The Mountain Hugger

The Mountain Hugger: Crete

On Crete’s West Coast, this deluxe villa sits just along from the turquoise shallows and stone-grey pebbles of Keramoti Beach. This one’s for those seeking seclusion in nature and nothing more than sun, sea and sky as far as the eye can see.

The villa is designed with outdoor living in mind, as the stone facade blends into the craggy mountain backdrop. A jutting lip of a terrace sits on the rocks just above the sea, and here you’ll find the pristine swimming pool surrounded by day beds and loungers. A shaded pergola deck hangs off the cliffside, where squashy sofas take in the view. Plus, there’s a full, boho-chic outdoor lounge with wicker egg chairs suspended from the ceiling and a fire pit to keep things warm in the evening.

Glass sliding doors keep things flowing from terrace to interior, where the open living room is a vision of fawn, cream and ink-black. Exposed stone walls and sleek concrete underfoot keep things cool and breezy, just like a seaside abode should be. Bedrooms look as though they were designed with Bohemian royalty in mind with raw-wood four-poster beds, stone walls and tree stump bedside tables.

Home truths:
*This villa is on a secluded part of the island, so having a car is recommended to get groceries and explore the towns
*A breakfast basket is delivered daily
*If you don't fancy cooking, nearby Gialites Tavern can deliver to the villa
*The beaches in the immediate area tend to be rocky or pebble beaches
*Daily cleaning is included and linen is changed twice a week
*Your host can provide a high chair and cot for infants, just ask