Sunset & Sea Lilies

Sunset & Sea Lilies: Ionian Islands

With one of the best views we've seen on this beautiful island, this newly-built home is an understated slice of magic. Set on a green hillside overlooking the glittering sea, it'll be an effort to do anything but sit and stare when you first arrive.

Part of a small cluster of similar homes, this one stands apart from the others so it's perfect if privacy is high on your agenda. Handbuilt by the owner in a traditional style, there are two floors – each with its own kitchen and independent entrance but linked internally by stairs – so it offers some flexibility. And best of all, there's plenty of outside space to enjoy that view from. Walk across to your private pool and comfy sun loungers await on the stone terrace, surrounded by fragrant wild herbs and olive trees, all with staggering views – especially at sunset.

Elsewhere, five comfortable bedrooms – three upstairs and two on the ground floor – make this home big enough for a large group of friends or a couple of families holidaying together. With a shared living room and a choice of dining spots outside, it's easy to spend time all together or to find some privacy.

For the more adventurous, a steep hike leads down to a little private cove, where clear waters and a white pebble beach are yours to enjoy. Not the easiest walk and likely to take you around twenty-five minutes, it's well worth it to dive into those turquoise waters. The owner even runs yoga and wellness retreats where you're encouraged to get closer to nature.

With some of the more popular beaches within a twenty-minute drive, along with the pretty, hillside village of Athani, there's lots to see and do away from the villa too.



Home truths:
*This home is split into two levels, each with its own facilities and entrances but connected by a staircase and sharing one large living room downstairs – perfect for two families sharing or a multigenerational group
*Part of a very small, exclusive group of homes, it's set away from the other homes and feels much more private
*A daily cleaning service, concierge and a twice-weekly linen change are all included
*You'll definitely need a car for this location – there's plenty of private parking
*There's laptop-friendly workspace at the table
*Please note the hike down to the little beach is very steep and won't be suitable for everyone