Leaving the main thoroughfare connecting Heraklion to the east of the island, a winding road transports you down to the coast; a picturesque descent through a rural Mediterranean landscape that remains unspoilt by large tourist developments and retains its uniquely Cretan feel. And here, nestled into the hillside and commanding outstanding views across the coastline, you’ll find our stylish contemporary villa, comfortably appointed for relaxed holiday living both inside and out.

The smart open-plan living area has sliding doors on dual aspects, creating a lovely flow between the cool interiors and panoramic terrace where there’s plenty of room to stretch out and enjoy the spectacular vista. Lazy breakfasts and long lunches can be enjoyed in the shade of the wooden pergola, with the infinity pool close by for a refreshing dip when the going gets hot. Hydro massage jets add to the enjoyment and relaxation here, strategically placed in the water to ensure your eyes are drawn across the clear blue yonder as they work their magic.

Evenings at the villa are a delight and as the sun sinks behind the mountains, the little lights around the harbour twinkle into view. Head down for a drink and a bite by the water’s edge, where you’ll find a surprisingly upmarket selection of cafés and tavernas wrapped around the little beach. Unpretentious and characterful, Mochlos offers a taste of Greece from days gone by and you’ll find a convivial vibe amongst the colourful array of tables and chairs that line the waterfront.

A blissfully unhurried pace and a warm welcome define life in this charming enclave and though access to the sea is easy, the unique informality and appeal of Mochlos perhaps stem from the fact that the beach is not the main event. Its atmosphere is nourished by the people, the food and the quietly bohemian ambience that set it apart.

Facing the village, a small island with a big history is an easy and enticing destination for swimmers and though the presence of Minoan ruins make it an archaeological site of some significance, it rarely plays host to more than one or two visitors at a time. While away your days here or venture out to discover the magic of eastern Crete, a region with a unique identity, and the least visited part of the island.

Our choice of Greek properties is as diverse as the islands themselves, ranging from simple seaside charm to genuine luxury and style. Much of our portfolio is privately owned, and price alone is therefore not a universal guide. We contract all our accommodation in person, and each property has its individual appeal. To help you make the right choice based on your own priorities, we have devised a simple grading guide to be considered in conjunction with each individual property description, awarding up to a maximum of five stars for the below categories.