A week to immerse in west Crete’s natural beauty; from the captivating town of Chania, with its thrilling history and colourful backstreets, to the rugged  White Mountains dotted with restful villages. Then you will head to the scenic south coast by hiking down the Samaria Gorge, probably the greatest work of nature in the Cretan countryside where you witness a fascinatingly gradual change in the landscape from lush and foresty to a barren and rocky moonscape. Escape in the  serenity of Loutro, a glistening getaway with  white-plaster houses, tucked into a small bay and backed by steep hills. Soak up dazzling scenery, that can calm out even the most stressed out visitor, mix with locals, enjoy great food, paddle to hidden coves. Take a dip in glassy, aquamarine waters, gaze out over an endless sea from your own private beach, dream deeply under a sky heavy of stars, recharge and travel within.