The Villa Collection Greece & Cyprus 2016
Contents Greece & Cyprus 4 Flights 6 Multi-Centre and Tailor-made holidays 7 Island destinations 8-9 Skopelos 10 Alonissos 28 Skiathos 40 Corfu 48 Paxos 66 Antipaxos 96 Lefkas 100 Meganissi 114 Ithaca 122 Kefalonia 138 Peloponesse 176 Crete 184 Cyprus 202
GIC The Villa Collection offers the best possible consumer protection ■ Our holiday packages including flights offer full financial protection via our Air Travel Organisers’ Licence (ATOL 848) with the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). ■ Accommodation and land only arrangements are protected by ABTA, a Department of Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS) approved body. ■ If you buy accommodation only with GIC The Villa Collection, any money paid to us is, once again – in excess of Government requirements – fully protected by ABTA. ■ We act as a principal, which means we take full responsibility for the actions of our overseas suppliers – we do not act as their agents. If they make a mistake, we take responsibility for it – it’s simple and straightforward, with no squirming or avoidance tactics. ■ Our public liability insurance policy stands at £10M – it is deemed to be more than adequate to cover any customer claims. GIC The Villa Collection is proud to be the best of the best in terms of client protection – quite simply, you need have no concerns whatever. Just enjoy your carefully-crafted holiday with us!
ABTA No.Y1612
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Welcome to GIC's Villa Collection My team and I are delighted to welcome you to our specialist villa programme to Greece and Cyprus Inside this brochure you will find holidays
Our holidays are trips that we would enjoy and
designed by passionate travellers just like you;
choose for ourselves, our families and friends.
villa holidays in authentic and uncommercialised destinations that will allow you to discover the
I guarantee that our specialist teams will be there
real country.
for you from start to finish and that you will return enriched from your time abroad. You can, of
Much has changed in the 47 years we have been
course, contact me or any of the team directly
operating, but the company philosophy remains
should you have any questions or issues you
the same. We continue to offer a range of special
would like to raise.
properties in Greece and Cyprus for those who are looking to escape from the crowds.
If you are new to The Villa Collection, we look forward to introducing you to the programme. If
Each year, our specialist team travel extensively
you are one of our many returning guests, we
visiting hundreds of properties, selecting those
are delighted to welcome you back.
which tick the right boxes. Needless to say, over the years, our clients’ requirements have altered and we like to think that our portfolio of properties reflects these ever changing needs. Feedback has shown that not all our customers are seeking seclusion; some are looking for a stylish villa with modern facilities within walking
Chris Wright
distance of shops and tavernas. So, we are
Managing Director
continuing to introduce new properties that we hope will fulfil these requirements.
chris.wright@sunvil.co.uk
VILLA ESCAPES 3
Greece & Cyprus with The Villa Collection The reservations team
The destination
Our Reservations team is on hand to advise, recommend and tailor-make your ideal holiday. We are confident in our knowledge of the destinations and proud to be able to offer honest, information as a result of personal experience.
The Greek mainland, bordered in the northwest by Albania and Macedonia, and by Bulgaria and Turkey in the north-east, stretches its mountainous fingers southwards into the Mediterranean Sea. On the western coast of Greece, the Ionian Sea laps around its olive-tree-clad islands while, off its eastern shoreline, the Aegean Sea boasts three groups of islands – the Sporades, the Cyclades and the Dodecanese. Well over two thousand islands lie within Greek waters, yet only a hundred or so are inhabited. Each island has its own history, character and charm. Each in turn adds to the overall beauty of the country of Greece, just as its mythical gods and goddesses, its philosophers, writers, mathematicians and scientists have contributed to the culture, language and knowledge bank of the world over many centuries.
Our overseas representatives We pride ourselves on having some of the best overseas representatives, many of whom have lived and worked in Greece and Cyprus for many years. There will be no attempt to organise you. Having met you on arrival and settled you into your villa, we see it as our task to provide, unobtrusively, a range of services on which you can rely should the need arise.
Your holiday The prices shown in this brochure are for seven and fourteen night breaks, inclusive of flights, transfers and, more often than not, car hire. If, however, you do wish to travel for an odd duration, with flights from a different airport or just want to book a villa on its own, please ask us as anything is possible.
Your holiday villa Each and every GIC villa offers something unique that makes it that extra bit special – whether it be a cottage close to the sea with a boat mooring, a child-friendly villa with pool or a village home where you can truly immerse yourself in the local community. Properties are handpicked for their privacy, standards of comfort and proximity to the sea.
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Cyprus, in many ways very similar to Greece, is the third largest island in the Mediterranean and offers a wide variety of landscapes, activities and natural splendour. With sandy beaches on which turtles nest, wild unspoiled countryside, the Troodos mountains and national parks to explore – on foot, by bicycle or four-wheel drive vehicle – plus a myriad of historical sites, both mythical and real, Cyprus offers outdoor experiences galore. Once you get to know these magical destinations with their warm hospitality, like us, you too will be equally passionate.
INTRODUCTION GIC
Albania
Greek Mainland Corfu
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Sivota
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Skiathos
Paxos AntiPaxos
Alonissos
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Skopelos
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Lefkas
Tu r k e y
Meganissi
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Ithaca
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Kefalonia ●
Athens
Peloponnese
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Stoupa
Crete
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GIC Premier
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Over the years, as the collection has grown and tastes have changed, our range of properties has become quite diverse. Some may be a little more rustic than others, but their location or setting means that they are still firm favourites with our regular customers. There are some properties, however, that stand out from the crowd, offering a higher standard of comfort, with quality furnishings and stylish interiors. These properties are selected each year based on feedback from both our specialist team and our customers and form part of our Premier collection. Look out for the GIC premier logo displayed throughout the brochure. O
PERTY
Skopelos
Alonissos
Kefalonia
Thalassa Vista Villa Lena Villa Joanna
Villa Paparouna Villa Manolia Villa Eos Villa Selene
Paxos
Villa Harmony Villa Kamini Sunset House Villa Islands View Villa Nichola Villa Alexander
Villa Perseus Loggos Mills
Peloponnese
Meganissi Villa Kalisti
Villas Ithomi & Sapientza
VILLA ESCAPES 5
The Journey In these times of DIY travel, we are still of the opinion that, if travelling from the UK, you should leave the travel arrangements to us. Not only can you relax, safe in the knowledge that all of your holiday arrangements are covered should anything unexpected occur but, if flying from London Gatwick, you will also benefit from the excellent service provided by our partner airline Germania. We continue to receive fantastic feedback on their customer service, from check-in all the way through to the personal service on-board. To quote one of our customers – ‘I felt truly cherished, you don’t often see that sort of service these days! With our representative available at check-in, you can rest assured that we are on hand to assist from the start of your journey. Unusually for short haul flights, we include 20 kilos of baggage, complimentary catering, including free soft drinks, tea, coffee, and inflight entertainment. For an additional charge you can also select where you sit on the aircraft and pre-book access to the No1 lounge at Gatwick. All of
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this can be booked via the flyextras.com website. Of course we understand that not everyone wants to fly from London Gatwick and so aside from our flights with Germania, we are also able to offer departures on other carriers from Bristol, Manchester and other regional airports. Over the past few years we have received repeated requests from clients wanting to travel to Greece by rail and so, we have now introduced an overland travel option. Whether because of a fear of flying, looking for a more environmentally friendly way to travel or just looking for a journey with a difference, taking the train adds a new dimension to a holiday in Greece. One way journeys by train start at £1,650 per person. For those looking to travel in style, why not include a journey on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express. London to Venice is a classic journey through the Swiss Alps on board this world famous luxury train. Prices start from £3,200. Please enquire at the time of booking for further details.
Many of the islands and resorts we feature can be combined on one trip and some of the most popular combinations are detailed below. You will need to contact us for an exact costing but we can book all flights, transfers and accommodation as required.
beauty. Why not spend a few nights in either Ioannina, the lakeside capital of the region or in Mikro Papingo in the heart of the mountains where we can pre-book accommodation? Ioannina is a 1.5 hour drive from Sivota and Mikro Papingo 2.5 hours.
Corfu and/or Paxos and/or Anti Paxos and/or Corfu Town. As well as offering a week on each island using our own flights, we can utilise easyJet flights to make multi centre holidays on these islands more flexible - a few nights in Corfu town could be added onto the end or the beginning of a villa stay. Corfu town with its winding narrow shopping streets, beautiful mix of architectural styles and impressive fortresses is, perhaps, the most elegant island capital in Greece.
Skiathos and/or Skopelos and/or Alonissos. A regular flying cat service connects all three islands making these islands easy to combine.
North Corfu and South Corfu. A two centre in Corfu should not be overlooked. The south with its long sandy beaches contrasts well with the pebbly coves and dramatic scenery of the north. Kefalonia and Ithaca. Ithaca, rich in historical legend, is a 45 minute ferry journey from Sami in Kefalonia. North and South Kefalonia. Kefalonia is the largest of the Ionian Islands and has a varied landscape. Some of the best beaches in Greece are here - from sandy beaches in the south to pebble beaches in the north, including Myrtos beach which has been voted one of the top ten beaches in the world. The drive from north to south is around 2 hours.
Crete and Santorini. There is a high speed ferry connection (1.5 hours) from Heraklion on the east of Crete to Santorini. The drive time from our villas in the north west of Crete to Heraklion is around 2.5 hours. Athens. Athens has flight connections to Crete, Corfu, Kefalonia and Skiathos so we can arrange a short stay in an Athens hotel followed by a stay in a villa on an island (or vice versa). In some instances the flight back to the UK may need to be routed via Athens. Short breaks in Athens can also be arranged. Fly-Drive – Hidden Greece. A fly-drive holiday on the mainland offers the opportunity to discover some of the most beautiful areas of Greece where those interested in history, archaeology or local flora and fauna will be well catered for. A fly-drive allows you to explore areas rarely featured in holiday brochures, and will well reward the independent traveller in search of more adventure than the normal holiday provides.
Lefkas and/or Meganissi. Meganissi is a 30-40 minute ferry ride from Nidri in Lefkas. Sivota is in the stunning Epirus region of the mainland and is a 2.5 hour drive from Lefkas (Lefkas is connected to the mainland by a causeway). Epirus is recognised as one of Europe's prime areas of outstanding natural
VILLA ESCAPES 7
INTRODUCTION GIC
Multi-Centre and Tailor-made holidays
Destinations The Sporades Islands
The Ionian Islands
Skopelos pages 10-27 Corfu pages 48-65 Rich, green hillsides of pine and olive sweep down to enticing beaches. Skopelos is an island for those wanting to explore by boat, car and foot and to have a wide choice of intimate waterfront tavernas.
Alonissos pages 28-39
An undulating interior of olive and pine-clad hillsides hiding hamlets and villages. A beautiful coastline of small coves and large beaches. A capital of stunning Venetian architecture.
Lefkas pages 100-113 Lefkas will attract explorers to her green, mountainous interior and those wanting peaceful seclusion close to her beautiful beaches.
Paxos pages 66-95 Meganissi pages 114-121
Slow and quiet, Alonissos appeals more to the escapist who wants the simple pleasures of a friendly community, unspoilt surroundings, deserted beaches and good tavernas.
On an island 7 miles by 3 miles you are never far from anywhere. An undulating landscape of silver olives, many sheltered coves and pretty fishing villages – Paxos offers an enchanting escape from the crowds.
Skiathos pages 40-47
A beautiful, unspoilt island just off Lefkas’ east coast. Deserted bays and a simple village lifestyle will appeal to those wanting to forget the outside world.
Ithaca pages 122-137 Antipaxos pages 96-99
Skiathos offers a colourful variety of spectacular beaches, well organised watersports, good Aegean food, relaxed or vibrant nightlife in town, wonderful scenery and a cosmopolitan atmosphere.
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The tiny satellite island, just one mile off Paxos, offers a rarely found Robinson Crusoe experience. Sandy beaches, valleys of vineyards and just four tavernas.
Ithaca has remained untouched by tourism because, like Paxos, it has no airport and can only be reached by ferry from neighbouring islands or the mainland. A holiday in Ithaca is for those who seek a relaxed break in a friendly environment.
Crete pages 184-201 Kefalonia pages 138-175 Kefalonia, the largest of the Ionian islands, is popular for its superb beaches and stunning scenery. Kefalonia caters for both the explorer and the seeker of variety.
The Mainland
An island suited to those who want a more sophisticated choice of holiday activities. An extensive coastline of fishing villages, towns and beaches and a dramatic interior of unique beauty.
Cyprus
Peloponesse pages 176-183
pages 202-205 About 75 minutes drive from the airport, Stoupa is a small, but growing resort with excellent sandy beaches and a wide choice of restaurants, bars and small shops.
An island of great diversity with something to please everyone from nature at its wildest to historical sites of great magnitude as well as a myriad of activities and international cuisine.
For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com
Imagine small, friendly fishing villages, olive groves, beautiful beaches and sunlit azure waters. Turn your dream wedding into an unforgettable reality in any one of the romantic locations we can offer. Through our in-house wedding planners we are able to provide tailor-made arrangements for those wanting a special wedding in Greece or Cyprus. From a romantic, guitar-serenaded arrival at Corfu’s historic town hall to a beach wedding on the beautiful island of Kefalonia or the opportunity to exchange your vows by the poolside of your private villa in Cyprus, we can offer a wealth of ideas ranging from the classic to the most unusual nuptial venues. Tailor-made advice and information is available regarding all types of wedding ceremonies and receptions with options to suit all tastes and budgets. Full support with legal paperwork is provided and personal consultations with couples always available. Together with our sister company Sunvil Holidays we have one of the largest selections of accommodation in Greece and Cyprus to suit all tastes and budgets. The bride and groom may want to stay in one of our private villas (some of which can also host the reception) or a deluxe hotel, whereas some wedding guests may only want studio accommodation. Whatever the budget, we are ideally placed to provide the full package. VILLA ESCAPES 9
INTRODUCTION GIC
Weddings in Greece or Cyprus
Skopelos Relaxed and unpretentious, green and hilly Skopelos has spotlessly clean pebbled beaches and a laid-back, generous atmosphere.
Reached by flying cat/ferry from Skiathos, stepping onto Skopelos it feels like you have shed a life of hassle and manufactured entertainment, and entered a world of simple, timeless pleasures: translucent waters, cerulean skies, star-filled nights and good food and wine in friendly company. With a coastline of mostly steep cliffs, the island’s beaches have a special importance and are noted for their immaculate condition. The hillsides are made up of wild flowers and fruit trees, olive groves and pines, and are dotted with small churches and whitewashed monasteries. The only sounds are the bells of wandering goats and the calls of birds, and everywhere you look there are dramatic views across the Aegean Sea to neighbouring islands. The steep, winding warren of Skopelos Town and the intimate tavernas under the lights of the waterfront are part of the changeless pleasures of Greek island life. SKOPELOS
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GLOSSA LOUTRAKI KLIMA PAXIMADA ISLAND
GLISTERI
PLEVRO ISLAND ELLIOS KASIDIS ISLAND
AG. GEORGIOS ISLAND
SKOPELOS TOWN
KASTANI DASIA MILIA ISLAND STROGILO ISLAND
MIKRO NISI ISLAND
PALOUKI MOUNTAIN
ANANIAS RACHES PANORMOS
PEFKIAS
ARAPIS STAFILOS AGNONDAS
DRAGON CLIFFS
Skopelos Town
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SPORADES ISLANDS SKOPELOS
Kastani Beach
A romantic, heavily wooded island with a classic amphitheatrical capital and wonderful coves to explore Skopelos Town Nothing epitomises what a Greek island town should be better than Skopelos, the capital of this, the largest island in the Sporades. Legend has it that Skopelos was founded by Staphylos, one of the sons of the god Dionysos. The island was a Cretan colony in the late bronze age. A town, with a current population of approximately 3,000, Skopelos was designated a traditional town of outstanding architectural heritage in 1978. Strict building regulations and preservation orders have kept it colourful, clean and tidy, with narrow climbing streets, countless tiny chapels and houses linked by bridges in the typical architectural style of the Sporades. No house is higher than two stories, all must have a traditional stone or tile roof and all doors, windows and balconies have to be made of wood. Mulberry trees line the waterfront and shade numerous cafes and restaurants and there are many good quality shops selling local crafts. As well as offering a really relaxing holiday in friendly and attractive
surroundings, Skopelos Town and its surroundings offer excellent walking. There are some very good beaches to choose from, most of them on the sheltered West coast and easily reached from Skopelos Town by bus or hire car. These range from tiny coves (generally shingle) to long stretches of dazzling white pebbles or sand/shingle, such as popular Stafylos Bay, 4km from the town. The sea is sparkling and clear and the swimming excellent. The countryside around Skopelos Town is dotted with historic churches and monasteries (about 300 of them), three of which are still inhabited. An ideal spot to be in order to explore this picturesque island by either bike, car or local bus.
Glysteri Beach Beaches are in much shorter supply on Skopelos than on its far busier neighbour Skiathos. Pines cover 80% of Skopelos and beaches here are of pebble and shingle and tend to be on the south coast. Glysteri is an exception as it is on the North coast, two kilometres by boat from Skopelos Town or about five kilometres by car. Glysteri is a small
pebble and shingle beach set in a deep and secluded bay with emerald green, crystal clear waters and with a large taverna set back from the beach. The surrounding hillsides hold many walking trails through unspoilt countryside.
Panormos Twelve kilometres and a 20 minute drive from Skopelos Town and through the ever present pine forests is the seaside village of Panormos. On the South West coast of the island, the bay of Panormos is deep and sheltered and Panormos beach is one of the most popular on the island and tends to fill in the peak season. Mostly shingle but excellent for swimming, the beach here shelves pretty steeply into the sea which is crystal clear and of an emerald colour. The large bay has many other small coves and inlets which can be reached by walking around the bay and over rocks. You can, of course, always swim or wade there. Strung along the sea front, the village has a good selection of shops mini markets , cafe bars and tavernas. A bus service links the area to Skopelos Town.
SKOPELOS SKOPELOS TOWN
1 bedroom
Villa Juno
1 bathroom
Skopelos Town | Sleeps 2
air conditioning
■ Early Booking Offer
WiFi
Set within a private walled courtyard (accessed from main door) on the outskirts of Skopelos Town, this quaint villa offers a sense of peace and seclusion. Through the use of simple, yet stylish, furnishings throughout, and with tall wooden ceilings and a large patio garden, the owners of Villa Juno have created a comfortable property with a relaxing ambience. The Villa’s close proximity to the town (400m) and beaches makes it an ideal choice for couples, or larger parties when combined with Villas Lena or Joanna, wanting a holiday without the need for a car.
Accommodation: ground floor of open plan living room with fully equipped kitchenette; double bedroom with doors to the gardenl; bathroom with shower. Facilities: air conditioning; TV; Wi-Fi; washing machine; dishwasher. Amenities: a walk of less than ten minutes through the back streets of Skopelos Town brings you to the centre and its pretty waterfront harbour. Numerous cafés, tavernas and shops are to be found both in the cobbled back streets and at the harbour. ATM machines & pharmacy.
For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com
V I L L A E S C A P E S 13
SKOPELOS SKOPELOS TOWN
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Thalassa Vista
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3 bedrooms 3 bathrooms swimming pool air conditioning WiFi
This handsome neo-classical house, with its graceful lines and stunning façade, has fine views of the harbour and yet is within 300 metres’ walking distance of Skopelos Town itself, making car-hire a choice rather than a necessity. Privately enclosed behind whitewashed walls, its pool is set amidst a perfumed garden of oleander trees.
Accommodation: ground floor of open plan living/dining room with doors to pool terrace and patio; double bedroom; bathroom, second reception room, cloakroom,. Mezzanine floor of twin bedroom (can be made into double bed) with ensuite bathroom. First floor open plan bedroom and lounge with ensuite shower room; private balcony.
Styled with a relaxing elegance, the house has excellent amenities, and a first-floor balcony provides a privileged view.
Facilities: ceiling fan in ground floor bedroom; air conditioning in bedrooms on the mezzanine and first floors; TV/DVD & CD player; microwave; dishwasher; washing machine; Wi-Fi; barbecue.
It’s just 400m to the town beach, while the island’s hidden bays and other beaches are but a short drive or bus-ride away.
Private swimming pool: 6m x 5m (depths on request)
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Amenities: a walk of less than ten minutes through the back streets of Skopelos Town brings you to the centre and its pretty waterfront harbour. Numerous cafés, tavernas and shops are to be found both in the cobbled back streets and at the harbour. ATM machines & pharmacy.
Thalassa Vista
For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com
V I L L A E S C A P E S 15
SKOPELOS SKOPELOS TOWN
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Villa Joanna
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3 bedrooms 3 bathrooms swimming pool air conditioning WiFi
On the eastern coast of Skopelos, the island's capital is a maze of narrow pedestrianised streets, whitewashed houses, busy tavernas and artist studios, all protected by a mountainous bay and bordered by the calm Aegean Sea. It is quintessentially Greek and has an air of yesteryear. Just 400m from the centre of Skopelos Town is Villa Joanna, a charming house set within its own gated grounds and finished to the highest standard. This prime location is convenience and privacy combined. Feel the warmth of the morning sun on your balcony, bathe in the swimming pool during the day and then mingle the local families in one of the town's fine tavernas in the evening.
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Accommodation: ground floor of open plan living room with fully equipped kitchenette (dishwasher); double bedroom with doors to the garden and pool, bathroom (shower, washing machine and cloakroom). First floor of twin bedroom with ensuite bathroom (shower) and twin/double bedroom with ensuite bathroom (shower and washing machine). Facilities: air conditioning or ceiling fan in all bedrooms; TV; Wi-Fi; hair dryer; washing machines; dishwasher; safe deposit box. Private swimming pool: 3.7m x 7.0m & depths 1.1m – 1.6m Amenities: a walk of less than ten minutes through the back streets of Skopelos Town brings you to the centre and its pretty waterfront harbour. Numerous cafés, tavernas and shops are to be found both in the cobbled back streets and at the harbour. ATM machines & pharmacy.
Villa Joanna
For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com
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SKOPELOS SKOPELOS TOWN
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3 bedrooms 2 bathrooms swimming pool air conditioning WiFi
One of our Premier properties, Villa Lena has been furnished throughout to a high standard and decorated in a classical style. Attention to even the smallest detail is apparent. The two story house is ideal for friends and families alike. At its heart is an open-plan living room with comfortable sofas and a large dining table perfect for sociable gatherings. Outside, within the gated grounds, is a swimming pool and a small garden of Oleander trees. The restaurants and shops of Skopelos Town are a short walk (10minutes) from the property, as is the harbour front from where excursion boats depart daily to the Marine Park.
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Accommodation: ground floor of open plan living room with fully equipped kitchenette (dishwasher); two twin bedrooms both with ensuite bathroom (shower. One bathroom has a washing machine); cloakroom. First floor of twin bedroom with ensuite bathroom (shower) and balcony with pool view; single sofa bed on the landing. Facilities: air conditioning or ceiling fan in all bedrooms; TV; Wi-Fi; hair dryer; washing machines; dishwasher; safe deposit box. Private swimming pool: 3.7m x 7.0m & depths 1.1m – 1.6m Amenities: a walk of less than ten minutes through the back streets of Skopelos Town brings you to the centre and its pretty waterfront harbour. Numerous cafés, tavernas and shops are to be found both in the cobbled back streets and at the harbour. ATM machines & pharmacy.
Villa Lena
For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com
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SKOPELOS SKOPELOS TOWN
2 bedrooms
House of Dimitri
2 bathrooms
Near Skopelos Town | Sleeps 2 – 4
car hire included
■ Early Booking Offer
swimming pool air conditioning
Set on a hilltop above Skopelos Town, House of Dimitri is a comfortable retreat with breathtaking views over Skopelos Town and its port and across the sea to Alonissos.
WiFi
Now beautifully restored and furnished as an elegant home, the building was used as a secret radio communications centre between the island and British submarines during the Second World War.
Accommodation: ground floor of sitting room; kitchen; cloakroom. First floor of one double bedroom; bathroom with shower only, kitchenette; balcony overlooking pool and garden. Top floor of one twin bedroom ensuite bathroom with shower and Julietstyle balcony.
The unusual design of the house, with three levels and four entrances, provides each bedroom (apart from the top floor) and the sitting room with a private balcony or terrace from which to enjoy the magnificent views.
Facilities: air conditioning in both bedrooms, TV/DVD & CD player; Satellite TV; Wi-Fi; barbecue.
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Private swimming pool: 8m x 5m & depth 1m – 2.6m Amenities: the many tavernas and shops of Skopelos Town are a ten minute drive away. Glisteri beach is a fifteen minute drive.
House of Dimitri
For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com
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SKOPELOS SKOPELOS TOWN
Villa Ouranos
2 bedrooms 2 bathrooms
Near Skopelos Town | Sleeps 2 – 5
car hire included
■ Early Booking Offer
swimming pool air conditioning
A road climbs up the hillside from Skopelos Town and, just before House of Dimitri, a track of five hundred metres leads off to the peaceful hilltop region of Raches and the dramatic setting of Villa Ouranos. Villa Ouranos has a rural setting with stunning, uninterrupted views down a valley of olive groves to the beach of Glisteri and across the sea to the west coast of Alonissos.
Accommodation: ground floor of kitchen; lounge with large single sofa bed, leading to sea-facing terrace; bathroom with bath and hand shower. First floor of double bedroom (with TV/DVD) leading out to large sea facing terrace. Annexe of one studio, twin bedroom with small kitchenette, bathroom with handheld shower, covered balcony.
Recently renovated, the villa stands in large grounds with a vineyard and trees of apricots and plums. A large barbecue out-house is ideal for the preparation of alfresco dining.
Facilities: air conditioning in bedrooms; TV/DVD & CD player; washing machine; dishwasher; barbecue. Air conditioning in Annexe.
Villa Ouranos has comfortably furnished interiors opening out onto a pool terrace and a large upper terrace from the master bedroom. 22 G I C – T H E V I L L A C O L L E C T I O N
Private swimming pool: 6.6m x 3.6m & depth 0.85m – 1.7m Amenities: Skopelos Town with its many tavernas, bars and interesting shops can be reached in ten minutes by car.
Villa Ouranos
For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com
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S K O P E L O S G LY S T E R I B E A C H
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2 bedrooms 2 bathrooms jeep hire included swimming pool air conditioning
Villa Pyrgos is owned by two artists from Skopelos. This is one of the most dramatic locations on the island. The villa is decorated and furnished to create an interesting fusion of unusual colours and shapes.
WiFi
Set up high on the island’s north-east coast, the villa has heady views along the rugged coastline and across the sea to the island of Alonissos. Spectacular! A Jeep is included as the road to villa is an adventure!
Accommodation: open-plan sitting room, dining and small kitchen area, bathroom with shower, stairs to gallery sitting area with sofa bed (double). A few metres away is an annexe with a studio twin bedroom and bathroom with shower. Facilities: air conditioning in mezzanine bedroom; CD player; microwave; barbecue. Private swimming pool: 7.5m x 3.5m & depth 0.80m – 1.8m Amenities: Glysteri beach, a drive of ten minutes away. Surrounding hillsides hold many walking trails through unspoilt countryside. Skopelos Town is five kilometres away.
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For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com
V I L L A E S C A P E S 25
S K O P E L O S PA N O R M O S
3 bedrooms
Villa Mourtero
2 bathrooms
Near Panormos | Sleeps 2 – 5
car hire included
■ Early Booking Offer
swimming pool air conditioning
WiFi The seaside village of Panormos on Skopelos’s west coast has a long shingle beach with clear waters. Inland from the village, forested valleys rise to hillsides of olive groves. pine, almond, plum and walnut trees with only a few houses hidden within a beautiful natural landscape. Villa Mourtero is set in one of these valleys, surrounded by olive groves and tall pine trees with peace and privacy. Mourtero’s roof terrace has dramatic views over the sea to Skiathos and provides a romantic setting to watch the sun set with a theatrical backdrop of pine covered mountains. Comfortably furnished interiors with wood-beamed ceilings and cool terracotta floor tiles, open out on to a large terrace surrounding the swimming pool. Two proud olive trees provide natural shade. The terrace has an elaborate barbecue and dining area. 26 G I C – T H E V I L L A C O L L E C T I O N
Accommodation: ground floor of open plan sitting room, dining area and kitchen leading to pool terrace; one double bedroom, ensuite bathroom with bath and shower; one twin bedroom leading to pool terrace; one single bedroom; bathroom with shower. Rooftop terrace accessed from rear of villa. Facilities: air conditioning throughout (except in single bedroom which has a fan); satellite TV; Wi-Fi; DVD & CD player; dishwasher; washing machine; barbecue. Private swimming pool: 7.5m x 3.5m & depth 1m – 1.9m Amenities: the tavernas, shops and cafés above Panormos beach are a drive of just ten minutes. Skopelos Town is a drive of twenty minutes. Further beaches of sand and shingle can be found either side of Panormos, some with family run tavernas. Boat hire is available in a sheltered bay just south of Panormos.
Kastani Beach
For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com
V I L L A E S C A P E S 27
Alonissos Tranquil and fertile, an island that treasures its unspoilt beauty and deserted beaches, Alonissos fulfils the escapist’s dream.
Steni Vala
Nobody is in a hurry on Alonissos. The island seems to wish only to be enjoyed. In the villages, whitewashed houses and narrow-paved streets almost doze in the sun, whilst the rocky limestone coastline offers perfect shelter for the many secret pebbled beaches and deep caves carved out of the steep cliffs. Exceptionally rich in sealife, the surrounding waters are part of a Marine Park, protecting the Mediterranean Monk Seal and many rare species of bird. One may even see the occasional dolphin. Several small islands lie close off-shore, uninhabited except for a few shepherds and many goats, including Gioura, known locally as ‘the cave of the Cyclops’. MOULES
Offering stunning views on all sides, walking trails run along the narrow island’s backbone, winding through olive groves and almond trees.
FRANGOVERGA
VDHONERI DHIASSELO
ALONISSOS MOURTITSA MOURTERO
PERISTERA ISLAND
AGIOS DIMITRIOS
VAMVAKIES KALAMAKIA
MANOLAS
N
STENI VALA STEFANI LEFTO YALO BAY
ORMOS TSOUKALIA
TZORTZI BAY
MEGALI AMMOS AGIOS ANDREAS
VRACHOS
VOTSI KALOVOULOS ALONISSOS OLD TOWN MIKRO MOURTIA BAY
Votsi
PATITIRI MARPOUNTA
V I L L A E S C A P E S 29
SPORADES ISLANDS ALONISSOS
Agios Dimitrios beach
Quaint, mysterious, a step back in time and utterly beautiful Alonissos Old Town Of the three islands of the Sporades, Alonissos is the least developed. Until the 1965 earthquake, most of the island's population of 3,000 lived in The Old Town, dating back to Byzantine times, perched on the top of a hill and with dramatic panoramic views across the island and down to the fishing port of Patitiri. Following the earthquake, most of the population moved down to live in Patitiri and the Old Town above was abandoned and virtually fell into ruin. The Old Town is now largely restored. It is certainly very picturesque and holds particular interest for artists, writers and walkers. The village now has a dozen tavernas, a pizzeria, several cafes and bars and two mini markets. Old Alonissos is linked by bus to Patitiri (up to 10 times a day in high season) and, if one prefers to walk, then it takes about 45 minutes via a goat track. The Beach of Megalo Mourtia is about half an hour walk downhill but, be warned, this is a hilly location and not suitable for those with walking difficulties. The island's four taxis are always available for a ride to Patitiri and to various beaches.
Kalamakia Kalamakia is a tiny port, half way up the east coast of Alonissos. The port is effectively home for four local families. The wives and daughters look after the four waterfront tavernas and the husbands and sons cast their
nets daily from their caiques to ensure a rich selection of fresh fish. Nearest provisions are in Steni Vala, further south along the east coast, a drive of five to ten minutes, where there is a mini market and waterfront tavernas.
Kato Horafi This is a heavily pine wooded area ideal for walkers and is just below the old town of Alonissos which is set on a hilltop. It is an ideal location, with dramatic views up to the old town and also over olive groves to the stretch of sea between Alonissos and Skopelos. Patitiri, the main port of the island is a five minute drive, the shops and tavernas of the old town can be reached on foot via a donkey path in 15 to 20 minutes and by car in 10 minutes. The nearest beach is that at Megalos Mourtias a ten minute drive.
Lefto Yalo Bay The beautiful sheltered bay of Lefto Yalo is on the island's South east coast. The beach here is uncrowded and one of the most picturesque on the island. Two tavernas are set back from the beach of dazzling white pebbles and crystal clear waters. Patitiri, the island's port is a 15 minute drive south while the pretty fishing port of Steni Vala takes much the same time but due north. For walking enthusiasts there are many interesting trails leading from the bay up to the forested Issiomata ( a flat piece of land in Greek) plateau and along the coast towards Steni Vala.
ALONISSOS ALONISSOS OLD TOWN PE
RT
PR O
Paparouna
R•
•
EM
IE
PR
Y
3 bedrooms 3 bathrooms
Near Alonissos Old Town | Sleeps 2 – 6
car hire included
■ Early Booking Offer
swimming pool air conditioning
WiFi Recently renovated to a high standard, Paparouna is set on a hillside terrace just below Alonissos Old Town. Both the upstairs balcony and the garden terraces have privacy and dramatic views down the valley to Patitiri harbour and across the open sea to the islands of Ta Dio Adelfia. The nearby forested area of Kato Horafi is wonderful for walking and watching the graceful Eleonora falcons circling overhead. Furnished with a tasteful combination of antique and contemporary furniture, the house has been extensively modernized. The spacious rooms open onto flagstone verandas and terraces shaded by roses and bougainvillea.
Accommodation: ground floor of an open-plan sitting room, kitchen and dining area; one twin bedroom with ensuite bathroom with bath and shower; utility room. First floor of double bedroom with balcony and ensuite bathroom with shower. Separate studio of one twin bedroom with terrace; sitting area; kitchenette; bathroom with shower. Facilities: air conditioning in all bedrooms; satellite TV/DVD & CD player; Wi-Fi; washing machine; dishwasher; barbecue. Private swimming pool: 10m x 5m & depth 0.75m – 2.2m Amenities: the shops and tavernas of the Old Town and Patitiri are within a ten minute drive. The nearest beach, at Megalos Mourtias, is also a ten minute drive.
For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com
V I L L A E S C A P E S 31
A L O N I S S O S K AT O H O R A F I
PE
RT
PR O
Villa Manolia
R•
•
EM
IE
PR
Y
3 bedrooms 3 bathrooms
At Kato Horafi | Sleeps 2 – 7
car hire included
■ Early Booking Offer
swimming pool air conditioning
WiFi Villa Manolia is a spacious, modern and comfortable home offering peace and privacy. The villa has dramatic views up to the Old Town, set on a hilltop, and over olive groves to the stretch of sea between Alonissos and Skopelos. A turning off the main road to the Old Village leads to the forested area of Kato Chorafi, with Villa Manolia set back off this road, next to an old track to the beach of Megalos Mourtias. Tastefully furnished, Villa Manolia has a variety of sitting areas both inside and outside. Terraces and gardens surround the villa and incorporate a shaded dining area and outside kitchen, including barbecue beside the swimming pool.
32 G I C – T H E V I L L A C O L L E C T I O N
Accommodation: ground floor of an open-plan sitting room, kitchen and dining area leading to covered sea view terraces; one double bedroom with balcony; bathroom with Jacuzzi bath; utility room. First floor of one double and one twin bedroom each with sea view balcony and ensuite bathroom with shower. Facilities: air conditioning in all bedrooms; satellite TV/DVD & CD player; Wi-Fi; washing machine; dishwasher; barbecue. Private swimming pool: 10m x 5m & depth 0.80m – 1.85m. Amenities: Patitiri, with a good selection of tavernas and shops is a drive of five minutes. The shops and tavernas of the Old Town can be reached on foot via a donkey path in fifteen minutes or by car in ten minutes. Megalos Mourtias beach is a ten minute drive.
Villa Manolia
For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com
V I L L A E S C A P E S 33
ALONISSOS ALONISSOS OLD TOWN
•
I
•
PR
PERTY
2 bedrooms 2 bathrooms
O
Villas Eos & Selene
EM
ER
PR
Near Alonissos Old Town | Sleeps 2 – 4 (plus 1 child) ■ Early Booking Offer
car hire included swimming pool air conditioning WiFi
The old town of Alonissos, perched on a hilltop with dramatic sea views and teeming with cafes, restaurants and interesting shops is only a 15 minute walk away from these two, 2 bedroom, villas along the traditional donkey path. From the villas themselves there are dramatic views over the port of Patitiri and onwards towards the twin islets of Ta Dio Adelfia ( the two brothers ) and the tail end of Persitera island. Be prepared for beautiful sunrises.
Accommodation: ground floor of open plan lounge (sofa bed suitable for a child) with a kitchen/ dining area; twin bedroom, bathroom with shower, all rooms opening to the covered garden terrace and pool. First floor of double bedroom with spacious seafacing covered balcony and en suite bathroom with shower and double sinks. Facilities: air conditioning in both bedrooms, satellite TV with BBC World in both bedrooms and lounge. DVD/CD player and Ipod docking station; WIFI; barbecue; dishwasher; washing machine.
These are brand new villas, each private and with its own gated entrance.
Private swimming pool: Two large ‘L’ shaped pools, main pool depth 1.6m, shallow section depth 0.35m
The layout of each house is the same, both have a private pool. The two properties taken together would be ideal for two families made up of 8 to ten persons.
Amenities: Alonissos Old town within a 15 minute walk, 10 minute drive to Megalos Mourtias and Rossoum beaches and the nearest sandy beach at Chrissi Milia a 15 minute drive. Small boat hire from Patitiri Port and all the amenities of the town within a few minutes’ drive.
More photographs will be available in the spring. 34 G I C – T H E V I L L A C O L L E C T I O N
View from Villas Eos & Selene
For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com
V I L L A E S C A P E S 35
ALONISSOS KALAMAKIA
2 bedrooms
Katia’s House
4 bathrooms
At Kalamakia | Sleeps 2 – 4 (plus 2 Children)
car hire included
■ Early Booking Offer
swimming pool air conditioning
Katia’s House stands on a hillside overlooking the tiny port of Kalamakia, half way along the east coast of the island. The port is effectively “home” for four local families. The wives and daughters look after the four waterfront tavernas and the husbands and sons cast their nets daily from their caïques to ensure a rich selection of fresh fish. Katia’s views are dramatic: down to Kalamakia port and across the sea to the islands of Peristera and Kyra Panagia. A steep, private and stepped pathway, shaded by tall pine trees, leads down from the house to the port in two minutes. The pool terraces overlook the sea and are bordered by colourful plants. NB: This property is not suitable for clients with mobility problems, due to the amount of steps on the property. 36 G I C – T H E V I L L A C O L L E C T I O N
Accommodation: Katia’s House consists of two separate buildings – but considered as one – a few metres apart. Each unit has an upper floor of one double bedroom with sea-facing balcony; bathroom with shower. Stairs down to sitting room leading to sea-facing terrace; shower room; kitchen. Facilities: each unit has air conditioning in the bedroom; CD player; barbecue. Building one also has a sofabed, TV – terrestrial channels only, washing machine and microwave. Private swimming pool: 8m x 5m & depth 1.1m – 2.1m Amenities: the coastal drive to the supermarket and waterfront tavernas of Steni Vala takes five minutes. From mid-June to mid-September there are tavernas open on the small quay below the villa and from early June you can dine at the small hotel located on the road above Katia’s House. A hired boat can be moored in the port of Kalamakia below the House.
A L O N I S S O S L E F T O YA L O B AY
1 bedroom
Villa Tassoula
1 bathroom
At Lefto Yalo Bay | Sleeps 2 – 3
car hire included
■ Early Booking Offer
swimming pool air conditioning
Villa Tassoula stands amongst olive groves in a valley beside Lefto Yalo Bay. Lefto Yalo beach, just a three minute walk away, has pure white pebbles and crystal clear waters. Two tavernas are set back a few metres away from the beach.
Accommodation: open-plan sitting room with sofa bed, dining and kitchen area leading to shaded terrace; one double bedroom; bathroom with bath and shower. Facilities: air conditioning in all rooms; satellite TV/DVD & CD player; washing machine; barbecue. Private swimming pool: 8m x 6.5m & depth 1m – 2m
Fifty metres away from Neptune Cottage, the villa has dramatic views over the valley of pine and olive trees. This is a spacious and comfortably furnished retreat surrounded by ample terraces.
38 G I C – T H E V I L L A C O L L E C T I O N
Amenities: the ports of Patitiri and Steni Vala, each with a good selection of waterfront tavernas and shops, are a drive of fifteen minutes. Footpaths provide interesting walks along the coast and up to the forested Issiomata plateau.
Skiathos Beaches in abundance and a cosmopolitan, lively town make the small island of Skiathos an uncomplicated and vibrant destination.
A beach on Skiathos’ east coast
A mere eight miles long and six miles wide, Skiathos still manages to find room for over fifty splendid beaches that lie against a shimmering clear sea, sheltered by lush, green pine-topped hills. All along the southern coast are stretches of sandy beaches with watersports and friendly tavernas, whilst the northern shore remains virtually untouched, offering a special experience to anyone exploring by boat. Attracted by its simple beauty and pristine waters, Skiathos is prized by holidaymakers from all over Europe, which gives the island’s only town a particular energy and character. For those who want lazy days and colourful nights, Skiathos is an excellent choice.
KASTRO CAPE
SKIATHOS
LALARIA KOUROUPI LECHOUNI
N
EVANGELISTRIA MONASTERY
LIMENARIA
PROFIT ILIAS KATAVOTHRA
LAKE
ASPRONISSOS ISLAND
POUNTA
ASSELINOS
PLAGIA
KOUNISTRES ZORBATHES
BOURTZI SKIATHOS TOWN
ARGOS ISLAND
S
Skiathos Town
S
BA Y
KORAKONERI STROPHILIA MARAGOS PLATANAKIA AG. ELENI BAY STROPHILIA LAKE ACHLADIES ISLAND TOURKOVIGLA SKLITHRI BAY KRASSAS Y MARATHA TSOUGRI A B TZANERIA BAY TROULOS ISLAND ES AY RI YPOROS IA B KANAPITSA NA BA N IO O OU OS ATA KOL MN KALAMAKI L L K OUK P U I L TRO MO TSOUGRIAKI VRO ISLAND
V I L L A E S C A P E S 41
S P O R A D E S I S L A N D S S K I AT H O S
Skiathos Town
Fabulous beaches, vibrant nightlife yet utterly peaceful if you care to look Skiathos Town The only town on the island and a thriving cosmopolitan centre, Skiathos Town can accommodate all tastes. In ancient times the Persians, Greeks and Macedonians fought battles in the seas around the island. In the 13th century it was the Venetians that controlled Skiathos and in the 18th century when under Ottoman rule, the town - and specifically the Evangelistria Monastery - played a part in the Greek War of Independence. In the 19th century age of sail, the island became an important Aegean ship building centre because of the abundance of pine trees which were almost wiped out as a result. The town has a population of about 7,000 and is very attractive, with its jumble of red-roofed houses and climbing stone-paved streets. During the day the town can appear somewhat sleepy but in the evenings the waterfront hums with life and one is confronted with a daunting array of
restaurants, cafe bars and tavernas. Nightlife could mean a quiet cafe, a lively bar or an up-to-the minute music club. Fast catamarans link Skiathos Port with Skopelos and Alonissos, water taxis provide transport to a variety of sandy beaches and excursions available include a good selection of boat trips.
Achladies Beach Located two kilometres from the capital, Skiathos Town, Achladies is a large, sandy, fine sand cove with clear and safe waters and suitable for all kinds of watersports. The beach is 100 metres below the East coast road of Skiathos which runs from Skiathos Town to the Kanapitsa peninsula. The beach is easily reached on foot, by car, by regular sea taxis from Skiathos Town or by local bus. There are several tavernas on the beach itself and, behind the beach, on the road, are more tavernas and supermarkets.
S K I AT H O S S K I AT H O S T O W N
3 bedrooms
Villa Pefka
2 bathrooms
Near Skiathos Town | Sleeps 2 – 6
car hire included
■ Early Booking Offer
swimming pool air conditioning
WiFi Villa Pefka is set in large private grounds in a peaceful, residential yet countrified area called Kalivia, just a five minute drive from the waterfront of Skiathos Town. From its elevated hillside position, there are beautiful views over the surrounding olive groves towards Skiathos Town and across the sea to the little islands lying offshore from Skiathos’ south coast. Built on one level and with a large grassed area, easily visible from the living areas, the villa is one of our more child-friendly properties. Comfortably furnished and spacious interiors open out to wide verandas and swimming pool.
Accommodation: open-plan sitting room, dining and kitchen area; one double bedroom, ensuite bathroom with bath; two twin bedrooms; bathroom with shower. Facilities: air conditioning throughout; TV/DVD & CD player; Wi-Fi; washing machine; dishwasher; safety deposit box; barbecue. Private swimming pool: 8m x 5m & depth 0.80m – 1.7m Amenities: there are three tavernas within a fifteen minute walk. The sandy beach of Megali Ammos, four kilometres away, has water sports facilities and a few beachfront café bars. Xanemos beach, five and a half kilometres away, has a small beach bar.
For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com
V I L L A E S C A P E S 43
S K I AT H O S A C H L A D I E S B E A C H
2 bedrooms
Achladies Beach Cottage
1 bathroom air conditioning
At Achladies Beach | Sleeps 2 – 4 ■ Early Booking Offer
Set back just fifteen metres from the sea, Achladies Beach Cottage is a perfect spot for those wanting to stay close to the sandy beach. A pathway leads from the cottage through a small garden of olive trees and tall pampas grass to the beach in front of the property. Simply but comfortably furnished, the cottage has a shaded terrace and an attractive courtyard of potted plants, tended to by the owners who live next door. Achladies Beach Cottage will appeal to those looking for a comfortable base close to a sandy beach and affording easy access to a good selection of shops and tavernas. 44 G I C – T H E V I L L A C O L L E C T I O N
Accommodation: open-plan sitting room (with sofa bed), dining and kitchen area; one double bedroom and one single bedroom; bathroom with shower. Facilities: air conditioning in sitting room (small charge payable locally). Courtyard shower. Amenities: Achladies beach has three tavernas and a watersports centre (including boat hire). Two supermarkets are just a two minute walk away and a water taxi service from the beach to Skiathos Town leaves hourly until 11pm each day.
S K I AT H O S S K I AT H O S T O W N
Villa Zakaroula
2 bedrooms 3 bathrooms
Near Skiathos Town | Sleeps 2 – 4
car hire included
■ Early Booking Offer
swimming pool air conditioning
WiFi This balanced and well-designed villa takes full advantage of its secluded location, hidden away on the hillside of Profitas Ilias, with uninterrupted views across the tops of olive groves to the small islands of Argos, Maragos and Tsougria. Evia, a much larger, mountainous, heavily-crested island, is on the horizon. If you manage to leave the swimming pool and the comfort of the shaded veranda, there are two tavernas within walking distance and, a little further at 4 kms, Megali Ammos beach and watersports centre. Skiathos Town is 10 minutes by car. There are additional sister properties in the vicinity available for larger parties.
Accommodation: ground floor: sitting room; kitchen and dining area; shower room. First floor: one double bedroom with ensuite bathroom (shower); one twin bedroom with ensuite bathroom (shower). Facilities: air conditioning (in one bedroom only); TV; DVD/CD player; iPod docking station; Wi-Fi; washing machine; barbecue. Private swimming pool: 8m x 4m & depth 0.9m – 2m Amenities: Skiathos Town is ten minutes by car and a short distance further is the Megali Ammos beach and watersports centre.
For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com
V I L L A E S C A P E S 45
S K I AT H O S S K L I T H R I B AY
3 bedrooms
Bougainvillaea Heights At Sklithri Bay | Sleeps 2 – 6
2 bathrooms car hire included swimming pool air conditioning
WiFi Villa Bougainvillaea enjoys a private hilltop position close to the sandy beaches of Sklithri, Achladies and Kanapitsa. The villa’s terraces, surrounded by large, lawned gardens of olive, pine and cypress trees, have magnificent views over Sklithri Bay and across the sea to the islands of Tsougri, Argos and Skopelos. The many large terraces for dining in shade or sitting in the sun make Villa Bougainvillaea a comfortable and spacious home. The villa’s elevated position allows views of both sunrise and sunset. A self-contained studio beneath the main villa provides additional privacy. Nikos, the villa’s caretaker, lives discreetly in an apartment beneath the pool area. 46 G I C – T H E V I L L A C O L L E C T I O N
Accommodation: one double bedroom and one twin-bedded room, both leading to sea-facing terrace; bathroom with bath; open plan sitting room, dining area and modern kitchen leading to shaded barbecue and dining terrace and pool terraces. Separate studio with one double bedroom, kitchen and bathroom with bath. Facilities: air-conditioning in the main villa; satellite TV/DVD & CD player; Wi-Fi; barbecue. Private swimming pool: 9m x 5m & depth 0.8 x 2.20 Amenities: nearby Sklithri beach has one tavern; Achladies has two supermarkets and four tavernas, a watersports centre and a water taxi to Skiathos Town.
For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com
V I L L A E S C A P E S 47
Corfu An unspoilt interior; oranges, figs and wild pears; a coastline of small coves and limitless beaches; and a capital irresistably Venetian.
IONIAN ISLANDS CORFU Corfu Town
Nissaki
PEROULADES
SIDARI
AGIOS IOANNIS ACHARAVI
AGIOS STEPHANOS
KASSIOPI ST. STEPHANOS
KAROUSSADES MAGOULATHES
EPISKEPSI
TRITSI PANDOKRATOR
ARILLAS
AGIOS GEORGIOS ANO KORANKIANA
KOULOURA KALAMI AGNI
NISSAKI BARBATI IPSOS
CORFU
DASSIA
PALIOKASTRITSA
KOMENO KONTOKALI POTAMOS
ROPA VALLEY ERMONES GLYFADA PELEKAS
KERKIRA CORFU TOWN AFRA
ANALIPSIS PERAMA
N
GASTOURI
AGIOS MATTEOS
MESSONGHI
HALIKOUNAS LAKE
KORISSION Large enough to have several PETRITI ARGIRADES different aspects, the range of Corfu’s appeal extends from the energy of organised resorts to the stillness of serious birdwatching, from sharing a moment of timeless harmony in a taverna across from a white-washed church in a village square to relaxing quietly on a sheltered beach accessible only by boat.
LEFKIMI
Travellers have been drawn to Corfu for centuries – from the Phoenicians onwards, and perhaps even from the time of Poseidon himself – and its appeal has never diminished. Overlooked by the summit of Mount Pandokrator, the glorious “Emerald Isle” lies before you, a multi-faceted jewel of cypress trees and pine, pastel-coloured houses, olive groves, lemon trees and oranges, encircled by an azure sea. Halikounas Beach
V I L L A E S C A P E S 49
Popular, spectacularly beautiful and cultured – Corfu has it all Nissaki
Halikounas Beach
Situated on the picturesque North East coast of the island and 23km north of Corfu Town, the area is heavily wooded with pine and olive trees and in the foothills of Corfu's highest peak, Mount Pantokrator. This is not a busy location but there is a variety of good beachside tavernas and shops. Nightlife is modest compared to its neighbour Barbati but it is to be noted that Nissaki is an area rather than a village.
The South West coast of Corfu has many long stretches of sandy beach and the long stretch of Halikounas Beach with it's extensive sand dunes protects Lake Korission from the sea.
Nissaki boasts a variety of small coves of sparkling white shingle, excellent for swimming and snorkelling. A perfect area for hiring small motorboats. There are many traditional villages in the surrounding hills that are worth exploring and views from this area are across the bay to Corfu Town and to Albania.
Barbati The main village of Barbati with the usual restaurants, cafes and souvenir shops, which still manages to hang on to some traditional Greek charm, is along and above the main road which runs along the coast with small roads and tracks running down to the beach. It takes about 10 minutes to walk down (steep on the way up) from the main road to Barbati Blue Flag beach. The beach lies 18 km north of Corfu town on the beautiful north east coast of the island and south of Glyfa and Nisaki. Mount Pantokrator rises steeply behind the resort to create a dramatic setting of white cliffs crowned by by cypress and pine. The long white shingle beach with a few tavernas to one end and with views across to Corfu town and the Albanian coast glistens in the sun. This is a perfect place for families and couples looking for a quiet beach holiday. The bay is sheltered and the crystal clear water shallow though it does drop off steeply some way out.
The lake is 5km long and 1km wide at its centre and is a haven for over 100 species of birdlife, including great white egrets, oyster catchers and curlews. Turtles and tortoises abound. Here there are no hotels or bars and the beach remains pristine and very safe for swimming as the waters are shallow for some distance. Even in the peak summer season this beach is uncrowded as it is difficult to reach unless by hired car. Interestingly, various access points for wheelchairs have been provided. There are one or two cantina snack bars and a taverna. There are no umbrellas or sun beds for hire.
Chlomos & Boukari 13th century Chlomos is one of the oldest villages in Corfu and one of the most picturesque on the whole island. It is also known as the ‘Balcony of Corfu’ as from an altitude of 270m there are wonderful views both towards the southern part of the island and also towards the eastern coastline. Chlomos was a wealthy village and most of the houses and mansions built around the main square and off the narrow cobbled streets are of Venetian origin. To the west are some of the prettiest beaches on Corfu. An ideal area for a family holidays and recommended for walking. Travel down to the coast and you reach the village of Boukari. This fishing harbour boast some of the best fish tavernas on the island.
CORFU NISSAKI
5 bedrooms
Villa Alexandros
2 bathrooms
Near Nissaki | Sleeps 2 – 10
car hire included
■ Early Booking Offer
swimming pool air conditioning
WiFi Set on a hillside of olive groves above Nissaki Bay and with no immediate neighbours, Villa Alexandros is just a five minute drive (15-20 minute walk) down to Kaminaki beach. From here, there are walking paths to reach a series of east coast beaches. Spacious interiors open out to terraces on different levels (reached by a number of steps) with both sun and shade. The pool area, which connects to a large roof terrace, has uninterrupted views along the island’s coastline as far as Corfu Town and across the sea to the mountains of the Greek mainland and Albania. The extensive outside entertaining area and the self-contained annexe make Alexandros an ideal Villa for families large and small.
Accommodation: main house of one double bedroom and two twin bedrooms; bathroom and a shower room; open-plan sitting room, dining area and kitchen. External stairs to lower floor annexe of one double bedroom and one single bedroom (with extra pull-out bed); bathroom; kitchen and dining area. Facilities: air-conditioning in all bedrooms; TV/DVD & CD player; Wi-Fi; washing machine; dishwasher; barbecue. Private swimming pool: 11m x 5m & depth 0.60m – 1.9m with children’s section. Amenities: Kaminaki is one kilometre away and has a mini-market, two tavernas and boat hire from the beach jetty. Nissaki is a ten minute drive and has a larger selection of shops and tavernas NB: The annexe is only available for parties of 7 or more. If a smaller party and you would like the use of the annexe, please enquire as to the extra cost.
For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com
V I L L A E S C A P E S 51
CORFU NISSAKI
2 bedrooms
Ioanna
2 bathrooms
Near Nissaki | Sleeps 2 – 4
car hire included
■ Early Booking Offer
swimming pool air conditioning
Apolissies is a tiny, sleepy, hilltop hamlet above the bay of Nissaki, which is about two kilometres away and is reached by a steep and winding road through olive groves.
WiFi
Ioanna, on the outskirts of the hamlet, has stunning views across the sea to the coastline stretching between Albania and Greece and along Corfu’s east coastline down to the Venetian fortifications of Corfu Town. Ioanna’s owners have renovated their old stone house retaining original features whilst adding modern comforts. The result is a charming and private home with a series of open and shaded terraces, from which one can enjoy the dramatic elevated sea view. A covered terrace above the pool area has a romantic barbecue and dining area. Ideal for those keen on bird watching and walking. 52 G I C – T H E V I L L A C O L L E C T I O N
Accommodation: open plan sitting room; separate kitchen area; one double bedroom and one twin bedroom; two shower rooms. Facilities: air conditioning in bedrooms (set to the optimal 24°C); TV/DVD & CD player; Wi-Fi; washing machine; dishwasher; microwave; barbecue. Private swimming pool: 7.5m x 5m & depth 1m – 1.8m Amenities: the port and village of Nissaki (a drive down the hillside of five minutes) have a good selection of tavernas, supermarkets, a watersports centre, nearby beaches and boat hire for exploring hidden coves.
CORFU NISSAKI
2 bedrooms
Petrino
2 bathrooms
Near Nissaki | Sleeps 2 – 4
car hire included
■ Early Booking Offer
swimming pool air conditioning
WiFi Reached by a steep and winding road through olive groves, the hamlet has a cluster of traditional island houses and is far removed from the more cosmopolitan atmosphere of nearby seaside villages. Petrino occupies a private and secluded location at the edge of the hamlet. This is a modern villa, built in traditional style and with stunning elevated views across the sea to the coastline stretching between Albania and Greece, and along Corfu’s east coast down to the Venetian fortifications of Corfu Town. Comfortably furnished and spacious interiors open out onto a large covered terrace, offering a romantic setting for watching the lights of Corfu Town and small fishing boats below. Petrino’s location makes it ideal for those interested in bird watching and walking.
Accommodation: open-plan sitting room, dining and kitchen area; one double bedroom with ensuite bathroom with bath and shower and one twin bedroom; bathroom with shower. Facilities: air conditioning in bedrooms (set to the optimal 24°C); TV/DVD & CD player; iPod docking station; Wi-Fi; washing machine; dishwasher; microwave; barbecue. Private swimming pool: 7.5m x 5m & depth 1m – 1.8m Amenities: the port and village of Nissaki (a drive of five minutes) have a good selection of tavernas, supermarkets, a watersports centre, nearby beaches and boat hire for discovering hidden coves.
For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com
V I L L A E S C A P E S 53
C O R F U B A R B AT I
2 bedrooms
Barbati Beach House
2 bathrooms
At Barbati | Sleeps 2 – 4
car hire included
■ Early Booking Offer
swimming pool air conditioning
WiFi The main village with the usual restaurants, cafes and souvenir shops, which still manages to hang on to some traditional Greek charm, is along and above the main road which runs along the coast with small roads and tracks running down to the beach. It takes about 10 minutes to walk down (steep on the way up) from the main road to the Barbati Blue Flag beach and the Beach House is in this rural area and well below the road and a two minute walk to the beach. The house which nestles amongst the mature garden has a shaded parking area that leads through a garden gate to a courtyard and shaded terrace with an olive tree as the centerpiece. The swimming pool is sheltered and gives good privacy. A very homely, private and comfortable base set in the most picturesque of the Corfiot coastlines. 54 G I C – T H E V I L L A C O L L E C T I O N
Accommodation: courtyard leads to an open plan lounge and small fully equipped kitchen; double bedroom and shower room. Stairs lead to a twin bedded room with balcony with chairs and table and sea views; second bathroom with shower. Facilities: air conditioning in both bedrooms and living room. Wall mounted TV; dishwasher; coffee maker; toaster and microwave; WI-FI. Private swimming pool: 8m x 4m, depth 1.20m to 1.80m Amenities: there is a bakery within 600m and mini-market 300m. The beach is 80m with boat hire and watersports. the nearest restaurant is 80m. Nissaki resort is 8 mins on the bus from the main road (1 euro) and Corfu town 18 km bus or taxi.
Barbati beach
For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com
V I L L A E S C A P E S 55
CORFU AGIOS GEORGIOS
3 bedrooms
Hellyhunter Villa
3 bathrooms
At Agios Georgios | Sleeps 2 – 6
car hire included
■ Early Booking Offer
swimming pool air conditioning
WiFi Agios Georgios beach is a large stretch of golden sand within a sheltered bay on the north-west coast of Corfu. There is a small and peaceful collection of village houses, shops and tavernas set back from the beach and a watersports club at one end. Hellyhunter Villa lies one kilometre away from Agios Georgios beach and has dramatic views over the bay and along a mountainous coastline from its secluded and private location amongst hillside olive groves. The villa has a variety of terraces, offering both sun and shade, and surrounding grounds of olive and citrus trees interspersed with colourful bougainvillaea, roses and oleander. Modern interiors are comfortably furnished. 56 G I C – T H E V I L L A C O L L E C T I O N
Accommodation: ground floor of sitting room; one twin bedroom, ensuite bathroom with shower; kitchen and dining area; cloakroom. First floor of two double bedrooms, each with en suite bathroom with shower. Facilities: air conditioning throughout; Greek TV/DVD & CD player; Wi-Fi; washing machine; dishwasher; mosquito screens on all windows; barbecue. Private swimming pool: 12m x 5m & depth 1.4m – 2.4m Amenities: there are good sandy beaches along the west coast of Corfu and many small villages with varied shops and tavernas. Corfu Town is thirty kilometres away. Agios Georgios offers boat hire, dinghy sailing, boat hire and jet ski hire.
Hellyhunter Villa
For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com
V I L L A E S C A P E S 57
CORFU NISSAKI
4 bedrooms
Robin’s Nest Near Agios Stefanos | Sleeps 2 – 8
3 bathrooms car hire included swimming pool air conditioning
WiFi Robin’s Nest has a special hilltop position from which there are dramatic views. Surrounded by tall olive trees, the villa looks down the valley of olive groves and cypress trees and out to the north-west coast of Corfu. The location is peaceful, secluded and totally private. The villa’s spacious interiors open out on to generous terraces with spectacular views of the sun setting behind the offshore islands of Orthoni, Mithraki and Ericusa. Recently renovated to a high standard, the owners of Robins Nest have added a new kitchen on the pool level and furnished the villa with style.
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Accommodation: ground floor of sitting room; one double bedroom and one twin bedroom, both with ensuite bathroom with shower; cloakroom. First floor of sitting room; one double bedroom, ensuite bathroom with shower. Lower ground floor of kitchen diner with terrace and access to the pool. Facilities: air conditioning in all bedrooms; TV/DVD & CD player; Wi-Fi; washing machine and poolside fridge; barbecue. Private swimming pool: 10m x 6m & depth 1m – 1.6m Amenities: the nearby village of Magoulades has a bakery and two cafénions. A ten minute drive away, the resorts of Agios Stefanos and Arillas offer sandy beaches, tavernas and watersports facilities.
CORFU HALIKOUNAS BEACH
3 bedrooms
Villa Zaira
2 bathrooms
Near Halikounas Beach | Sleeps 2 – 6
car hire included
■ Early Booking Offer
swimming pool air conditioning
WiFi Villa Zaira is situated in the olive groves behind Halikounas beach on Corfu’s south west coast. Set in mature walled gardens, the Villa has total privacy. Comfortably furnished, Zaira has modern facilities, large grounds and its close proximity to the sea make it a perfect property for family beach holidays. Halikounas beach has soft sand dunes, safe shallow swimming, no beachfront building and few visitors. Corfu’s west coast is renowned for its surf, making Halikounas a favourite for kite surfers/flyers and beach combers. The long stretch of sand and dunes protects Lake Korission from the sea. The lake is a haven for over one hundred species of birdlife, including great white egrets, oyster catchers and curlews.
Halikounas beach
Accommodation: open-plan sitting room, dining and kitchen area; one double bedroom and ensuite bathroom with shower; two twin bedrooms; bathroom with bath and shower. Facilities: air conditioning throughout; satellite TV/DVD & CD player; iPod docking station; Wi-Fi; washing machine; dishwasher; barbecue. Private swimming pool: 8.5m x 5m & depth 1.2m – 1.8m + children’s pool. Amenities: nearby Agios Georgios Beach (next to Halikounas) offers a good selection of tavernas, bars and watersports. The sandy beach of Alonaki is a five minute drive. Agios Mattheos village a ten minute drive away has a selection of tavernas, a bakery and a supermarket.
For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com
V I L L A E S C A P E S 59
Taverna near to Halikounas
60 G I C – T H E V I L L A C O L L E C T I O N
CORFU HALIKOUNAS BEACH
2 bedrooms
Villa Persephoni
2 bathrooms
Near Halikounas Beach | Sleeps 2 – 4
car hire included
■ Early Booking Offer
swimming pool air conditioning
WiFi On Corfu’s south west coast, the long stretch of Halikounas’ sandy beach protects Lake Korission from the sea. The lake is a haven for over one hundred species of birdlife, including great white egrets, oyster catchers and curlews. Halikounas beach has soft sand dunes, safe shallow swimming, no beachfront building and few visitors. The lake is bordered by hillsides of olive groves, citrus orchards and vineyards and looks up to the monastery on top of Mount Agios Mattheos. This area of Corfu is largely agricultural and peaceful. Villa Persephoni (nearby Villa Zaira) is one kilometre from Halikounas beach and stands in an olive grove affording total privacy. Furnishings are contemporary and terraces surround the property.
Accommodation: open-plan sitting room, dining and kitchen area; one double bedroom and ensuite bathroom with shower; one twin bedroom; bathroom with shower. Facilities: air conditioning throughout; satellite TV/DVD & CD player; iPod docking station; Wi-Fi; washing machine; dishwasher; barbecue. Private swimming pool: 8m x 4m & depth 1.75m Amenities: nearby Agios Georgios Beach (next to Halikounas) offers a good selection of tavernas, bars and watersports. The old, sleepy village of Agios Mattheos, a ten minute drive away, has a selection of more traditional tavernas, a bakery and a supermarket. The small sandy coves of Skidi and Prassoudi are within a ten minute drive.
For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com
V I L L A E S C A P E S 61
CORFU HALIKOUNAS BEACH
Villa Halikounas
3 bedrooms 3 bathrooms
Near Halikounas | Sleeps 2 – 6
car hire included
■ Early Booking Offer
swimming pool air conditioning
Situated on the south-west coast of Corfu, close to Lake Korission and the wonderful sandy beaches of this area, Villa Halikounas is situated in a quiet location within easy walking distance of the beach and taverna.
WiFi
Recently renovated to a high standard, the villa offers excellent outside space with sea and lake views with cool summer breezes. This is a cosy, well equipped, very comfortable villa complete with fireplace.
Accommodation: one double bedroom, two twin bedrooms, two bathrooms with shower, one bathroom with Jacuzzi bath, living room, fully equipped kitchen. Facilities: air conditioning; satellite TV/DVD player; Wi-Fi; washing machine; dishwasher; microwave. Private swimming pool: 10m x 5.5m & depth 0.9m – 1.8m Amenities: three tavernas within one kilometre, additional shopping and restaurants within 5km.
62 G I C – T H E V I L L A C O L L E C T I O N
CORFU HALIKOUNAS BEACH
Villa Saia Near Halikounas | Sleeps 2 – 4
2 bedrooms 1 bathroom car hire included swimming pool air conditioning
The beautiful sandy beaches of Halikounas are an 800 metre walk from this delightful villa which is situated in a quiet location and has a sea view from the veranda.
WiFi
This modern villa is decorated and furnished in a traditional style and offers excellent outside facilities around the new pool. Within five minutes drive there are three tavernas, for more choice, visit the nearby villages of Messonghi or Moraitika where you will find shops including a pharmacy and bank. History buffs will enjoy visiting the Byzantine Castle at Gardiki.
Accommodation: one double bedroom; one twin bedroom; open plan living/kitchen area; bathroom with bath. Facilities: air conditioning; Satellite TV/DVD player; Wi-Fi; washing machine; dishwasher; barbecue. Private swimming pool: 9.2m x 4.6m (free form) depth 1.1m – 1.7m Amenities: tavernas are within 15 minutes walk, night life in Agios Matheos about 5 kms, Corfu Town about 24 km.
For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com
V I L L A E S C A P E S 63
CORFU BOUKARI
Villa Boukari
3 bedrooms 3 bathrooms
Near Chlomos Village | Sleeps 2 – 6
car hire included
■ Early Booking Offer
swimming pool air conditioning
WiFi Away from it all and from its eagle’s nest position amongst pine and olive trees, Villa Boukari, located on the southeast coast of the island looks across green hillsides, down to the sea and across to the mainland and Igoumenitsa on the Epirus coast. The property is an 800m walk to and set just below 13th century Chlomos. Villa Boukari is spacious, modern, very well equipped and in a superb position. All rooms overlook the pool and have a sea view. The nearest sandy beach at Messonghi is a five minute drive from the property. A little further west are some of the prettiest beaches on the island and away from the hustle and bustle of the busy resorts. An ideal area for a family holiday and recommended for walking.
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Accommodation: ground floor of an open-plan sitting room, kitchen and dining area; one twin bedroom with ensuite shower room; one double bedroom with separate bathroom, all leading to covered sea view verandas overlooking the pool. First floor of master bedroom with dressing area, private balcony with sea views and bathroom with corner bath. Facilities: air conditioning in all bedrooms; fireplace in living room, DVD player; satellite TV; stereo, video library; microwave; coffee maker; dishwasher; washing machine; barbecue, Wi-Fi. Private swimming pool: 4.25m x 8.25m & depth 70cm-1.80m. Small pool 2m x 2m & depth 70cm Amenities: Ballis taverna 800m in Chlomos village. 5 minute drive to Messonghi beach and resort, and easy drive to Moraitika (4km) and Boukari (3km) and Petriti coastal villages. Walking, panoramic views, watersports, bird watching, beachcombing, sight seeing.
Boukari Fish Taverna
For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com
V I L L A E S C A P E S 65
Paxos & Antipaxos Azure waters, sheltered coves, silver olive groves, quiet fishing villages, the smallest Ionian island of Paxos is a haven of rare tranquillity. And just one mile away lies the intimacy of improbably tiny Antipaxos.
Loggos
Just seven miles long and three miles wide, Paxos encapsulates the magical beauty and variety of the Ionian: over 30 sheltered beaches on the east coast, dramatic cliffs on the west, olive trees and tall pines inland, surrounded by the clearest crystal waters, and fringed with caves, grottoes and unpopulated islands. About half of the island’s population of 3,000 live in the three villages of Gaios, Loggos and Lakka, and help create that special sense of serenity, sociability and relaxation that characterizes Paxos. Take a boat trip to the satellite island of Antipaxos and for a short while you can experience a real LAKKA Robinson Crusoe moment, as you step onto one of the many unspoilt and LOGGOS deserted beaches, PAXOS and reflect on what makes life MAGAZIA FONTANA PANAGIA ISLAND so precious. BOIKATIKA
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LIGHT HOUSE
Loggos
V I L L A E S C A P E S 67
I O N I A N I S L A N D S PA X O S & A N T I PA X O S
Gaios
With over 30 sheltered beaches on the east coast, lush forests inland and dramatic cliffs to the west, discover new delights each day, by foot or by boat. Gaios
Loggos
Gaios is the main village of Paxos. Rare among Greek islands, the little flagstoned square with its church and pink and white oleanders is right on the water. The village is a maze of narrow streets lined with an assortment of little shops, tavernas and bars. A host of attractive bays and coves lie nearby. Boats, to reach the sandy beaches of Antipaxos, depart from the square every morning.
The smallest and most attractive fishing village on Paxos, Loggos remains unspoilt. Thirty little houses cluster around the old platia which is right on the sea. Silver and green olive groves cover the hills surrounding the village. Tavernas serve good food and small shops provide a wide range of groceries. Waterfront café bars offer delightful vantage points for people and boat watching. Good bathing from beaches and rocks is within five minutes’ walk.
Magazia Magazia is the island’s small, central village for a cluster of secluded hamlets amongst the olive groves close to the west coast. The one café bar and taverna retain a traditional island character; the bakery produces delicious bread and assorted pastries and the grocery store is small but well stocked. The nearby Church of the Apostles overlooks the dramatic west coast cliffs, which are turned pink by the setting sun.
Lakka The little port of Lakka with its almost circular harbour and crystal clear sea, framed by green and silver olive trees, is an artist’s delight. Narrow streets, picturesque gardens, numerous small shops, tavernas, bars and friendly people give Lakka a special character of its own. Lakka’s wide bay of clear, turquoise waters contains a stretch of olive-fringed beaches, which shelve to sand.
PA X O S G A I O S
2 bedrooms
Villa Yakovos
1 bathroom
Near Gaios | Sleeps 2 – 4
car hire included
■ Early Booking Offer
swimming pool air conditioning
From the backstreets of Gaios, a narrow winding road leads up the hill to the sleepy hamlet of Ozias, walkable from the villa. There is a general store come café bar, run by Yakovos, the villa’s owner. From Ozias an unmade road leads to the secluded location of the villa. Set amongst olive groves, with no other house in sight, Villa Yakovos looks across private terraced grounds and over the stretch of sea between Paxos and Antipaxos.
Accommodation: one double bedroom and one twin bedroom; open-plan sitting room and kitchen with dining area; bathroom with shower. Facilities: air conditioning in the double bedroom, twin bedroom has a ceiling fan; TV; CD player; barbecue. Private swimming pool: 11m x 5.5m & depth 1.1m – 2.4m
The views of Antipaxos at sunset are spectacular. On clear days the island of Lefkas is visible on the horizon. There is no passing traffic and the silence of this location is only occasionally disturbed by the chatter of cicadas during the hotter months.
Amenities: the drive to Gaios and nearby beaches takes ten minutes and, to Ozias, four minutes. A boat can be moored in Gaios.
For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com
V I L L A E S C A P E S 69
PA X O S G A I O S
1 bedroom
The Olive Press
1 bathroom
Near Gaios | Sleeps 2
car hire included
■ Early Booking Offer
swimming pool air conditioning
A narrow track leads inland from Gaios waterfront in just a few minutes to a beautiful, wild landscape of valleys and hillsides which stretch to the island’s north-west coast. The Olive Press has been carefully renovated and modernised to become a comfortable home, hidden amongst the olive groves. Although only a two minute drive (or a ten minute walk) to two local tavernas and a five minute drive to Gaios, the Olive Press will appeal to couples looking for a comfortable, romantic and peaceful escape.
Accommodation: open-plan sitting room and dining area; kitchen; one double bedroom; bathroom with shower. Terraces. Facilities: air conditioning in bedroom; ceiling fan in lounge; TV/DVD & CD player; washing machine; barbecue. Private swimming pool: 6m x 4m & depth 1.5m
Built of stone, the house still has the original olive pressing floor underneath the sitting room – visible through a panel of safety glass.
70 G I C – T H E V I L L A C O L L E C T I O N
Amenities: the nearest beaches, just outside Gaios, are within a ten minute drive. There are many goat paths through the olive groves leading to hidden hamlets and west coast vantage points with spectacular views across the sea to Antipaxos.
PA X O S G A I O S
3 bedrooms
Valentina House Near Gaios | Sleeps 2 – 6
2 bathrooms car hire included swimming pool air conditioning
Valentina House has total privacy and only the cicadas to disturb the silence. A small road of one kilometre leads uphill from the backstreets of Gaios, through olive groves to the small hamlet of Ozias, from where a private track leads to Valentina’s hidden grounds. The Italian owners have converted an elegant stone family house into a spacious and comfortable home with several steps leading to entrance. Extensive terraced gardens, affording total privacy, surround the house and incorporate a large pool, three dining areas, a citrus breakfast terrace and many areas shaded by olive trees and lit romantically by night.
Accommodation: ground floor of an open-plan sitting room, dining and kitchen area. First floor of two double bedrooms and one twin bedroom; two bathrooms each with shower. Facilities: air conditioning in two bedrooms; TV/DVD & CD player; dishwasher; barbecue. Private swimming pool: 12m x 6m & depth 1.3m – 2.2m Amenities: the shops, tavernas and boat hire at Gaios are a drive of five minutes. It is a further five minutes to the east coast beaches. The hamlet of Ozias has a general store come café bar.
For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com
V I L L A E S C A P E S 71
Gaios
72 G I C – T H E V I L L A C O L L E C T I O N
PA X O S G A I O S
3 bedrooms
Governor’s House
3 bathrooms
Near Gaios | Sleeps 2 – 6
car hire included
■ Early Booking Offer
swimming pool air conditioning
Governor’s House was once the residence of the British Governor during the early 18th Century British Protection of the Ionian Islands. In a peaceful location, with views over the silver olives and across the sea to the mainland, it affords easy access to the east coast beaches which are about one kilometre away. The property is one of several large 18th Century stones houses, three of which have been renovated, in the quiet hillside hamlet of Geromonachos. Gaios with its shops tavernas and restaurants is two kilometres away.
Accommodation: ground floor of an open-plan sitting room, dining and kitchen area; bathroom with shower. First floor of one double bedroom, ensuite bathroom with shower, and two twin bedrooms; bathroom with shower. Facilities: air conditioning in two bedrooms, one bedroom has a ceiling fan; TV/DVD & CD player; iPod docking station; barbecue. Private swimming pool: 10m x 5m & depth 0.70m – 1.7m Amenities: tavernas, shops and boat hire in Gaios are a ten minute drive.
For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com
V I L L A E S C A P E S 73
PA X O S G A I O S
3 bedrooms
Villa Heleni
3 bathrooms
Near Gaios | Sleeps 2 – 6
car hire included
■ Early Booking Offer
swimming pool air conditioning
The peaceful hillside hamlet of Geromonachos overlooks the east coast and is just two kilometres away from Gaios. Villa Heleni, one of a number of large stones houses dating back from the late 18th century, has been renovated to form a comfortable and peaceful home. The villa, with views across the sea to the mainland, is hidden amongst olive groves. The nearest east coast beach is about a five minute drive.
Accommodation: ground floor of an open-plan sitting room, dining and kitchen area, bathroom with shower. First floor of one double bedroom, ensuite bathroom with shower, and two twin bedrooms; bathroom with shower. Facilities: air conditioning in two bedrooms, one bedroom has a ceiling fan; TV/DVD & CD player; iPod docking station; washing machine; barbecue. Private swimming pool: 10m x 5m & depth 0.70m – 1.7m Amenities: tavernas, shops and boat hire in Gaios are a ten minute drive.
74 G I C – T H E V I L L A C O L L E C T I O N
Villa Heleni
For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com
V I L L A E S C A P E S 75
PA X O S G A I O S
2 bedrooms
Villa Doria
1 bathroom
Near Gaios | Sleeps 2 – 4
car hire included
■ Early Booking Offer
swimming pool air conditioning
Villa Doria is hidden amongst the hillside olive groves of the hamlet of Geromonachos, overlooking the east coast with its many beaches and just two kilometres away from Gaios. The hamlet contains large stone houses dating back to the late 18th Century but only Doria and two other houses have since been renovated. The location is peaceful. Views are over silver olives and across the sea to the mainland. The closest beaches are about one kilometre away.
Accommodation: open-plan sitting room, dining and kitchen area; one double bedroom and one twin bedroom; bathroom with shower. Facilities: air conditioning in one bedroom, one bedroom has a ceiling fan; ceiling fan in lounge; TV/DVD & CD player; iPod docking station; barbecue. Private swimming pool: 10m x 5m & depth 0.70m – 1.7m Amenities: tavernas, shops and boat hire in Gaios are a ten minute drive.
76 G I C – T H E V I L L A C O L L E C T I O N
Villa Doria
For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com
V I L L A E S C A P E S 77
PA X O S M A G A Z I A
1 bedroom
Villa Jasmine
1 bathroom
Near Magazia | Sleeps 2
car hire included
â– Early Booking Offer
swimming pool air conditioning
This intimate villa, self-contained on a single level, has a very special feel of easy relaxation. From its own private pool and terrace, the views are spectacular; high above the soaring cliffs of the west coast, on the edge of the tiny hamlet of Vlachopoulatika, it can feel as if the whole Mediterranean Sea is laid out before you. Carefully positioned within its own grounds, this is an ideal property for two persons. There is a bakery, grocery store and taverna in Magazia (1km) and the beaches, shops and tavernas of Loggos and Gaios are a 10 minute drive.
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Accommodation: large open sitting room, dining area and kitchen; one double bedroom; bathroom with shower; private parking area. Facilities: air conditioning in bedroom; TV/DVD & CD player; hair dryer; dishwasher; barbecue. Private infinity swimming pool: 5m x 4m & depth 1.3m-1.6m Amenities: a shop, two tavernas and a bar are just a fifteen minute walk away. A wide selection of beaches, shops and tavernas can be found at Loggos or Gaios, just a ten minute drive away.
PA X O S M A G A Z I A
1 bedroom
Villa Gardenia
1 bathroom
Near Magazia | Sleeps 2
car hire included
â– Early Booking Offer
swimming pool air conditioning
Modern and comfortably furnished, with a spectacular view over the island’s dramatic west coast from its well-sized terrace and delightful pool, the villa is ideal for a relaxed holiday among olive groves, butterflies and cicadas. With a well-equipped kitchen and Magazia village a kilometre away, it is tempting to feel you require little else. You are never too far from the sea, pretty villages and good food on Paxos. A ten minute drive will bring you to all three.
Accommodation: large open sitting room, dining area and kitchen; one double bedroom; bathroom with shower; private parking area. Facilities: air conditioning in bedroom; TV/DVD & CD player; hair dryer; dishwasher; barbecue. Private infinity swimming pool: 5m x 4m & depth 1.3m-1.6m Amenities: a shop, two tavernas and a bar are just a fifteen minute walk away. A wide selection of beaches, shops and tavernas can be found at Loggos or Gaios, just a ten minute drive away.
For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com
V I L L A E S C A P E S 79
PA X O S M A G A Z I A
1 bedroom
Villa Bougainvillaea
1 bathroom
Near Magazia | Sleeps 2
car hire included
â– Early Booking Offer
swimming pool air conditioning
Just a kilometre from the village of Magazia in the centre of the island, this discreet and private villa has wonderful elevated views over the western sea, all the more spectacular at sunset. Situated on a lower terrace within its own flowered garden, the personal pool terrace and barbecue area provide the perfect spot for relaxed indulgence. A 10 minute drive takes you to the beaches and busier villages of Gaios and Loggos on the east coast. Not suitable for people with mobility problems.
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Accommodation: large open sitting room, dining area and kitchen; one double bedroom; bathroom with shower; private parking area. Facilities: air conditioning in bedroom; TV/DVD & CD player; hair dryer; dishwasher; barbecue. Private infinity swimming pool: 5m x 4m & depth 1.3m-1.6m Amenities: a shop, two tavernas and a bar are just a fifteen minute walk away. A wide selection of beaches, shops and tavernas can be found at Loggos or Gaios, just a ten minute drive away.
PA X O S M A G A Z I A
3 bedrooms
Villa Effi
2 bathrooms
Near Magazia | Sleeps 2 – 5
car hire included
■ Early Booking Offer
swimming pool air conditioning
Villa Effi is a comfortable and spacious house located on a secluded hillside, at a central point of the island, looking out over cypress and olive trees to the sea on Paxos’ west coast. Attractively tiled terraces, bordered by a profusion of colourful plants, provide a shaded escape from the sun and lead to a lower level pool terrace with areas to sunbathe and more spectacular views to sea and the setting sun. Due to Villa Effi’s elevated position, we do not recommend it for families with very young children.
Accommodation: one double bedroom; one twin bedroom; one single bedroom; sitting room and dining area; kitchen; one bathroom with shower and one bathroom with bath. Facilities: air conditioning in all bedrooms; washing machine, TV/DVD & CD player; dishwasher; barbecue. Private swimming pool: 8m x 5m & depth 1.6m – 2.6m Amenities: the drive to both Gaios and Loggos takes ten minutes. The sleepy village of Magazia, with its bakery, general store, café bar and taverna, is just a two minute drive or a walk of 15 minutes. A further four tavernas can be reached within a 15 minute walk.
For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com
V I L L A E S C A P E S 81
PA X O S B O I K AT I K A
2 bedrooms
Villa Petra
2 bathrooms
At Boikatika | Sleeps 2 – 4
car hire included
■ Early Booking Offer
swimming pool air conditioning
A very private villa, which will appeal to those who are looking for a luxurious retreat with panoramic views over a rural landscape and the sea. The villa is accessed via an unmade road. Once at the villa you are looking over the dramatic landscape of the west coast, especially breathtaking from the infinity pool. Set amongst olive trees and cypress trees, this is a classic Greek island location – what everyone imagines a private villa on an island should be like. This stone-built property consists of ground and first floor, each with seafacing verandas. Furnishings are elegant and contemporary and the bathrooms and kitchen well laid out and of modern design. The villa nestles amongst landscaped gardens planted with native plants. Terraces and verandas afford shade and are well located to make full use of the views from this superb location. 82 G I C – T H E V I L L A C O L L E C T I O N
Accommodation: a large sitting room on the upper floor opens out to two seafacing verandas. The upper floor also accommodates the open plan kitchen and dining area and a twin-bedded room with veranda and ensuite bathroom with shower. The ground floor is open plan with a twin bedded room and ensuite bathroom with shower. There is also a sitting area. A sea-facing veranda leads off the twin bedroom. Facilities: air conditioned bedrooms and living room; TV/DVD & CD player; safety deposit box. Private swimming pool: 11m x 5m & depth 0.90m – 1.9m Amenities: a ten minute walk reaches Magazia where there is a taverna, café-bar, bakery and general store. It is a ten minute drive to Gaios, Loggos and a selection of beaches.
PA X O S B O I K AT I K A
2 bedrooms
Villa Pelagos
2 bathrooms
At Boikatika | Sleeps 2 – 4
car hire included
■ Early Booking Offer
swimming pool air conditioning
This private and secluded villa, will appeal to those who are looking for a luxurious retreat with outstanding views over rich, green valleys and deep blue seas. The landscape of the west coast is dramatic. From the villa’s hilltop terraces of olives, the views are breathtaking and the stillness is only punctuated by the occasional cry of a swift. The villa is hidden by the olive trees and the location is one of the quietest on the island.
Accommodation: the villa has an upper floor consisting of large sitting room, leading to two sea-facing verandas; open-plan kitchen and dining area; one doublebedded room and ensuite bathroom with shower, leading to open veranda. Openplan lower ground floor of one twin-bedded room, and ensuite bathroom with shower, leading to a sea-facing veranda; sitting area.
Villa Pelagos has two floors, which open out on to the sea-facing verandas. Built of stone and furnished to a high standard of comfort with modern an elegant bathroom and kitchen, this is an impressive property set in landscaped gardens, with privacy and views across the sea from sun and shaded terrace.
Facilities: air conditioning in bedrooms and sitting room; TV/DVD & CD player; safety deposit box. Private swimming pool: 11m x 5m & depth 0.90m – 1.9m Amenities: Magazia, a walk of ten minutes, has a taverna, café bar, bakery and general store. Gaios, Loggos and many beaches are only ten minutes away by car.
For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com
V I L L A E S C A P E S 83
PA X O S L O G G O S
2 bedrooms
Villa Elia
2 bathrooms
Near Loggos | Sleeps 2 – 4
car hire included
■ Early Booking Offer
swimming pool air conditioning
Villa Elia, located in a small hamlet, is set amongst hillside olive groves below the inland road leading to Loggos, which is a distance of one and a half kilometres. The views from the front terrace are stunning and no other house can be seen. Looking over the coastal hillsides of olive and cypress trees and across the sea to the mainland of Greece, one can follow the progress of fishing boats, yachts and ferries. At night the tiny lights of mainland villages add a dramatic touch to Elia’s private lookout. The extensive pool terrace has a large olive tree which provides a shaded sitting area. This is a comfortable and modern home with beautiful, natural views.
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Accommodation: ground floor of an open-plan sitting room, dining and kitchen area, bathroom with shower, sea-facing terrace. First floor of one double bedroom and one twin bedroom; bathroom with shower. Facilities: air conditioning in bedrooms; TV/DVD & CD player; washing machine; barbecue; outside dining areas. Private swimming pool: 8.5m x 5m & depth 1.2m – 1.7m Amenities: Loggos and nearby beaches are only five minutes away by car. The small village of Fontana is a walk of ten minutes as are three tavernas.
PA X O S L O G G O S
4 bedrooms
Villa Andromeda
3 bathrooms
Near Loggos | Sleeps 2 – 8
car hire included
■ Early Booking Offer
swimming pool air conditioning
Within a small, hillside hamlet, Villa Andromeda is set back from the inland road leading to Loggos, which is a distance of one and a half kilometres. From the first floor bedroom balconies one overlooks the surrounding olive groves and the open sea towards the Greek mainland. A garden of olive and fruit trees and flagstoned terraces surround the private swimming pool. The property has large rooms tiled in cool ceramic and marble. The sitting room opens to a series of terraces bordered by olive trees.
Accommodation: ground floor of two twin bedrooms; bathroom with shower; sitting room; kitchen. Marble staircase leading up to first floor of one double bedroom with ensuite bathroom with shower; one twin bedroom; bathroom with shower. Facilities: air conditioning; TV/DVD & CD player; Wi-Fi; washing machine; barbecue. Private swimming pool: 10m x 7.5m & depth 1m – 2.4m Amenities: Loggos and nearby beaches are only five minutes away by car; One taverna only a few minutes walk away. The small village of Fontana with two tavernas and a mini-market is a walk of fifteen minutes. Boat hire on Loggos waterfront.
For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com
V I L L A E S C A P E S 85
Loggos waterfront
86 G I C – T H E V I L L A C O L L E C T I O N
PA X O S L O G G O S •
I
•
O
Near Loggos | Sleeps 2 – 4
PR
Villa Perseus
EM
ER
PR
PERTY
■ Early Booking Offer
2 bedrooms 2 bathrooms car hire included swimming pool air conditioning
Within a small, hillside hamlet, Villa Perseus is set back from the inland road leading to Loggos, which is a distance of one and a half kilometres. The villa overlooks a valley of olive trees and across the sea to the Greek mainland. An excellent taverna is only a short walk away.
WiFi
The terraced gardens of almond, orange and olive trees which surround the villa and swimming pool are enclosed by tall stone walls to ensure privacy. Extensively refurbished in 2012, Villa Perseus has been transformed into a traditional house with a bright, contemporary, stylish interior.
Accommodation : upper floor has one double bedroom; bathroom with shower; open-plan kitchen, dining area and sitting room; patio and pool terrace. Lower ground floor of master bedroom (twin or double) with ensuite bathroom. Facilities: air conditioning in all bedrooms; washing machine, Wi-Fi, TV/DVD & CD player; barbecue; safety deposit box. Private swimming pool: 10m x 5m & depth 1.2m – 2.4m Amenities: Loggos and nearby beaches are only five minutes away by car. One taverna only a few minutes walk away. The small village of Fontana with two tavernas and a mini-market is a walk of fifteen minutes. A hired boat may be moored in Loggos harbour.
For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com
V I L L A E S C A P E S 87
PA X O S L O G G O S
Juniper Cottage Accommodation: one bedroom detached cottage (sleeps 2); open plan living/dining/kitchen area; shower room; sea facing balcony. Facilities: air conditioning; CD and DVD players; TV (Greek channels); cooker and fridge freezer; safety deposit box; iron, ironing board, hair dryer; pool and bath towels. Shared swimming pool: 11m x 7m (shared)
Agathi, Lotus & Myrtle Cottages
•
I
• PERTY
O
Near Loggos | Sleeps 2
PR
Loggos Mills
EM
ER
PR
■ Early Booking Offer
1 bedroom (Juniper) studio (Agathi, Lotus & Myrtle) 1 bathroom car hire included swimming pool
Tucked away on the hillside above Loggos air conditioning Harbour is a group of charming cottages, enjoying harmonious seclusion within their own landscaped gardens. Between the verandahs of the detached cottage (Juniper) and the 3 attached studios, crimson bougainvillaea serves as a natural screen, further enhancing the sense of privacy. The large shared swimming pool has wide-ranging views over ancient olive groves, down to the sea, and across to the Greek mainland. A five minute walk takes you to the nearest taverna, and Loggos with its beach, bakery, mini-market and harbourside tavernas is a five minute drive. The cottages themselves are stylish, airy and comfortable, with a distinctly Italianate feel. Although individually ideal for couples, the cottages can also be combined for a larger group. 88 G I C – T H E V I L L A C O L L E C T I O N
Accommodation: three attached open plan cottages (each sleeps 2); large living/ dining/sleeping area with kingsize bed; kitchen corner; sea facing balcony. Facilities: air conditioning; CD and DVD players; TV (Greek channels); cooker and fridge; safety deposit box; iron, ironing board, hair dryer; pool and bath towels. Shared swimming pool: 11m x 7m (shared)
Loggos Mills
For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com
V I L L A E S C A P E S 89
PA X O S L O G G O S
2 bedrooms
Levrecchio Beach House
2 bathrooms air conditioning
Near Loggos | Sleeps 2 – 4 ■ Early Booking Offer
Levrecchio beach is a 7-10 minute walk from Loggos waterfront and has a small taverna in an olive grove overlooking the sea. Levrecchio Beach House is located just a two minute walk above the beach, on a hillside of olive trees. A large terrace has a dining area, shaded by an olive tree, and has views over the beach to Corfu and the Greek mainland.
Accommodation: open-plan sitting room, dining and kitchen area; one double bedroom and one twin bedroom; two bathrooms, each with shower. Facilities: air conditioning in both bedrooms; TV & CD player; dishwasher; barbecue. Amenities: one taverna two minutes walk; a selection of tavernas, shops and boat hire on Loggos waterfront are a seven minute walk away.
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Levrecchio beach, showing Levrecchio Beach House on the right
For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com
V I L L A E S C A P E S 91
PA X O S L O G G O S
2 bedrooms
Harbour View At Loggos | Sleeps 2 – 4
2 bathrooms air conditioning
■ Early Booking Offer
Harbour View has a special position in Loggos – detached from the waterfront to ensure privacy but close enough to have wonderful views over the entire port. Set back on one of a series of hillside terraces of olive groves, the house has sitting out terraces on different levels, in the shade of olive trees, all with views over Loggos. Levrecchio Beach is just a five minute stroll away. No other house, close to the waterfront, has grounds the size of Harbour View, which are terraced with attractive pots and lemon trees.
Accommodation: a flight of thirty-five steps leads from the waterfront to a lower terrace with a further five steps to the front door. Ground floor of open-plan sitting room and kitchen area; bathroom with shower. Stairs to first floor of one double bedroom and one twin bedroom; bathroom with shower. Facilities: air conditioning in both bedrooms. Amenities: just two minutes walk to waterfront tavernas, shops and café bars. Waterfront boat hire. NB: We do not recommend Harbour View for those with mobility problems or for small children.
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PA X O S L O G G O S
3 bedrooms
Nassos House Near Loggos | Sleeps 2 – 6
2 bathrooms air conditioning
■ Early Booking Offer
A fairly steep walk of five minutes from the Loggos waterfront leads to the private hillside position of Nassos House. Few houses in Loggos can match the views from this house. The front terraces look down to the activities of the little fishing port and across the open sea to the mountains of the Greek mainland. A narrow, private path leads from the house through a garden of olive and lemon trees, to the sea below – a walk of two minutes, where one can swim off the rocks and from a small beach. The larger beach of Levrecchio is just a five minute walk from the village. The property has recently been redecorated to a slightly more modern standard but still retains a traditional feel.
Accommodation: sitting room and dining area leading to terrace; kitchen; bathroom with shower. One step up from sitting room to one double bedroom with balcony, ensuite bathroom with shower; staircase from sitting room to one double bedroom with balcony and one twin bedrooms. Facilities: air conditioning in bedrooms (small charge payable locally); TV/DVD & CD player. An outside shower in the private olive grove. Amenities: just a five minute walk to waterfront tavernas, shops and café bars. A hire boat can be moored in Loggos harbour. A local supermarket will deliver shopping.
For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com
V I L L A E S C A P E S 93
PA X O S L O G G O S
1 bedroom
Villa Adrianna
1 bathroom
At Loggos | Sleeps 2 – 4
swimming pool
■ Early Booking Offer
air conditioning
Villa Adrianna is the only villa with its own swimming pool located in the village of Loggos. Just a two minute walk from the waterfront, the villa is surrounded by olive groves and looks down to a few village houses with glimpses of the sea. Levrecchio beach is a ten minute walk away. Pano, the owner, who runs a small supermarket in Loggos, has created a large, comfortable home with substantial grounds. An ideal property for those wanting a villa close to the shops and tavernas of Loggos.
Accommodation: sitting room, with two divan beds, and dining area leading to covered balcony; one double bedroom with covered balcony; kitchen; bathroom with shower. Facilities: air conditioning in bedroom; satellite TV/DVD & CD player; barbecue. Private swimming pool: 9.5m x 4m & depth 1.2m – 1.7m Amenities: just a two minute walk to waterfront tavernas, shops and café bars. A hired boat can be moored in Loggos harbour.
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PA X O S L O G G O S
2 bedrooms
Kapassa House
1 bathroom
At Loggos | Sleeps 2 – 3
swimming pool
■ Early Booking Offer
air conditioning
Kapassa House is a pretty country cottage, situated on an olive clad hillside, in the small hamlet of Dendiatika, above the harbour of Loggos, which is a fifteen minute walk away. A secluded and private patio with lemon trees and potted plants provides privacy and excellent views of the sea across to the the Greek mainland and surrounding verdant valley. The walk up to Kapassa House through the olive groves, along an ancient donkey path, is steep but its secluded position makes it worthwhile.
Accommodation: one double bedroom and one single bedroom; sitting room; kitchen; bathroom with shower. Facilities: air conditioning (small charge payable locally). Private swimming pool: 6m x 4m & depth 1.2m – 1.6m Amenities: Loggos waterfront boat hire; Levrecchio beach and the pretty bay of Glyfada can be reached within a twenty minute walk. A ten minute walk takes you to an old windmill with spectacular views of Loggos harbour where a hired boat can be moored.
For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com
V I L L A E S C A P E S 95
Antipaxos The epitome of seclusion, with only 50 local inhabitants, Antipaxos provides glorious sandy beaches and crystal waters. With only four tavernas, the ethos here is quality rather than quantity.
A N T I PA X O S
With an area of a mere five square kilometres and a population of about 50 people, Antipaxos clearly belongs to a world distinct and apart from our usual daily lives. It may have in its history one of the greatest naval battles between the Greek City states of Corinth and Corfu in 432BC but today it prefers to offer those who relish nature’s simplicity an unique escape to some of the best soft sand beaches and VRIKA clearest water in the VOUTOUMI Mediterranean. AGRAPIDIA
N
LIGHT HOUSE
V I L L A E S C A P E S 97
An undulating interior of hillsides, carpeted by maquis, contains small vineyards above beaches of sand and pebble. A network of narrow tracks lead from the small harbour of Agrapidia up to the interior and past the occasional cottage with gardens of fruit trees, vegetables and vineyards. Pathways, bordered by large bulbs of sea squill and wild herbs, lead down on the east coast to the sandy bays of Voutoumi and Vrika with their chalk-blue waters.
There are four tavernas but no shops on Antipaxos. One of the tavernas, overlooking Voutoumi beach, will usually remain open at night on request from June to September. We recommend that we arrange a substantial hamper of provisions for your arrival – to last two days. Clients can contact our Paxos office to order further supplies, which will usually be delivered the next day for a small charge payable locally. From the end of May an “Express Boat” travels
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between Paxos and two of the Antipaxos sandy beaches. The journey takes twenty minutes and mobile phone contact with our Paxos office will determine the exact time that the boat arrives on Antipaxos. This service can be used by our Antipaxos clients to do their own shopping on Paxos. The three houses of Violetta, Phoenica and Bacchus are well equipped for comfort. Each house has a freezer, mobile telephone to contact our
Paxos office, torch, games, DVDs and books on fauna and flora. The island is small but distances are deceptive and in parts the tracks are steep and uneven: good walking shoes are recommended.
A N T I PA X O S
1 bedroom
Bacchus House
1 bathroom
On Antipaxos | Sleeps 2
swimming pool
■ Early Booking Offer
air conditioning WiFi
Bacchus House stands at the top of Antipaxos’ east coast with a dramatic and panoramic view out to sea. With total privacy, Bacchus has a sheltered garden containing almond, lemon, quince, fig and grapefruit trees with wonderful views over the vineyards and across the sea to the Greek mainland. A walk of fifteen minutes from the house takes you to the Vlahopouli’s taverna and the sandy beach of Vrika. The owners have converted a charming and secluded stone cottage into a comfortable, romantic home.
Accommodation: open-plan sitting room, dining and kitchen area leading to seafacing terrace; one double bedroom; bathroom with shower. Facilities: air conditioning in open plan lounge; TV/DVD & CD player; local mobile phone; Espresso machine, cool box, board games, beach towels, barbecue, Wi-Fi. Private swimming pool: 5m x 2.5m & depth 1.1m – 1.4m
A cosy and private retreat offering peaceful seclusion and stunning views for those looking for a more unusual escape from the crowds. For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com
V I L L A E S C A P E S 99
Lefkas Fertile and green, with sweeping mountains and a turquoise sea, Lefkas encapsulates the dramatic panorama of Greece.
IONIAN ISLANDS LEFKAS Nidri Bay
An east coast beach
Across a canal originally excavated in 640BC, a swing-bridge joins the spectacular island of Lefkas to the Greek mainland. Twenty one miles long and nine miles wide, Lefkas is divided by the towering spine of Mount Stavratos, so that each corner of the island has its own character. To the north, windswept dunes and ruined fortresses; to the west, magnificent beaches of perfect sand beneath steep limestone cliffs; the east, more sheltered, with honey-coloured beaches stretching as far as the eye can see. Georgeous countryside dotted LEFKAS with villages and crooked LEFKAS backstreets with multiTOWN AGIOS IOANNIS FANEROMENI coloured houses in TSOUKOULADES Lefkas town complete AGIOS NIKITAS ASPROYERAKATA a magical picture. KATHISMA
GREEK MAINLAND
LIGIA KATOUNA LAZARATA PIGADISANI KALAMITSI KARIA ALEXANDROS NIKIANA EXANTHIA
PLATISTOMOS PERIYALI
EGKLOUVI CHORTATA
VAFKERI NIDRI
PALIOKATOUNA
KORAKIAS
GENI
SPARTI ISLAND SKORPITHI ISLAND SKORPIOS ISLAND
VLICHO DESSIMI
SIVROS AGIOS PETROS
VATHI POROS SPARTOCHORI KATOMERI MARANTHOCHORI
EGREMNI PORTO KATSIKI
MEGANISSI ISLAND
VASILIKI SIVOTA
N
CAPE LEFKADA
Sivota Bay
ARKOUDI ISLAND
V I L L A E S C A P E S 101
A varied and beautiful landscape with very welcoming people Lefkas Town
Sivota
The old town of Lefkas, located at the Northern most tip of the island, is quite charming, with its mass of tiny streets and lanes, lined with traditional Lefkadian houses all painted in different pastel colours. This is a small town and it takes no more than 15 minutes to walk across it. A delightful boulevard, which is pedestrianised in the evenings, leads to the town square where there are many restaurants, cafes, bars and ice cream parlours. The town has a large Marina full of sailing boats and yachts. The town boasts a phonograph museum, a municipal art gallery and a recently expanded archaeological museum. The town also hosts two cultural festivals which run in parallel - the International Folklore Festival and Speech & Arts Events. Both these festivals run from June to September but peak in August. Performers come from all over the world. The beaches on the West coast are only a few kilometres away.
The tiny, pretty bay of Sivota on the tip of the South East coast is a natural safe haven for sailors and the village itself, with its tiny harbour, is ideal for evening strolls and people watching. All the local flotilla companies tend to moor here for the night so there is always a lot of activity on the seafront. There are several harbour front fish tavernas and cafe bars. Small boats can be hired from here. There are two supermarkets but if a greater variety is required then the larger resort of Vasiliki is only 5km to the West. Beaches can be found at Vasiliki and Poros to the North, also a 5km drive.
Kavalos A village full of character with a population of 292 souls, Kavalos is located in the hills above Lefkas town and is surrounded by vineyards and olive groves. Here you are close to nature and the rustic village cafe is a welcoming resting place. However, you are not completely isolated because shopping and tavernas are 1km away and the nearest beaches 5km.
Tsoukoulades This simple farming village on the main coast road on the West of the island lies within a beautiful landscape of cypress and olive trees. There are three tavernas, a bakery, mini market and coffee shop. A 15 minute drive South is the seaside village if Agios Nikolaos and Milos and Kathisma beaches. It is only 6km to Lefkas Town.
LEFKAS LEFKAS TOWN
1 bedroom
Villa Kyparissi
1 bathroom
Periyali | Sleeps 2
car hire included
■ Early Booking Offer
swimming pool air conditioning
WiFi With its own swimming-pool, this is a sunny, contemporary 1-bedroom villa on two floors with views towards the Greek mainland and the small islands of Skorpios and Meganissi. Peaceful and stocked with modern conveniences, the villa is ideal for couples seeking comfortable relaxation. The villa shares a drive-way with Villa Ambelina (approx.70 metres away) on a quiet but steep lane that leads to the mountains. It is close to the small village of Periyali and its pebble beach and mini-market, and a 5 minute drive from Nidri and 25 minutes from Lefkas Town.
Accommodation: ground floor of one open-plan room consisting of a compact fully-fitted kitchen, lounge/diner; cloakroom. Sea-facing terrace and pool terrace with swim-up bar. Spiral stairs lead to a double bedroom (4-poster bed) with ensuite bathroom (shower). Sea-facing balcony. Facilities: air conditioning throughout; satellite TV, CD/DVD player; multi media system which can be used with iPod or IPads etc; Wi-Fi; washing machine; microwave; hair dryer; safe deposit box; barbecue. Private swimming pool: 8.75m x 4.25m & depth 0.80m – 1.5m Amenities: a three minute drive brings you to the area of Periyiali and the lovely Passa pebble beach, a couple of tavernas and a mini-market with bakery. A short drive further along the coastal road brings you to Nidri where you will find an array of restaurants, café bars and excursion boats. ATM machines & pharmacy. Boat hire and water sports available.
For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com
V I L L A E S C A P E S 103
L E F K A S P E R I YA L I
2 bedrooms
Villa Ambelina
2 bathrooms
Periyali | Sleeps 2– 4
car hire included
■ Early Booking Offer
swimming pool air conditioning
WiFi Located on a quiet hillside lane leading into the mountains, this modern, light and spacious 2-bedroom villa with its own pool has panoramic views to the islands of Skorpios, Madouri and Meganissi. The villa is on a single level and has a sea-facing terrace and a pool terrace with a swim-up bar. The double bedroom boasts a 4-poster bed. The village of Periyali with its shingle beach, couple of tavernas and minimarket is 2 minutes drive away, while Nidri is a 5 minutes drive and Lefkas Town 25 minutes. Restful and rural, the villa shares a drive with Villa Kyparissi, approximately 70 metres away.
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Accommodation: one double bedroom with ensuite bathroom (bath). Doors to front terrace; One twin bedroom with French windows to side patio; open-plan room with fully-fitted kitchen, lounge/diner. Lounge opens to pool area; shower room. Facilities: air conditioning throughout; satellite TV/DVD and CD player; multi media system which can be used with iPod or iPads etc; Wi-Fi; washing machine; microwave; hair dryer; gas barbecue; safety deposit box. Private swimming pool: 8.50m x 4.75m & depth 0.80m – 1.5m Amenities: a three minute drive brings you to the area of Periyiali and the lovely Passa pebble beach, a couple of tavernas and a mini-market with bakery. A short drive further along the coastal road brings you to Nidri where you will find an array of restaurants, café bars and excursion boats. ATM machines & pharmacy. Boat hire and water sports available.
Villa Ambelina pool
For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com
V I L L A E S C A P E S 105
L E F K A S K AVA L O S
1 bedroom
Villa Milos
1 bathroom
Kavalos | Sleeps 2
car hire included
■ Early Booking Offer
swimming pool WiFi
A stylishly renovated old windmill (last used for grinding grain to make flour for bread as a working mill in 1961) complete with the original sail structure , this imaginatively-created dwelling space for two sits atop a hill with spectacular views in all directions and a welcome, everpresent breeze. The air conditioning here is 100% natural. Both shade and full-on sunshine can be enjoyed in its lovely garden with pool. Perfect for honeymooners and couples seeking romance and a private escape, and for whom rusticity rather than sophistication is the key to happiness. On the edge of the sleepy village of Kavalos, Villa Milos is a unique property, carefully finished in traditional stone and with handcrafted furnishings "in the round". A very special ambience is created by the comforting shape of the rooms. 106 G I C – T H E V I L L A C O L L E C T I O N
Accommodation: ground floor: front terrace with stupendous views, open-plan fully-fitted kitchen/dining/sitting room with very high ceiling, plus small bathroom with shower. First floor: One double bedroom, again "in the round", with a huge beam, part of the old mill mechanism, high ceiling, plus small windows with far-reaching views. The bedroom is equipped with a powerful fan. Facilities: there is a fan in the bedroom; washing machine, TV/DVD player; Wi-Fi. Private swimming pool: 22sqm & depth 1.65m throughout Amenities: the village of Kavalos only has a caféneon. The larger village of Lazarata, with a mini-market, a couple of tavernas and two excellent traditional bakeries, is just 2 km away, while Lefkas town and the coastal regions to the east and west – where sandy beaches abound – are within 10-20 minute drives.
Villa Milos
For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com
V I L L A E S C A P E S 107
L E F K A S S I V O TA
studio
Villa Yesemi
1 bathroom
Near Sivota | Sleeps 2 – 3
car hire included
■ Early Booking Offer
swimming pool air conditioning
From the port of Sivota, at the tip of Lefkas’ south east coast, a two kilometre track leads through coastal olive groves to five villas. Yesemi stands on the uppermost hillside terrace of olive trees above the other villas and is therefore not overlooked. Uninterrupted views from the balcony and infinity pool reveal a coastline of olive groves, the entrance to Sivota Bay, the islands of Meganissi, Kastos, Arkoudi, and Ithaca, the mountains of the Greek mainland and passing fishing boats and yachts – truly panoramic. A modern, chic, private and romantic retreat surrounded by landscape terraces of colourful plants and shrubs.
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Accommodation: open-plan design of bedroom with double bed, sitting and dining (with sofa bed) and kitchen area leading to large, shady balcony; bathroom with shower. Facilities: air conditioning throughout; TV/DVD & CD player; washing machine; dishwasher; microwave; safe deposit box; barbecue. Private swimming pool: 8m x 4.5m & depth 1m – 1.8m Amenities: Sivota, a five minute drive away, has 4 supermarkets, a bakery, a variety of waterfront tavernas and café bars and boat hire. Beaches can be found five kilometres north, below Poros, or at Vasiliki, seven kilometres away on the south coast, where there are dinghy sailing and windsurfing facilities. Porto Katsiki with its beautiful stretch of sandy beach is a drive of forty minutes.
L E F K A S S I V O TA
3 bedrooms
Villa Eleonora Near Sivota | Sleeps 2 – 6
3 bathrooms car hire included swimming pool air conditioning
Villa Eleonora is a modern and stylishly furnished home amongst olives groves with views to the entrance of Sivota Bay, Lefkas’ mountainous coastline and across the sea to the islands of Meganissi, Kastos, Arkoudi, Ithaca and Kefalonia. Comfortable interiors open to balconies and terraces with separate barbecue and dining areas. Situated on the south east coast, a two kilometre tracks leads from the pretty harbour of Sivota through the olive groves to the Eleonora's hillside position.
Accommodation: ground floor of an open-plan sitting room, dining and kitchen area; one twin bedroom; bathroom with shower. First floor of one double bedroom and ensuite bathroom with shower; one twin bedroom and ensuite bathroom with bath. Facilities: air conditioning throughout; TV/DVD & CD player; iPod docking station; washing machine; dishwasher; barbecue; pergola covered outside eating area. Private swimming pool: 10m x 4m & depth 0.50m – 2m Amenities: Sivota, a five minute drive away, has 4 supermarkets, a bakery, a variety of waterfront tavernas and café bars and boat hire. Beaches can be found five kilometres north, below Poros, or at Vasiliki, seven kilometres away on the south coast, where there are windsurfing facilities.
For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com
V I L L A E S C A P E S 109
L E F K A S S I V O TA
3 bedrooms
Villa Constantina Near Sivota | Sleeps 2 – 6
3 bathrooms car hire included swimming pool air conditioning
The sheltered bay and pretty harbour of Sivota lies near the tip of Lefkas on the south east coast. A two kilometre track leads from Sivota through the coastal olive groves to the hillside position of Villa Constantina. Villa Constantina is in a secluded position and has dramatic views to the entrance of Sivota Bay, Lefkas’ mountainous coastline and across the sea to the islands of Meganissi, Kastos, Arkoudi, Ithaca and Kefalonia. Modern, comfortable interiors open to balconies and terraces with separate barbecue and dining areas.
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Accommodation: ground floor of an open-plan sitting room, dining and kitchen area; one twin bedroom; bathroom with shower. First floor of two double bedrooms, each with ensuite bathroom with shower. Facilities: air conditioning throughout; TV/DVD & CD player; iPod docking station; washing machine; dishwasher; barbecue. Private swimming pool: 10m x 4m & depth 1.00 – 1.80m Amenities: Sivota, a five minute drive away, has 4 supermarkets, a bakery, a variety of waterfront tavernas and café bars and boat hire. Beaches can be found five kilometres north, below Poros, or at Vasiliki, seven kilometres away on the south coast, where there are dinghy sailing and windsurfing facilities.
Afteli beach on the south coast
For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com
V I L L A E S C A P E S 111
LEFKAS TSOUKOULADES
Villa Katia
4 bedrooms 3 bathrooms
Tsoukoulades | Sleeps 2-8
car hire included
■ Early Booking Offer
swimming pool air conditioning
Ten minutes from the spectacular beaches of the west coast, the farming village of Tsoukoulades lies amongst a beautiful, unspoilt landscape of cypress and olives. The sleepy village has several tavernas, a caféneon and a supermarket.
WiFi
Villa Katia sits privately and peacefully, half a kilometre above the village. The villa faces west across terraces of olive and cypress to the sea, and out to the island of Antipaxos and the mountains of the mainland beyond. Sunsets are spectacular.
Accommodation: Ground floor of an open-plan sitting room, dining area and kitchen; one double bedroom; shower room. First floor of one double bedroom and ensuite bathroom with Jacuzzi bath; two twin bedrooms; bathroom with shower. Facilities: air conditioning throughout; mosquito screens on all windows and doors; satellite TV/DVD & CD player; iPod docking station; Wi-Fi; washing machine; dishwasher; hair dryer; barbecue. Private swimming pool: 8m x 4m & depth 1.1m – 1.9m Amenities: the nearby village of Tsoukoulades is a two minute drive away. Agios Nikitas and the sandy beaches of Kathisma and Milos are a drive of fifteen minutes to the south.
112 G I C – T H E V I L L A C O L L E C T I O N
Villa Katia
For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com
V I L L A E S C A P E S 113
Meganissi Tiny, quiet and secluded, Meganissi is the gentlest of antidotes to the bustle of our usual lives.
IONIAN ISLANDS MEGANISSI Vathy
Agios Ioannis Beach
Just over a thousand people live on the twenty square kilometres that make up this exquisite and delightful island, untouched by any sign of mass tourism. A haven of restfulness and tranquillity, there is little to disturb the simple pleasures of sun, sand and crystal clear waters. Gentle tracks lead through terraces of olive groves down to undisturbed beaches; cascades of bougainvillaea blaze against the whitewashed houses in the three sleepy villages.
ABELAKI BAY SPILIA BAY
VATHY
SPARTOCHORI KATOMERI LIMONARI
MEGANISSI
N
KYTHROS
Vathy
V I L L A E S C A P E S 115
A short ferry crossing from Lefkas but a different world Limonari Katomeri is the small island capital of Meganissi and the cove of Limonari is at the end of a narrow, 1km road which winds down from the village. Here there are two beaches, Mikro (small) Limonari and Megalo (large) Limonari. The sand/pebble beaches here are fringed with olive and pine trees and the waters clear and inviting. These are uncrowded beaches with no facilities or tavernas. Katomeri, with a population of around 500 persons has a petrol station, bakery and a few tavernas and is very much a traditional village with stone built houses and courtyards bedecked with colourful potted plants. Port Vathy is a drive of about 10 minutes from this area.
Spartohori The village of Spartohori with approximately 500 inhabitants, is perched high above the little port of Spilia in Spilia Bay and enjoys dramatic views across the sea to the mountains of the Greek mainland. This is a sleepy and very pretty village, with its narrow streets of
cobblestones and whitewashed houses bordered by flowers. It is a 10 to 15 minute walk up the road or via a series of steps from the port. Here you will find two tavernas, one pizzeria and two mini markets. Spilia port has three waterfront tavernas and a sheltered pebble beach, backed by olive trees, just round the corner. A hired boat can be moored at Spilia.
Vathy Tiny Vathy, on the North coast of the island, is the main ferry port on Meganissi and is about 6km South East of the larger island of Lefkas. Fishing boats and visiting yachts moor alongside the waterfront houses, tavernas and shops. A good spot to watch the comings and goings in the harbour. A Coastal road joins the three main villages of Meganissi which winds through a beautiful landscape of olive groves and pine trees leading to secluded beaches and coves. An area which is good for walking and cycling.
MEGANISSI LIMONARI Lower villa
The Limonari Villas
1-2 bedrooms 2 bathrooms
At Limonari | 2 villas each sleeping 2 – 3 & 1 villa sleeping 2 – 5
car hire included
■ Early Booking Offer
air conditioning
swimming pool
A narrow road of one kilometre winds its way down a hillside of olive groves from the sleepy island capital of Katomeri to the beautifully clear sea at Limonari on Meganissi’s south-east coast. Just a few metres away from the sea and two small beaches, the Limonari Villas look out to the island of Kalamos, the mountains of the Greek mainland and along Meganissi’s east coast. Set on separate levels of the hillside, each of the three villas has a large sea-facing pool terrace with stunning, uninterrupted views. The pool areas do not overlook another. These are some of our best selling properties. A small, secluded beach is a one minute walk away and a larger beach is a three minute walk away. Katomeri, a drive of five minutes, has a bakery and taverna. Vathy is a drive of ten minutes and has three supermarkets, four waterside tavernas, a pizzeria and ouzeri.
Accommodation: Villa 1 (top hillside terrace) has one twin bedroom and two bathrooms; Villa 2 (middle hillside terrace) has one double and one twin bedroom and two ensuite bathrooms; Villa 3 (lower hillside terrace) has one double bedroom and two bathrooms. Each villa has an open-plan sitting room (with sofa bed), dining area and kitchen. Facilities: each villa has air conditioning throughout; flat screen TV/DVD & CD player; washing machine; dishwasher; microwave; safe deposit box; mosquito screens to all windows; barbecue. Private swimming pool: each villa’s pool is 8m x 4m & depth 0.85m – 1.7m
For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com
V I L L A E S C A P E S 117
M E G A N I S S I S PA R T O H O R I
3 bedrooms
Villa Aleka
3 bathrooms
Near Spartohori | Sleeps 2 – 6
swimming pool
■ Early Booking Offer
air conditioning WiFi
Villa Aleka is just a five minute walk from the small and sleepy hilltop village of Spartohori, with its narrow streets of cobblestone and whitewashed houses bordered by flowers. The Villa stands privately on a hillside terrace of olive groves with beautiful views to the rooftops of Spartohori village and across Spilia Bay to the open sea and the Greek mainland. This is a modern, spacious villa with sea-facing balconies and terraces surrounded by colourful gardens.
Accommodation: ground floor of an open-plan sitting room, dining and kitchen area; two twin bedrooms, each with ensuite bathroom with shower. First floor of one double bedroom, ensuite bathroom with bath and shower. All bedrooms with balcony/terrace.
A ten minute walk from the village takes one down to the little port of Spilia. Spilia’s waterfront has two tavernas and leads to a sheltered beach backed by olive groves.
Facilities: air conditioning in all bedrooms; TV/DVD & CD player; iPod docking station; Wi-Fi; washing machine; dishwasher; microwave; mosquito screens to windows; barbecue.
As the port of Spilia is so close, we would thoroughly recommend the hire of a boat with an outboard engine to explore the many beaches which can only be reached by sea.
Amenities: Spartohori village has three small mini-markets and five restaurants (three traditional and two pizzeria). A hired boat can be moored at Spilia port.
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Private swimming pool: 10m x 5m & depth 0.80m – 1.6m with Jacuzzi section.
M E G A N I S S I S PA R T O H O R I
3 bedrooms
Villa Eleni
3 bathrooms
Near Spartohori | Sleeps 2 – 6
swimming pool
■ Early Booking Offer
air conditioning WiFi
Five minute’s walk from the delightful, small village of Spartohori stands Villa Eleni nestled privately on its hillside terrace. There are excellent views from the terrace over the charming streets and houses of Spartohori, across the bay and to the Greek mainland. The little port of Spilia, with two tavernas, is only a ten minute walk as is a sheltered beach behind the olive groves. Many other beaches can only be reached by sea so we recommend guests hire a small boat with outboard motor in order to explore.
Accommodation: ground floor of an open-plan sitting room, dining and kitchen area; two twin bedrooms, each with ensuite bathroom with shower. First floor of one double bedroom, ensuite bathroom with bath and shower. All bedrooms with balcony or terrace. Facilities: air conditioning in all bedrooms; TV/DVD & CD player; iPod docking station; Wi-Fi; washing machine; dishwasher; microwave; mosquito screens to windows; barbecue. Private swimming pool: 10m x 5m & depth 0.80m – 1.6m with Jacuzzi section.
Eleni is a sister villa to Villa Aleka and in a similar position, though each villa is private and does not encroach on the other.
Amenities: Spartohori village has three small mini-markets and five restaurants (three traditional and two pizzeria). A hired boat can be moored at Spilia port.
For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com
V I L L A E S C A P E S 119
M E G A N I S S I S PA R T O H O R I
•
I
• PERTY
3 bedrooms 3 bathrooms
O
Near Spartohori | Sleeps 2 – 6
PR
Villa Kalisti
EM
ER
PR
■ Early Booking Offer
swimming pool air conditioning WiFi
Villa Kallisti is the brand new, latest addition from the owner of two of our most popular villas - Aleka and Eleni. It is a five minute walk from the small village of Spartohori. The views from the extensive terrace and pool area are over the Bay of Spilia and to the mainland beyond. The villa has it’s own private entrance from a narrow lane and, for those who know the area, Kallisti is slightly closer to the village. It is in a quiet, rural position, surrounded by olive trees yet only a five minute walk to the tiny hilltop village with its narrow streets of cobblestone and whitewashed houses bordered by flowers. A further 10 minute walk from the village brings you to the little fishing port of Spilia with its two waterfront tavernas and sheltered beach.
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Accommodation: ground floor of an open-plan sitting room opening to an extensive terrace with pool, dining and kitchen area; two twin bedrooms, one with en-suite bathroom with shower; separate bathroom with bath. First floor of double bedroom with en-suite bathroom with shower. All bedrooms are with balcony/terrace. Facilities: air conditioning in all bedrooms; TV/DVD & CD player; iPod docking station; free WIFI; washing machine and dishwasher; microwave; mosquito screens to windows. Private swimming pool: 11m x 5m and depth 0.8m to 1.6m Amenities: Spartohori has three mini-markets, 3 traditional restaurant/tavernas and 2 pizzerias. A hired boat can be moored at Spilia Port.
For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com
V I L L A E S C A P E S 121
Ithaca Relatively untouched by tourism because it has no airport and can only be reached by ferry, Ithaca remains a perfect destination for a relaxed holiday amidst timeless beauty.
IONIAN ISLANDS ITHACA
The legendary island of Odysseus, Ithaca is strangely one of the least known. Narrow and gently mountainous, with spectacular views, it has 100 kilometres of coastline. Surrounded by green crystal waters that lap against white-pebbled beaches, Ithaca is dotted with tiny fishing villages, where the sight of the returning boats in the shimmering dusk is unforgettable – along with the morning smell of freshly baked bread and the tinkling sound of distant goat bells. In the convivial taverna of the harbours at Kioni and Frikes, excellent local produce tempts the palate. The geography of the island lends itself to exploration both on foot and by boat, and soon you will understand why the poet Cavafy advised: “Have Ithaca always in your mind. Your arrival there is what you are destined for.”
AFALES BAY
ITHACA N
EXOGHI FRIKES PLATRITHIA KIONI
STAVROS
BAY OF POLIS
ANOGHI MT. NIRITOS 806 m
LEFKI AGIOS YANNIS
VATHY PISO AETOS
PERACHORI
PALEOCHORA ARETHUSA’S FOUNTAIN
Kioni Bay
V I L L A E S C A P E S 123
Abounding with legends, Ithaca provides the discerning traveller with traditional fishing villages, lush landscapes and crystal waters. Still unspoilt, the island can be explored by foot or by boat. Kioni
Vathy
The entrance to Kioni harbour is overlooked by three old windmills, and from here one sees the old village houses dotted on the hillsides behind the little port. The water is clear and there are four beaches within the bay itself, all with views across to the pastel coloured houses and surrounding olive groves.
Vathy, the capital port of Ithaca, has a beautiful horseshoe waterfront of houses overlooking a magnificent bay, flanked by green hillsides. The port and narrow backstreets have a good selection of shops, tavernas and bars and boat hire is available to visit nearby beaches.
There are five waterfront tavernas and three small cafĂŠ bars. A general store sells nearly everything from snorkels to fresh peaches.
The olive tree covered hills slope down into the sea at the the Bay of Polis on the West coast of Ithaca. There are two pebble beaches here, with clear turquoise waters. On one beach there is a simple cantina serving fresh fish snacks, salads, assorted savouries and ice creams. The hilltop village of Stavros overlooks the bay, but it take a good 25 minutes to walk up to the village and the going is steep. The village has four tavernas, a mini market, butcher, baker and grocery store. Boats can be hired from the beach.
Frikes The sheltered bay of Frikes, a few miles north of Kioni, holds a cluster of beaches and a small village waterfront of two supermarkets, one cafĂŠnion and five tavernas. A small marina accommodates visiting yachts and the ferry to Lefkas and Kefalonia whilst the fishing and hire boats jostle for position at the waterfront beach.
Polis Bay
There is an interesting cave to one side of the bay, where there is evidence that this was a place of worship for people in the bronze age.
Frikes
ITHACA KIONI
Costa’s House
3 bedrooms 1 bathroom
At Kioni | Sleeps 2 – 6 ■ Early Booking Offer
A flight of one hundred steps leads from the Kioni waterfront to Costa’s House, set in a private, hillside position above the bay. Each bedroom opens out on to a private balcony with dramatic views across Kioni Bay and the sitting room leads to a large veranda (with pergola) for dining and relaxing above the sea. Costa’s House enjoys a special position to watch the activities of the small port, but not to be seen. Conveniently close to the activities of Kioni’s waterfront yet enjoys private seclusion.
Accommodation: ground floor of sitting room; dining room; kitchen; washroom. First floor of one double bedroom and two twin bedrooms; bathroom with bath and shower. Facilities: CD player; washing machine; microwave; hair dryer. Amenities: waterfront tavernas and shops; beaches on the other side of the bay. A hired boat can be moored in the harbour.
For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com
V I L L A E S C A P E S 125
ITHACA KIONI
Georgakis House
2 bedrooms 1 bathroom
At Kioni | Sleeps 2 – 4 ■ Early Booking Offer
Georgakis House is one of the traditional village houses, which line the Kioni waterfront and enjoy superb and unobstructed views across the bay. The large sitting room leads out on to a balcony overlooking the waterfront: an entertaining vantage point to survey the comings and goings of yachts below and the smaller fishing boats in the port itself. To the rear of the house is a terrace, bordered by fruit trees of pomegranate and lemon.
126 G I C – T H E V I L L A C O L L E C T I O N
Accommodation: one double bedroom and one twin bedroom; open-plan kitchen, dinning and sitting room with sea-facing balcony; bathroom with shower. Facilities: bedroom ceiling fans; CD player; Microwave. Amenities: waterfront tavernas and shops; beaches on other side of the bay. A hired boat can be moored in the harbour.
ITHACA KIONI
3 bedrooms
Hilltop House At Kioni | Sleeps 2 – 5
1 bathroom swimming pool
■ Early Booking Offer
The ten to fifteen minute walk from Kioni waterfront to the Hilltop House is steep in parts but will reward the escapist. Views from the large, private veranda over Kioni Bay, toward the islands of Atokos, Arkoudi, Meganisi and Lefkas and the Greek mainland, are outstanding. Grapevines cover half the veranda to offer shade from the midday sun. The pool terrace, bordered by lemon, olive and pine trees, provides views along the hillside of the remains of old stone houses. A traditional island home. Not suitable for those with mobility problems.
Accommodation: one double bedroom; one twin bedroom; one single bedroom; open-plan sitting room, kitchen and dining area with French windows opening onto the sea-facing veranda; bathroom with shower. Facilities: ceiling fans in sitting room; CD player; microwave. Private swimming pool: 7m x 4m & depth 0.60m – 1.7m Amenities: waterfront tavernas, And shops; beaches on one side of the bay. A hired boat can be moored at Kioni.
For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com
V I L L A E S C A P E S 127
ITHACA KIONI
1 bedroom
Kaliopi Apartment At Kioni | Sleeps 2
1 bathroom air conditioning
■ Early Booking Offer
Kaliopi is set back from the little village street and is just a minute’s walk away from the waterfront. Two verandas provide both sun and shade throughout the day with views across olive and citrus groves and over village rooftops towards Kioni Bay and the olive-clad hillsides.
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Accommodation: open-plan sitting room and kitchen area; one twin bedroom with French windows to back veranda; bathroom with bath and shower. Facilities: air conditioning in bedroom; CD player. Amenities: waterfront tavernas, shops; beaches on one side of the bay. A hired boat can be moored in the harbour.
ITHACA KIONI
House Of Phoebe
3 bedrooms 1 bathroom
At Kioni | Sleeps 2 – 6 ■ Early Booking Offer
Phoebe is a large, traditional island house which has been converted with care to produce a beautiful private home. From its hillside position, about ten minutes’ walk away from Kioni waterfront, the house’s large flagstoned veranda and balcony provide spectacular views across silver olive trees and Kioni Bay. Bathing can be enjoyed either in Kioni Bay or from several beaches on the other side of the hill towards Frikes. There is a general store at the top of the hill which is within a ten minute walk.
Accommodation: open-plan sitting room, dining and kitchen area; two twin bedrooms (one with balcony); one double bedroom with balcony; bathroom with shower. Facilities: ceiling fans in bedrooms; CD player; washing machine; Microwave. Amenities: waterfront tavernas and shops; beaches on one side of the bay. A hired boat can be moored at the harbour.
For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com
V I L L A E S C A P E S 129
ITHACA KIONI
Lorenzo’s House At Kioni | Sleeps 2 – 4
2 bedrooms 1 bathroom WiFi
■ Early Booking Offer
Lorenzo’s House is in the hilltop hamlet of Rachi above Kioni and has one of the best vantage positions with magnificent views across the sea to the islands of Lefkas, Meganissi, Atokos, Kastos, Arkoudi and the Greek mainland. The sitting room, with high vaulted ceiling, leads to a sea-facing terrace bordered by jasmine, lavender, olive and lemon trees. Lorenzo’s House is owned by an architect from Rome who has redesigned the interiors to create a beautiful home.
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Accommodation: one double bedroom and one twin bedroom leading to side terrace; open-plan sitting room, dining and kitchen area leading to sea-facing terrace; bathroom with shower; laundry room. Facilities: CD player; washing machine; barbecue; Wi-Fi. Amenities: the port of Kioni is just a two minute drive away and Frikes is a drive of ten minutes. The hamlet of Rachi has one mini-market, a walk of two minutes from the house. The beach of Mavrounas is a drive of two minutes downhill and is close to the fishermen’s church of Agios Ioannis.
Beach below Rachi
For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com
V I L L A E S C A P E S 131
ITHACA KIONI
2 bedrooms
Petrino House
1 bathroom
Near Frikes | Sleeps 2 – 5
car hire included
■ Early Booking Offer
swimming pool air conditioning
Reached by a small country lane, which cuts through the valley of olive groves behind the little port of Frikes, Petrino House provides total privacy but is just a short distance from the waterfront shops and tavernas.
WiFi
A beautifully restored home, Petrino is set in mature and colourful gardens of bougainvillaea, jasmine and citrus trees with a series of stone terraces to relax and escape from the world outside. Whitewashed interiors are comfortably and artistically finished and contain a delightful display of antiques. This is a charming and peaceful retreat.
Accommodation: open-plan sitting room, dining and kitchen area leading to garden terraces; one double bedroom with ceiling fan and one twin bedroom; bathroom with shower. Narrow spiral staircase down to single bedroom. Facilities: air conditioning in sitting room feeding cool air to the bedrooms; satellite TV/DVD & CD player; mosquito screens on all windows; microwave; hair dryer; barbecue; Wi-Fi. Private swimming pool: 6m x 3.5m & depth 0.90m – 1.4m Amenities: Frikes is just over one kilometre away. There are many beaches just outside Frikes on the way to Kioni. The slightly larger inland village of Stavros is two and a half kilometres away. A hired boat can be moored in Frikes Harbour.
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Vathy
For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com
V I L L A E S C A P E S 133
I T H A C A A G I O S YA N N I S B E A C H Middle villa
2 bedrooms
The Lefki Villas
2 bathrooms
Near Agios Yannis Beach | 3 villas each sleeping 2 – 4
car hire included
■ Early Booking Offer
air conditioning
swimming pool
WiFi A small road leads down from the small village of Lefki, perched up high on Ithaca’s west coast, to the clear waters of Agios Yannis beach. Set back from this beach road, each of the Lefki Villas is set privately on a separate hillside terrace surrounded by olive groves. The views from each villa are over the silver olives and across the channel between Ithaca and Kefalonia, whose forested hillsides form a theatrical backdrop for the setting sun. The twinkling lights of Kefalonia’s north coast villages enhance the theatrical effect. These villas are modern, with contemporary and comfortable furnishings. Each individual, surrounding villa terrace incorporates pool and barbecue areas which are private from the other villas and provide sun and shade. 134 G I C – T H E V I L L A C O L L E C T I O N
Upper villa
Lower villa
Accommodation: two villas have open-plan sitting room, dining and fully equipped kitchen areas; one double bedroom and ensuite bathroom with shower; staircase to a mezzanine floor of one twin bedroom and ensuite bathroom with shower. The third villa has the same accommodation but all on one level. Facilities: air conditioning; satellite TV/DVD & CD player; washing machine; barbecue, Wi-Fi. Private swimming pool: each villa’s pool is 7m x 4m & depth 1.6m Amenities: the village of Stavros, with shops and tavernas, is four kilometres away. Agios Yannis beach is a drive of five minutes and from here there are a series of paths to reach other smaller beaches.
Lefki upper villa pool
For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com
V I L L A E S C A P E S 135
ITHACA FRIKES
2 bedrooms
Villa Appagio
2 bathrooms
Near Vathy | Sleeps 2 – 5
car hire included
■ Early Booking Offer
swimming pool air conditioning
The local word ‘Appagio’ means a peaceful recluse.
WiFi
From Vathy a road winds its way south through a beautiful, undulating landscape with only a very few houses and dramatic views to the sea. This southern part of Ithaca produces most of the island's wine and hillsides show off an attractive patchwork of vineyards, olive groves and pine forest. Two and a half kilometres along the Vathy road, lies Villa Appagio Set in private gardens of olive, pear, lemon and fig trees with pool and barbecue terraces bordered by roses, Villa Appagio is a peaceful retreat with gentle views over olive-clad hillsides to the sea.
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Accommodation: open-plan sitting room, dining and kitchen area; one double bedroom and one twin bedroom; bathroom with bath and shower. Terrace leading to pool and gardens. Staircase down to a room with sofa bed, with ensuite bathroom with shower leading to separate garden. Facilities: air conditioning throughout (except for single bedroom); satellite TV/DVD & CD player; iPod docking station; washing machine; barbecue, Wi-Fi. Private swimming pool: 8m x 5m & depth 1.0m – 1.5m Amenities: Vathy and its good selection of tavernas, bars and shops and boat hire is a drive of ten minutes. The pretty beach of Filiatro is a 15 minute drive from the villa. A hired boat can be moored in Vathy Harbour.
I T H A C A VAT H Y
2 bedrooms
Villa Helena
1 bathroom
Near Vathy | Sleeps 2 – 4
car hire included
■ Early Booking Offer
swimming pool air conditioning
WiFi Travelling south from the port of Vathy one soon discovers a beautiful, undulating landscape with only a very few houses and dramatic views to the sea. This southern part of Ithaca produces most of the island's wine and hillsides show off an attractive patchwork of vineyards, olive groves and pine forest. A ten minute drive from Vathy leads to a small country lane, which ends at the mountain top village of Perachori. Villa Helena is set back on a hillside below this country lane. This modern villa, set in terraced gardens, has a private, countrified location and has unobstructed views over a valley of vineyards and olive groves and across the sea to the Greek mainland.
Accommodation: first floor entrance to open-plan sitting room, dining and kitchen area leading to a sea-facing balcony; cloakroom. Stairs to lower floor of one double bedroom and one twin bedroom both leading to a covered sea-view pool terrace; bathroom with bath and shower. Facilities: air-conditioning throughout; satellite TV/DVD & CD player; iPod docking station; washing machine; mosquito screens to windows; barbecue, Wi-Fi. Private swimming pool: 8m x 4m & depth 1.0m – 1.6m Amenities: Vathy and its good selection of tavernas, bars and shops and boat hire is a drive of ten minutes. The pretty beach of Filiatro is a 15 minute drive from the villa.
For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com
V I L L A E S C A P E S 137
Kefalonia Both “the jewel� and the largest of the Ionian islands, Kefalonia combines countless beaches with dramatic scenery under an achingly blue sky.
I O N I A N I S L A N D S K E FA L O N I A
Myrtos beach
Agia Efimia
Lying opposite the mouth of the Gulf of Corinth and just sixty miles south of Paxos, Kefalonia is ringed with countless bays and inlets. There are beaches of spectacular white coral, while on the south coast the beaches are of fine golden sand that shelve gently under an aquamarine sea, making them perfect for children. Elsewhere, subterranean lakes, stalactite-encrusted caverns and marine turtles wait to be discovered. Thanks to a good road network, the island lends itself to easy exploration. Venetian fortresses and Byzantine churches, underground Mycenean tombs dating from 1200BC, a ruined Roman villa with dazzling mosaics, precipitous mountain communities, a host of small fishing villages and the unique Kefalonia Firs jostle for attention. AFALES BAY
FISCARDO EXOGHI Towering above at 1627m, Mount EVRETI ALATIES FRIKES PLATRITHIA Aenos looks down MANGANOS KIONI KATSERATA STAVROS upon a luxurious BAY OF KEFALONIA VASSILIKADES POLIS ANOGHI landscape of pine, MT. NIRITOS AGIOS SPIRIDON 806 m ASSOS AGIOS YANNIS olive, cypress, MYRTOS orange, lemon and VATHY grape, imbued with AGIA EFIMIA the heady scent of wild lavender. ITHACA KARAVOLIMOS
SAMI
HALIOTATA LIXOURI
ARGOSTOLI LASSI
N
MAKRIS YALOS
VARDIANA ISLAND MINIES AIRPORT
LAKITHRA MT. AENOS 1625 m
POROS
SVORONATA
KARAVADOS AVITHOS
SPARTIA TRAPEZAKI AGIA HELIS LOURDAS KATELIOS
Fiscardo
SCALA
V I L L A E S C A P E S 139
Diverse in all that it offers, Kefalonia provides sophistication and tradition The South Coast
Fiscardo
Karavomilos
Agia Efimia
From Lassi to Scala the south coast has a series of beautiful sandy beaches. Easily accessible by car, these beaches have the dramatic backdrop of Mount Aenos and foothills of olive groves, vineyards and cypress trees. Makris Yalos and Lassi have the distractions of a popular resort with watersports and an extensive selection of tavernas, bars and shops. Katelios has plenty of tavernas and restaurants whilst Spartia is smaller and quieter.
The attractive port of Fiscardo, with its beautiful Venetian architecture, lies on the north east coast and looks out to the island of Ithaca. On one side of the horseshoe bay, a sixth century basilica, surrounded by pines, looks down on to the eighteenth century houses, tavernas and café bars, which line the waterfront.
Karavomilos is a small, quiet village which lies in-between Sami, the island’s main port, and Agia Efimia. Here you will find one of the island’s most beautiful attractions, the Melissani Lake. This was discovered in the 1950s when the roof collapsed to the cave unveiling the sparkling lake beneath. Now you can go on a small boat tour of the cave and learn about the water phenomena in which the sink holes from the coast of Argostoli deliver water underground to the Karavomilos and Melissani Lakes. There are a few pebble beaches to choose from and just a short walk into Sami where there are restaurants and souvenir shops to choose from.
Agia Efimia is a small port at the northern end of Sami Bay, on the east coast and looks out across the sea to Ithaca. The coastline on either side of the village holds many attractive white-pebble coves and small beaches shelving into clear waters.
The drive from south coast to north coast takes up to two hours.
Pebble beaches in secluded coves, below forested hillsides, can be found on either side of Fiscardo Bay. Small hamlets hide away amongst the olives and pines on the hillsides behind Fiscardo. The transfer from Kefalonia Airport takes approximately two hours.
The waterfront of restaurants and bars leads to small side streets with a bakery and shops. Eight kilometeres away, the small town and port of Sami has a daily ferry to Ithaca and a further four kilometres south is the beautiful beach of Antisamos.
K E FA L O N I A S PA R T I A
3 bedrooms
Villa Zeus
2 bathrooms
Near Spartia | Sleeps 2 – 6
car hire included
■ Early Booking Offer
swimming pool air conditioning
Villa Zeus has a private hilltop position at Cape Liakas and looks up to Mount Aenos and down over the surrounding valleys of olive groves and across the sea to the island of Zakynthos. The little village of Spartia is a five minute drive and there is a beautiful sandy beach a short distance from the village. Villa Zeus offers privacy in spacious grounds with spectacular views out to sea. Modern, comfortably furnished and well equipped the villa provides peaceful seclusion.
Accommodation: ground floor of an open-plan sitting room and kitchen; cloakroom. First floor of two double bedrooms; one twin bedroom and ensuite bathroom with shower; bathroom with shower. Mosquito screens on windows. Facilities: air conditioning throughout; washing machine; satellite TV/DVD & CD player; safe deposit box; barbecue. Private swimming pool: 10m x 5m & depth 1.1m – 1.9m Amenities: nearby Spartia village has two mini-markets and one taverna. Three more tavernas, are close to the beach below. Trapezaki beach is a drive of five minutes. Argostoli, the island’s capital, and Lassi are approximately twenty minutes’ drive away, with watersports available in Lassi.
For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com
V I L L A E S C A P E S 141
K E FA L O N I A T R A P E Z A K I
3 bedrooms
Villa Roudi
2 bathrooms
At Trapezaki | Sleeps 2 – 6
car hire included
■ Early Booking Offer
swimming pool air conditioning
WiFi A twenty minute drive south of Argostoli leads to a dramatic, south facing coastline. The slopes of Mount Aenos descend to the Robola vineyards, olive groves, tall cypress trees and the beautiful beaches of Lourdas, Lithero, Aghios Thomas and Trapezaki. Small hamlets nestle in the hillsides above. Villa Rudi is located on a hillside of olives and pine trees above Trapezaki beach, in the same area as our popular Trapezaki Villas. The property is equipped and furnished to a high standard with a living room opening out to a wide, covered terrace with magnificent views over sliver olive groves and across the sea to the island of Zakinthos. From the rear terrace are views to the peak of Mount Aenos and the Plati Plateau. Mature gardens of olive, pine, palm, hibiscus and bougainvillaea provide both colour and privacy and harbour a private pool. 142 G I C – T H E V I L L A C O L L E C T I O N
Accommodation: ground floor of open plan sitting/dining room and kitchen leading to a large sea-facing terrace. First floor of three bedrooms, 2 doubles with balcony and 1 twin. There is one bathroom with a bath and one shower room. Facilities: air conditioning; microwave; washing machine; dishwasher; satellite TV/DVD & CD player; mini safe; Wi-Fi. Private swimming pool: 8m x 5m & depth 0.95 – 1.6m Amenities: the sandy beach of Trapezaki and a family-run taverna are a 15 minute walk away. A mini market and a taverna are a 5 minute walk. A 10 minute drive brings you to Lourdas beach and six tavernas.
For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com
V I L L A E S C A P E S 143
K E FA L O N I A K AT E L I O S
3 bedrooms
Villa Okeanis At Katelios | Sleeps 2 – 6 ■ Early Booking Offer
3 bathrooms swimming pool air conditioning WiFi
The fishing village of Katelios, with its environmental centre for the protection of loggerhead turtles and other marine life, borders a sandy beach with a good selection of waterfront tavernas, shops and café bars. Fresh fish is the speciality in the restaurants from the local fishing fleet’s daily catch. The slightly busier resort of Skala can be reached by car in ten minutes or by a short sea taxi ride and small motor boats may be hired in Katelios to explore the coastline. Only 15 minutes walk from the beach and waterfront (slightly longer on the way back), this well equipped villa is the ideal property for families and those looking for accommodation without the need for a car. Comfortably furnished with light, spacious and modern interiors leading out to a large pool terrace.
144 G I C – T H E V I L L A C O L L E C T I O N
Accommodation: ground floor of a sitting room; study; kitchen and dining area; shower and utility room. Stairs up to one double bedroom and two twin bedrooms, each with ensuite shower room. Separate spa annexe. Facilities: air conditioning in all bedrooms and sitting room; satellite TV/DVD & CD player; Wi-Fi; washing machine; dishwasher; microwave; barbecue. Private swimming pool: 9m x 5m & depth 1.1m – 1.7m Amenities: Katelios’ sandy beach is a 15 minute walk. The southern coastline offers a wide choice of sandy beaches, village tavernas and shops.
Katelios beach
For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com
V I L L A E S C A P E S 145
K E FA L O N I A T R A P E Z A K I
1 bedroom
Trapezaki Villas
1 bathroom
At Trapezaki | 4 villas each sleeping 2 – 3
car hire included
■ Early Booking Offer
swimming pool air conditioning
WiFi A short drive south of Argostoli leads to a dramatic stretch of southern coastline. The slopes of Mount Aenos descend to the Robola vineyards, olive groves and tall cypress trees, and the beautiful beaches of Lourdas, Lithero, Agios Thomas and Trapezaki. It is rare to find one bedroom properties, each with pool, therefore making it more affordable for couples. The four Trapezaki Villas have a hillside location with mature colourful gadens, privacy and spectacular views from each pool terrace and shaded patio over olive groves, across the sea to the island of Zakynthos and along the immediate coastline. The Trapezaki Villas are ideally located and have been some of our best selling properties for many years. 146 G I C – T H E V I L L A C O L L E C T I O N
Accommodation: each villa has one twin bedroom (beds can be butted together); bathroom with separate shower; open-plan sitting room, with single sofa bed, and kitchen area. Facilities: air conditioning; TV/DVD player; Wi-Fi; washing machine; dishwasher; mosquito screens on windows; and safety deposit boxes. Private swimming pool: each villa’s pool is 8m x 5m & depth 1m – 1.8m Amenities: the sandy beach of Trapezaki and a family-run taverna are a fifteen minute walk away. A mini-market and a taverna are just a two minute walk away. Lourdas, with its sandy beach and six tavernas, is a drive of ten minutes.
A Trapezaki pool
For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com
V I L L A E S C A P E S 147
K E FA L O N I A M A K R I S YA L O S
3 bedrooms
Villa Noctiluca
2 bathrooms
At Makris Yalos | Sleeps 2 – 6
air conditioning
■ Early Booking Offer
WiFi
Villa Noctiluca lies just above the sandy beach of Makris Yalos. Views from the front terrace take in the turquoise sea and the west coastline. The villa has been artistically decorated with large rooms and attractive red ceramic tiled floors, which all lead out onto private balconies and verandas. The position is peaceful and there is direct access from the private grounds to the sandy beach below. Several good tavernas and shops are within a walk of ten minutes. Villa Noctiluca is a spacious and comfortable villa and will appeal to those who want to be close to a beautiful sandy beach.
148 G I C – T H E V I L L A C O L L E C T I O N
Accommodation: ground floor of one room with double bed and one twin-bedded room each with French windows opening out on to private terraces; large open-plan sitting room with divan and dining area leading to covered front veranda and back patio bordered by shrubs and pine trees; kitchen; two bathrooms; wooden stairs leading to first floor gallery. First floor of one double bed gallery room with balcony. Facilities: air conditioning throughout, TV/DVD, CD & MP3 player, Wi-Fi, washing machine, pilates facilities. Amenities: direct access to the sandy beach below. Several mini-markets, bars and good tavernas are within a walk of ten minutes. The island’s capital Argostoli is just five minutes away by car.
For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com
V I L L A E S C A P E S 149
K E FA L O N I A K A R AV O M I L O S
3 bedrooms
Villa Scorpios
3 bathrooms
At Karavomilos | Sleeps 2 – 6
swimming pool
■ Early Booking Offer
air conditioning WiFi
Nestling within a rural landscape on a hillside above the seaside village of Karavomilos and with panoramic views of the sea, Sami Harbour and Ithaca, Villa Scorpios is a spacious property with large terraces and a neat garden approximately 800 metres from the sea. Though in a quiet rural setting next to an orchard, a mini market and the shops and tavernas of Karavomilos are within easy walking distance. The island’s capital, Argostoli, is 24 kilometres away, so very easily reached. Sami, with its attractive waterfront of tavernas,cafes and shops is even nearer. Whether you enjoy walking, exploring the many small beaches or wandering round the squares, streets and waterfronts of Argostoli, you won’t be disappointed as Villa Scorpios is both comfortable, well appointed and very well located for a holiday to suit all tastes. 150 G I C – T H E V I L L A C O L L E C T I O N
Accommodation: ground floor of large living room and dining area opening onto a large sun terrace with panoramic views and swimming pool; fully equipped kitchen. First floor of three bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms, all air-conditioned and with sea views. Two bedrooms are with balcony. Facilities: air conditioning; satellite TV/DVD; Wi-Fi; washing machine; microwave; coffee machine; mosquito nets on windows; barbeque. Private swimming pool: dimensions available on request. Amenities: the village of Karavomilos with four tavernas, a mini-market and bakery is a 10 minute walk as is Melissani Cave and the sea 800 metres away. Sami, with its attractive waterfront of tavernas, cafes and bars is a drive of 10 minutes.
View towards Sami
For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com
V I L L A E S C A P E S 151
K E FA L O N I A K A R AV O M I L O S
2 bedrooms
Villa Melissani
2 bathrooms
At Karavomilos | Sleeps 2 – 5
swimming pool
■ Early Booking Offer
air conditioning WiFi
Karavomilos is a small, seaside village on the east coast, between Sami and Agia Efimia. Visitors to the nearby, submerged Lake of Melissani will be shown the dramatic display of stalactites in a small boat rowed by Aristotelis, who is the owner of Villa Melissani. A track leads from the village to hillside terraces of olive groves. Villa Melissani is situated in total privacy amongst these olive groves, two hundred metres from the village and the sea. Surrounded by silver olives and green pine trees, views from the villa, across the sea to Ithaca, are stunning. A modern, comfortable villa which will appeal to those looking for privacy yet a short walk from a selection of tavernas. 152 G I C – T H E V I L L A C O L L E C T I O N
Accommodation: ground floor of an open-plan sitting room with sofa bed, dining and kitchen area; cloakroom. First floor of one double bedroom, ensuite bathroom with shower; one twin bedroom; bathroom with bath. Facilities: air conditioning throughout; satellite TV/DVD & CD player; Wi-Fi; mosquito screens to windows; washing machine; dishwasher; microwave; barbecue, safety deposit box. Private swimming pool: 8m x 4m & depth 1.2 – 1.9m Amenities: Karavomilos village has four tavernas, a mini-market, a bakery and a tennis court. The port of Sami is a drive of five minutes and Agia Efimia is a ten minute drive. The coastline in between offers many beaches and coves.
K E FA L O N I A K A R AV O M I L O S
1 bedroom
Villa Marina
1 bathroom
At Karavomilos | Sleeps 2 – 4
car hire included
■ Early Booking Offer
swimming pool air conditioning WiFi
The coastal road from Sami to Agia Efimia, on the east coast, passes through the seaside village of Karavomilos, bordered on each side by attractive beaches. A track of five hundred metres leads from the village inland to terraces of olive groves and Villa Marina. Surrounded by silver olives and dark green pines, the villa enjoys a peaceful, rural setting and privacy. Views from the wide bedroom balcony are over the tops of olive trees and across the sea to Ithaca. Views of Sami’s distant twinkling lights at night and a moonlit sea are beautiful. Stone walls enclose the villa's terraces and olive grove providing total privacy.
Accommodation: ground floor of an open-plan sitting room with two sofa beds, dining and kitchen area opening on to a sea-facing terrace; cloakroom. Stairs to first floor of one double bedroom with terrace; bathroom with hydromassage bath and shower. Facilities: air conditioning in bedroom; satellite TV/DVD & CD player; iPod docking station; Wi-Fi; washing machine; dishwasher; microwave; barbecue. Private swimming pool: 6.5m x 3.5m & depth 0.80m – 1.7m Amenities: the village of Karavomilos is a ten minute walk from the villa and has four tavernas, a mini-market and a bakery. Sami, with its attractive waterfront of tavernas, café bars and varied shops, is a drive of ten minutes.
For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com
V I L L A E S C A P E S 153
K E FA L O N I A K A R AV O M I L O S
R•
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RT
IE
PE
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At Karavomilos | Sleeps 2 – 5
EM
PR
Villa Harmony
PR
Y
■ Early Booking Offer
3 bedrooms 2 bathrooms swimming pool air conditioning WiFi
On the eastern coastline of Kefalonia and opposite the Homeric island of Ithaca lies the small but slowly developing village of Karavomilos. Villa Harmony offers spacious, comfortable accommodation in a private setting of olive groves and pine trees with panoramic sea views. The facilities of Karavomilos village, Lake Melissani and a good pebble beach are all within easy walking distance. The area is ideal for walkers and the deserted village of Old Karavomilos nestles just a few kilometres up the mountain side, hidden amongst natural olive groves and blessed with rewarding views of Ithaca with only the sound of goat bells for company. For those who prefer to walk on the flat, the coast line offers many small beaches. NB: Car hire recommended (not included).
154 G I C – T H E V I L L A C O L L E C T I O N
Accommodation: ground floor of a lounge leading out onto the pool terrace; separate dining room and modern kitchen. Stairs to first floor of one double bedroom with ensuite shower room; large balcony with sea view; one twin room and balcony with sea view; one single bedroom with rear facing balcony; one family bathroom with bathtub with jets. Facilities: air conditioning, Satellite TV/DVD & CD player; X Box, iPod docking station; Wi-Fi; washing machine; dishwasher; microwave; mosquito screens on all windows; barbecue and safety deposit box. Private swimming pool: 10m x 5m & depth 1.2 – 1.9m Amenities: the village of Karovomilos is a ten minute walk from the villa and has four tavernas, a mini-market and a bakery. Sami, with its attractive waterfront of tavernas, café bars and varied shops, is a drive of ten minutes.
K E FA L O N I A K A R AV O M I L O S
1 bedroom
Villa Poseidon
1 bathroom
At Karavomilos | Sleeps 2 – 4
car hire included
■ Early Booking Offer
swimming pool air conditioning
WiFi The coastal road from Sami to Agia Efimia, on the east coast, passes through the seaside village of Karavomilos, bordered on each side by attractive beaches. A track of five hundred metres leads from the village inland to terraces of olive groves and further to a few farms. Villa Poseidon is set amongst the olive trees. Surrounded by silver olives and dark green pines, the villa enjoys a peaceful, rural setting and privacy. Views from the wide bedroom balcony are over the tops of olive trees and across the sea to Ithaca. Views of Sami’s distant twinkling lights at night and a moonlit sea are beautiful. Stone walls enclose the villa's terraces and olive grove providing total privacy. A comfortable, spacious, modern property on two floors.
Accommodation: ground floor of an open-plan sitting room with two sofa beds, dining and kitchen area opening to sea-facing terrace; cloakroom. Stairs to first floor of one twin bedroom with sea view terrace; bathroom with hydromassage bath and shower. Facilities: air conditioning in bedroom; satellite TV/DVD & CD player; iPod docking station; Wi-Fi; washing machine; dishwasher; microwave; barbecue. Private swimming pool: 6.5m x 3.5m & depth 0.80m – 1.7m Amenities: the village of Karavomilos is a ten minute walk from the villa and has four tavernas, a mini-market and a bakery. Sami, with its attractive waterfront of tavernas, café bars and varied shops, is a drive of ten minutes.
For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com
V I L L A E S C A P E S 155
K E FA L O N I A S A M I
2 bedrooms
The Sami Stone Houses Near Sami | 3 villas each sleeping 2 – 4 ■ Early Booking Offer
2 bathrooms car hire included swimming pool air conditioning
WiFi The Sami Stone Houses provide privacy, comfort and seclusion away from the crowds. The views over Sami Bay to Ithaca and up to a range of pineclad mountains, are stunning. Just over four kilometres inland from the port of Sami, on Kefalonia’s east coast, the undeveloped landscape contains a beautiful tapestry of olive groves, pine forest and farmland. Each of the Stone Houses hides away in its own olive grove with no neighbour to overlook or disturb. Just a ten minute drive to the coastal beaches, tavernas and shops yet with a peaceful and countrified setting. The only sound to be heard may be from a distant goat or sheep bell. The properties are spacious and tastefully decorated with terraces and landscaped gardens. A perfect retreat yet close to Sami, Agia Efimia and a variety of beaches. 156 G I C – T H E V I L L A C O L L E C T I O N
Accommodation: each of the three houses has an open-plan sitting room, dining and kitchen area leading to pool terrace; one double bedroom, ensuite bathroom with bath; one twin bedroom, bathroom with shower. Facilities: air conditioning in bedrooms and sitting room; satellite TV/DVD & CD player; Wi-Fi; washing machine; dishwasher; microwave; mosquito screens to all windows; barbecueand safety deposit boxes. Private swimming pool: each villa’s pool is 8m x 5m & depth 1.2 – 1.7m Amenities: Sami, just a five minute drive away, has a good selection of shops and tavernaswith a wide range of choice from Souvlaki to fish. Just south of Sami is the beautiful Antisamos beach.
A Sami Stone House pool
For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com
V I L L A E S C A P E S 157
K E FA L O N I A A S S O S
Y RT
3 bedrooms
IE R•
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Near Assos | sleeps 2– 6
EM
PR
Villa Kamini
PR
■ Early Booking Offer
3 bathrooms car hire included swimming pool air conditioning
WiFi This stone villa is situated below the hamlet of Deferanata. From its elevated position, Villa Kamini enjoys spectacular views over Assos, the old fortress and the Paliki Peninsula. Its mountain-side location gives an eagle’s eye view of one of the most dramatic landscapes of Kefalonia. Set over two floors, the villa is stylishly furnished, with all rooms carefully positioned to take advantage of the breathtaking view. Kamini is in a perfect location for exploring the many corners of northern Kefalonia. Assos and its famous fortress are just over a ten minute drive away and the famous Myrtos Beach only twenty minutes away.
158 G I C – T H E V I L L A C O L L E C T I O N
Accommodation: ground floor of kitchen and dining area; lounge (with fireplace); one double bedroom; bathroom with shower room; french doors open out onto the sea facing pool terrace. Upper floor of one double bedroom with ensuite wet room; one twin bedroom; bathroom with shower; large sea facing balcony with built-in seating; a rear balcony with mountain views. Facilities: air conditioning in bedrooms; TV/DVD & CD player; Wi-Fi; washing machine; dishwasher; microwave; hair dryer; barbecue. Private swimming pool: 8m x 4m & depth 1.10 x 1.70 Amenities: Assos with its five tavernas, two café bars and two mini-markets are a drive of twelve minutes. A number of small villages can easily be reached within a five to fifteen minute drive including Vasilikades, which has a petrol station, doctor's surgery and two tavernas. Fiscardo is just twenty minutes drive away.
Villa Kamini
For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com
V I L L A E S C A P E S 159
K E FA L O N I A F I S C A R D O
Y RT
3 bedrooms
IE R•
• PE
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Near Fiscardo | Sleeps 2 – 6
EM
PR
Sunset House
PR
■ Early Booking Offer
2 bathrooms car hire included swimming pool WiFi
Surrounded by hillsides of pine and olive trees, Sunset House was named for its private and dramatic location on the northwest coast of the island with theatrical views of the sun setting behind the Lixouri peninsula on the horizon. This house is the perfect retreat for the uncompromising escapist who is looking for coastal seclusion and absolute privacy. The large rooms look out to sea and the sea-facing terraces and the pool terrace are bordered by purple bougainvillaea, jasmine, pink oleander, lavender and rosemary bushes. Stone walls and floors, open ceilings of cypress wood and flagstone terraces given Sunset House the feel of a Provencal farmhouse. 160 G I C – T H E V I L L A C O L L E C T I O N
Accommodation: one double bedroom; open-plan sitting room, kitchen and dining area; bathroom with bath and shower. A courtyard, shaded by grapevine and bougainvillaea leads to the annexe: split-level sitting room, bedroom with double bed, and kitchenette; bathroom with shower; stairs to one twin bedroom. Mosquito screens in sitting room and bedrooms. Large fridge/freezer in Annexe. Facilities: CD player; Wi-Fi; mosquito screens on windows. Private swimming pool: 10m x 4m & depth 1.2m – 1.8m Amenities: Sunset House is three kilometres from the small, sleepy village of Mangonos, which has a supermarket and two tavernas, and eight kilometres from Fiscardo. A beach below the house, a walk of ten minutes, has a small taverna.
Sunset House
For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com
V I L L A E S C A P E S 161
K E FA L O N I A F I S C A R D O
2 bedrooms
Stafilia House
1 bathroom
Near Fiscardo | Sleeps 2 – 4
car hire included
■ Early Booking Offer
swimming pool WiFi
One of our best selling properties, Stafilia House enjoys a private hillside location, on the north-west coast with dramatic views down the west coast and across the sea to the cliffs of the Lixouri peninsula. The house has been designed to combine island traditional style with modern comforts. Limestone floors, open cypress wood ceilings, beechwood worktops, antique and modern furnishings and interesting prints have created a home of special character. The front terrace, partly shaded by a leafy olive tree, looks down the hillside of vine terraces, fig, pine and olive trees to the bay below. At the back of the house there are alternative sitting areas, bordered by a rock garden and myrtle bushes, leading to the swimming pool terrace. 162 G I C – T H E V I L L A C O L L E C T I O N
Accommodation: open-plan sitting room, kitchen and dining area; one double bedroom; one twin bedroom; bathroom with bath and shower. Facilities: CD player; Wi-Fi; mosquito screens in the bedrooms and dining area. Private swimming pool: 10m x 4m & depth 1.2m – 1.8m Amenities: a ten minute walk takes you to two beaches and a simple taverna. The next bay has a small beach and another taverna. Fiscardo is a fifteen minute drive and the small village of Manganos, with a supermarket and two tavernas, is a drive of five minutes.
K E FA L O N I A Z A M B E L ATA
3 bedrooms
Villa Cassandra
2 bathrooms
At Zambelata | Sleeps 2 – 6
car hire included
■ Early Booking Offer
swimming pool WiFi
Zambelata is a small hamlet of just a few houses high above Agios Jerousalim beach on the north-west coast. Villa Cassandra has uninterrupted views over the island’s forested west coast and out to sea. Surrounded by olive groves, Cassandra has a peaceful and private location with dramatic sunsets.
Accommodation: ground floor of an open-plan sitting room, dining and kitchen area; one small double bedroom; bathroom with shower. First floor of one double bedroom and one twin bedroom; bathroom with bath.
Enclosed grounds and a gated entrance to the pool area help to make Cassandra child friendly.
Facilities: air conditioning in bedrooms; TV/DVD & CD player; mosquito screens on windows; washing machine; dishwasher; barbecue, safety deposit boxes and Wi-Fi. Private swimming pool: 8m x 4m & depth 1.0m – 1.8m Amenities: the village shops and tavernas of Manganos and Vassilikades are within a five minute drive. Fiscardo is a drive of fifteen minutes. Agios Jerousalim beach and other nearby beaches are within a ten minute drive.
For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com
V I L L A E S C A P E S 163
K E FA L O N I A F I S C A R D O
3 bedrooms
PR
EM R•
■ Early Booking Offer
3 bathrooms PR
IE
Near Fiscardo | Sleeps 2 – 6
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Villa Islands View O
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A short track leads down to this delightful stone villa, set in extensive gardens and surrounded by pine trees. Enjoy spectacular views to the islands of Ithaca and Lefkas enhanced by stunning sunsets.
car hire included swimming pool air conditioning WiFi
A walk of five minutes will take you to the village of Antipata and the sophisticated centre of Fiscardo is but a five minute drive away. This is a light and modern villa with plenty of outside spaces for relaxing and a built-in barbecue for al fresco dining. Small motorboats may be hired in the harbour – perfect for exploring the coastline.
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Accommodation: ground floor – mainly open plan with fully fitted kitchen, dining/living area with feature fireplace, twin bedroom with ensuite shower room. Doors from both living room and bedroom lead onto the terrace. First floor: one double bedroom with ensuite shower room and large private balcony and one double bedroom with ensuite bathroom (half bath with shower) and small private balcony. Facilities: air conditioning; TV/DVD player; Wi-Fi; washing machine; dishwasher; barbecue. Private swimming pool: 3.5m x 8.5m depth 1.2m – 1.8m Amenities: the village of Antipata has a mini-market and four tavernas, a 7 minutes drive to the nearest beach or a 2 minute drive and then 15 minutes walk to a secluded beach. Excellent choice of restaurants and shopping in Fiscardo.
For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com
V I L L A E S C A P E S 165
K E FA L O N I A F I S C A R D O
2 bedrooms
Eleni’s Cottage
1 bathroom
At Fiscardo | Sleeps 2 – 3
air conditioning
■ Early Booking Offer
WiFi
Eleni’s Cottage is set back from the small coastal road and fifty metres from a small beach. The shops and tavernas of Fiscardo are within a five minute walk. Eleni's front veranda, shaded by an apricot tree and bougainvillaea, has views (through the flowers!) to the beach, fringed by olive trees, and the mountains of Ithaca over the straits. A small back courtyard, with a fig tree and grapevine for shade, catches the sun for most of the day. Eleni’s Cottage provides privacy for those wishing to be close to the sea and walking distance to the centre of Fiscardo.
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Accommodation: one double bedroom, one single bedroom; open-plan sitting room, kitchen and dining area; bathroom with shower. Facilities: air conditioning in open plan living area; CD player; Wi-Fi. Amenities: the waterfront tavernas, bars and shops of Fiscardo are a walk of five minutes. Hired boats may be moored in Fiscardo Harbour.
K E FA L O N I A F I S C A R D O Emblissi beach, near Fiscardo
For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com
V I L L A E S C A P E S 167
K E FA L O N I A F I S C A R D O
2 bedrooms
Vassili’s Apartment
1 bathroom
At Fiscardo | Sleeps 2 – 4
air conditioning
■ Early Booking Offer
WiFi
Vassili’s is the third and top floor of the house next door to Eleni’s Cottage. Private access via an outside, steep spiral staircase takes one through a cascade of red and purple bougainvillaea to one of the most comfortable “crow’s nests” in Fiscardo. Two private sitting out areas allow one to enjoy or escape from the sun with views over the nearby beach, fringed by olive trees, and across the water to the cliffs of Ithaca. A convenient and comfortable base, close to the sea and within easy walking distance to the centre of Fiscardo.
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Accommodation: one double bedroom with balcony; one twin bedroom; sitting room; kitchen with breakfast bar, leading to front and side sea-facing terraces; bathroom with bath. Facilities: air conditioning in bedrooms and sitting room; Wi-Fi. Amenities: a beach is just fifty metres away. The waterfront tavernas, bars and shops of Fiscardo are a walk of five minutes. Hired boats can be moored in Fiscardo Harbour.
Fiscardo
For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com
V I L L A E S C A P E S 169
K E FA L O N I A F I S C A R D O
Y RT
4 bedrooms
IE R•
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At Fiscardo | Sleeps 2 – 8
EM
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Villa Nichola
PR
■ Early Booking Offer
3 bathrooms air conditioning WiFi
We consider Villa Nichola to be one of the most elegant properties in Fiscardo and uniquely positioned. The villa has breathtaking views across a small bay to the mountainous coastline of Ithaca, which turns a theatrical shade of pink by the setting sun. The villa is just a ten minute walk from Foki beach in one direction and the shops and tavernas and pretty harbourside of Fiscardo in the other. Just across the small coastal road to the front of the villa is a gate leading to private terrace part shaded by grapevine and leading directly to a small beach, with fresh water shower, and a jetty where a hired boat can be moored during the day. A large courtyard, with barbecue area, at the rear of the villa, bordered by exotic palms, bougainvillaea and jasmine, offers an escape from the morning sun. 170 G I C – T H E V I L L A C O L L E C T I O N
Accommodation: ground floor of one twin bedroom; sitting room and games area (pool table); bathroom with bath and shower; utility room. First floor of an open-plan sitting room, dining and kitchen area; cloakroom. Second floor of one double bedroom with balcony, ensuite bathroom and shower and two twin bedrooms – one with the same balcony as the double bedroom; bathroom with bath and shower. Facilities: air conditioning throughout; TV/DVD & CD player; Wi-Fi; washing machine & dryer; dishwasher. Amenities: the waterfront tavernas, bars and shops of Fiscardo are a walk of ten minutes. Hired boats can be moored in Fiscardo Harbour.
K E FA L O N I A F I S C A R D O Villa Nichola’s private sea-side terrace
For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com
V I L L A E S C A P E S 171
K E FA L O N I A F I S C A R D O
3 bedrooms
Villa Alexander
R•
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RT
2 bathrooms
IE
PE
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■ Early Booking Offer
EM
PR
At Fiscardo | Sleeps 2 – 6
PR
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air conditioning WiFi
On Kefalonia's northeastern tip the community of Fiscardo is perhaps the most picturesque on the island, with pastel coloured houses lining a busy harbourfront. The resort has an abundance of tavernas, busy cafés and small shops, most of which enjoy a view to the homeland of Odysseus, Ithaca, across the water. For those wishing to escape the hustle and bustle of the village, take a stroll in the hills or around the headland to the surrounding coves. Villa Alexander is a welcome addition to our holiday programme on Kefalonia in 2015 and enjoys a prime location in Fiscardo, situated next door to Villa Nichola. Wonderful sea views can be enjoyed from the second floor balconies, a panorama that is particularly spectacular in the evening sunlight. 172 G I C – T H E V I L L A C O L L E C T I O N
Accommodation: first floor of an open-plan sitting room, dining and kitchen area (with dishwasher); cloakroom. Second floor of one double bedroom with balcony, ensuite bathroom and shower and two twin bedrooms – one with the same balcony as the double bedroom; bathroom with bath and shower. Facilities: air-conditioning throughout; washing machine & dryer; TV/DVD & CD player; Wi-Fi. Amenities: the waterfront tavernas, bars and shops of Fiscardo are a walk of ten minutes as is the peaceful Foki Bay. Hired boats can be moored in Fiscardo Harbour.
For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com
V I L L A E S C A P E S 173
K E FA L O N I A F I S C A R D O
Accommodation: Top Floor: Penthouse: one double bedroom and one twin bedroom with access to a rooftop balcony; open-plan kitchen and sitting area; bathroom with shower. First Floor: Waterfront 3: one double bedroom and one twin bedroom; kitchen and dining area; bathroom with shower. Waterfront 4: large open-plan studio of twin bedroom and sitting area; kitchen; bathroom with shower. Waterfront 5: one twin bedroom and one double bedroom; kitchen and dining area leading to terrace; bathroom with shower. Waterfront Floor: Waterfront 6: studio with one single bed; kitchenette; bathroom with shower.
1-3 bedrooms
Waterfront Apartments Near Fiscardo | 9 Apartments sleeping 1 – 6
1-2 bathrooms air conditioning WiFi
■ Early Booking Offer
The Waterfront Apartments comprise what was once the oldest and largest Venetian house in Fiscardo. Each apartment commands spectacular views across the olive fringed bay to the sixth century basilica on a promontory of pine trees, and across the sea to the island of Ithaca. Ithaca’s coastline cliffs are turned pink by the setting sun. Entrance areas, steps and waterfront verandas have been laid with local stone and bordered by plants and grapevines. Being so close to the water, the apartments enjoy the cool sea breezes throughout the hot summer months. Waterfront clients can swim from directly below the apartments and may also be able to moor their hired boats (daytime only) at the jetty depending on local conditions. A beach, with olive trees for shade, lies within a walk or swim of one minute. This is a uniquely located property. 174 G I C – T H E V I L L A C O L L E C T I O N
Waterfront 7: one double bedroom on upper floor; ten steps down to open-plan kitchen and sitting room with divan; bathroom with shower. Waterfront 8: one double bedroom; open-plan sitting room, kitchen and dining area; bathroom with shower. Staircase up to two twin bedrooms; bathroom with shower. Waterfront 9: sitting area; ten steps to one double bedroom; small kitchen; bathroom with shower. Facilities: air conditioning; Wi-Fi; safe deposit box and hair dryer in each apartment. Amenities: the waterfront tavernas, bars and shops of Fiscardo are a walk of five minutes. Hired boats can be moored at the apartments.
The Waterfront Apartments terrace
For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com
V I L L A E S C A P E S 175
Peloponnese The birthplace of European civilisation; fabulous beaches, spectacular landscapes, excellent local cuisine and Greek, Roman, Venetian and Byzantine antiquities galore – one of the most authentic regions of Greece
MAINLAND PELOPONNESE
Agios Nicolaos
Stoupa
DELPHI PATRAS
CORINTH
PELOPONNESE
ATHENS
MYCENAE
OLYMPIA
NAFPLION TRIPOLIS
TOLON KALAMATA
N
PYLOS METHONI
SPARTA KARDAMILI STOUPA
FINIKOUNDA
GYTHION MONEMVASIA
The Peloponnese has for too long been ignored by visitors. There seems to be a notion that Greece is about islands and that the mainland is, well, just the mainland! European culture was born in the north Peloponnese. The ancient sites of Corinth, Mycenae, Epidavrus, Olympia, Argos,Tyrins and Nemea are outstanding. To the west, the Messinian peninsula has the best beaches, is much greener with a gentler landscape and has its fair share of share of sites, namely Olympia, Ancient Messinia and Nestor’s Palace. Along the coast there are two dramatic, Venetian castles Methoni and Koroni. Further south is the legendary Mani region, never conquered by the Turks; craggy and wild, with the Taygetos mountains running along its spine. Here you will find the UNESCO World Heritage site of Byzantine Mystras, the caves of Diros and right to the east the medieval fortified rock island of Monemvasia, joined to the mainland by a causeway.
Stoupa
V I L L A E S C A P E S 177
Long ignored by visitors to Greece a magical land of history and culture Stoupa & Aghios Nikolaos
Pylos, Gialova & Methoni
The delightful village of Stoupa lies just over an hour's drive south from Kalamata and is the closest thing the Mani has to a small resort, thanks to its two beautiful, sandy beaches, Kalogria and Stoupa. The setting is complemented with a backdrop of olive covered hills and the magnificent Taygetos mountains, making for a truly stunning location with all the facilities for a relaxed holiday. You should not be surprised to read that Stoupa holds particular appeal for couples of all ages and younger families. Despite Stoupa's popularity (the beaches do get busy in season) it remains low key, evening entertainment here still centred around a wide variety of good quality tavernas. Facilities include several supermarkets, a good bakery and ATMs. A range of interesting excursions last year included Olympia, Mystras and the spectacular Dirou Caves, and small bicycles, pedalos and motorboats can be hired. There is a lovely footpath above the sea which leads you to neighbouring Aghios Nikolaos in about an hour. Aghios Nikolaos is the archetypal sleepy Greek fishing village, and the cafés and restaurants above the exquisite small harbour here are the perfect place from which to watch the boats come and go. Pantazi beach is a 15 minute walk to the south, its wide stretch of sand/shingle shaded by trees. The whole area is excellent for walking so we are pleased to offer our clients a free walking guide on request.
Pylos is an historic and stylish small town at the top of the Messinian peninsular on its western side. It has one of the best natural harbours in Greece – Navarino Bay, site of the famous Turkish defeat in 1827. Some 16 kms to the north is Homeric Nestor’s Palace, artifacts from which can be viewed in the local museum. For some fine sandy beaches head to nearby Gialova and beyond – the best is superb Voidokilia a 15 minute drive away. For such a small place Gialova has a very good choice of tavernas – about a dozen at the last count – as well as a mini-market. The whole area is now a nature reserve noted for its bird life and unique species of chameleon. Bicycle hire is a good way to get around as the area is largely flat. The neighbouring small town of Methoni at the south western tip is dominated by its impressive fortress stretching into the sea. Evidence of past visitors includes the remnants of a Venetian cathedral and a Turkish bath within the castle walls.
PELOPONNESE AGIOS NIKOLAOS
Villa Ibiscus
2 bedrooms 1 bathroom
Agios Nikolaos | Sleeps 2 – 4
car hire included
■ Early Booking Offer
swimming pool air conditioning
Amidst a gentle hillside of olive trees, within a small community of villas on the Mani peninsular, this single-storey property has splendid views across the Gulf of Messina as well as the neighbouring mountains and countryside. This single storey villa has been tastefully designed and furnished throughout in a modern style. The lounge has a distinctive beamed ceiling, and the swimming pool is bordered by both open and covered terraces. A few minutes drive brings you to the fishing harbour and sandy beaches of Agios Nikolaos, and a visit to the lovely seaside village of Stoupa takes 10 minutes.
Accommodation: one double bedroom; one twin bedroom; lounge; kitchen, bathroom with bath and shower, cloakroom. Facilities: air conditioning in bedrooms; microwave; oven; hob; fridge; freezer; washing machine; satellite TV/DVD; CD player; barbecue. Private swimming pool: 7m x 3.5m & depth available on request Amenities: the centre of the small hamlet of Riglia is a walk of 400m where you can find one Café Neon. The lovely beach of Pandzi is a drive of 1.3 km and has a taverna and café. A short distance further along the coastal road is Agios Nikholaos with it’s lovely harbour front tavernas and two supermarkets.
For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com
V I L L A E S C A P E S 179
P E L O P O N N E S E C O S TA N AVA R I N O
Costa Navarino The Costa Navarino is a remarkable holiday destination, created due to one man’s farsighted dream and sheer determination. Luxurious yet eco-minded, the wow-factor villas and two world-class hotels are set amidst lush olive groves in an unspoilt part of Greece’s littleknown Peloponnese. Overlooking an historic coastline that borders the Ionian Sea, here ancient myth is intertwined with 21st century knowhow and authentic, traditional Greek hospitality. It’s an alluring and inspiring mix. Why is Costa Navarino so special? Buildings (in local stone and wood) occupy but 10% of the land. Some 8,500 mature native olive and citrus trees were moved during development and replanted amidst the gardens, villas and suites; in total, 16,000 trees are being rehomed. Over 200,000 indigenous plants (from palest blue plumbago to fragrant jasmine, rosemary and lavender), all destined for Costa Navarino’s grounds, planted roofs and intensely green walkways, were nurtured at a specially-created nursery. The ambience created is that of a long-established botanic garden – luxuriant, exuberant and exotic, with private green rooms and shimmering water throughout.
All villas and many suites enjoy the luxury of private infinity pools; wooden walkways meander to the beach below. GIC The Villa Collection focuses principally on the superb villas described overleaf. Life is simple in these gloriously private and wellappointed luxury homes, allowing true R&R. Dining is easy – a chef BBQ-ing at your villa? Or your choice of restaurant dotted amidst the resort’s village? There’s a taverna, an Italian, a Japanese, a beachfront restaurant and a popular and relaxed Souvlakeria, not to mention several bars with plush outdoor sofas and sea views for sundowners, or stylish international-menu-inspired restaurants with chic terraces. Leisure options include an outdoor cinema, a beach with surf school and boats, golf course with stylish clubhouse, a brilliant children’s centre, complete with eco credentials and interactive exhibits, the endless landscaped gardens and – bliss! – a huge, awardwinning and wonderful spa. Hire a bike, take a trip to explore/see cultural hotspots but, above all, savour the sheer luxury of relaxation in this stunning corner of the Greek Peloponnese.
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P E L O P O N N E S E C O S TA N AVA R I N O For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com
V I L L A E S C A P E S 181
P E L O P O N N E S E C O S TA N AVA R I N O
•
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PR
PERTY
2 bedrooms 2 bathrooms
O
Villas Ithomi & Sapientza
EM
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PR
swimming pool
At Costa Navarino – The Romanos |
air conditioning
Sleeps 2 – 5
WiFi
The Ambassador Villas, Ithomi and Sapientza are reached by golf buggy, zipping smoothly and silently along narrow curved roadways, luxuriant vegetation on either side, a smartlyattired butler at the wheel. Enter your villa and, beyond the light flooding through floor-to-ceiling windows, there’s a turquoise pool, with a small private beach area alongside, and then, below, the sea itself – a rich, intense, Mediterranean blue. Offering exquisite location and absolute privacy, the beachfront Ambassador villas enjoy unobstructed Ionian Sea views and direct access to the golden beach below. These villas introduce the essence of palatial living and feature a master bedroom with king-size bed, a second 182 G I C – T H E V I L L A C O L L E C T I O N
bedroom with two twin beds, accompanied by very elegant marble en-suite bathrooms, thoughtfully designed to offer absolute space and ultimate luxury. The Ambassador Villas also provide a gracious lounge and dining area, state-of-the-art home cinema system, as well as an expansive terrace and a 73 m2 private infinity pool. These are our selected villas from The Romanos collection. For more detail including floor plans and videos please see the website. Other villas and suites with private pool are also available on request.
For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com
V I L L A E S C A P E S 183
Crete The largest of the Greek islands, Crete is a land of myth and history, of dramatic mountains, fertile valleys and glorious beaches. At the same time sophisticated and elemental, Crete is unique.
CRETE Taverna in Kaliviani
Kalives
First settled by humans 130,000 years ago and positioned between Africa and Europe, Crete was the cradle of Mediterranean civilisation and still retains its own strong identity and culture, characterised by a history of proud resistance against invaders through the ages. Rich in its physical contrasts, the island has always been the source of legend and adventure. Fascinating archeological remains are sited all over the island, from the colourful reinvention of Knossos to the arid mystery of Phaestos. Three separate mountain ranges riven with spectacular gorges and rivers stretch from west to east, with lush valleys falling to a varied coast of small fishing villages and magnificent sandy beaches.
XA MO UD OC H
An absorbing mix of Minoan, Venetian and Turkish architecture, the island’s towns weave together palaces, churches, castles, and minarets alongside the bustle of markets, cafÊs and tavernas.
I OR
CRETE
KALIVIANI SAMONAS SAMARIA GORGE
LAKE KOURNAS
MT. IDI
ISTRON
N
V I L L A E S C A P E S 185
The white mountains provide the backdrop for western Crete’s dramatic landscape. Nerokouro Although just nine kilometres from Chania there are no signs of tourism in Nerokouro: a church, a minimarket, a small bakery; a friendly community and beautiful views over valleys towards Souda Bay. Souda Bay with its supermakets, fresh fish stalls, cafes and tavernas is only 5 minutes drive away.
Panos Stalos The peaceful village of Pano (upper) Stalos nestles amongst age old olive trees. The village boasts three excellent tavernas and a mini market. Kato (lower) Stalos and its neighbouring villages of Platanias and Aghia Marina hug the coastline and are a five minute drive away Here you will find a long sandy beach, bars, shops, banks and everything you will need and in complete contrast to the upper village - but very handy for any younger members of the party and so easily accessible.
Armeni This large, traditional village of farmers, with a population of about 3,500 people, is set 600 metres above sea level, inland from the seaside village of Kalives and near the mouth of Souda Bay. The village is surrounded by groves of olive, avocado and orange in a very fertile landscape. The village is set on the banks of the Kiliaris river which is
shaded by giant plane trees. The church of Agios Nikolaos is large and dominates the centre of the village. Armeni has a good choice of five tavernas, a cafenion shaded by a large chestnut tree, a butcher, several cafes and a small supermarket. Kalives, a drive of about 10 minutes has a larger selection of shops and two good beaches.
of Crete. The sandy beaches of Georgoupolis are about a 15 minute drive and the dramatically located village of Chora Sfakion on the south coast a 45 minute drive across The White Mountains. Many gorges and small villages are in the vicinity making Vrisses an excellent base from which to walk in the area and also to explore the whole of Western Crete by car.
Vamos
The village has a good selection of tavernas, a cafenion, a butcher, two bakers, a couple of mini-markets and even a bank and pharmacy.
Vamos is really a small town with many folk and neoclassical architectural influences. There are some very interesting buildings in the village, notably the churches of Agios Nikolaos and Agios Georgios and the restored school, originally built in 1863. Twenty six kilometres from Chania, the village has narrow cobblestone streets and lanes passing by interesting and attractive stone houses. There is a large square shaded by plane trees. The beaches of Kalives are 6km away. Vamos has a good selection of traditional tavernas, coffee shops, post office, bank, chemist and a variety of small shops. A wonderful and beautifully kept village.
Vrisses A very well situated, working village with a backdrop of The White Mountains about 30 minutes drive to either of the two main towns of Rethymnon and Chanea in the west
Kalives About 20km East of Chania and at the entrance of the dramatic Souda Bay, Kalives has retained its village atmosphere and boasts two long sandy beaches, one to either side. Centred around a tree-shaded square, housing a couple of cafes and a fine church, Kalives has authentic local tavernas and small shops which cater for most needs. The village has a population of 1,400 and in Byzantine towns was the likely site of Kissamos, one of the ancient city of Aptera's two harbours. To one side of the village is the sea and behind low hills covered by orange and olive groves with the dramatic White Mountains in the background. A highly recommended spot, with easy access to atmospheric Chania, the Venetian built main town in the West of Crete.
CRETE NEROKOURO
1 bedroom
Villa Stella
1 bathroom
At Nerokouro | Sleeps 2
car hire included
â– Early Booking Offer
swimming pool air conditioning
Villa Stella is a romantic retreat for couples. One of the few houses in the village of Nerokouro, Villa Stella provides a simple but peaceful and comfortable escape from the crowds.
WiFi
Although just nine kilometres from Chania, there are no signs of tourism in Nerokouro: a church, a mini-market, a small bakery; a friendly community and beautiful views over valleys towards Souda Bay The villa opens out to a dining terrace with bougainvillaea and hibiscus; three steps down to an alternative dining area in the shade of a large mulberry tree; two further steps down to the barbecue area bordered by roses; further steps to a small garden of citrus trees and date palms and finally the pool terrace.
Accommodation: open-plan sitting room, dining and kitchen area; bathroom with shower; steep staircase up to one double bedroom. Facilities: air conditioning in bedroom; satellite TV/DVD & CD player; Wi-Fi; washing machine; microwave; safe deposit box; barbecue. Private swimming pool: 7m x 5m & depth 1.5m – 1.6m Amenities: there are good fish tavernas in Souda, four kilometres away and Chania, a drive of fifteen minutes, offers a wide selection of tavernas, shops and bars. The best beaches are to be found at Kalives, thirteen kilometres away. Note: The 50 metre walk from the car park area to the villa is very steep.
For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com
V I L L A E S C A P E S 187
C R E T E PA N O S S TA L O S
3 bedrooms
Isadora Villa
2 bathrooms
Near Panos Stalos | Sleeps 2 – 8
car hire included
■ Early Booking Offer
swimming pool air conditioning
This striking villa, with its landmark chimney rising amidst the surrounding hills, offers a rare mixture of comfort and seclusion, stunning panoramas and stone-clad terraces, dusky pink plasterwork and palm trees. While it dazzles over the private pool in the daytime, the sun as it sets seems to bathe the villa in a special, luminous glow. The extensive terraces, both open and covered, provide plenty of space for relaxation, and the swimming pool has an integrated children’s section.
Accommodation: open plan living/dining room, with fireplace and doors to terrace; fully equipped kitchen; double bedroom with ensuite bathroom; two twin bedrooms with doors to terraces; bathroom (with washing machine). Two sofa beds available. Facilities: air conditioning throughout; satellite TV/DVD & CD player; microwave, dishwasher, washing machine; in-built barbecue. All bedrooms have their own safety deposit box. Private swimming pool: 8m x 6m with designated children’s section 2m x 1m. Pool depths 0.50m – 1.60m – 2.05m Amenities: the nearby village of Panos Stalos (1.5km) has a mini-market and a few tavernas, while Kalo Statos (3.5km) has a sandy beach, restaurants and shops. Further afield, the elegant Venetian harbour of Chania (10km) rarely fails to delight.
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Isadora Villa
For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com
V I L L A E S C A P E S 189
CRETE ARMENI
3 bedrooms
Villa Chlöe
2 bathrooms
At Armeni | Sleeps 2 – 6
car hire included
■ Early Booking Offer
swimming pool air conditioning
It is rare to find a well-appointed villa close to Crete’s northern coastline and Souda Bay, with total privacy and without immediate neighbours.
WiFi
Villa Chlöe is set in large, private grounds, with views out over a rolling countryside of farmland and to the sea in the distance. With a gated driveway, the villa has peaceful seclusion. Within a fifteen minute drive from Chlöe, are many hilltop and seaside villages.
Accommodation: open-plan sitting room and dining area; kitchen; one double bedroom, ensuite bathroom with shower; two single galleried bedrooms; bathroom with bath. Staircase to gallery over sitting room; one twin bedroom. Facilities: air conditioning in all bedrooms; satellite TV/DVD & CD player; Wi-Fi, washing machine; dishwasher; microwave; barbecue and safety deposit box. Private swimming pool: 9m x 5m & depth 0.50m – 1.5m with child section. Amenities: the village of Armeni, a drive of just two minutes, has five tavernas, a baker, a butcher and a small supermarket. Kalives, a drive of ten minutes, has a wider variety of shops and tavernas and a sandy beach.
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Villa Chlรถe
For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com
V I L L A E S C A P E S 191
C R E T E VA M O S
3 bedrooms
Villa Stathis At Vamos | Sleeps 2 – 6
2 bathrooms car hire included swimming pool air conditioning
Villa Stathis is situated on the outskirts of what has been described as the most delightful village in Crete – Vamos.
WiFi
This 100 year old stone house has been carefully renovated to combine traditional architecture with modern comforts. The interiors are cool and spacious and, outside, the pool area is surrounded by olive groves. To the rear of the property is a delightful courtyard with a sheltered dining area and barbecue. Stathis is within walking distance of Vamos and all that it has to offer, including proximity to the spectacular White Mountains. Sandy beaches can be reached by car in approximately ten minutes.
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Accommodation: ground floor – fully equipped kitchen/dining and living area; twin bedroom with ensuite bathroom with shower. Mezzanine (leading from dining area) twin beds. First floor – master double bedroom with ensuite bathroom with bath. Facilities: air conditioning; TV/CD player; Wi-Fi; washing machine; dishwasher; microwave; barbecue and safety deposit box. Private swimming pool: 8m x 4m & depth 0.60m – 1.5m Amenities: within walking distance of Vamos, two tavernas offering fresh organic Cretan dishes, beaches, shopping and choice of restaurants at Kalyves and Almirida ten minutes by car.
CRETE VRISSES
2 bedrooms
Villa Aphrodite
2 bathrooms
Near Vrisses | Sleeps 2 – 4
car hire included
■ Early Booking Offer
swimming pool air conditioning
WiFi Villa Aphrodite has a private, peaceful and countrified setting on the outskirts of the tiny hamlet of Maza. Six kilometres south of the sandy beaches of Georgioupolis and three kilometres away from the pretty village of Vrisses, Maza has a few traditional stone houses and a sleepy square with a small chapel and a taverna – just a five minute walk from the villa. Villa Aphrodite has views over the surrounding countryside and valleys of pine forest and olive groves unfolding towards the White Mountains. Spacious and comfortably furnished interiors lead to stone terraces, bordered by lawns, with uninterrupted views.
Accommodation: open-plan sitting room, dining and kitchen area; one double bedroom with ensuite shower room; one twin bedroom; bathroom with bath. Facilities: air conditioning throughout; satellite TV/DVD & CD player; internet connection; Wi-Fi; washing machine; dishwasher; microwave; mosquito screens on all windows; barbecue. Private swimming pool: 8m x 4.5m & depth 0.90m – 1.4m Amenities: nearby Vrisses has three tavernas, a renowned bakery and a selection of café bars and shops. One taverna in maza (5 minutes walk). Georgioupolis, a drive of fifteen minutes, has sandy beaches, watersports, horse riding and canoe trips up the river to feed the turtles. The large resort town of Rethymnon is a 30 minute drive.
For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com
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Chania at night
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CRETE KALIVES
3 bedrooms
Villa Anastasia
2 bathrooms
At Kalives | Sleeps 2 – 7
swimming pool
■ Early Booking Offer
air conditioning WiFi
Just a few kilometres before Almirida and fifteen kilometres from Chania, Kalives is an attractive seaside village overlooking Souda Bay and the Akrotiri Peninsula with the dramatic White Mountains and endless orange and olive groves in the background. Villa Anastasia is the Kalives village house of the Tsigounakis family. The front entrance leads to the narrow village high street and the rear entrance opens on to a small street bordering the sea. The sandy beach of Mistraili is just two hundred metres away; here the shallow waters are ideal for children. You do not need a car here but it is recommended for exploring.
Accommodation: ground floor: open-plan sitting room, kitchen and dining area; bathroom with bath. First floor of one double bedroom and two twin bedrooms (one with three beds); kitchenette; bathroom with shower. Facilities: air conditioning in all bedrooms; satellite TV/DVD & CD player; Wi-Fi; safe deposit box; washing machine; dishwasher; microwave; barbecue. Private swimming pool: 8m x 4m & depth 1.4m – 1.8m Amenities: Kalives village has a good selection of tavernas and shops and two long sandy beaches. There are small craft centres in nearby villages: glassblowing in Kokkino Horio, the bell maker in Neo Horio, the lace makers in Gavalohori and the silk makers in Kalamitsi.
For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com
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CRETE VRISSES
3 bedrooms
Villa Georgia
3 bathrooms
Near Vrisses | Sleeps 2 – 6
car hire included
■ Early Booking Offer
swimming pool air conditioning
A five minute drive from the village of Vrisses to the foothills of the White Mountains culminating in a steep climb up a short steep track leads to the dramatic hilltop location of Villa Georgia.
WiFi
Set within extensive grounds, this very private villa is a haven of rural peace. From this lofty place one can see valleys with tiny villages, olive groves, farms, vineyards and pine forest. The garden and terraces around the pool are on one level and include a covered barbecue and dining area and a lawn bordered by mulberry and olive trees.
Accommodation: ground floor of an open-plan sitting room and dining area; kitchen; one twin bedroom; bathroom with hydro-massage bath. First floor of one double bedroom, ensuite bathroom with shower; one twin bedroom; ensuite bathroom with shower. Facilities: air conditioning in all bedrooms and sitting room; satellite TV/DVD & CD player; Wi-Fi; washing machine; dishwasher; microwave; mosquito screens on windows; barbecue and safety deposit box. Private swimming pool: 10m x 4.5m & depth 0.90m – 1.7m Amenities: nearby Vrisses has three tavernas and a selection of café bars and shops. The sandy beaches of Georgioupolis are a drive of fifteen minutes. The resort town of Rethymnon is a 30 minute drive.
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For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com
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CRETE VRISSES
3 bedrooms
Villa Kontis
2 bathrooms
Near Vrisses | Sleeps 2 – 8
car hire included
■ Early Booking Offer
swimming pool
air conditioning Six kilometres south of the sandy beaches of WiFi Georgioupolis and three kilometres away from the village of Vrisses, Maza is a tiny hillside village of a few traditional stone houses and a sleepy square with a small chapel and two tavernas – all just a five minute walk from the villa. The surrounding landscape contains valleys of pine forest and olive groves unfolding towards the White Mountains. Villa Kontis enjoys a peaceful and idylic location. The original house of stone has been restored and extended to incorporate traditional and modern features with attractive gardens. Georgioupolis, a drive of fifteen minutes, has sandy beaches, watersports, horse riding and canoe trips up the river to feed the turtles. Lake Kournas is just eight kilometres away. 198 G I C – T H E V I L L A C O L L E C T I O N
Accommodation: ground floor of an open-plan sitting room, dining and kitchen area; one double bedroom and one twin bedroom; bathroom with whirlpool bath and shower. First floor of one twin bedroom and mezzanine gallery with twin beds; bathroom with shower. Facilities: air conditioning throughout; satellite TV/DVD & CD player; internet connection; Wi-Fi; washing machine; dishwasher; microwave; mosquito screens on all windows; barbecue. Private swimming pool: 12m x 5m & depth 0.80m – 1.5m Amenities: nearby Vrisses, shaded by riverside plane trees, has three tavernas, a renowned bakery and a selection of café bars and shops. One taverna in maza (5 minutes walk).
Villa Kontis
For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com
V I L L A E S C A P E S 199
CRETE LAKE KOURNAS
3 bedrooms
Villa Victoria At Lake Kournas | Sleeps 2 – 6
2 bathrooms car hire included swimming pool
air conditioning Lake Kournas, with its mountainous WiFi backdrop and fringe of olive trees, is one of only two lakes to be found on Crete. The lake has stretches of sand shared by swimmers and migratory birds and a selection of waterfront cafes and tavernas is a five minute drive away. Villa Victoria, with ample balconies and terraces, has a private and secluded hillside location with magnificent, panoramic views over the lake and out to the bay of Georgioupolis. Surrounding the villa is a natural, undulating landscape of olive groves, small vineyards and grazing pastures for goats. Child-friendly considerations include fenced front terraces, grass lawns and children’s pool section. A simple taverna can be reached within a ten minute walk. The old village of Kournas, with four tavernas, a mini-market and bakery, is a five minute drive. 200 G I C – T H E V I L L A C O L L E C T I O N
Accommodation: ground floor of a sitting room leading to kitchen and dining area; cloakroom with shower; one double bedroom. First floor of two twin bedrooms; bathroom with Jacuzzi bath and shower. Facilities: air conditioning in all bedrooms; satellite (flat screen) TV/DVD & CD player; Wi-Fi; washing machine; dishwasher; microwave; safe deposit box; mosquito screens to all windows; barbecue. Private swimming pool: 10m x 5m & depth 1m – 1.7m with child section. Amenities: Georgioupolis, a ten minute drive, offers beaches, watersports, tavernas and shops.
CRETE THERISSO
2 bedrooms
Villa Therisso At Therisso | Sleeps 2 – 4
2 bathrooms car hire included swimming pool
air conditioning Twelve kilometres south of Chania, Therisso WiFi village hides away in the foothills of the White Mountains. The surrounding hills and valleys of the Theriso Gorge provide many interesting walks and a drive up to the White Mountains introduces some of the most spectacular views on the island. The village was the base for the Cretan resistance during the 2nd World War and the headquarters of Eleftherios Venizelos, the Cretan Prime Minister responsible for reuniting Crete with mainland Greece after 400 years of Turkish rule. Villa Therisso will appeal to those looking for a comfortable, Cretan escape and a hilltop village position to enjoy dramatic views over Therisso Gorge. Spacious and comfortable interiors open out on to a series of terraces with an elaborate barbecue and outside kitchen area besides the pool.
Accommodation: ground floor of an open-plan sitting room and kitchen; study; cloakroom. First floor of one double bedroom and ensuite bathroom with bath; one twin bedroom and ensuite bathroom with shower. Facilities: air conditioning in both bedrooms; mosquito screens on all windows; satellite TV/DVD & CD player; Wi-Fi (limited, €20 payable locally) washing machine; dishwasher; barbecue. Private swimming pool: 9m x 4.5m & depth 0.70m – 1.7m Amenities: Therisso village, with a shop for simple provisions and a choice of tavernas, is a walk of three minutes. Beaches on the north coast are a drive of twenty five minutes.
For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com
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Cyprus With a beautiful and surprisingly often unspoilt coastline and a mountainous interior, this third largest island in the Mediterranean is a kaleidoscopic blend of histories and cultures.
The long coastline is studded with glorious beaches and small fishing villages, and holiday resorts have been established to cater for all tastes – a few less attractive than others. There remains, though, an abundance of small, relaxed locations that continue to offer the type of warm-hearted, genial hospitality that typifies a Greek island holiday, with a sapphire sea, breathtaking scenery, delicious Mezes, and time to spare. Away from the coast, it is as if you have passed into another century, with sleepy villages nestling in the spectacular Troodos Mountains, amidst goats, olive and lemon groves, and in springtime some of the most wonderful displays of wild flowers on earth.
Pomos Beneath the wooded foothills of the Paphos mountains lies the large village of Pomos. Blessed with a variety of small coves, beaches and rock pools, and overlooked by volcanic crags and innumerable circling birds, Pomos is a restful delight. A renowned sea-food restaurant, the Kanali, benefits from the local fish caught and brought in the newly-built harbour. Each September the International Cyprus Jazz Festival takes up residence. Pomos and nearby villages have a variety of restaurants a short drive away. N
CYPRUS
POMOS NICOSIA POLIS
LARNACA
PAPHOS PISSOURI
LIMASSOL
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CYPRUS
An island that is a world unto itself, Cyprus breathes the spirit of three continents and numerous empires. Ever since the New Stone Age, Europe, Africa and Asia have left their various marks, from the Pharoahs of Egypt to the Emperors of Rome, from Ottoman Sultans to Knight Crusaders and Venetian Doges, in a great spread of cultural treasures and antiquities.
CYPRUS POMOS
3 bedrooms
Villas Stella Maris & Buffavento Near Pomos | Sleeps 2 – 6
2 bathrooms car hire included swimming pool air conditioning
WiFi Situated in a spectacular location with stunning, dramatic views, these villas enjoyed complete refurbishment in 2010 and now offer extremely comfortable, contemporary accommodation within a short distance of a shingle cove. Between Pomos and Polis (about 19 kilometres) there are a number of villages offering a surprising choice of restaurants. With the black, volcanic cliffside to the front of the villas and the pine-clad foothills of the mountains 300 metres to the rear this is a unique location of natural beauty. NB These identical villas do not overlook each other. Please note that the unmade path down to the cove is steep and not suitable for anyone with mobility problems. 204 G I C – T H E V I L L A C O L L E C T I O N
Accommodation: ground floor: two twin bedrooms, living/dining room, fully fitted kitchen, second bathroom (up 3 steps from ground floor). First floor: reached by spiral staircase – double bedroom with ensuite bathroom, balconies. Facilities: air conditioning/heating in living room and bedrooms; satellite TV; CD player; Wi-Fi; ceiling fans in bedrooms; dishwasher; washing machine; fully furnished sea-view terrace; decking/barbecue. Private swimming pool: each villa has an Ozonator filtered pool 10m x 5m and depth 1m to 2.7m. Amenities: Pomos Village has a variety of restaurants and two grocery stores and a few sandy coves for swimming. Annual jazz festival.
Villas Stella Maris & Buffavento
For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com
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The Sunvil Family GIC – The Villa Collection (Greek Islands Club) became part of the Sunvil family in 1998 making Sunvil the leading specialist operator to Greece and her islands. Sunvil has pioneered many specialist destinations in its 45-year history. The original directors still play an active part in the day-to-day running of the company and we are all proud that repeat and recommended holidaymakers make up 70% of our customers – due testament to our expertise and dedication to quality. Everyone in the team visits our specialist destinations many times: they know them and our properties, self-catering or hotel, extremely well. Unusually, in this web-based travel age, we take full responsibility for our holidays, too, putting us in the very top echelon of companies that you can really trust to look after your holiday plans. Sunvil is proud, over 45 years, to have gained many accolades and awards, both from the travel industry itself and from the national press and leading consumer publications such as Holiday Which? and Wanderlust magazine. We’ve been at the forefront of environmental initiatives and good practice over 28 years. Yes, it’s enlightened self-interest and, yes, it’s also good business practice – but we believe in it passionately. On these pages you will find a brief introduction to Sunvil’s other programmes.
The Genevieve
A unique vessel for your River Thames Charter Cruise Genevieve is a 40 foot beaver stern saloon launch, built by Taylor and Bates of Chertsey in 1914. Her hull planking is African mahogany and all topside and interior fittings are in teak. Back then, her selling price was £1,150! In 1998, she was found rotting away on a canal in Lancashire and Peter Freebody, owner of one of the foremost UK boatyards for renovating classic boats, was immediately taken in by her shape and decided she must be saved for future generations to enjoy. The extensive, painstaking renovation requested by Sunvil finished in May 2010. The launch is unique and very rare and she is Sunvil’s flagship.
The saloon has bevelled windows and opening lights with port and starboard seating. She also has a spacious, canopied, forward cockpit with additional seating for approximately 10 people. Further aft is the cooler unit and storage, then the galley with a sink, gas hob and oven/grill, and the toilet locker is to port. There is an another small cockpit aft, with further seating. Genevieve is powered by a six cylinder Sea Prince petrol engine, smartly sited under a teak and glass engine case. In chilly weather, the engine supplies heat to the saloon and cockpit. For further details see www.vintagethamescharters.com
The Genevieve took part in the historic boat section of the Thames River Pageant to mark The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee on Sunday 3rd June 2012.
TO BOOK CONTACT : MALVERN WORLD TRAVEL 44 SOMERS PARK AVENUE MALVERN WR14 1SD TEL : 01684 562406 malvernworldtravel@hotmail.co.uk
Sunvil find the real country
Four decades of fabulous holiday-making, flexibility and 100% financial protection: no flowery descriptions or exaggerated claims; no hidden costs or rigid rules. Pioneer and protector of the unspoilt and unusual in travel, Sunvil is the obvious choice for independent travellers wishing to immerse themselves in a country’s culture and holiday in properties that have all been painstakingly hand-picked.
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