-flop away. Now, how’s that for a location?

Seeing is Believing

Situated on the shores of Souda Bay, with views over the White Mountains and the glistening sea, this gorgeous nineteenth-century stone villa has been lovingly restored by your hosts using traditional techniques. Formerly the home of the village winemaker, great care has been taken to preserve its character – even going as far as to repair the old wine press – while also bringing it into the twenty-first century.

In true Greek style, the interiors are painted bright white, with exposed wooden beams and tiled floors. However, the mid-century-inspired furniture and stunning light wood and marble kitchen bring a touch of contemporary class. Upstairs, there are three bedrooms, each with its own en-suite bathroom and balcony, so that you can make the most of those views from the privacy of your room.

Step outside, and you'll find yourself in the heart of the traditional village of Xirosterni, surrounded by more beautiful stone houses. There's little in the way of tourist infrastructure here, so you can make the most of immersing yourself in local life. With that said, you're only a ten-minute drive from the charming waterfront tavernas, cafes and shops of Almyrida beach. 

Villa Plakiana

Imagine sipping a glass of cold Vidiano under the shade of a carob tree, surrounded by luscious fauna – that’s exactly what you can expect from a stay at this stone villa in Plaka. The villa itself is traditional, and you can see this in the interiors, too – those seeking authentic charm over modernity will appreciate the original features. The garden is definitely a highlight, with open spaces to share Greek dinners and secluded spots under the shade for downtime with your book. When you’re ready to venture out, you’ll find Plaka beach, waterfront restaurants and local shops within 900m of the home.

Aegean Ode

Soak up the sun at this dreamy villa, elevated by its marble pool and gorgeous sea views. You might have to head down to the shops to pick up some essentials like detergent or tea and coffee, but it's less than a ten-minute drive to the supermarket and the charming seaside village of Ligaria.  Part of a five-villa complex, Cretan herbs grow in the rock garden here and you'll find plenty of outdoor spaces in the sun and shade, with a private balcony and table tennis upstairs. Each bedroom has glass doors that lead outside, making this home well-suited to alfresco living.

An Idyllic Horizon

With stunning views over Almyrida beach and the mountain plateau, this Crete villa is perfectly appointed for gazing out to sea while taking time to slow right down and unwind. Sitting atop a hill, you'll have direct access down to the beach, with an endless stretch of water that can be seen from the balcony and poolside terrace. Sit down for a Greek lunch of stuffed vine leaves, olives, hummus and pita under the large veranda. 

Open the sliding doors for seamless modern living. We love how the living space is wonderfully bright and open, while the homey decor makes the bedrooms feel cosy and inviting. Rustle up your favourite dishes in the sleek island kitchen, as you look out across the turquoise horizon. The views are spectacular from just about every angle and beckon for sunset drinks later on. 

Spend sun-soaked days relaxing on the loungers and swimming in the pool, or get out and explore this historical area. Make your way down to Almyrida for excellent seafood restaurants and traditional Greek tavernas, right on your doorstep. Alternatively, visit the charming neighbouring villages, such as Gavalohori, and taste the local cuisine in a quiet, authentic setting, before returning home for a tipple of Riki on the terrace. 

Coastal Daydream

A breathtaking stay in Crete is easy at this unique accommodation. Nestled on the ridge edge of Ravdoucha village and surrounded by lush aromatic plants and trees, this home offers an unmatched view of the Aegean Sea from its many balconies, terraces and its incredible infinity pool. It’s also just a short drive away from Ravdoucha beach, ideal for when you’re after some sun, sea and sand. This home combines modern facilities with classic style, boasting grand columns, exposed stonework, contemporary industrial design and opulent touches to make it feel truly special. 

We recommend you start each day by heading to your private sauna to get your sweat on, or going to your private gym to work up a sweat in another way. Follow it with a dreamy outdoor shower and a dip in your infinity pool, as you gaze out over the endless blue before you. Then, head up to your kitchen to cook up a Cretan breakfast of bread, cheese and honey, and tuck in at alfresco on your outdoor dining set. Take a book to your outdoor lounge area and read in total peace. Grill up some halloumi on your barbecue and snack on it while you sunbathe on one of the sun loungers on the balcony. As the evening rolls in, enjoy a glass of Prosecco in your hot tub, and soak while you wait for the stars to come and join you.

Blue Infinity & Beyond

A recent addition to western Crete, this villa is a luxurious update on the traditional Greek villa. This can be seen best in the interior, with its chandeliers, sleek honey-coloured bathrooms and two-sided glass fireplace. The huge balcony on the upper level feels particularly glamourous, as well.

That being said, all the outdoor amenities you would hope for at a property that enjoys Crete's kind climate are present and correct. Wandering about the large garden populated with colourful flowers and aromatic herbs, you'll find an infinity pool with an adjoining children's pool plus a couple of loungers sitting around the edge. Added to that, there's a covered outdoor kitchen and multiple terraces — let's just say you're never going to be short of a quiet spot for relaxing.

As the strip of azure sitting just underneath the horizon suggests, you're not too far from the beach here either — the seaside town of Kissamos takes only ten minutes to reach in the car.

Vibrant & Verdant

Stay in this renovated home, and you’ll be in the heart of the beautiful old Venetian town of Chania. We love the 360-degree views of the old town, the iconic lighthouse and the sea from the large rooftop terrace – it’s a rarity for this type of house and a wonderful spot for a glass of wine at sunset.

Inside, the bright living room, with its stone arch and beamed ceiling, is very atmospheric. Take a seat on the sculpted wood sofa here, choose a book from the shelves, and relax.

There’s a fabulous farmers’ market every Saturday in the neighbourhood, while bars and restaurants are all within walking distance of this home. If you fancy a day on the beach, the nearest is a ten-minute stroll away.


Venetian Owl

Soak up the brilliantly blue views from this stellar holiday home. It sits up high, overlooking the incredible Elounda Bay – but the prime position is not the only elevated thing about this home. It's been created to ensure every guest can enjoy pure relaxation – there's a multi-level outdoor area with plenty of space for each guest to soak up the sunshine, including from the stunning freeform infinity pool, as well as the covered dining terrace where you can sip cocktails at sunset. Inside the home is stylish and modern, yet still retains a ton of traditional Cretan charm, with its whitewashed walls and built-in furniture.

Apollinia

Overlooking the glittering Chania Bay, this pet-friendly villa offers expansive views and plenty of outdoor space. You'll want to hire a car for your stay, but it's only a short drive to the nearest beaches and towns, including Chania and Platanias. The private pool can be heated at an extra cost, and the large, lush garden and dedicated children's section of the pool are ideal for families. The ground-floor bedroom has garden access and is great for guests with limited mobility. The upstairs bedrooms enjoy their own sun terrace and balcony, with excellent sea views.

The Glowing Planet

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. 

Euphorbia

Gather all your favourite people for a stay at this palatial estate housing two identical villas within nearly two acres of private Cretan landscapes. Both villas offer gold-standard amenities, with a lengthy outdoor swimming pool to soak up the panoramic views of the sea and the Psiloritis mountains and a professional tennis court at the heart of the grounds. And don’t get us started on the crisp, minimalist interiors and unique collection of paintings by award-winning artist Kostas Tsolis. Location-wise, you’re just fifteen minutes from the airport and Heraklion city, and Ammoudara Beach is even closer. 

The Garden of the Gods

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Types

Book a stay in one of the best homes in Crete.

We selected the 524 homes worth renting in this location

Who's coming along?

Home spotlights in Crete

SEEING IS
BELIEVING

VILLA
PLAKIANA

AEGEAN
ODE

We've selected the top 3% homes in Crete.

Most popular homes in Crete.

An Idyllic
Horizon

Coastal
Daydream

Blue Infinity
& Beyond

Vibrant &
Verdant

Venetian
Owl

Apollinia

The Glowing
Planet

Euphorbia

An Idyllic
Horizon

Coastal
Daydream

Blue Infinity
& Beyond

Vibrant &
Verdant

Venetian
Owl

Apollinia

The Glowing
Planet

Euphorbia

The Garden
of the Gods

Check rates and availability for Crete.

Book with Plum Guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

Book a stay in one of the best homes in Crete.

We selected the 524 homes worth renting in this location

Home spotlights in Crete

SEEING ISBELIEVING

VILLAPLAKIANA

AEGEANODE

We've selected the top 3% homes in Crete.

Most popular homes in Crete.

An IdyllicHorizon

CoastalDaydream

Blue Infinity& Beyond

Vibrant &Verdant

VenetianOwl

Apollinia

The GlowingPlanet

Euphorbia

An IdyllicHorizon

CoastalDaydream

Blue Infinity& Beyond

Vibrant &Verdant

VenetianOwl

Apollinia

The GlowingPlanet

Euphorbia

The Gardenof the Gods

Check rates and availability for Crete.

Book with Plum Guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I see the best in Crete?

SEEING IS
BELIEVING

VILLA
PLAKIANA

AEGEAN
ODE

An Idyllic
Horizon

Coastal
Daydream

Blue Infinity
& Beyond

Vibrant &
Verdant

Venetian
Owl

The Glowing
Planet

An Idyllic
Horizon

Coastal
Daydream

Blue Infinity
& Beyond

Vibrant &
Verdant

Venetian
Owl

The Glowing
Planet

The Garden
of the Gods