The ancient island of Crete is steeped in mythology and ancient wonders. But despite the historic intrigue of its rugged coastlines, there are some modern pockets that might surprise you. Ten minutes on foot from the golden shores of Gournes Beach, and a sixteen-minute drive from the urban capital of Heraklion, this striking villa is sure to catch your eye. From the bold exterior, featuring brilliant white walls and angular architecture, it feels reminiscent of the top deck of a luxury yacht. Chrome railings frame the vast balconies, and chunky pillars are a nod back to the ancient architecture of Greek monuments. Surrounded by a lush, green garden, your private pool plays the role of the sea in this homage to island life. As you head to the interior, you’ll pass by your traditional outdoor grill and terrace (where we imagine you’ll be returning later for a glass of Cretan wine at sunset). High ceilings and modern decor meet an understated colour palette in the living space. A stone-framed fireplace sits alongside a sunburst wall clock and plenty of chrome features. But huge glass doors ensure that the sea views are still very much the main event. Home truths: *You need to climb stairs to get around this villa, set over two floors *The entrance is private to your home *At full capacity, two guests will be sleeping on single futon-style beds *Included in your stay, you'll get housekeeping once a week, a concierge service, and a welcome basket *Slippers are provided in the bathroom *Parking is available in the driveway (and we do recommend bringing a car to get around) *There's no dedicated workspace, but plenty of laptop-friendly spots such as the dining table