Ecru Cretan architecture with hints of terracotta, mature verdant palms, the endless blue reflected from sea view private pools – the palette at this island icon is Elounda to a T.

Greece’s most Herculean island, Crete doesn’t fail to impress with its skyward mountain ranges and ethereal shoreline. Boredom simply can’t prevail here, with a bounty of ways to explore; think trekking through Samaria Gorge, boat cruises to Spinalonga or Balos Lagoon, and local wine tasting in the Agios Nikolaos area. It’s also home to one of the oldest cities in Europe and the infamous labyrinth, the Minoan Palace of Knossos.

A homestead for all things mythological and historical, the mountain-laden mainland of Greece and its pantheon of rugged islands know how to attract both hedonist hunters and kindred wanderlusters.