Gulf Of Mirabello Holidays

Four luxurious villas with private pools, perched on a hillside overlooking the sea, within walking distance of the beach. On the hillside overlooking an idyllic bay on the northeastern coast of Crete, next to the premises of the luxurious Istron Bay Hotel and just 100m from the beach are the Istron Villas: Dimitri, Pan-Pan, Marianna and the Tower. Completed just three years ago, they offer accommodation of an extremely high standard, with very comfortable and stylish fittings and furnishings. Despite neighbouring each other, each villa is positioned higher than the next, with fences and shades having been carefully designed and there is sound insulation between neighbouring surfaces.

Maria-Emmanuella and Sophie are truly lovely, and set in a ravishing rural location. The villas ooze charm from every pore of their thick, natural stone walls, with inspired details offering plenty to entertain the eye. The main focus of Maria-Emmanuella in the large living area is the gorgeous stone fireplace and an old pair of cast-iron gates divides the lounge from the open plan kitchen and dining area.

A well-equipped modern villa within easy driving distance of Crete's two coasts. Monastiraki means 'small monastery' in Greek and the qualities of this peaceful hamlet which attracted generations of anchorites and monks remain as true today as they have done in the past. Abandoned stone cottages lie amongst the groves of olive and citrus trees and there are ancient corn threshing circles hidden beneath their low-sprawling branches.

Built in 2006, the Rafaella and Nicoletta Villas are as new as can be, and the attention to detail and high standards of decor will certainly impress. The elevated position in the rural hills of Aghios Nikolaos give the villas a real 'away from it all' feeling. The steep driveway approaching them may test your stamina, but the magnificent vista when you arrive at the top is worth it rolling verdant hills as far as the eye can see.

A traditional stone house in a village with wonderful sea views. Mavrikano peers fondly down over Elounda much as a grandparent gazes at a grandchild. The wisdom of past generations is much in evidence here as the stone-built homes of Mavrikano are able to cope with the occasional earth tremor and the thick stone walls regulate the air temperature in a way that air-conditioning can not. We were delighted to discover that the same people who have so successfully renovated Almond Tree Houses have bought this little house back to life.