Oozing a laidback Greek Island tranquillity and a certain unmistakable charm, this gorgeous stone house on the popular holiday island of Crete, just outside the bustling resort town of Platanias, is perfect for groups of friends, families, or couples looking for a low-key escape to the almost guaranteed sunshine. Feel the stress simply melt away as you recline by the lovely pool, prepare delicious Cretan-inspired dishes in the contemporary kitchen to be enjoyed poolside on the shaded veranda, or make your way into Platanias itself to take advantage of the array of shops, cafes, bars, and authentic tavernas with a lively atmosphere. The choice is yours, and this place is all about options. In contrast to the traditional exterior of the home, the interior feels bright, modern, and open, and is brought to life by splashes of colour which really add to its character. We especially love the blend of old and new in the lovely living room, and think the striking fireplace makes a wonderful centrepiece. Should you want to venture further afield, then the otherworldly waters of the Balos Lagoon is less than an hour's drive away – ranked among the twenty-five best beaches in the world, it is well worth a visit – while the pretty town of Chania is just fifteen minutes away by car. Home truths: *At full occupancy, two guests will be sleeping on the sofa bed in the living area *The swimming pool isn't fenced, so children will need to be supervised at all times *The same of course goes for the first-floor balcony *There’s free parking on the driveway *There are loads of laptop-friendly workspaces here if you need to catch up on some work during your stay