Chimonanthus Villa in Crete

The concept: Facing the Libyan Sea Crete changes character when you reach its southern coast. Around Sidonia, the island feels wider and quieter, with bare mountains falling toward the Libyan Sea and long stretches of landscape left largely to themselves. Chimonanthus takes full advantage of that setting. Seven ensuite bedrooms accommodate 14 guests, with two additional daybeds available, while every room looks toward the sea. At the heart of the villa, a 116 m² infinity pool and expansive terrace turn the view into part of daily life, whether the plan is to explore or barely leave at all.

Outdoors One long horizontal line defines the terrace, and it belongs to the pool. Stretching in front of the house, its infinity edge follows the sea beyond while wide stone terraces create room for submerged loungers, daybeds and separate seating areas. Pergolas and shaded spaces temper the openness, giving outdoor dining, the kitchen and BBQ a more sheltered setting for the middle of the day. Nothing feels overly landscaped; the design leaves the rugged ground, mountains and open water visible, which is precisely what gives the exterior its strong sense of place.

Indoors Stone gives way to a quieter palette inside, where warm wood, soft neutrals and generous glass openings keep the rooms simple and closely connected to the view. The open-plan living, dining and kitchen area opens directly onto the pool terrace, with a fireplace adding a more intimate note for cooler evenings. Four ensuite bedrooms occupy this level, all opening outdoors and facing the sea, including one wheelchair-accessible room. Three further ensuite bedrooms sit upstairs, where private and shared balconies look across the Libyan Sea.

Good to know Sidonia itself is not a polished resort backdrop, and that is part of its appeal. The coastal settlement grew from the area's fishing and farming life, and tourism here remains relatively low-key. The warm local climate also supports olives, bananas and other crops, so the drive through the area feels distinctly agricultural before it reaches the Libyan Sea. The beach is only a short drive from Chimonanthus, while Myrtos and Sarakina Gorge broaden the possibilities when the group wants to explore beyond the immediate coast.