Muses Beach Villas - Erato

Crete is often cited as the best of all the Greek islands for a beach holiday, and whilst there are quite a few contenders for that accolade, we think that these wonderful new contemporary villas are an unbeatable choice for any beach-loving couple.

Muses Beach Villas are four, independent, one-bedroom villas on the edge of sandy Kouremenos beach: Thalia, Cleo, Urania and Erato, the last villa back from the beach. Generously sized for two, each offers immaculate interiors and is well equipped with everything you could need.

Think of it as beach life with all the comforts of home thrown in. The plot is also substantial for just four villas, allowing space for private pools, individual patios and a good glimpse of the sea from each. Privacy matters too of course, so the houses are staggered to ensure as much seclusion as possible and if you really want to get away from it all, take a wander along Kouremenos beach, which is rarely crowded, even in high of season.

We first offered holidays in this part of Crete back in the 1980s and returning recently, we were a little nervous about how it might have changed.

Thankfully, the beaches, villages and traditional town of Palekastro remain reassuringly unspoilt and we were welcomed by old acquaintances with the unfailing hospitality that so typifies this wonderful island.

There are several charming tavernas within walking distance of Erato, where you can indulge in traditional cuisine and local Sitia wine, so if you’ve come in search of a solar recharge and some shoe-free downtime, this is the ideal spot. But if you’ve a passion for exploring, the rugged drama of the eastern Crete mountains and coastline is incredibly rewarding.