Holidays to Platanes are all about kicking back on a golden Greek island beach – and maybe spotting a sea turtle or two.
Seaside scene
Life at this north coast town in the Rethymnon area of Crete revolves around the beach, and it's easy to see why. Platanes claims the widest and sandiest patch of an eight-kilometre stretch – plenty of space to lay down your towel. There are cool seafront bars and eateries on hand for lunch with a sea view, too.
Day-to-night trips
The town of Rethymnon's only a 10-minute drive away and provides many a photo op, with its cobbled streets, picturesque harbour and huge fortress. Stay on until nightfall when its clubs open up to the party crowd. On Thursdays, you can trawl market stalls piled high with the freshest local food.