The perfect place to stay in Crete would have to be this village of old stone houses and silver-grey olive groves set against a dramatic backcloth of craggy mountains.

Marialena’s seclusion is enough to make the most over-stressed city dweller unwind, even without the exquisite swimming pools with stylish furniture, including umbrellas, tanning beds and chairs, which are as breathtaking as the stunning scenery behind it. These comfortable modern apartments are situated near the picturesque village of Megala Chorafia, approximately 11km east of Chania.

The owners Manolis and Sophia, have put every care into the building and furnishing of these extremely comfortable houses which have the added benefit of air conditioning in the bedrooms.

Type A: Five one bedroom villas are set together around a shared swimming pool of 11x11m, 1-2.2m deep. Each of the five villas is suitable for 2-3 people and has a spacious sitting room with an open fireplace, a pull out divan and a telephone. There is a spacious dining area and a fully equipped kitchenette supplied with mini-oven, fridge, toaster and a coffee maker. Further there is a shower bath/WC and the bedroom which includes either a double bed or two twins.

Type B: Four two bedroom villas with a double and twin bedroom are set together around a shared swimming pool of 15x6m, 0.8-1.7m deep. Each villa is suitable for 4-6 people and is equally equipped and furnished as the type A villas.

The nearest sandy beach is 10 min drive away and a small traditional taverna is a 5 min walking distance from Marialena. Tavernas, restaurants, tourist shops and coffee shops can be found in Megala Chorafia village which is about 6 km away. Car hire is an essential.