Rent an exclusive holiday home in Crete—walk barefoot along pink-hued sandy beaches

From archaeological wonders to striking natural landscapes, there is much to discover when you rent a villa in Crete. For an insight into the island’s ancient past, the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion offers an impressive collection of Minoan artefacts, including frescoes, pottery, jewellery, weapons, and sculptures. Crete also holds a central place in Greek mythology, as the Ida Cave is believed to be the birthplace of Zeus.

Hikers and food enthusiasts alike are drawn to the island’s mountainous trails, where wild herbs such as mountain thyme, oregano, and Greek sage grow along the paths. One of the most popular routes—especially for beginners—is the breathtaking Samaria Gorge, the largest of its kind in Europe. Starting in the mountain village of Omalos, the 16-kilometre trail leads mostly downhill, ending at the sea, where a refreshing swim and a well-deserved drink await.

Another highlight is Lake Kournas, the island’s only freshwater lake, located between Rethymno and Chania. Surrounded by green hills and crystal-clear waters, it offers a peaceful setting for swimming, snorkelling, or a relaxed boat ride. And of course, your private luxury villa in Crete provides the comfort of your own pool whenever you wish.

Crete’s Mediterranean climate makes it a year-round destination. With around 300 days of sunshine per year, it is one of the sunniest islands in the Mediterranean. In summer, temperatures in July reach up to 27°C, offering ideal conditions for beachside living.

Even beyond the peak season, Crete remains inviting. In November, mild temperatures of around 20°C still allow for relaxed walks along the coast—making a stay in an exclusive villa in Crete an appealing escape from colder climates.

For those seeking fun and energy, Star Beach Water Park near Gouves is a must-visit. While children can enjoy a wide range of slides, adults can experience bungee jumping over the sea, jet skiing, paintball, and even live concerts right on the beach.

If you prefer a more relaxed pace, your concierge can easily arrange private yoga or tennis sessions with experienced instructors—simply on request.

Culturally, Crete has a rich musical heritage. Traditional songs remain an important part of island life and are still widely appreciated, even among younger generations. The lyra, a traditional bowed instrument, blends rhythms influenced by African, European, and Asian sounds. You will often hear this music drifting through village streets or performed live during local festivals.

When it comes to nightlife, Crete offers something for every preference. From sunset to sunrise, the vibrant scenes in Chersonissos and Malia attract those looking for lively clubs and beachfront bars. For a more refined evening, Rethymno offers elegant cocktail bars and a relaxed atmosphere—ideal for enjoying the sunset before the night unfolds.

If you are renting an exclusive villa in Crete, you can choose each evening exactly as you wish—whether lively and energetic or calm and atmospheric.

The flavours of Crete are defined by rich Mediterranean aromas that leave a lasting impression. The island’s cuisine is based on fresh, locally sourced ingredients, with agrotourism playing an important role in preserving regional production and authenticity.

At the heart of Cretan cooking is golden olive oil, produced from the island’s extensive olive groves, combined with freshly picked lemons and herbs to enhance fish, meat, and even traditional snail dishes. Vegetarian cuisine is equally rewarding, with a wide selection of marinated tomatoes, stuffed vine leaves, and grilled aubergines. Locally made goat’s cheese is another highlight, often used to fill a variety of vegetables.

When staying in a luxury villa in Crete, the desserts are not to be missed—candied fruits, creamy yoghurt with nuts drizzled in honey, and other sweet specialities that capture the essence of Greek indulgence.