Red Ruby

Live in the lap of luxury at this spectacular four-bedroom villa on Crete's north coast, approximately 10km west of the picturesque town of Chania. Its interior is nothing short of breathtaking, with a welcoming open layout on the ground floor that included a comfortable seating area overlooking the garden, an elegant wooden dining table that sits beneath a double-height ceiling, and a sleek kitchen equipped with everything you (or your private chef) could need to create culinary magic at mealtimes.

Four en-suite bedrooms are dotted throughout the home, providing you with some much-needed privacy from time to time. All open up directly to the outdoors – either to the immaculate garden or panoramic balconies that look out over the shining sea and Agii Theodori island, depending on the floor. Given the ease of access to the outside spaces, we imagine you'll spend plenty of time stretched out on poolside loungers or curled up in a hanging chair with a good book. Meanwhile, an outdoor dining area is ideal for breakfast in the cool morning air or serving up sumptuous evening meals as the sun drops behind the nearby mountains.

Fancy a change of scenery? The villa is well placed to enjoy the bars and restaurants of Platanias. Take your pick from casual beachside bites to creative takes on Cretan classics along the main stretch. Alternatively, drive along the coast to Chania for a chance to explore its maze-like old town before taking a seat at one of the many restaurants set around its beautiful 14th-century Venetian harbour.

Home truths:
*Access to the home is via a private entrance
*Your host will greet you on arrival and show you around the property
*There's one double en-suite bedroom on the ground floor, so the villa may be suitable for guests with more limited mobility
*Child-friendly amenities such as a cot, highchair, tableware, a changing table, fireplace guards, books and toys are available on request
*Each of the rooms can be set up in either a double or twin configuration for maximum flexibility
*Given the location, we'd recommend a car to explore the area – there's parking on-site parking for up to three vehicles
*Guests with young children should note that the first few steps of the staircase do not have a barrier and the pool is unfenced