Asteri

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Entertainment

Hair Dryer

Bathroom

Dishwasher

Microwave

Freezer

Oven

Kitchen Utensils

Toaster

Fridge

High Chair

Coffee Maker

Juicer

Kettle

Kitchen

Stove

Cooking Essentials

Kitchen & Dining

Iron

Washing Machine

Dryer

Cot / Crib

Hangers

Drying Rack

Bedroom & Laundry

Private Pool

Swimming Pool

Wellness & Fitness

Wi-fi

Laptop Friendly Workspace

Internet & Office

Fireplace

Air Conditioning

Central Heating

Heating & Cooling

Private Parking

Free Parking On Premises

Private Entrance

Parking & Access

Barbeque

Patio / Terrace

Balcony

Garden

Fenced Property

Outdoor Seating

Access to Beach

Outdoor

Child Friendly

Other

With a private pool, coastal views and a great location, this home makes it easy to settle into the laid-back pace of island living. Some of the furnishings may be a little dated, but it’s family-friendly with plenty of chill-out spots to relax and recharge. Your host can also help organise car rentals, which will come in handy when adventuring further afield. The nearest beach is just 2 kilometres away, while the picturesque city of Rethymno is just 9 kilometres away. 

The Sun Retreat

Bathtub

Toiletries

Cleaning Products

Extra Pillows and Blankets

Sun Loungers / Beach Chairs

Pets Allowed

Pets

Fire Extinguisher

Nestled in a tranquil corner of Sfakaki, this villa offers guests the perfect retreat for a relaxing getaway. Spread over two floors, the villa boasts plenty of space for family or friends to unwind together. The designs are simple, and the bathrooms are a little dated, but the sea views more than make up for it. Guests can soak up the views from the terrace, while the lower deck offers a swimming pool and an alfresco dining area. When you’re ready for a beach day, pack your towels and head down to Platanes Beach, where you’ll find golden sands and beachfront restaurants.

Sfakaki Bliss

Satellite / Cable TV

DVD Player

Sound System

Library of Books

Pool / Snooker Table

Rain Shower

Baby Bath

Changing Table

Blender

Rice Maker

Trash Compactor

Private Washing Machine

Ironing Board

Vacuum Cleaner

Black-Out Blinds

Parking Available

Self Check-in / Check-out

Single-Level Home

Outdoor Shower

Sun Umbrellas

Throws

Nice to haves

First Aid Kit

Safe

Smoke Detector

This captivating Cretan home is a sure-fire Greek delight. Boasting authentic interiors, a large alfresco lounging and dining deck as well as private, outdoor swimming pool complete with sunbathing area, this heavenly home really does have it all. Surrounded by Cypress, olive and fragrant orange trees, this enviable villa offers unadulterated peace and quiet amid sheer rural beauty. 

Featuring an open plan kitchen, dining and living room – all exposed stone walls, cool tiled floors and beautiful beamed ceilings – this traditionally designed family home is perfect for both entertaining and relaxing. Wooden French doors open out onto the deck from which you can enjoy gazing out on ancient olive trees and enjoy as well as both subtle sunrises and silky sunsets.

You’ll love spending lazing on loungers beside the pool before cooling off with a refreshing dip. Come lunch or dinner time, why not feast on plates upon plates of barbecued delights accompanied by Greek salads and washed down with a glass or two of local wine? If you fancy exploring a little of the surrounding area, spend the day at the nearest beach, only 3km away, or visit the charming hilltop village of Asteri. Alternatively, wander the bougainvillea-draped cobblestone streets of Rethymno city, with its historic Venetian castle and picturesque harbour. 


Amid Ancient Olive Groves

Playground

Bathrobes

Private Dryer

Outdoor Pool

Hot Tub

Parking On Street

Free Parking On Street

Resort Access

Found in the rural area of Nea Magnesia, this home, with the beach right on its doorstep, is the ideal getaway for large parties wanting to explore the beautiful island of Crete. Made up of three apartments, this villa guarantees privacy for everyone whilst still allowing for the group to come together in the communal areas. 

Make a splash in the shared pool or watch the sunset from the hot tub, walk down to the beach and spend the day in the surf and sand, or claim a sunlounger from where you can work on your tan whilst also catching up on your reading. 

Grill a Mediterranean feast on the barbecue whilst the kids keep themselves busy in the play area and come together at sunset to enjoy a glass of wine with dinner on the balcony. Meals can also be taken at the bench-style dining table. 

Drive minutes away to explore Rethymno. Grab a coffee, visit the folklore museum, and wander the streets admiring the colourful alleys, Venetian port and everything else that makes this little town one of the most beautiful places in Greece. 

Pistil

Heated Pool

Nestled amongst peaceful olive groves, this stylish and serene holiday home will make a great backdrop to many happy memories with your loved ones. It’s based in the tranquil and traditional village of Pagkalochori, just along the coast from Rethymno and a short drive from Stavromenos beach – a fantastic spot for exploring Crete’s north coast. The garden makes a wonderful place to soak up the sunshine, with a large pool for morning lengths as well as a hot tub for soaks at sunset, plus a playground for little ones. Inside, the home is a little plain and simple, but it’s a calming and quiet space to relax in between all the fun.

Favourite Fruit

Board Games

Children's Dinnerware

Espresso Machine

Beach / Pool Towels

Beach Essentials

Fenced Garden

Mosquito Net

Welcome Hamper

Safety Gates

Stair Gates

Fourteen kilometres east of Rethimno, this stone-built villa is nestled between peaceful olive groves in the Cretan countryside. Here, in the quiet village of Asteri, you'll be perfectly placed two kilometres from traditional taverns, coffee shops, and wonderful scenic beauty. What's more, the golden sands of Sfakaki Beach sit only a short drive away along the coastal road. However, we wouldn't blame you if you never wanted to leave this home at all.

Each day, wake up like royalty under a white canopy and slip out onto your private balcony. Have a professional chef come to prepare breakfast in the kitchen, as you dine beneath elegant wood beams while the fire crackles. Then, we think that lazy mornings are best spent soaking up the sunshine around the hydro massage pool. Following an adventurous afternoon, grill souvlaki over the barbecue and chat out on the terrace. Finally, after the sun sets, why not enjoy a special night of wine tasting with your loved ones?

Amid Olive Groves

Ping Pong Table

Temperature Control

This spacious villa has an undertone of regality and oozes class. Antique furniture, contemporary white decor and natural textures will stop you in your tracks as you step inside. And, while the interior is stunning and the perfect respite from the sun’s rays, the outdoor space is where this home bursts into life.

If you picture your perfect holiday, we imagine you’re relaxing somewhere with swaying palm trees, plenty of places to eat, drink and simply relax outdoors, a private pool to cool off in when the heat of the day becomes too much and if you’re really lucky, just a short stroll from the beach. If so, this is the home for you. Lie back on your sun bed, close your eyes and you can hear the waves lapping on the shore a short distance away as the sun warms your skin. Jump into your private pool to cool off from the heat, and maybe take a short stroll, through your garden gate, down onto the golden sands of Sfakaki beach. This home is made for making memories with your loved ones. 

As evening calls, wander home and fire up the barbecue for a delicious meal alfresco. Open a bottle of wine and settle down for the night, because you have the best vantage point for a breathtaking sunset. As the sky glows from burnt orange to flamboyant pink and the sun finally dips below the ocean, take a moment to look around you. This is what happiness looks like. 

Sea Inspired

Located in Pagkalochori village, this modern villa allows you to kick back and relax in pure tranquillity with loved ones. Perfect for those who enjoy a slower, quieter pace of life, outdoor living will become part of your daily routine with sun-drenched terraces, far-reaching views from the balcony, and a private pool to enjoy. There’s even a play area, ideal for keeping little ones entertained. When a day on the coast is calling, you’ll find Stavromenos beach a mere two kilometres away.

Paradise in Greece

Garden Games

We don’t know about you but we’re on top of the world just looking at this sprawling home on the outskirts of Rethymno, one of the most picturesque cities on the island of Crete. 

Boasting a dreamy outdoor pool and stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea, this is the perfect place to unwind with friends or family, situated in a gorgeous two-acre plot with plenty of space for eating, drinking, and being merry with your fellow guests. Spend all day exploring the grounds, unleash your competitive side with a game of oversized garden chess, or beat the heat with a dip in the pool and a traditional Greek dinner at the regal dining table. Whatever your mood, this place has got you covered. 

If you fancy getting out and about, you’re just 5 kilometres from the nearest beach, so why not make the most of it? Set off for an afternoon of sunbathing by the glistening sea or head into the centre of Rethymno where you’ll find a whole host of bars and restaurants to keep you busy until sundown. Glass of red, anyone? 

 Rethymno of the Night

Pod Coffee Machine

Desk / Workplace

Rooftop Terrace

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

Cafetiere

Bicycles

Carbon Monoxide Detector

Crete’s inland mountains and striking coastlines are simply unparalleled. On this ancient island, you can easily discover these opposing elements of natural beauty from this fabulous villa. Its location is perfect for enjoying unmissable history and heritage, but with a modern environment to come home to.

Close to the medieval coastal town and beaches of Rethymnon, you’ll enjoy spending days here before popping home for a barbecue on the terrace. Cue the jaw-dropping vistas, too – this villa has 360-degree views of everything that Crete has to offer. From up on the pool terrace or the sweeping balcony, you can plan your day from above, cocktail in hand. 

And every day you’ll be waking to views of olive groves, orchards, mountains, and the azure waters beyond. Understated interiors really allow the outdoors to shine – both figuratively and literally. Head down to the spacious living area for your morning brunch, where a pot of coffee and fresh orange juice might be best savoured on the verandah.

Cave of Zeus

Games Console

Accessible Parking

Free Parking

Outdoor Kitchen

One of four brand-new villas, this luxurious home is an excellent choice of holiday home for family or friends. It’s in a beautiful spot in peaceful Pigianos Kampos, with a private fenced garden and access to a private beach just 50 metres away. 

Your days will be spent stretched out on a sun lounger beside the private pool or on the white sand beach – your only difficult decision here will be whether to swim in the pool or the sea. Children will love having their own playground to run around in, while grown-ups will adore the hot tub – it’s the place to be as the sun is setting. 

Ask the friendly gardener to help you choose some fresh veg in the vegetable garden, and prepare an alfresco feast on the barbecue. This is a calm place to stay with a relaxing atmosphere – you’ll never want to leave. 


Sea Shore Garden

Look no further for the perfect home. This one blends tranquillity and sparkle where you can wake up to the sun glistening through the floor-to-ceiling windows. Open the doors onto the veranda, and you're in paradise with rooftop views of the crystal clear waters, ready for some tasty brunch.

Created with only high standards and regard for the environment in mind, with designer furniture making appearances – from designers, such as Poul Christiansen and Boris Berlin. As if that wasn't enough, white marble from Greece is used throughout, allowing you to experience the Greek dream.

In a privileged location, barely 50m from the exclusive private beach, you can spend the entire day relaxing on the sun loungers with a pina colada in hand. After you've finished, go for a swim in the sea and repeat the process the next day. Take a dip in your private hot tub while embracing the sunset across the island to end on a glowing note.


Into The Sleek

Piano

Baby Monitor

Access to Gym / Spa

Indoor Pool

Exercise Equipment

Ceiling Fans

Spill out into this palatial sea view villa set in over an acre of private grounds fringing the charming village of Giannoudi. You can expect gold-standard amenities to rival a five-star hotel here. Think indoor spa room with a hydro massage heated pool, six luxurious bedrooms offering private balconies or veranda access, and outside, a lagoon-style swimming pool and waterfall surrounded by oh-so-private gardens. Fancy breaking up pool days? Platanias Beach is just three kilometres away. Or let Concierge organise a day trip to Rethymno City, five kilometres away.

Greek Ode

Nintendo Wii

A luxurious, private villa in a small complex, this home is located in the peaceful area of Pigianos Kampos, Crete. Spread over two floors, the main bedroom on the first floor offers stunning views of the sea from the room and its attached balcony, and a bathroom with a jacuzzi bath. Meanwhile, the rooms on the ground floor open up to the veranda, garden, and your own private pool area, where you can enjoy a quiet day, lounging on a sunbed, dipping into the waters of the pool, or relaxing in the hot tub. 

Start your day with an alfresco breakfast with the fruit basket provided by your host on arrival. For dinner, pick vegetables from the garden with the help of the gardener or head to the outdoor seating area and cook up delicious souvlaki on the gas barbecue. Finish your day sipping your complimentary welcome drink of wine as the sun sets over the ocean.

With the sea pretty much on your doorstep, you can be on the long sandy beach of Rethymno within three minutes. If you wish to venture further and explore all Crete has to offer, Stavromenos village offers a whole host of things to do, including the beach, and archaeological and historical sites such as the Monastery of Christ and St. Gedeon, and the Museum of Ancient Eleutherna. The tourist resort of Platanias is also only a five-minute drive away, with shops, restaurants, bars, and nightclubs. The location of this villa means that there’s something for every interest close by.

Sun of Apollo

Located in the sleepy village of Skouloufia, this relaxed villa boasts plenty of natural light and everything you need for a comfortable stay in Crete. After waking up in quiet bedrooms, pour yourself a coffee and plan the day’s agenda from the sofa, basking in the sunshine that streams through the clerestory windows. 

When hunger bites, call upon the help of a private chef to rustle up something tasty for breakfast. Dine together on the terrace before picking out a lounger to work on your tan. Should you need to cool off, plunge into the pool and float around in the refreshing water. 

If you’re a group who like to explore on holiday, embark on a walking tour arranged by your helpful host or jump in the car and take the short drive to the beach – it was one of our favourite places to watch the sunset.

Good Time

In Crete’s craggy, wild mountains, this set of villas enjoys an elevated spot looking over the hinterland towards the sea. You’re secluded and surrounded by nature here, yet it’s just a ten-minute drive to the buzzing beaches of Crete’s north coast and the vibrant resort town of Rethimno.

The scenery around you is a tapestry of olive groves and cacti-clad hills. Come sunset, the sky over the sea streaks purple and orange, and your spot on any of the rooftop terraces is the best place to watch this spectacle. Slip down to your villa's private swimming pool and swim laps in the morning and perhaps lunch in the shade of the curtained gazebo.

Accommodation is spread across four identical villas and inside each is a soothing combination of coffee and cream tones with sliding glass doors letting in plenty of natural light. From the balcony off each living room, you can gaze out over the landscape to the sea. Set up for the day in the big, dine-in kitchen and freshen up amidst stylish mosaic tiles in the bathrooms.

Joined At The Hip

Jacuzzi

Sauna

Hammock

Ideal for large groups looking to relax, this luxurious villa is tucked away in a quiet, rural area. Rethymno town is just 13 kilometres away, and you’ll be able to visit nearby Kyrianna village, but the aim of the game here is to slow things down. Swim in the private heated pool while the kids splash about in the children’s pool, meander through the twelve gardens surrounding the villa, and watch the sunset from a balcony. We love the wood-fired oven and barbecue, which makes feasting alfresco a breeze. 

The Green Paradise

Netflix

Streaming Services

With its long sandy beach, aquamarine seas, traditional restaurants and laid-back ambience, Adelianos Kampos makes the perfect setting for a rejuvenating island retreat. And just a short stroll from the beach, you’ll find this home welcoming you to enjoy the warmth and charm of Cretan living. 

From the rustic stone and traditional wooden beams to the balcony views and refreshing simplicity of the bedrooms, every detail has been considered to enrich your stay with ease and comfort. Outside, you’ll find the garden inviting you to sink into total relaxation with refreshing dips in the pool and gilded afternoons on a lounger. 

When you’re inspired to explore beyond this sanctuary, stroll down to the beach and soak up the atmosphere from one of the local bars and restaurants. And for adventures further afield, head to the historic town and marina of Rethymnon (just a ten-minute drive away). Tennis lovers will also appreciate the free access to the courts in the neighbouring hotel. 

Wherever the day takes you, this home has everything you could need to savour the authentic taste of Cretan-inspired barbecue meals and cosy movie nights by the fire.  

Kali Sun

The promise of rest and relaxation is written in this home’s beautiful interiors and sun-dappled exterior, providing everything you need to recharge, unwind and take in the stunning scenery of Crete’s rugged landscapes. 

Located in the charming village of Skouloufia – just over twenty minutes away by car from the popular town of Rethymno – this modern villa not only provides a wonderfully comfortable stay but also puts you in a prime position to explore many of Crete’s most famous historical sites as well as its beautiful beaches.

Inside, double-height ceilings in the open-plan living area allow sunlight to pour in and bathe the space in a warm glow, while the bedrooms – each with a balcony – offer spectacular views over the Cretan mountains and a peaceful night’s sleep in the inviting beds. There’s a hydro massage tub on hand too to ramp up the relaxation even more, while outside, the private pool beckons hours of swimming and lounging on the deck chairs, followed by an alfresco barbecue feast around the outdoor table.

When it comes to exploring the local area, there are plenty of nature paths surrounding the village, while sandy Skaleta Beach is a fifteen-minute drive away. The Monastery of Arkadi –  a peaceful oasis of golden stone buildings and flower-filled courtyards – is also just twelve minutes away by car and Melidoni Cave is a twenty-four-minute drive from your door. 


Dimitra

Home Cinema Setup

Games Room

Wine Cooler

Outdoor Fireplace / Firepit

The first thing you’ll notice about this home is the view. Panoramic vistas across the Psiloritis mountains and sparkling Aegean sea will quite literally leave you in awe. From the moment you arrive, you’re surrounded by the scent of fresh pines and olive groves. This impressive villa exceeds expectations from every angle, providing plenty of space and privacy to disconnect as well as overflowing options for entertaining spaces for you as a group. 

Inside, you’ll be treated to a wealth of indulgent features. You can feel this villa’s historical past, with stone-vaulted ceilings, romantic arches and traditional wooden beams whilst modernist elements including an emerald glass staircase and a stainless steel mezzanine radiate the open spaces. Each room has been individually considered so that the blend of natural and design-focused materials make you and your guests feel part of the Cretan landscape. The professional kitchen is kitted out for preparing a Meditteranean feast to be enjoyed on the large dining table - the in-house wine selection of Cabernet Sauvignon, Grenache and Syrah will complement perfectly.

Start your day off with a few laps in the crystalline-blue pool that’s a near colour match for the cerulean water of the Aegean. Or take in the sea breeze from the beautiful terrace furnished with Indonesian wood chairs, overlooking the rugged cove below. If you’re an early riser, head down to the beach for a morning yoga class at the Baja Beach Club (a ten-minute drive away) and treat yourself to endless views of the powdery sands. We understand how every friend has their own holiday routine. Make the most of the billiards room, home cinema or sip sundowners on your private balcony as the sun falls beneath the cliffs.

Aegean Vision

Smart TV

Foosball / Table Football

When you have an Aegean Sea view at your disposal, it’s easy to while away the days. Located in the hills of Skouloufia, this 19th-century stone villa has been artfully renovated to offer everything you could dream of and then some more. With an ocean view, a storied building and a host of amenities you're guaranteed to make some memories. 

Inside, it’s easy to see the love that’s gone into renovating this home. Tall beamed ceilings and exposed stone walls hint at the home’s original character, whilst sleek furnishings and modern designs bring this home into the contemporary realm. The slick kitchen and dining room are a host’s dream – while away the evenings, socialising as you prepare a Greek-inspired dinner and share late-night conversations around the family-style table with a bottle of Vidiano. Each bedroom is comfortable and stylish – waking up to those views is a dreamy way to start each day – and since each bedroom has an en-suite complete with a rainfall shower, every member can wake up refreshed and raring to go. 

Start your day sipping fresh juice on the patio before lounging out poolside with your new summer read. Afternoons are best spent with a few cooling laps of your sparkling pool before igniting the barbecue for a flame-grilled Mediterranean feast on the upper terrace.

When you’re seeking sand, the Stavromenos is a short drive away or, if you’re seeking a cultural day out, make the drive to Rethymno – it’s less than thirty minutes away. This charming Venetian harbour invites you to explore its quaint cobbled streets and settle in at one of the seafront tavernas for a fresh seafood dinner.

Forged in Stone

Record Player

A remarkable villa that has been extensively renovated since it was established in 1426 and has been designated as a historical monument by Greek Archaeological authorities. Now a fantastic holiday home for you and your loved ones with original character combined with contemporary amenities. The villa's two wings are linked by a stunning covered walkway built by none other than globally famous architect Yiannis Kalitsounas, who created a confluence of light, glass, and space, bringing different cultures and times together in one spot.

The towering walls of this residence provide peace and solitude while remaining in the heart of the village, Maroulas village, which is a heritage site and a thriving community surrounded by happiness. The swimming pool, surrounded by soothing scenery, is a great spot to relax in the sun or the shade of a lemon tree, and don't forget about movie night with the video projector – have the popcorn ready.

If you're feeling adventurous, go on an ATV excursion from Rethymno, go off-roading in the mountainous terrain of Crete's northern shore. Splash through streams, weave through old gorges, and search for island wildlife while driving a personal quad vehicle that can visit tucked-away regions encircling Maroulas Mountain. Get a taste of Cretan history and culture at many stops, including a classic Greek coffeehouse and 11th-century mediaeval towns. 


Wings of Brightness

Located in Rethymno along the north coast of Crete, this sun-soaked villa is perfectly suited for an endlessly relaxing stay with large groups of friends and extended family. Whether you're a beachgoer or a poolside sunbather, this crowd-pleasing pad is a great option. 

Whitewashed walls and luscious greenery are parr for the course these days, but it's the fenced-off private pool, complete with sun loungers, pergolas, a terrace dining area, barbecue and summer kitchen, that really caught our eye. We can think of nothing better than filling your time with long alfresco lunches and early-evening sundowners out on the terrace, while the children splash about in the pool or play on the outdoor toys, kindly provided by your host. 

Stepping inside, you'll find a vibrant pink colour palette, playful wallpaper prints and high vaulted ceilings that make for a lovely, sociable space to play games and cosy up on chillier nights (a rarity here, we know). A pool table and separate games room ensure fun-filled evenings, whatever the weather. And if you can peel yourself away from this beautiful villa, Rethymno town and Stavromenos Beach (a 7-km drive away) are great trips out for all the family. 

Pink at Heart

Workplace

Early / Late Check-Out Available

Sitting in the traditional village of Skouloufia with Rethymno just 18km away, this home welcomes you to enjoy expansive views across the rugged coastline of northern Crete. And with beaches, hiking trails and ancient sights all within easy reach, you’ll find yourself captivated by the simple charm of Greece’s largest island. 

Set across three floors, the owners have created this space for families and friends to relax and share quality time together. From the first-floor balcony and air-conditioned rooms to the swimming pool and terrace, every detail inspires a wonderful sense of ease and freedom. 

Wake up early and watch the sunrise, take a refreshing dip in the pool, enjoy a yoga session on the lawn and gather for magical evenings with drinks and freshly prepared Cretan meals. Children will love playing on the grass, while the billiard table will provide fun for everyone. 

Days can be spent relaxing here or exploring the glistening coastline. Your host can help organise a range of unforgettable experiences, including guided tours and boat trips – ensuring your stay is enriched by the authentic spirit of the island. 

Serenity Sunrise 

Luxury Toiletries

Herb Garden

Rethymnon is one of Crete’s best preserved medieval towns. With its Folk Art Museum, Archaeological Museum, and historic monasteries and mosques, you’ll be glad to know this villa is a twelve-minute drive from the town centre. Or you might also be looking for golden beaches and Mediterranean waters – but that shouldn’t be a problem with a private beach just fifty metres from home.

This modern villa is a far cry from its ancient surroundings, designed with luxury in mind for the whole family. Upon arrival, your host offers a generous welcome basket of wine and fruit –  pour a glass to sip as you explore the home and grounds. White, wood, and marble dominate elegant, minimalist interiors. But for the little ones, the outdoor area will be the first port of call. The heated pool, swings, slide, and trampoline are sure to keep them busy.

You’ll also be able to live out some culinary experiences. The organic vegetable plot is accessible by guests, so you can pick fresh aubergines with the help of the host’s gardener. Marinate and grill up on your barbecue, before gathering the family on the verandah for a wholesome dinner at sunset.

Two Dolphins

Nestled in a small mountain village, this family villa offers sprawling views and a peaceful position in the Skouloufia hills. 

Surrounded by fig trees and verdant flora, the outdoor spaces are idyllic for the whole group to spend time together – sip coffee alfresco overlooking the sparkling sea, stretch out and soak up the rays from the poolside sunbeds, plunge into the shimmering pool for a cooling dip or gather on the sofas to share a glass of Ouzo. There are opportunities for privacy too here – think dreamy bedrooms with en-suites and an impressive living space for reading your new book. After a day poolside and now completely sunkissed, head to your outdoor dining room for a Greek feast – for special evenings, have your host arrange a private chef for you. And as the stars descend, settle under the moon-illuminated sky for late-night conversations.

With the beach just a short drive away, we imagine you’ll want to spend most of your time with the sand beneath your feet – pack a picnic or head to a seafront taverna for an authentic taste of the local cuisine. If you wish to take a day trip, head into the historic city of Rethymno, just a short drive away, where you’ll discover a Venetian harbour lined with buzzy bars and sea-grazing restaurants.

A Picture of Tranquility

Desk

Courtyard

Umbrellas

Pet Basket

There are few things more calming than a picturesque sea view and this villa's prime position right on the Cretan coastline provides guests with a front-row seat.

As you would expect, the whole home is orientated towards this soothing panorama so you can gaze out at the azure horizon whether you're cooling off in the swimming pool, enjoying a leisurely lunch on the shade of the verandah or keeping kids entertained on the play equipment. There are two more vantage points in the shape of the private balconies adjoining the first-floor bedrooms, as well.

Although your attention is naturally drawn to what lies outside, you'll find the home's interior to be quietly impressive when you get around to giving it a closer look. There's a chic simplicity to the design, with the tall windows and glass doors bringing in bountiful amounts of natural light, plus a Scandi influence in the furnishings. Overall, it looks fresh and contemporary, which, given the home is a brand-new addition to the locale, is wholly true.

When it comes to seeing a little more of the neighbourhood, the first question on your mind is likely to be where's the nearest beach? The good news is that it lies all of 500m away from the front door. You might have to venture a little further for restaurants and shops, but the host can just as easily grocery deliveries and visits from private chefs to make life that bit easier.

Pure Poetry

Heated Towel Rail

In the hilly landscape of northern Crete, this charming villa sits within the quaint Greek village of Agia Triada. Surrounded by olive groves, sandy beaches and historic local sites, there's much to uncover during a stay at this home.

The Old Town, known for its Venetian fortress and harbour, is a must-visit if you're looking to soak up as much culture as possible. Take a stroll through the colourful narrow streets or stop by one of the waterfront restaurants for lunch with a view. There's something for nature lovers, too – the southern beaches of Rethymno are within easy distance. If you only visit one, let it be Preveli – the transparent blue waters and forested river running into the ocean is a sight to behold.

After a packed day of exploring all that Crete has to offer, take a dip in the private pool followed by a refreshing outdoor shower. As evening falls, get the ping pong table out and bond with the family over a few friendly matches. The lawn offers plenty of room for outdoor games, and when you need to keep the little ones entertained, there's even a playground for them to blow off steam.

For a relaxed dinner at home, buy some local ingredients from the village and grill them on the barbecue. There's no better way to spend a summer's evening than by tucking into an alfresco feast under the pergola. If there's still time to catch the sunset, make your way to the balcony and take a seat – the sky turning pink over the olive groves is not to be missed.

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