Levinthos

Perched on the cliffs above the Libyan Sea, Levinthos is one of the most special places you will find in southern Crete. This family-run, eco-friendly retreat centre is named after the enormous rock nearby that resembles a seated lion — and the setting is every bit as dramatic as that suggests. The views are breathtaking, the energy is calm, and the pace of life here is exactly what you come to Lentas for.

Levinthos offers 8 rooms and apartments, all thoughtfully designed and overlooking the sea. A small, almost private beach lies just below the cliffs, with crystal-clear water perfect for swimming. For vegans and vegetarians it is a particularly good find: the food is fresh, wholesome and made largely from locally grown ingredients — seasonal vegetables, figs, broad beans, homemade jams. Beyond accommodation, Levinthos also hosts yoga retreats and wellness programmes.