Simply the finest address in Kalkan… Mavi Koy enjoys a fantastic position directly on the water’s edge

Multi-layered gardens and terraces wind gently down from the substantial house to the astonishing seafront where steps and diving platforms provide access to sea swimming and snorkelling in the crystal-clear shallows.

It has the largest private waterfront of any house in Kalkan with breakfast served here every morning on a waterside terrace set away from the main house.

The large, private waterfront is yours alone to while away the hours overlooking the inky blue waters and pop in for a cooling dip. Long, lazy days can be spent playing table tennis or pool, hopping in the villa’s kayaks and diving into the turquoise sea from the private terrace – there is little reason to leave.

The huge villa has six en-suite bedrooms spread out over three levels (4 with their own access), all of which have balconies or terraces with glorious sea views.

The main house has a gorgeous open plan kitchen, living and dining area with doors opening out onto a lovely large terrace with outside dining area and fantastic sea views.   Additional doors from the living room open up on the side to the large freshwater pool with a pretty terrace ideal for entertaining. Hammocks are dotted through the gardens and there is a Romanesque pergola for al fresco dining. There is an outdoor Jacuzzi to revive weary muscles.

Enjoy your breakfast in the spacious and private seafront terrace where you can relax on scattered cushions and sun beds in the shade of the olive trees.

For those who enjoy water sports, a local company will happily pop over with a boatload of water sport toys.  Or simply enjoy the spectacle of the boats of all shapes and sizes meandering in and out of the harbour throughout the day.

Kalkan harbour is just a ten-minute walk along a newly created footpath which leads from your door along the shore into the centre.  It has a prime position for nights in and out of the villa, falling asleep to the sound of waves lapping the shore.

*Large parties might like to take Villa Mavi Deniz as well which is conveniently located next door (4 bedroom villa sleeps 8).

Please note that due to the steep, hillside location and many steps, this property is not suitable for guests with mobility issues.

A gorgeous boutique hotel perched  by the water’s edge with just 12 suites and 4 villas, an idyllic escape

Once a simple guesthouse, the Likya Gardens Hotel has been totally transformed into a beach front boutique hotel comprising of just 12 spacious suites, two 2 bedroom villas and two 3 bedroom villas.

Boasting one of the best locations in Kalkan this reinvented boutique property is situated only a short 12 minute stroll along the coastal road from Kalkan harbour and nestles behind the Yali Beach club.

The Cayo Exclusive Resort and Spa is a seriously elegant design hotel. The property enjoys unprecedented space in each of it’s 70 pool suites and offers guests unparalleled views of the iridescent Spinalonga Island, a UNESCO world Heritage List nominee, together with mesmerising vistas over the sparkling azure waters of Mirabello Bay. Standing in an elevated position, aloft a steep hill, it is still only 250 metres from Plaka pebble beach and dramatically framed by jagged cliffs.

Exceptional attention to detail is demonstrated throughout the Cayo Hotel Concept. The property has been meticulously designed to blend seamlessly with it surrounds and embrace Cretan architectural design. Interiors have been paired by Milanese designer Gian Paolo Venier who took his inspiration from the culture and natural landscape of the island- where possible combining local artisan’s craftmanship with modern furnishings, fittings, and cool neutral tones. Even the selected materials for the project are those rich in the history of Greece, white marble, volaka marble and terracotta. All of which have been handpicked to provide guests with a sense of connection to their surrounds. Throughout, the property exudes bohemian characteristics underpinned by a level of comfort and luxury that is often difficult to find. Accommodation options are plentiful, with many room categories having the option of additional beds or cots- lending itself to families and friends travelling together as well as couples. With so much room to roam guests will relish the incredible outside space and panoramic views from every aspect.

For those seeking a flop and drop vacay with plenty of rest and relaxation there are plenty of swimming opportunities in situ. The hotel boasts two large and beautiful swimming pools where you can bathe under sunny Cretan Skies or cosy up poolside on a voluptuous lounger with a good read. Beyond the pool, is Cayo’s spot on the beach, located just 250m from the hotel and if you don’t fancy stretching your legs, the hotel shuttle runs from the morning into the evening- it’s a wonderful place to unwind while being serenaded by the majestic sounds of the sea. And if you are looking for some respite from the sun, a visit to the well being centre will be the ultimate rejuvenation remedy, pick from one of the many treatments listed on the spa menu or unwind in the Turkish bath. There is also a fitness centre and studio for those who prefer not to let their holiday stand in the way of workout rituals.

A stay at the Cayo Exclusive Resort allows guests to be as well looked after as they like and as independent too. So often the conception with resort hotels is that with everything you could possibly need at your fingertips there is very little reason to leave. The same of course can be said for the Cayo Exclusive Resort which offers residents opportunities to dine in four different restaurants and two bars all of which offer exceptional cuisine with many ingredients seasonal and sourced from local eco-friendly farms or produced in the hotel’s own organic garden. However, Cayo is committed to supporting the local Cretan culture and a sustainable approach to tourism. To this end, the team encourage guests to enjoy the local tavernas in Plaka and explore the wider region, taking in a climbing experience, hiking, water sports and diving.

No matter your interests, the Cayo Exclusive Resort and Spa will provide the ultimate relaxation vacation. The position makes it easy to pick up the pace and venture effortlessly beyond the hotel perimeters. It is however the wonderful team locally on site, who deliver a friendly and attentive service. Proud and hospitable, they are eager to provide a relaxed atmosphere and unforgettable experience that makes it so hard to leave.