Sitia

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Entertainment

Luxury Toiletries

Hair Dryer

Bathroom

Dishwasher

Microwave

Freezer

Fridge

Kitchen

Kitchen & Dining

Iron

Ironing Board

Bedroom & Laundry

Swimming Pool

Wellness & Fitness

Fireplace

Central Heating

Heating & Cooling

Parking Available

Parking & Access

Barbeque

Garden

Outdoor

With the Mediterranean Sea as your neighbour, beach lovers will be instantly drawn to this coastal villa. Complete with a rooftop terrace, multiple modern living spaces and blue views over Sitia bay, the special home is the perfect base to explore this popular Greek island.

Located on the easternmost edge, Sitia is an unspoiled town that offers an authentic glimpse into Cretan life. Immerse yourself in the country's culture at the Archaeological Museum, a small but fascinating collection of Minoan artefacts. After a twenty-five-minute drive inland, delight in the wondrous Richtis Gorge, a warren of scenic hiking routes that lead to an idyllic waterfall.

Your temporary villa is sectioned into three parts, each with its own living room and kitchen, so you can experience peace and quiet even if travelling in a larger group. Come together by the freshwater pool and grill some locally-grown grub on the stone barbecue. As the lights fade over the inky blue waters, sip your tipples and reflect on your time in paradise.

Sitia Pretty

Satellite / Cable TV

Smart TV

Espresso Machine

Oven

Stove

Kitchen Utensils

Coffee Maker

Cooking Essentials

Washing Machine

Cot / Crib

Private Pool

Hot Tub

Wi-fi

Laptop Friendly Workspace

Internet & Office

Air Conditioning

Free Parking

Private Entrance

Free Parking On Premises

Patio / Terrace

Balcony

Outdoor Seating

Safe

Smoke Detector

Child Friendly

Other

From this perch on Crete’s east coast, you’ve got a panoramic view of the coastline and the endless sea. Sunset dinners are a delight on the terrace and there’s a long swimming pool to cool off during the day. It’s a little sparse in terms of decor, but the sleek, chrome kitchen has all the essentials for home-cooked meals. Bedrooms are comfortable yet minimalist, allowing the focus to be the sea view from each big window. The closest village is Roussa Ekklisia (a five-minute drive) for shops and tavernas and the buzzing coastal town of Sitia is a ten-minute drive. 

This Is Your Story

High Chair

Kettle

Hangers

Beach / Pool Towels

Sun Loungers / Beach Chairs

Access to Beach

On the edge of sandy Kouremenos Beach and the nearest taverna, only three minutes away – this fabulous location invites guests to experience Crete with nothing but ease and convenience. As one of just four villas on the complex, the space offers peace, tranquillity and a relaxing environment from which to unplug and let the stresses of daily life float free. And since this is a children-free zone, it suits couples looking for a romantic break in the sun in particular – perfectly. 

With your own private pool and garden space, spend your afternoons lazing on the loungers and cooling off from the summer's sun with a leisurely swim as you please. Then, where better to take in majestic views of the sunset than with an evening stroll on the beach? Along the way, you'll find plenty of charming tavernas for dinner – think traditional cuisine, fresh fish and local Sitia wine. What's particualrly special about this place is that even in the high season, it is rarely crowded, and the calming ambience remains unspoiled. 


Groove of the Sea 

Toaster

Treat the senses to a relaxing stay in this home perched on the southern shores of Crete. From here, you can enjoy direct access to the beach where you’ll find sun loungers and kayaks. There is also a private heated pool, a children's playground and an outdoor lounge – perfect for sunset drinks. Housekeeping is included in your stay and the concierge service is on hand to organise extras like welcome hampers and a private chef. You will need a car to get around here, but it’s just a ten-minute drive to Ierapetra, while Agios Nikolaos and Elounda are also within driving distance. 

Sea of Beauty 

Toiletries

Black-Out Blinds

Dryer

Cleaning Products

Extra Pillows and Blankets

Sauna

Self Check-in / Check-out

Outdoor Kitchen

Outdoor Shower

Mosquito Net

Nice to haves

Fire Extinguisher

Located on the outskirts of Plaka, this stylish villa occupies a prestigious hillside spot, offering sensational views over the Elounda Gulf. Boasting chic furnishings and great attention to detail, the warm hues of the home blend harmoniously with its natural surroundings. Start the day by stepping onto the terrace to enjoy the spectacular seascapes from one of the comfy day beds, before a cooling dip in the private infinity pool. 

Venture down to the garden's lower level and you'll find a lush green lawn with a children's play area, perfect for keeping the little ones entertained. If you ever manage to tear yourself away from the villa, you needn't venture too far to get a taste of Plaka, with steps from the terrace leading down to a pebble beach. Relax on the shores and let the waves wash over your toes for a while. Hikers will no doubt appreciate the area's towering mountains that house numerous caves to explore.

At the end of an adventure-filled day, head home to whip up some Greek-inspired dishes in the outdoor kitchen. We highly recommend dining alfresco beneath the pergola, then moving over to the outdoor lounge to enjoy a few cocktails while the sun sets over the horizon.


Harmony in the Hills 

Outdoor Pool

Single-Level Home

Fenced Garden

If you’re looking for a beach break, it’s hard to beat the location of this cute little villa for two. The caster sugar sand of Kouremenos Beach is just footsteps away – one of Crete’s lesser-visited spots so you’ll practically have the place to yourself. The local taverna is also a three-minute stroll away (plus they deliver for no extra fee) and you can hit the tavernas and shops of Palekastro, an easy eight minutes by car.

Should you tire of the crystal-clear sea to swim in, this villa has its own private swimming pool. The verdant lawn is home to a couple of sun loungers to dry off and a table and chairs for a tipple as the sun sets over the hills around you. In the shade of the terrace, you can enjoy dining alfresco thanks to the barbecue.

Inside, the open-plan living area embraces island tradition with thick, exposed stone walls and a fireplace in the heart of the seating area. We love the dining table with its bench seat cosily tucked into a nook and sleek wooden shelves dotted with object d’art. In the bedroom, you’ve got glass doors opening up onto the terrace so you can greet the morning straight from bed.  

Artemis' Muse

First Aid Kit

A few metres from the Venetian Walls, this apartment grants you easy access to the heart of the city. Here you'll find a balcony for your downtime and an open-concept living space, great for itinerary planning. Having one shower between eight guests means waiting your turn, and there's no lift to take you upstairs. But this home is all about location. Don't feel like cooking? There are plenty of restaurants at hand. As for sightseeing, you can walk to the Heraklion Archaeological Museum.

Odyssey in Blue

DVD Player

Library of Books

Board Games

Bathtub

Rain Shower

Pod Coffee Machine

Cafetiere

Luxury Bedding

Desk / Workplace

Just imagine dangling your bare feet into the crystal clear water off your own stone-built jetty. It's just one of the incredible experiences on offer at this luxury home close to Elounda. Boasting four en-suite bedrooms and perfect for a family or a group of friends, it's a smartly modernised home with a stunning setting, right on the coast. 

Built in the 1970s and retaining a bohemian charm with antique tiles and colourful furnishings, it's a magical place with gardens going right down the gently lapping shore. You'll even have access to a semi-private little beach – ideal for morning swims. An oasis of calm, our favourite spot is the terrace, with its comfy seating and view across the water and the mountains. 

Fully staffed with a maid, chef and a team of gardeners, you need not lift a finger but keen cooks will enjoy getting to grips with the well-equipped kitchen and the barbecue, or just head into town for a meal at one of the many excellent restaurants. Just be sure to be back in time to see the sunset over the sea from your garden – it's really something special.

Elemental Colour

Pets Allowed

Pets

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

Drying Rack

Private Parking

Sun Umbrellas

This villa is in a handy location, just three hundred metres from the traditional Greek village of Piskopiano and within a mile and a half of a handful of beaches. While the minimalist decor may not be to everyone’s tastes, there’s plenty to enjoy here, including an integrated Jacuzzi in the swimming pool, spectacular sunsets, and views of the Aegean Sea from the balcony. You’re also only twelve miles from one of Crete’s must-see landmarks, the ancient Palace of Knossos.

Aegean View

Sound System

Balcony / Patio

The sweeping coastal views from this newly-built villa may be heaven-sent, but it’s the lengthy pool and stylish sun terraces which are getting us hot under the collar. An excellent choice for two couples sharing, each bedroom has direct access to the wraparound panoramic balcony and an en-suite shower room to kickstart your day. Location-wise, the centre of Elounda and its wide sandy beach and seafront restaurants are just a two-kilometre stroll downhill –⁠ and you can always hop in a taxi on your way back home later. 

The Gods Give

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

Free Parking On Street

Resort Access

This two-storey villa overlooking the Aegean Sea is a comfortable retreat for a group get-together. Inside, two of the four stylish bedrooms offer sea views via private balconies. The kitchen has everything you need for cooking up Greek dishes, but if you’d prefer a night off, your host can arrange a cook for you. Stepping outside, you’ll find a large pool and multiple seating spots to read your book, tuck into an alfresco meal or share a glass of Vidiano. Should you fancy a change of scenery, the nearby port of Hersonissos is a lively spot for a waterfront meal, or make the drive to Heraklion to soak up the city’s cultural heritage.

Sunlight & Sea

Exercise Equipment

Heated Pool

The huge outdoor space at this contemporary villa caught our eye. There’s a well-kept lawn, a heated pool, hammocks and a shady dining area to enjoy, all with fantastic sea views. Inside, the open plan areas have been designed to let in lots of natural light and the decor is simple yet stylish. There’s even a private sauna here, which you don’t find in many Greek villas. And when you’re ready to explore, the nearest beach is within walking distance and the buzzing town of Heraklion is just a short drive away.    

From the Pool to the Horizon

Games Console

Ping Pong Table

Baby Bath

Blender

Ceiling Fans

Beach Essentials

Hammock

Welcome Hamper

Stair Gates

This amazing villa is a hidden oasis on Meakis Beach, only a two-minute walk from your doorstep to the privacy of these isolated sands, shaded by tamarisk trees. The home consists of three main blocks, the main house, guest block, and an extra guest bedroom located close to the beach - perfect for large family or friend reunions. 

Four pergola-covered terraces feature a lounge seating area, dining tables, two barbecues – one of which is on the terrace by the sea – and even an outdoor kitchen. Start your first day right with breakfast from the welcome hamper provided by the host. Lunch on Greek salads from the comfort of a sofa, and for dinner, why not try your hand at making dolmades or barbecue some kofta? 

Let off some steam with the gym equipment provided including; a Pilates ball, training weights, or explore one of the running trials. When it’s time to cool down - swim up to the edge, and overlook the stunning sea from your large, private infinity pool, before drying off on a sun lounger.  

The village of Arvi – where you’ll find supermarkets and local taverns – is just a seven-minute drive along the coast, while "Korakia", a Venetian Castle, is just a thirty-minute drive away. If you wish to venture even further, Heraklion city on the other side of the island will take about an hour and a half by car, and is home to the Minoan Palace of Knossos, Koules Fortress, Heraklion Archaeological Museum, the Cathedral of St. Minas, and much more.

Poseidon's Infinity

Private Washing Machine

Throws

A few steps away from the sprawling Kouremenos Beach – a popular pick for watersports, this handsome home sits right on Crete's beloved coastline. Discover charming tavernas within walking distance of your doorstep, where you can get a taste of local life. As for exploring the vicinity, why not drive eight minutes into Palekastro, or take a twenty-minute journey into the monastery-dotted town of Sitia?

Ideal for couples seeking a romantic retreat on the sands, this villa keeps relaxation at the forefront. Each morning, you'll open your bedroom curtains and carry your breakfast out onto this private patio. Dip your toes in the pool to keep cool, then perhaps you'll treat yourself to an at-home massage – one of the special services available. Sip some wine outdoors as you grill traditional souvlaki over the barbecue and make plans for tomorrow. What better way is there to end the day than watching the sunset atop the Mediterranean Sea from this intimate table for two?

Walking in the Sand

This charming villa sits in the peaceful village of Koxari. It boasts sea views and countryside vistas, which can be enjoyed from the terrace and beside the private pool. There’s a barbecue for alfresco dining on the patio, too. Inside, the villa is pretty and traditional. One of the bedrooms is on the mezzanine so is semi-open to the living space below, which isn’t entirely private – but could suit families with younger children. In terms of location, you’ll be just a five-minute drive from the village of Gouves, and ten minutes from pristine beaches.

Charming Cretan Retreat

Bathrobes

Buzzer / Wireless Intercom

Herb Garden

At first glance, this villa perched on top of a Cretan cliff is an architectural marvel, but the most impressive aspects lie beyond its appearance. The architects behind the project used ecologically sensitive practices during construction, from natural paints and installing energy-efficient fittings to choosing sustainably sourced stone.

This should give you a sense of quiet satisfaction while you wind back and relax here, which is remarkably easy to do. The infinity pool has glorious views of Mirabello Bay, as well as cascading waterfalls and a Jacuzzi. After a dip, there are numerous terraces on which to take a breather, including a pergola with a barbecue underneath if you're feeling a little peckish.

In this corner of western Crete, you're not only spoiled for beaches, but history abounds in this area — the nearby island of Spinalonga can be reached by boat from Elounda and has an impressive fortress from its time under Venetian occupation.



Signs of Life

Situated in Malia, this villa promises a tranquil stay for a family or group of friends keen to explore the north-east corner of Crete. Just 600 metres from the sandy shores of Malia beach, you can soak up the Mediterranean climate with ease here. Back at the villa, the outdoor space is sure to be a hit with all guests. Sun-kissed terraces, a private pool, and a balcony for watching the world go by – what’s not to love?

Greece Reflections

Carbon Monoxide Detector

With a funky, modern aesthetic and a host of handy amenities to help make you feel at home away from home, this unique apartment is conveniently located close to the centre of Crete's capital, Heraklion. We think it would make the ideal base for anyone hoping to get to grips with the city, and those who don't necessarily want to rely on a car, as many of Heraklion's highlights are found within a short walk, including the wonderful Archaeological Museum just a kilometre from the home.

The Mandala

Indoor Pool

With beautiful views over Spinalonga Island, this villa has a wonderful location – we particularly love the vistas from the bedrooms and living room. On chilly nights, there’s a feature wood burner to cosy up in front of and when it's lovely and warm there’s a stone wall-enclosed terrace with a small pool/Jacuzzi to relax in. Out and about, go for a stroll on one of the stunning beaches of Elounda Bay or head to Agios Nikolaos with its array of bars and restaurants.

Perkali

Nestled in the north-eastern corner of Crete, this villa is an ideal base for a coastal stay. Privacy is limited here, however – the garden is overlooked by the neighbouring home while inside, the mezzanine bedroom is semi-open to the space below and has an open en-suite. With two guests sleeping on the pull-out bed in the living room at full occupancy, we think this home is better suited to families who don’t mind sharing their space. For days out of the villa, seaside seekers can easily get their coastal fix, with Malia beach just 600 metres away. 

Eucalyptus & Olive

If you want the privacy of a villa, but the convenience of a luxury hotel, then you've come to the right place, because this home has it all. Set above the Gulf of Mirabello on Crete, it's the ideal place to kick back and relax in perfect peace with your favourite people. 

Breakfast is included, so you can start your day right – sip your morning coffee as you look out at the panoramic sea views. When the temperature rises you can take a refreshing dip in the sparkling swimming pool, before drying off on a sun lounger with a good book. Fitness fans can raise their heart rate in the gym, while those who prefer a slower pace might prefer to sweat out their stresses in the sauna. Come evening, budding chefs can get to work in the sleek kitchen, but if you'd rather someone else do the cooking then your host can arrange a private chef to whip up your favourite dishes. 

When you fancy a day at the beach, take the free shuttle over to the local beach where you'll find sunbeds, parasols, and a menu of tasty food and drinks. If you're feeling adventurous then you can crest the waves with a yachting or sailing excursion, and golfers can take the forty-minute drive over to the 18-hole course. Then, at the end of a long day, you can relax with a wellness treatment in the resort spa – bliss. 

Cat-Eye Sunglasses

Playground

An oasis of life and colour, this characterful villa in the seaside village of Koutsouras invites guests to enjoy all of its charms alongside sea views of the crystalline waters of the Libyan Sea in the distance. 

Amidst the mature garden featuring pine trees providing shaded refuge from the sun – relax by the swimming pool on the day beds or perched in one of the egg chair swings with a refreshing drink in hand. Breathe in the sweet air fragranced by the fresh flowers, Cretan herbs and fruit trees dotted around the garden. 

Inside, bold pops of colour seen through the furnishings and artwork create a vibrant space to kick back in after a day on the beach (a four-minute walk away). With en-suite bathrooms in each of the bedrooms, guests can enjoy their own slice of privacy for blissful moments of solitude if needed too. 





A Place Beyond the Pines

Home Cinema Setup

Mini Bar

Bicycles

Lift Access

Setting the standards high, this luxury space is split into four different apartments to be booked as one large villa featuring nine bedrooms. Each of the four apartments within the villa features its own kitchen and bathroom, offering guests added privacy when wanted. Combining elegance and ecological simplicity with seclusion and modern comforts – the villa as a whole is an idyllic choice for a large group or several smaller groups looking for a resort-like experience to enjoy without other members of the public. 

With sweeping views from almost anywhere, you find yourself in the home, gaze out at the blue waters of the Mediterranean and let your thoughts float away to the rhythm of the waves lapping into the shore. Ideally situated for swimming, snorkelling (with the villa's snorkelling equipment), sunbathing, surfing, and other water sports, from here, you'll be just a five-minute walk away from the nearest pebbled beach with an array of bars and eateries. Meanwhile, many other sandy beaches can be reached within ten to fifteen minutes' driving distance. 

Designed to accommodate the discerning traveller, this villa located in the quiet agricultural village of Koutsouras incorporates the refreshing use of natural eco-friendly materials through its designs. With an abundance of home amenities here, you'll never be short of things to do. Whether you are swimming in the pool, relaxing at one of the many indoor and outdoor seating areas – notably out on the pool inflatables, sun loungers, hammock or shaded loungers under the tamarack trees. Not a minute will pass you by without getting to enjoy the panoramic sea views that surround you. Due to the villa's southwestern outlook, sunset views are also equally beautiful. There'll be no need to go inside to the kitchen when grabbing a drink to enjoy over the sunset as the pool bar is equipped with an ice maker, coffee machine, fridge and sink for your convenience. After dark, when the sparkling moonlit sky lights upon the horizon, take the opportunity to do some stargazing through the telescope. 

Since you'll be stationed just off a bike path, why not use the villa's bicycles which allow guests to explore the island on two wheels. Cycle over to the tourist town of Makry Gialos, where you'll find plenty of bars, restaurants and boutiques to explore, just 2 kilometres away. Also situated within very close distance is a spot in front of the villa, which permits a prime location for fishing – with the use of the villa's fishing rods, why not have a go at catching some fresh fish to grill up on the barbecue? 


Circle of Life

Perfect for a romantic break away from it all, this contemporary villa provides everything you need for a beachside retreat for two. Spend your days lounging poolside, sharing a bottle of local Sitia wine with your loved one and soaking up the Greek sun. If the heat becomes a little too much to bear, don’t worry, you can sink into the cool waters of the private pool before settling down under the shade of the pergola for a little alfresco lunch. With the glistening blue sea views and the sizzle of the barbecue as you grill up a delicious snack, you’ll feel completely content. If the call of the sea is too difficult to ignore, slip your feet into your flip flops and amble down to Kouremenos beach where you can while away the hours in this unspoilt piece of paradise.

After a day spent recharging your batteries, we’d recommend walking to one of the nearby tavernas to indulge in a spot of local cuisine. With a happy tummy full of good food, head home and snuggle up on the corner sofa for a quiet movie night. With exposed stone and comfortable furnishings, this is such a homely, cosy place to enjoy an evening, guaranteed to become the backdrop to a wonderful Greek coastal stay.

Tranquil Shores

Parking On Premises

A serene stay awaits you at this stylish and classical Grecian villa, nestled in a peaceful coastal spot in Agkisaras on the sunny island of Crete. This home provides some picturesque views from both the garden and the raised balcony – it's easy to gaze out at the sparkling blue ocean in the distance, as well as the lush greenery that surrounds you here. Inside, the styling is boho and beautiful, while the outside is grand and majestic, with a wonderful pool and alfresco dining table – ideal for cocktails at sunset. 

The Green Olive

Pool / Snooker Table

Streaming Services

Within walking distance of Gouves beach and a short drive from Heraklion, this villa's location and facilities make it shine. The large garden is equipped with a barbecue area and private pool, and the downstairs game room with billiards is great for families. There are no bedrooms on the ground floor here, so guests with limited mobility may be better off looking elsewhere. But with a kitchenette as well as the main kitchen and more bed space than guest space, there's plenty of room for everyone.

Serenity on the Island

Umbrellas

This lovely family-friendly home can be found in a pretty seaside village. The area isn’t quite as touristy as other parts of Crete, so you can appreciate the authenticity and natural beauty of the place while getting your R&R. 

The villa is bright and cheerful, with plenty of room for you and your guests. You’re within strolling distance of bakeries, supermarkets and coffee shops, so we recommend you start your day with pastries and coffee on one of the balconies. The outside space here is plentiful and attractive, with seating for everyone. Rock gently in a hammock, or sit in a wicker chair and take in the view of the olive grove below. 

Trees surrounding the property ensure that it’s not overlooked, so you can float in the pool or laze in the sunshine in peace. If you do fancy a little more action though, you need only walk four minutes to reach the beach. Beautiful Paralia Koutsouras is a swimming beach with calm, clear water and pretty pebbles. There are beachside restaurants and cafes so you can really make a day of it. 

When you’ve had your fill of swimming, snorkelling or snoozing in the sunshine, meander back to the villa to enjoy a soak in the tub. Order food in from a local restaurant or get to work on the barbecue. Sitting up late at the alfresco dining table is the best way to end your day. 


Arokaria Adagio

While the interiors won’t win any design awards, this home is all about outdoor living. With the beach at the end of the garden, who needs to be languishing indoors? Simply wander down the garden path and you’ll be greeted with glittering blue waters and a semi-private beach. The stone-built oven and dining terrace sets the scene for colourful group meals as the sun softens. With lawns, shaded trees, various outdoor nooks for curling up with a book or cool drink, you’ll slip into the local pace of life. We love the simplicity and local white-wash feel of this home. Enjoy the archaeology of close-by Elounda, or take a boat trip to Spinalonga, the inspiration for Victoria Hislop’s novel “The Island.”

Sea-escapades

Desk

Set just a short flip-flop from the sandy shores of Ammoudi Beach in Zakynthos –⁠ this newly-built apartment is tailor-made for easy holidays by the sea. The private terrace with views of nearby Agios Nikolaos Bay is the showstopper here. It’s a prime spot for morning breakfasts, and the bakery at the end of the road can help with supplies. The second bedroom handily doubles as a study space. However, if you’re using it as a bedroom, two guests will share a double sofa bed which may be better suited to children sharing or one adult.

Saffron & Sea Salt

Magnificent views over Mirabello Bay and the famous island of Spinalonga are the first things guaranteed to catch your eye from this villa in Plaka. Just as stunning from the pool as they are from the terrace's alfresco dining set, the far-reaching vistas certainly steal the show here. Once inside the home, you’ll find a comfortable two-floor living space with everything needed for a fuss-free stay. The beige and brown colour scheme of the decor isn’t half as exciting as the blues and greens of the scenery outside. But given the home’s location just 600 metres from plenty of ​​Greek restaurants and bars – not to mention the seaside with its many boat trip opportunities – this home ticks a lot of boxes. 


Island Eyes

Ideally located in central ​​Agios Nikolaos, this petite apartment is ideal for those looking to explore the area’s bustling harbour and beaches. A modern minimalist interior, a sofa bed for flexible sleeping arrangements and a private balcony with sea views are features we appreciate. And though the open-plan en-suite won’t be to everyone’s taste, the window-side tub is hard to pass up. With your host able to arrange a plethora of extra services (for a fee), including private chefs, boat excursions and beauty treatments, you’re in for a relaxing, carefree stay. 


Poseidon's Eyes

You’ll find this villa on a hillside in the small village of Plaka, just outside of Elounda. It’s part of a complex of three villas, surrounded by a herb garden and offering remarkable views of Elounda Bay and out to Spinalonga island. Its setting on a hillside means that you’re in for some steep climbs back after days out exploring – we’d recommend hiring a car if your mobility isn’t tip-top. Once you’ve braved the incline, though, you can reach Paralia Plakas, a pebble beach, in just 300 metres. That’s in addition to your private pool and a lovely terrace with a barbecue area – not to mention the Jacuzzi bathtub. 

A Song for Sunsets

Built from traditional stone and marble, this typically Cretian villa sits right on the sand at Almyros Beach. Pad barefoot from the terrace to the soft sand and swim in crystalline shallows. It’s just a few steps back to your villa if you forget the sunscreen. Or, simply admire the ocean from your elevated position on the rocks, where a sleek swimming pool overlooks the shore. There’s outdoor dining beneath the wooden pergola and stone pathways twist around fruit trees and verdant greenery. Stone steps lead directly to the beach.

Inside, the living room is like a solarium, with a wall of windows letting in that sea view and sunshine. Trinkets made from seashells and sea-glass are a reminder of your ocean-side locale. The old fireplace can be illuminated with candles for a romantic air, and crisp white walls are livened up with vibrant local artworks. Upstairs, bedrooms open up to the terrace, so you can tumble straight from bed to lounger.

Though you’re in a quiet, beach-side location, the vibrant coastal town of Agios Nikolaos is a five-minute drive away, where Venetian-style buildings line the old harbour and seafood tavernas spill out into the streets. 

Barefoot Beachside

If it’s views you’re after, you’ll love this villa. It was built on a hillside close to the pretty village of Plaka, and boasts spectacular views of Mirabello Bay and Spinalonga Island. From almost every angle, your eye is drawn out to the panoramic vistas and sparkling sea. There a multiple terraces for you to appreciate the setting from, as well as a private pool and a lovely alfresco dining area. Spread over three floors, there’s heaps of room here. There’s even a separate TV room that’s ideal for teenagers. You’ll need a car to get the most out of your stay, as the closest beach is 5 kilometres away. 

Lotus Shades

With gorgeous views of Agios Nikolaos and the glistening sea, this studio-style apartment is perfectly suited for a relaxing coastal stay. Akti Koundourou Beach is just a few steps away, with the lively harbour a short walk from your door. When you're not out exploring the local tavernas, cafes and landmarks, spend unhurried mornings sipping your espresso on the private balcony with panoramic views. Another highlight is the freestanding bathtub, while we appreciate the high-end touch that's been given to the entire apartment. Only a small kitchenette is available, so don't expect to cook big meals here – that said, you've got plenty of dining options practically on your doorstep.

Dramatic Sea

Netflix

Breakfast Included

With a view of Agios Nikolaos and the Sea of Crete, this suite-style villa is all about coastal relaxation. Beach Almyros is practically on your doorstep, with more sandy shores a short drive away. When you're not exploring, you'll make a beeline for the panoramic balcony, although the indoor hot tub is another fantastic spot to unwind with a glass of wine. Only a small kitchenette is available, so don't expect to cook big meals here. That said, breakfast is included and you'll enjoy a complimentary welcome drink upon arrival – now that's what we call five-star service. 

Teak by the Sea

This villa, found a ten-minute walk from Sisi village, is made for families wanting to explore the Greek island of Crete. With the beach only 800 metres away, sun-worshippers and hydrophiles will be satisfied. And that's before discovering the private swimming pool in the garden. The rest of the outdoor space is ideal for balmy summer evenings barbecuing and dining alfresco. There's also an outside bar for sunset drinks. Though this characterful home makes an impression, it's the rolling landscape surrounding it that drew our eye here. Well-located, picturesque and with housekeeping – you can see why we'd want to stay.

The Golden Olive

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