The largest and most southerly of Greece’s islands, Crete is large enough to cater for just about everyone. But Brits in search of a traditional lifestyle and glorious natural scenery tend to head west. We take a closer look…

Location and landscape
Often described as the real Crete, the western half of the island is less developed, more traditional and in many ways wilder than the eastern part, which is better known for its 18-30s resorts. The capital city of Heraklion is a midway point between the two.

The west’s coastline is dotted with small family resorts, most with golden beaches and all offering a genuine local feel. Rarely out of view, this half of the island is dominated by the dramatic peaks of the Lefka Ori (White Mountains), clearly visible from the shoreline and high enough to be snow-capped in winter. Immediately inland are foothills carpeted with olive and almond groves, vineyards and chestnut woods, amongst which are sleepy villages oozing Cretan authenticity.

Most resorts and villages are based around the northern shore, with the mountainous and craggy interior and southern coast being sparsely populated and untouched. Wherever you are in Crete, strict building regulations keep high-rise buildings to a minimum. For homeowners, being a kilometre or two inland and slightly elevated should mean you always have lovely views of the Med.

Notable buying spots
The Apokoronas district is especially popular with British expats. Overlooked by the mountains and with lush green countryside rolling down to the beaches, this pocket of the island is conveniently located between the west’s main cities of Chania and Rethymnon. The area is ideal for retirees who are just as happy in a small village 5-10 minutes’ drive inland as front-line to the sea. Favourite beach areas, typically built around old fishing villages, include Kalyves, Almyrida and Kokkino Horio. Inland, the main town of Apokoronas is Vamos, and traditional villages popular with expats include Stilos, Drapanos and Gavalochori.

Further west, the ancient port city of Chania with its pretty old town and beautifully preserved waterfront suits those after a more lively metropolitan lifestyle. Adjoining Chania is the Akrotiri Peninsula, with beach developments at Stavros and Kalathas, while another option 30 minutes west of the city is Kolimbari, a traditional fishing village with a pebbly beach.

The lifestyle
It doesn’t take long to melt into an authentic Mediterranean lifestyle in western Crete. In the villages, focal points are the local tavernas and coffee shops, and even the beach resorts still have a friendly fishing village feel. Refreshingly, local Cretans retain a strong connection with the land and their lifestyle revolves around sustainability. Food in tavernas is not only great value but usually sourced locally, thanks to most families growing olives, grapes and all types of fruit and vegetables. Prices will be a bit more in the resorts, but the fresh fish makes up for that.

In terms of leisure activities, the beaches are only half the story. There are ancient monasteries and churches to explore, and the green, rugged landscape is a paradise for hikers. Meanwhile, the undulating roads, fantastic scenery and minimal traffic are attracting increasing numbers of cyclists.

Property
Like anywhere, the nearer the coast you are the higher the prices. In the beach resorts, new boutique villas are a popular if expensive option, with prices ranging from €400,000 to €1m-plus. Modern resale detached villas with a pool and located just inland are more affordable, typically €200,000-€300,000, or from €150,000 with a shared pool, while two-bed apartments on a small complex are available for under €100,000. Otherwise, traditional houses in a village or in the countryside location, in a habitable state, start from €80,000-€100,000 depending on condition and size.

Getting there
EasyJet flies out of Gatwick to Heraklion in Crete. There are fewer flights in the winter, so out of season it is common to fly to Athens and get a connection to Heraklion or Chania.