Ocean Breathes Salty

Imagine waking up to the sight of the sea, nibbling on freshly delivered breakfasts on the patio and soaking in the jacuzzi as the sun goes down over the water. Sounds like a dream, right? Well, that's the reality at this gorgeous clifftop villa tucked away in Livadia, just a ten-minute walk from the beach. With a sparkling pool, hydromassage bathtubs and slide-away glass walls to make the most of the ocean view, this idyllic getaway is the pinnacle of Grecian living. It's a slice of paradise that's entirely yours to call home, where you can dine alfresco in the evening sun or cuddle up on the sofa for a movie night. The design is simple, laid-back and sleek, with lots of white hues and concrete accents, but it has everything you'll need and more – guests have the option to hire a private chef, arrange guided tours or book at-home massages and yoga sessions. If you can pull yourself away from that view, Crete's western coast has wild landscapes fit for hiking (the E4 path runs straight through town) and gorgeous beaches when you want to sprawl out on the sand. Nearby Livadia is a charming village steeped in tradition, where fishermen peddle their catch-of-the-day in the harbour and locals dine out at the traditional taverns. But if you fancy a day trip, Chania is just over an hour away by car, while the famous rose-coloured sand on Elafonisi Beach is about a half-an-hour drive. Home truths: *A cot and high chair can be arranged on request *Livadia is not a tourist hub, so this home is a better fit for those wanting a peaceful, quiet stay *You'll need a car here, especially if you'd like to explore Crete – there's private parking on-site *Breakfast is included – it's served at the outdoor table and can be enjoyed until noon *The dining table can double as a laptop-friendly workspace *This home has a private entrance