CRETE / GOUVES

Skirting the shores of Crete’s northern coastline, Gouves most definitely hits the spot location-wise. On the one hand, this no-fuss resort lets you get to grips with traditional Greek life. And on the other, it’s a great base for exploring this sun bathed isle. We’re talking places like the mystical Palace of Knossos. The island of Spinalonga with its Venetian fort and intriguing history as one of Europe’s last leper colonies. And historical Heraklion with its cosmopolitan shops and non-stop night scene. If you’ve come away to simply kick-back though, your time here will tick-by beautifully. A purpose-built resort of whitewashed buildings, which trickles out from a mountain backdrop - Gouves fans out from one main street. Laced with shops, restaurants and tavernas, the place is as friendly as they come, and pulls off its village atmosphere without any effort whatsoever. If you fancy whiling away your days on the crumbly stuff, there are three cutesy beaches to choose from. And when you tire of tanning, the combination of watersports and diamond-clear seas goes down a treat. Or for sand-free sunbathing try the local waterpark where you can flit between the lazy river, fast flumes and sun-blushed gardens. When you fancy a wander, soak up the Cretan hospitality with a jaunt around town. The lively little centre has plenty of shops to pop in and out of and when you’re done spending your euros, sip a chilled tumbler of ‘retsina’ at a laid-back taverna. As the sun sets in a blaze of glory, take a stroll along the palm-lined promenade. Peruse the restaurant menus as you go and then tuck in to a slap up meal under a starlit sky. This is most definitely the life.