Alba Lilia

Villa Alba Lilia stands apart from its neighbours, a detached property with a private pool set at the edge of Pitsidia, a village of around 700 residents at 80 metres elevation on the southwest edge of the Messara valley. Olive groves and vineyards surround the area, and the terrace and balcony look out over a mix of garden, mountain and sea views, including a side sea view from the terrace.

Inside, the villa is furnished in a modern style with air conditioning controlled room by room, a fully equipped kitchen, and a marble bathroom finished with proper bath amenities rather than an afterthought. A washing machine and weekly maid service take care of the practical side of a longer stay, while the flat-screen TV and Wi-Fi cover the quieter evenings.

Kommos Beach, an expansive sandy beach, is about 2 km away, close to the Kommos archaeological site, once a Minoan harbour thought to have served ancient Phaistos. Matala, with its rock caves and Blue Flag beach, lies roughly 4 km southwest. In the village itself, tavernas serve seasonal Cretan dishes, a short walk from the pool and the quiet of the terrace.