Analipsi Holidays

Surrounded by olive trees and citrus-heavy groves, this traditional village is a loveable mix of cute cottages, old-school tavernas and colourful gardens. It might sit just between sleek Hersonisos and hefty Heraklion, but Analipsi's as small-town as it gets.

Holidays to Crete are all about the seaside, and Analipsi's no exception. A five-minute drive along a flat road offers easy access to a little sand-and-pebble shore. If proper sand's what you're after, continue east to Lyttos Beach – to the west, rocky cliffs rise up and add a touch of drama.

There's no such thing as rushing in Analipsi. From lazy lunches to sun-drenched strolls, life moves at a slower pace. The village centres around a star-shaped square, where locals gather for catch-ups and backgammon. Restaurants serve up Cretan dishes, and boutiques line the cluster of narrow alleys.

Crete's jam-packed with historic goodies. In Heraklion, a 20-minute drive from Analipsi, ramble through the ruins of the 15th-century fortress or jump further back in time at the majestic Minoan palace. Add the Lassithi Plateau to your list and explore its orange groves, monasteries and vineyards.