FROM the top of the cliffs, I look down on an historic city painted in vibrant colours and dissected by tiny cobbled streets.
Sun-kissed Chania, on the Greek island of Crete, is believed to be about 4,000 years old and is a mix of Venetian, Greek and Ottoman architecture.
Its stunning waterfront was also the filming location for 1964’s Zorba The Greek — and I can’t help but hum the movie’s famous tune as I admire the city from above.
Chania, on the north side of the island, is home to Brown Hotels’ latest jewel in its collection, Isla Brown Chania.
On day one I found myself at the Patriarchal Monastery of Agia Triada Tsagarolon, established in 1632.
Whether you want freshly grilled octopus straight from the fisherman’s net or a succulent slab of kri-kri goat (local to the area), the restaurants have it all.
For something a little different, pay a visit to Maiami, run by artist-turned-restaurateur Alexandra Manousakis.
Letting the sea carry the full weight of my body, I cast a glance back at the rugged yet picturesque shoreline.
GO: CHANIA, CRETE
GETTING THERE: Ryanair flies direct from Stansted to Chania from £14.99 each way.
STAYING THERE: Rooms at the Isla Brown Chania hotel cost from £214 per night, on a B&B basis.