There’s an ease intertwined with arriving at St Nicolas Bay. Petite and personalised, the first moments in the foyer hold an atmosphere of homeliness, echoed through the resort as if carried on a sunbeam. Be sure to keep an eye out for touches of artistry on arrival; glance upwards to find an amusable miniature tightrope walker balancing overhead, or note the thresher-turned-coffee-table as the first of many nods to Cretan heritage. The man behind the old-style aesthetic is often on hand for a friendly chat too. Architect and owner George Alexandrakis favours authenticity in his design, seen nowhere more than the charming little chapel sitting in the heart of the bay.

Tracing the contours of this historical hamlet is best done on foot, along picturesque pathways mapped out for the athletes among us. Meander through luscious green gardens and sun-kissed olive groves, working up an appetite without missing a moment to the indoors – however sleek and sophisticated they may be. Better yet, embrace the spirit of calm surroundings through a dip in the adults-only pool, or stretch into the day with a spot of yoga.

Dining is a pleasurable dilemma, with no fewer than four restaurants to choose from. The best of the bunch in our eyes, Minotaure serves up a fine dining experience of international and Asian cuisine; its tables carefully placed around an ornamental pool where accomplished jazz musicians serenade guests from a softly lit glass stage. For a more traditional affair, themed nights at the Kafenion are accompanied by a lively Greek band and folklore dancers.

If cultural immersion is your cup of tea, quieter moments are curated in the Argonaftis, an in-house gallery displaying works from local and well-known artists. Perusing the art of tomorrow pairs perfectly with a splash of wine tasting each Friday.