Avra is the first of two villas boasting an exclusive frontline beach position located on the outskirts of Rethymno, and decorated and fitted to jaw-dropping levels of luxury. This 5-bedroom, 3-bathroom villa is also just minutes from a wide range of amenities, meaning a holiday without a car is a real possibility, and with the stunning pool, dedicated games room and beach just seconds away, there’s not much more you could wish for from a luxury retreat.

Irida is the second of the Rethymno sisters, a 5 bedroom, 4 bathroom villa that is on the beachfront of the Cretan town. This is, if anything, a slightly more impressive building than its sister, and the Jacuzzi and amazing location mean you’ll feel like a superstar waking up here each morning. A short stroll will have you immersed in tavernas, shops and cafes, and a minute or so more will get you to the beguiling historic town.

Dimosthenis , Stalos, is set in a beautiful grove of olive and citrus trees, looking out over the neighbouring countryside. This 4-bedroom, 2 bathroom has been stylishly designed and fitted throughout, and has the obligatory pool and terrace, with a bonus built-in barbecue for your personal use. If you can tear yourself away from the peace and tranquillity the resort of Stalos is five minutes away by car, and definitely worth a visit.

Melina, Plaka, has the kind of coastal location to inspire great works of art, or fiction. An impressive, well-sculpted 4 bedroom, 3 bathroom villa, Melina overlooks the resort of Plaka and has stunning views both of Plaka itself and along the dramatic, sweeping coastline to Souda Bay. An added bonus of this particular house, to add to the lovely pool and inviting terrace is the spacious private gardens, populated with traditional olive trees, amongst others.

Royal Spa Villa may be a contender for the most striking and attractive property you can enjoy in Greece, and certainly for its size. 3 bedrooms and the same number of bathrooms are really not even close to the whole story. It is classified as an ‘ultraluxe’ retreat on the Domes of Eldouna resort, and literally everything about this villa is sumptuous to the point of opulence. A lucky few will ever experience such opulence and comfort.

Aloe, Prines is from the more traditional end of the scale, but no less alluring and relaxing for it, and is located minutes from the bustling town of Rethymno, with the delightful harbour, shops and tavernas to see there. The villa has 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, and the use of local stone in the construction means that the interior stays cool even during the heat of the high Mediterranean summer.

Elysso Spa Villa, which is also set on the Domes of Eldouna resort, is the ideal 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom villa for a pair of couples looking for a luxury retreat in a stellar setting. Indulgently fitted interiors and cool living areas are complemented by the beautiful infinity pool with a view to match any in Europe and the private spa facilities, this is a dream villa set in a truly dreamy landscape.

Rethymno Beach lives up to its name instantly, set on the shore front and close enough that you’ll feel comfortable wandering down to the sand with just a towel and your swimmies. The building is tastefully furnished and styled throughout, and of a wonderful stone design that keeps it cool in the midday sun. For a 2 bedroom, 1 bathroom retreat, this is a fantastic little place with lots to recommend it.