Hemmed in by vines, olives and fruit trees, these 10 traditional-style houses have a view over rolling hills to the sea. The modern rooms have stone fireplaces, private terraces, outdoor hot tubs and beautiful bathrooms. The infinity pool and restaurant are first class, plus there are seasonal activities from olive harvesting to raki distilling, as well as hands-on Cretan cooking classes.
It’s located inland, 5km south of Panormo, so it helps to have your own transport, but otherwise there are free mountain bikes. The husband-and-wife owners are exceptionally hospitable and proud Cretans, with unsurpassed passion for local food and culture. In high season there’s a minimum three-night stay.
