Description Myriad: Iraklio

Sea-facing views across Crete's rolling hills make this villa's terrace a stand-out. The covered patio, the private pool and the sunny lounge chairs provide ample opportunities to enjoy the fresh air and the scenery. Some of the elements inside are a bit flashy for our liking – particularly the boldly-printed blinds – but we do appreciate the exposed stone walls, which add a touch of authentic character to every room. And the location is perfect for exploring the island's southern stretch. While Kalamaki Beach is the nearest, we recommend a trip to Matala, a laid-back village with a sandy beach and bohemian shops – it's just a short drive away.

Home truths:
*If you're travelling with little ones, your host can provide a free travel cot and high chair
*There isn't a desk, but the dining table doubles as a laptop-friendly workspace if you need to catch up on work during your stay
*You may have to climb some stairs here
*The pool isn't fenced, so children will need to be supervised at all times
*We highly suggest hiring a car, as this area of Crete is quite remote – there's free parking on the premises
*Some of the elements here are a little dated – we let this one into our collection on account of the location and terrace