TheVilla Collection

OUR PASSION • YOUR MEMORIES GREECE & CYPRUS 2019

CELEBRATING50 YEARS OF VILLA HOLIDAYS OUR PASSION • YOUR MEMORIES

2 GIC THE VILLA COLLECTION Elounda Beach Hotel and Villas, Crete Albania

Greek Mainland

Corfu AEGEAN SEA ● Sivota Paxos Skiathos Alonissos AntiPaxos I Skopelos Turkey O Lefkas Meganissi N

I Ithaca

A

N Kefalonia ● Athens Samos Peloponnese S

E A

● Stoupa

A S E Crete E A N M E D I T E R R A N Cyprus

Contents 100% Financial Protection GIC The Villa Collection is a fully bonded A welcome from our Managing Director 4 Corfu 56 tour operator. Our air travel inclusive holidays are ATOL protected by the Civil Why choose GIC The Villa Collection? 6 Paxos 80 Aviation Authority. Accommodation and land Our villa collections 8 Antipaxos 116 arrangements are protected by ABTA. Luxury yachting 10 Lefkas 120 Customer service GIC hotel villas 11 Meganissi 138 We set high standards for ourselves and our Weddings in Greece and Cyprus 11 Ithaca 148 team; we hope that you will find our service Our destinations 12 Kefalonia 160 levels to be friendly and efficient, with a Samos 14 Peloponnese 192 personal, caring touch. Skopelos 18 Crete 198 Alonissos 32 Cyprus 212 Skiathos 46 ABTA No.V6218

VILLA ESCAPES 3 WELCOME TO GIC’S VILLA COLLECTION

My team and I are delighted to welcome you to our Golden anniversary edition

What creates a true specialist? It certainly isn’t just the I joined the Greek Islands Club (GIC) in 1994 as a local name. Names and companies are bought and sold on representative and I’ve been here ever since. I started a regular basis and with new management come new from the bottom, which is the best way to understand a members of staff that neither know the history or company and how it works. I am passionate about heritage of the operator. In the last 50 years the travel Greece and throughout the season I dash out to our industry has seen enormous change. Many of the old various resorts for a few days every two or three weeks, and respected specialists have disappeared, others are to make sure that all is well and to keep abreast of new still here but in name only as those that created those events and happenings. It’s attention to detail that counts. operators have long since gone. We are all passionate about our company and its It takes many years of service to begin to understand image. The fact that after 50 years we are still here and the ethos of a company, to get to know its partners still independent shows that the pride in what we do abroad and how the company interacts with them. It has not dimmed. It’s still very exciting to discover a isn’t just a matter of arriving in Greece or Cyprus and fabulous new villa or hidden beach or quaint resort, and signing up properties that look the part - there are to introduce our guests to these finds. plenty of those. So, welcome to our world and to our passion for our The relationship of a specialist with its overseas destinations.. Within these pages you will find a villa suppliers goes much deeper than that. GIC The Villa which you can make your very own for those all too Collection has worked with many of its owners for the brief weeks away from home. last 25 years and more. Over that period, owners and local agents become our friends and our many repeat clients enjoy meeting them time and again. Our owners come to understand what our guests expect and strive to raise standards and to meet changing tastes. Chris Wright Managing Director [email protected]

4 GIC THE VILLA COLLECTION Beach bar in Paleokastritsa, Corfu – Close to Paleokastritsa Beach House, Page 74

VILLA ESCAPES 5 Loggos waterfront, Paxos

6 GIC THE VILLA COLLECTION OUR PASSION • YOUR MEMORIES

In 2019 we are proud to be celebrating our Golden Anniversary. Much has changed since we organised our first villa holiday to Greece, but our aim remains the same – to offer an escape from the routine, supported by our knowledgeable reservation and resort teams.

We understand that it is the little things that can transform your holiday into a lifetime of memory. Discover for yourself the subtle differences that make GIC The Villa Collection one of the UK’s leading villa specialists, and why so many of our guests choose to travel with us year-on-year.

5 REASONS TO BOOK WITH US Personal service Trust Unrivalled knowledge Our guest feedback always notes the We take full responsibility for all aspects of our With 50 years of experience comes a depth of professionalism and friendliness of our overseas holidays and offer 100% financial protection. knowledge that goes far beyond the surface of our representatives, many of whom live and work in destinations. Greece and Cyprus are in our blood: we Greece and Cyprus year-round. Whether you meet There are no hidden extras. All our holidays include: love these countries, their scenery, culture, heritage Effi on Paxos, Julia on Corfu, Julie on Lefkas, Julia 20kg hold luggage PLUS 5kg of hand luggage and people, and we want nothing more than to share on Alonissos, Angela on Cyprus etc. you can relax, per person this passion with you. safe in the knowledge that you will be, unobtrusively, A UK airport representative. Departures are looked after. Our overseas teams project our available from London Gatwick, London We only feature villas that we have handpicked, and holidays to another level. Stansted, Manchester, Bristol and Birmingham places that we have enjoyed visiting. An experienced local representative Honesty Car hire and/or transfers Our reservations team have been with us for an A welcome pack full of goodies for your first night average of 10 years each and have visited each of Our brochure has been compiled using the All this is backed up by an experienced villa team our featured destinations. If you have any questions, information obtained through our visits and from our in the UK – on hand to help and advise from the or need advice on the best island or property for experienced overseas team. Our descriptions are initial planning to your return from holiday – and you, they can assist. They will also share their not flowery – they are honest and designed to a 24 hour emergency line. insider tips. highlight the key selling points of each villa, so that you know exactly what to expect. We focus on the Variety: A holiday for all Call 020 8232 9780 comfort, views, facilities and proximity to local or visit gicthevillacollection.com amenities. If it is a simple property but the Whether you are dreaming of a romantic hideaway surroundings are breathtaking or the owner is amongst the olive-clad hills of the Ionian; a spacious extremely hospitable, this will be described. home-from-home, where the whole family can relax, swim and play; or a villa idyllically positioned on a turquoise shoreline, our portfolio has the property for you.

VILLA ESCAPES 7 PREMIER FAMILY COLLECTION COLLECTION

OUR Villa Aleka, Meganissi COLLECTIONS

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 family friendly villa Paparouna, Alonissos with pool or a village home where you can truly immerse yourself in the local Premier Collection Family Collection community. All properties featured in our Offering a higher standard of comfort, quality From toddlers to teenagers, parents and collection and have been handpicked by furnishings, stylish interiors, stunning locations and grandparents we have villas of all sizes for our overseas team and destination breathtaking views. memorable family holidays. specialists. Thalassa Vista, Skopelos Page 22 Villa Bonas, Paxos Page 88 We understand that so much choice can We love it because... We love it because... be somewhat overwhelming which is why, • An elegant villa offering the ideal balance of • Totally private and set amidst 1.5 acres of olive in 2019, we have introduced nine holiday tranquillity and convenience groves, yet only 15 minutes’ walk from Gaios collections. Choose your dream holiday • Homely interior adorned with quality furnishings harbour and some of Paxos’ best beaches from our Premier, Family, Beach, Couples, and intricate touches. Attention to detail is • Swimming pool with panoramic views over the Rural, Local and Groups collections, plus apparent throughout island’s capital to the Ionian beyond our luxury yachting options and hotel villas. • Spacious living and outdoor areas, including its • Three spacious bedrooms and an al fresco dining own private swimming pool area Over the following pages each collection • Exquisite views over the harbour of Skopelos • Table tennis will be introduced alongside a two villa Town • Day trips are available to the neighbouring island of AntiPaxos. The crystal-clear, turquoise waters sample that we feel illustrates the Paparouna, Alonissos Page 36 here have to be seen to be believed concept. Throughout the brochure the We love it because... coloured label will identify further villas • Tastefully combines rustic charm with modern Villa Aleka, Meganissi Page 142 within each collection and our website elegance We love it because... contains the full listing. • Wonderful infinity swimming pool. It is easy to • Spacious living quarters, modern interior, while-away the hours enjoying the view over manicured gardens and blissful seclusion As always our knowledgeable reservations Patitiri harbour and the twinkling Aegean Sea • Three bedrooms (one double and two twin) all team are on hand to help and advise. • The interior design has been finished to a with en suite bathrooms – thus offering privacy for standard expected of a luxurious hotel all members of the family Call 020 8232 9780 or visit • Utter seclusion and privacy. Perfect for a romantic • Barbecue, Jacuzzi and views to the coast – ideal gicthevillacollection.com break or for parties desiring quality time together for sundowners and relaxed afternoons • Only 10 minutes’ walk from Spilia port from where small boats can be hired – a holiday highlight for 8 GIC THE VILLA COLLECTION many families BEACH COUPLES RURAL COLLECTION COLLECTION COLLECTION

Levrecchio Beach House, Paxos Sunset House, Kefalonia

Villa Pyrgos, Skopelos

Beach Collection Couples Collection Rural Collection Within easy reach of gorgeous beaches and for A romantic retreat to wine and dine under the stars A true “get away from it all” – rural retreats in those who want to be close to the sea and share moments of tranquillity and togetherness secluded locations offering total privacy

Fisherman’s Cottage, Alonissos Page 45 Villa Pyrgos, Skopelos Page 30 Villa Manolia, Alonissos Page 38 We love it because... We love it because... We love it because... • A romantic, private cottage set at the end of a • A magical and remote castle adorned with unique • Combines traditional Greek architecture with secluded shingle beach artefacts spacious accommodation and complete privacy • Watch the waves ebb and flow from your sea- • Perched atop a cliff on the northeast coast of • Enveloped by rolling hills and olive groves. This is facing terrace Skopelos and with endless views a nesting area for the Eleonora falcon and with • Direct access to the bay below • Away from it all, you can focus on yourselves and many marked walking trails • Bright, modern interior flooded with natural light what it’s important to you • A stroll from Patitiri and Alonissos Old Town for • Calm location within a short drive of an authentic • Private swimming pool looking across the strait when you can tear yourself away from this relaxed Greek fishing village towards Alonissos spot • Terrace for al fresco dining and equipped with a Levrecchio Beach House, Paxos Page 104 Villa Somnium, Paxos Page 106 wood-burning oven We love it because... We love it because... • Occupies an enviable position on an idyllic stretch • Intoxicatingly peaceful and romantic setting Sunset House, Kefalonia Page 176 of shore • Private swimming pool with gorgeous views We love it because... • A characterful stone cottage which • Within walking distance of Marmari and • A home-away-from-home offering total privacy sympathetically blends traditional and modern Levrecchio beaches and Loggos harbour - where and stand-out views features there is a good choice of restaurants for dining al • Enjoys an elevated position and a naturally • Swimming pool with uninterrupted views over the fresco in the evenings beautiful setting turquoise waters of the Ionian • Tasteful interior design • As its name suggests, the sunsets from your • Within walking distance of Marmari beach and vantage point are remarkable Loggos harbour • 20 minutes’ drive from the harbour of Fiscardo • Awake to the sound of cicadas in the hills and and a selection of tavernas and bars forest surrounding your home-from-home • The perfect choice for groups of friends thanks to its independent two-bedroomed annexe

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com VILLA ESCAPES 9 LOCAL GROUPS COLLECTION COLLECTION LUXURY YACHTING Costas’s House, Ithaca

Villa Luna, Samos Local Collection Groups Collection

Close to a town or village for ease of access to the Large villas or neighbouring properties ideal for local amenities – all within walking distance. groups of friends or extended families, spacious both indoors and outdoors Costas’s House, Ithaca Page 151 We love it because... Villa Luna, Samos Page 17 • Each of the three bedrooms open straight onto We love it because... their own balcony overlooking Kioni’s waterfront • An independent three bedroomed villa that can What better way to explore • 100 steps connect this traditional house to the be combined with the neighbouring property to harbour and a short stroll will take you to the accommodate groups of up to 12 people the Greek Islands but on a town’s five tavernas and four café bars • The property affords jaw-dropping views over the private luxury yacht. Just sit • A short stroll from four beaches coast towards Turkey, a scene that can be enjoyed • While-away the houses watching the comings from the private balconies and pool terrace back and enjoy and prepare and goings at the little port • There is a small children’s pool to be pampered – no • An ideal choice for those desiring a genuine • 2km from the picturesque port of Pythagorion Greek destination and a relaxed holiday and a choice of local tavernas experience required! • Shaded outdoor dining area and barbecue Villa Nichola, Kefalonia Page 186 We love it because... Villa Gregory, Corfu Page 62 • Nothing stands between you and the waters- We love it because... Book exclusively for friends and family or simply edge at this sophisticated villa; the waves lap at • Directly located on the watersedge in Kalami, a take a cabin on a cabin-charter week. Long your terrace and there is a private swimming charming hamlet with a small selection of tavernas weekends in low season are from as little as platform too • Kalami is famed for its connection to British £560 per person. • Light and spacious accommodation just 10 authors Gerald and Lawrence Durrell, who lived in Prices for 7 nights Saturday to Saturday sailing minutes’ walk away from the heart of Fiscardo the White House nearby from Corfu start from £1,120 per person. The and Foki beach • The villa sleeps up to 11 people across four only extras are for on board dinners if required • A good chance of tavernas, restaurants and bars bedrooms and alcoholic drinks. Prices do not include flights can be found at Fiscardo port • Relax on your seafront terrace watching the full package prices available on request. • Perfect for families or groups of friends comings and goings in the bay

10 GIC THE VILLA COLLECTION GIC HOTEL VILLAS WEDDINGS

Clients have often commented to us Our solution is to feature properties that have private villas IN GREECE attached, yet offer all the facilities of the hotels to those that one of the drawbacks of staying in holidaying in the villas. So, you will have privacy and peace OR a secluded, private villa is that they miss in luxury villas while at the same time benefitting from access to a high standard of hotel services, excellent the variety that a hotel offers and their restaurants, bars, sports facilities, a variety of swimming CYPRUS children do not have the opportunity to pools and, in most cases, world class spas. Through our in-house wedding planners meet and make new friends. 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 Costa Navarino Elounda Beach Hotel & Villas receptions with options to suit all tastes and Peloponnese – Greek Mainland Elounda – Crete budgets. Full support with legal paperwork Set amidst olive groves and overlooking the Ionian Sea, this As the first hotel on Crete’s northeast coast, this resort has long is provided and personal consultations with luxury environmentally friendly aware resort is luxuriously been considered one of Greece's finest. An accolade it couples always available. appointed to create a distinctive and inspiring environment of justifiably deserves. heartfelt hospitality.

Grand Resort Lagonissi Aphrodite Hills Resort Athens – Greek Mainland Paphos – Cyprus Grand by name and by nature, the Grand Resort Lagonissi is Dramatically located in the hills above Paphos, The Aphrodite nestled within a 72 acre peninsula on the Athenian Riviera, Hills Resort, with arguably the best golf course on the island, 45km south of the Greek capital. offers a luxury experience like no other.

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com VILLA ESCAPES 11 DESTINATIONS

The Greek mainland, bordered in the north- west by Albania and Macedonia, and by THE AEGEAN ISLANDS Skiathos Bulgaria and Turkey in the north-east, pages 46-55 stretches its mountainous fingers Samos southwards into the Mediterranean Sea. On pages 14-17 the western coast of Greece, the Ionian Sea laps around its olive-tree-clad islands while, off its eastern shoreline, the Aegean Sea Skiathos offers a colourful variety of spectacular boasts three groups of islands – the beaches, well organised watersports, good Aegean Sporades, the Cyclades and the food, relaxed or vibrant nightlife in town, wonderful Dodecanese. Well over two thousand Close to Turkey, Samos is a refreshing combination of scenery and a cosmopolitan atmosphere. islands lie within Greek waters, yet only a pine and olive, mountain and beach. It is large enough to offer plenty of variety, and has a special feel for walkers. hundred or so are inhabited. Each island THE IONIAN ISLANDS has its own history, character and charm. Each in turn adds to the overall beauty of THE SPORADES ISLANDS the country of Greece, just as its mythical Corfu gods and goddesses, its philosophers, pages 56-79 writers, mathematicians and scientists have Skopelos contributed to the culture, language and pages 18-31 knowledge bank of the world over many centuries.

Cyprus, in many ways very similar to An undulating interior of olive and pine-clad hillsides Greece, is the third largest island in the hiding hamlets and villages. A beautiful coastline of small coves and large beaches. A capital of stunning Mediterranean and offers a wide variety of Rich, green hillsides of pine and olive sweep down to enticing beaches. Skopelos is an island for those Venetian architecture. landscapes, activities and natural splendour. wanting to explore by boat, car and foot and to have a With sandy beaches on which turtles nest, wide choice of intimate waterfront tavernas. wild unspoiled countryside, the Troodos Paxos mountains and national parks to explore – pages 80-115 on foot, by bicycle or four-wheel drive Alonissos vehicle – plus a myriad of historical sites, pages 32-45 both mythical and real, Cyprus offers outdoor experiences galore.

Once you get to know these magical On an island 7 miles by 3 miles you are never far from anywhere. An undulating landscape of silver olives, many destinations with their warm hospitality, like Slow and quiet, Alonissos appeals more to the escapist sheltered coves and pretty fishing villages – Paxos offers us, you too will be equally passionate. who wants the simple pleasures of a friendly community, an enchanting escape from the crowds. unspoilt surroundings, deserted beaches and good tavernas. 12 GIC THE VILLA COLLECTION Ithaca CRETE pages 148-159 pages 198-211 Antipaxos pages 116-119

The tiny satellite island, just one mile off Paxos, offers a Ithaca has remained untouched by tourism because, rarely found Robinson Crusoe experience. Sandy like Paxos, it has no airport and can only be reached by beaches, valleys of vineyards and just four tavernas. ferry from neighbouring islands or the mainland. A holiday in Ithaca is for those who seek a relaxed break An island suited to those who want a more in a friendly environment. sophisticated choice of holiday activities. An extensive coastline of fishing villages, towns and beaches and a dramatic interior of unique beauty.

Lefkas CYPRUS pages 120-137 Kefalonia pages 160-191 Lefkas will attract explorers to her green, mountainous interior and those wanting peaceful seclusion close to Kefalonia, the largest of the Ionian islands, is popular her beautiful beaches. for its superb beaches and stunning scenery. Kefalonia caters for both the explorer and the seeker of variety. pages 212-217

An island of great diversity with something to please THE MAINLAND everyone from nature at its wildest to historical sites of great magnitude as well as a myriad of activities and international cuisine. Meganissi Peloponnese pages 138-147 pages 192-197 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.

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.

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com VILLA ESCAPES 13 SAMOS

This Aegean island is recognised as one of the sunniest places in Europe With the shores of Asia Minor almost in view, The island is recognised as one of the the island of Samos shares a rugged and sunniest places in Europe. Perhaps the mountainous interior with lush plains covered reward of the goddess Hera, whose temple – with vineyards and olive groves, and – in larger than the Parthenon in Athens – once spring – colourful swathes of wild flowers. Its rose outside the relaxed harbour town of coastline curves between pine-clad cliffs with Pythagorion. After all, it was the Samos-born pebbled bays and long, sweeping beaches of astronomer Aristarchus who first identified golden sand. that it is the earth that rotates around the sun. Multi-Centre Options Samos with Ikaria and Patmos (tailor-made)

AG. KONSTANTINOS

KOKKARI

SAMOS SAMOS TOWN

KERVELI

VOTSALAKIA

ORMOS PSILI AMMOS LIMNIONAS PYTHAGORION N

Pythagorion AEGEAN ISLANDS SAMOS 15 Samos offers such variety that everyone should be able to find what they want from a holiday here

PYTHAGORION add to the characterful small town atmosphere. Boat trips run to local Pythagorion is Samos’s largest beaches and include a picnic lunch; settlement on the south coast to Kusadasi in Turkey, from where (although there is not much you are taken to ancient Ephesus; competition!). Boasting a handsome and to Patmos for the day. The town semi-circular harbour it has a wide has a small but perfectly serviceable promenade lined with plenty of cafes sandy beach just past the harbour, and restaurants from which to enjoy and to the west is the very long, the comings and goings. Pythagorion clean sand/pebble beach which has is in fact a UNESCO World Heritage sunbeds and umbrellas for hire, and site. The island’s tyrant ruler, seasonal watersports. Polykrates, had his capital here in the 6th century BC, and evidence of his PSILI AMMOS original harbour walls can still be seen. There are the remains of Psili Ammos is popular with Greek Roman Baths to the west and the families, as it is the best sandy beach castle above the harbour dates from in the area. Only 3km from Villa Luna, the 19th century. The remarkable feat it enjoys lovely sea views to Turkey of ancient engineering that is across the strait. With clear blue Evpalinas Tunnel, in the hills above, shallow water – ideal for children, it was made to ensure the water supply has a selection of traditional tavernas in times of siege and was bored for serving a variety of seafood dishes over 1000 metres through the and local flavours. A ten minute walk, mountain in 550 BC. Even older past a wildfowl reserve, brings you to (8BC) is the Temple of Hera some 5 the long, uncrowded Mykali beach, kms to the west. Behind the harbour, its gleaming white pebbles leading narrow lanes and cobbled streets into a turquoise Blue Flag sea.

Villa Luna GROUPS VILLA LUNA COLLECTION PYTHAGORION • SAMOS

We wanted something special for the first villa on Samos in our collection, and that's just what Villa Luna is, with jaw-dropping views of Turkey and comfortable, modern facilities. The large home has three rooms, each with private balconies, making it ideal for a family or group that values their own space. The luxurious pool for adults and separate pool for children further cements Villa Luna as an ideal destination for families.

You can fill your days visiting the local beaches or with trips around the island. The property is just a short drive away from the picturesque port of Pythagorion (2km). Choose between eating in one of the town’s friendly tavernas or in the villa’s own al fresco dining area. You may even have the opportunity to share dinner with the villa’s hospitable owner Stathis, who is often cooking up a selection of meats on his neighbouring patio.

Coming with a larger group? No problem – you can book Villa Luna with its neighbour, Villa Rosa, for groups of up to 12 people.

Sleeps up to 6 3 bedrooms (2D-1T) 2 bathrooms Car hire included Swimming pool Air conditioning WiFi Early booking offer

The setup Ground floor: • Open-plan sitting room with dining and kitchen area • Bathroom First floor: • Two double bedrooms • Twin bedroom • Bathroom • Swimming pool (23.8sqm and depth 1.20m-2.20m) • Children’s pool (2.5sqm and depth 0.6m)

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com SAMOS 17 SPORADES ISLANDS SKOPELOS Relaxed and unpretentious, green and hilly Skopelos has spotlessly clean beaches and a laid-back, generous atmosphere. Kastani Beach

Reached by flying cat/ferry from Skiathos, The hillsides are made up of wild flowers stepping onto Skopelos it feels like you have and fruit trees, olive groves and pines, and shed a life of hassle and manufactured are dotted with small churches and entertainment, and entered a world of simple, whitewashed monasteries. The only sounds timeless pleasures: translucent waters, are the bells of wandering goats and the cerulean skies, star-filled nights and good calls of birds, and everywhere you look there food and wine in friendly company. are dramatic views across the Aegean Sea to neighbouring islands. With a coastline of mostly steep cliffs, the island’s beaches have a special importance The steep, winding warren of Skopelos Town and are noted for their immaculate and the intimate tavernas under the lights of condition. the waterfront are part of the changeless pleasures of Greek island life. Multi-Centre Options Skopelos with Skiathos or Alonissos

SKOPELOS N GLOSSA MACHALAS

LOUTRAKI

KLIMA

PAXIMADA ISLAND GLISTERI MIKRO NISI PLEVRO ISLAND ISLAND ELLIOS

KASIDIS AG. GEORGIOS SKOPELOS ISLAND ISLAND KASTANI TOWN DASIA MILIA ANANIAS PALOUKI ISLAND MOUNTAIN RACHES

STROGILO PANORMOS PEFKIAS ISLAND

ARAPIS STAFILOS AGNONDAS

DRAGON CLIFFS

Skopelos Town SPORADES ISLANDS SKOPELOS 19 A romantic, heavily wooded island with a classic amphitheatrical capital and wonderful coves to explore

SKOPELOS TOWN hire car. These range from tiny coves (generally shingle) to long stretches of Nothing epitomises what a Greek island dazzling white pebbles or sand/shingle, town should be better than Skopelos, such as popular Stafylos Bay, 4km the capital of this, the largest island in from the town. The sea is sparkling and the Sporades. Legend has it that clear and the swimming excellent. Skopelos was founded by Staphylos, one of the sons of the god Dionysos. The countryside around Skopelos Town The island was a Cretan colony in the is dotted with historic churches and late bronze age. A town, with a current monasteries (about 300 of them), three population of approximately 3,000, of which are still inhabited. An ideal spot Skopelos was designated a traditional to be in order to explore this picturesque town of outstanding architectural island by either bike, car or local bus. heritage in 1978. PANORMOS Strict building regulations and preservation orders have kept it Twelve kilometres and a 20 minute drive colourful, clean and tidy, with narrow from Skopelos Town and through the climbing streets, countless tiny chapels ever present pine forests is the seaside and houses linked by bridges in the village of Panormos. On the south west typical architectural style of the coast of the island, the bay of Sporades. No house is higher than two Panormos is deep and sheltered and stories, all must have a traditional stone Panormos beach is one of the most or tile roof and all doors, windows and popular on the island and tends to fill in balconies have to be made of wood. the peak season. Mostly shingle but excellent for swimming, the beach here Mulberry trees line the waterfront and shelves pretty steeply into the sea shade numerous cafes and restaurants which is crystal clear and of an emerald and there are many good quality shops colour. The large bay has many other selling local crafts. small coves and inlets which can be As well as offering a really relaxing reached by walking around the bay and holiday in friendly and attractive over rocks. You can, of course, always surroundings, Skopelos Town and its swim or wade there. surroundings offer excellent walking. Strung along the sea front, the village There are some very good beaches to has a mini marketand is connected to choose from, most of them on the Skopelos Town by a local bus service. sheltered west coast and easily reached from Skopelos Town by bus or JUNO COTTAGE SKOPELOS TOWN • SKOPELOS

Juno Cottage is simply charming. Perched on the edge of Skopelos Town, it exudes peace and seclusion – the perfect choice for couples in search of a truly relaxing escape.

The cottage is compact and cosy, with a big sofa for putting your feet up, stylish décor, and a bright bedroom. Step outside and you enter your own little paradise of a patio. With the perfect balance of shade and sun you can choose to enjoy a romantic breakfast under a canopy of climbing plants or soak up the warmth in the little suntrap.

Pack a beach bag and walk just 350m, and you’re dipping your toes into the Aegean or tasting Greek specialties at a little taverna in the town centre. With shops, restaurants and an authentic small-town vibe right on Villa Juno’s doorstep, there is no need to hire a car unless further exploration is desired.

While Villa Juno is a couple’s paradise, when combined with the larger neighbouring properties of Villa Lena or Villa Joanna, it can also offer a delightful escape for a group of friends or extended family. It gives you plenty of individual privacy and space with all the fun of a group getaway.

Sleeps up to 3 1 bedroom (1D) 1 chair beds (1S) 1 bathroom Air conditioning WiFi Early booking offer

The setup • Open-plan living room with kitchenette • Double bedroom • Bathroom

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com SKOPELOS 21 PREMIER COLLECTION THALASSA VISTA SKOPELOS TOWN • SKOPELOS

Thalassa Vista is a whitewashed neo-classical villa with Mediterranean elegance. Its perfect location, a short walk from Skopelos Town, offers the ideal balance of tranquillity and the gentle hubbub of the capital on the doorstep.

Thalassa Vista has a unique interior layout, making it perfect for a family or group of friends. The open-plan living and dining areas on the ground floor will bring loved ones together, while the first floor offers privacy with its extra open-plan living space. The harbour views from the balcony are stunning too.

In the garden, the scent of oleander wafts on the warm air and the swimming pool twinkles in the sunlight. It’s a special space, where families will create memories splashing in the pool and dining al fresco.

Hire a car or explore on foot – the choice is yours, and that’s part of the charm.

Sleeps up to 7 3 bedrooms (3D/T) 1 sofa bed (1S) 3 bathrooms Swimming pool Air conditioning WiFi Early booking offer

The setup Ground floor: • Open-plan living room with dining and kitchen area • Bathroom • Reception room • Cloakroom • Double bedroom Mezzanine floor: • Twin/double bedroom with en suite bathroom First floor: • Bedroom with designated living area, en suite bathroom and private balcony • Swimming pool (6m x 5m)

22 GIC THE VILLA COLLECTION Thalassa Vista

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com SKOPELOS 23 FAMILY COLLECTION VILLA JOANNA SKOPELOS TOWN • SKOPELOS

Within gated grounds and just a short walk from Skopleos Town is the magnificent Villa Joanna. Families or a group of friends will feel instantly at home here – drop your bags and head straight for a dip in the swimming pool.

The villa is spacious, with a fresh, white décor, open- plan ground-floor living space, and large bedrooms with modern en suite facilities and garden views. Win the coin toss and get the downstairs double to be in for the treat of being able to go from your bed to the pool in a few steps.

Days at Villa Joanna can be spent lounging in the tree- filled garden and walking to the nearby beach and getting to know the town’s locals in quaint little tavernas. The adjacent Villa Lena and smaller Villa Juno offer the option to bring the whole family or larger groups together in the Skopelos sunshine. One of the joys of this enviable location is not needing a car, but if you are so inclined there are stunning remote beaches and wild landscapes to explore on day trips.

Sleeps up to 9 4 bedrooms (2D-1T-1T/D) 1 sofa bed (1S) 3 bathrooms Swimming pool Air conditioning WiFi Early booking offer

The setup Basement: • Double bedroom with en suite bathroom Ground floor: • Open-plan living room with kitchenette • Double bedroom with doors to the garden and pool • Bathroom First floor: • Twin bedroom with en suite bathroom • Twin/double bedroom with en suite bathroom • Swimming pool (3.7m x 7.0m and depth 1.10m-1.60m)

24 GIC THE VILLA COLLECTION Villa Joanna

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com SKOPELOS 25 VILLA LENA SKOPELOS TOWN • SKOPELOS

Villa Lena is a tranquil retreat just a stone's throw from the shops, cafes and tavernas of Skopelos Town. The villa is modern and exceptionally pretty, its whitewashed walls and sunny patio contrasted by the turquoise of the swimming pool. It is the perfect place for families or groups of friends who want to skip the hire car, enjoy peaceful time together and be within walking distance of beaches and eateries.

Dine poolside under the oleander and breathe in the fresh sea air, or get together for family meals around the large indoor dining table.

Spend your days splashing in the pool or reading under a parasol, or head off on day trips to experience the beauty of the island. The harbour front is just a 350m walk from the property's walled courtyard, where Villa Lena meets its sister properties, Villa Joanna and Villa Juno. Hop on a boat to explore the beautiful Sporades Marine Park and see dolphins and monk seals.

Sleeps up to 9 4 bedrooms (1D-3T) 1 sofa bed (1S) 3 bathrooms Swimming pool Air conditioning WiFi Early booking offer

The setup Basement: • Double bedroom with en suite bathroom Ground floor: • Open-plan living room with kitchenette • Two twin bedrooms both with en suite bathroom • Cloakroom First floor: • Twin bedroom with en suite bathroom and balcony with pool view • Single sofa bed on the landing • Swimming pool (7m x 3.7m and depth 1.10m-1.60m)

26 GIC THE VILLA COLLECTION

HOUSE OF DIMITRI NEAR SKOPELOS TOWN • SKOPELOS

Perched on a hilltop overlooking Skopelos Town and the sea, The House of Dimitri promises a relaxing holiday with a view. With an elegant traditional charm, beautiful outdoor spaces and a magnificent pool overlooking the bay, it's the perfect spot for couples or families.

During World War II, this hilltop home was used as a secret radio communications centre between the island and British submarines. Today, however, it's all about a more peaceful vibe. Swim to the pool’s edge and look towards the island of Alonissos to imagine the villa’s past life.

The interior of the house is unusual in its layout, with three levels, four entrances and private balconies allowing for quiet time to relax.

Outside is stunning. While the views take centre stage, the pool and sun loungers are perfect spots from which to enjoy them.

Sleeps up to 4 2 bedrooms (1D-1T) 2 bathrooms Car hire included Swimming pool Air conditioning WiFi Early booking offer

The setup Ground floor: • Sitting room • Kitchen • Cloakroom First floor: • Double bedroom • Bathroom • Kitchenette • Balcony overlooking the pool and garden Second floor: • Twin bedroom with en suite bathroom and a Juliet balcony • Swimming pool (8m x 5m and depth 1m-2.6m)

28 GIC THE VILLA COLLECTION House of Dimitri

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com SKOPELOS 29 COUPLES COLLECTION VILLA PYRGOS NEAR GLYSTERI BEACH • SKOPELOS

Set off on an adventure to one of Skopelos’ most dramatic spots in your very own castle. Perched atop a cliff on the island’s northeast coast is Villa Pyrgos, a special place where the views are endless and the air the freshest you will ever breathe.

A jeep is included in the rental of this magical, remote villa, for one is necessary to traverse the bouncy narrow road to the top. But the journey is more than worth it. The villa is a maze of artistry and intrigue, thanks to its local artist owners.

From every angle the views take your breath away, and none is more spectacular than the one across the sea towards Alonissos. Because of its location Villa Pyrgos isn’t suitable for small children, but families with older children will appreciate the annexe. However, Villa Pyrgos comes into its own for couples seeking romance and adventure with a dash of quirkiness thrown in.

Sleeps up to 5 2 bedrooms (1D-1T) 1 sofa bed (1S) 2 bathrooms Jeep hire included Swimming pool Air conditioning WiFi Early booking offer

The setup The villa: • Open-plan sitting room • Bathroom Gallery floor: • Sitting area • Double bedroom Independent annexe (a few metres away): • Twin bedroom • Bathroom • Swimming pool (7.5m x 3.5m and depth 0.90m-1.80m)

30 GIC THE VILLA COLLECTION Villa Pyrgos

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com SKOPELOS 31 SPORADES ISLANDS ALONISSOS

Tranquil and fertile, an island that treasures its unspoilt beauty and deserted beaches, Alonissos fulfils the escapist’s dream. Agios Dimitrios beach Steni Vala

Nobody is in a hurry on Alonissos. The island Offering stunning views on all sides, walking seems to wish only to be enjoyed. In the trails run along the narrow island’s backbone, villages, whitewashed houses and narrow- winding through olive groves and almond paved streets almost doze in the sun, whilst trees. the rocky limestone coastline offers perfect shelter for the many secret pebbled beaches

and deep caves carved out of the steep cliffs. MOULES

FRANGOVERGA Exceptionally rich in sealife, the surrounding

waters are part of a Marine Park, VDHONERI

protecting the Mediterranean Monk Seal DHIASSELO and many rare species of bird. One ALONISSOS may even see the occasional dolphin. MOURTITSA PERISTERA ISLAND MOURTERO AGIOS Several small islands lie close off- DIMITRIOS shore, uninhabited except for a VAMVAKIES KALAMAKIA few shepherds and many goats, including Gioura, home to ‘the MANOLAS N STENI VALA cave of the Cyclops’. STEFANI MEGALI AMMOS

ORMOS TSOUKALIA LEFTO YALO BAY TZORTZI BAY

AGIOS ANDREAS VRACHOS Multi-Centre Options VOTSI KALOVOULOS ALONISSOS PATITIRI Alonissos with Skiathos or OLD TOWN MIKRO MOURTIA Skopelos BAY MARPOUNTA

Steni Vala SPORADES ISLANDS ALONISSOS 33 Quaint, mysterious, a step back in time and utterly beautiful ALONISSOS OLD TOWN KATO CHORAFI

Of the three islands of the Sporades, This is a heavily pine wooded area ideal for Alonissos is the least developed. Until the walkers and is just below the old town of 1965 earthquake, most of the island's Alonissos which is set on a hilltop. It is an ideal population of 3,000 lived in The Old Town, location, with dramatic views up to the Old dating back to Byzantine times, perched on Town and also over olive groves to the stretch the top of a hill and with dramatic panoramic of sea between Alonissos and Skopelos. views across the island and down to the Patitiri, the main port of the island is a five fishing port of Patitiri. Following the minute drive, the shops and tavernas of the earthquake, most of the population moved old town can be reached on foot via a donkey down to live in Patitiri and the Old Town above path in 15 to 20 minutes and by car in 10 was abandoned and virtually fell into ruin. minutes. The nearest beach is that at Megalos Mourtias a ten minute drive away. The Old Town is now largely restored. It is certainly very picturesque and holds particular LEFTO YALO BAY interest for artists, writers and walkers. The village now has a dozen tavernas, a pizzeria, The beautiful sheltered bay of Lefto Yalo is on several cafes and bars and two mini markets. the island's south east coast. The beach here Old Alonissos has one minimarket and a is uncrowded and one of the most picturesque bakery and is linked by bus to Patitiri (up to 10 on the island. Two tavernas are set back from times a day in high season) and, if one prefers the beach of dazzling white pebbles and to walk, then it takes about 45 minutes via a crystal clear waters. Patitiri, the island's port is goat track. The beach of Megalo Mourtia is a 15 minute drive south while the pretty fishing about half an hour walk downhill but, be port of Steni Vala takes much the same time warned, this is a hilly location and not suitable but due north. For walking enthusiasts there for those with walking difficulties. The island's are many interesting trails leading from the bay four taxis are always available for a ride to up to the forested Issiomata (a flat piece of Patitiri and to the various beaches. land in Greek) plateau and along the coast towards Steni Vala. KALAMAKIA MEGALI AMMOS Kalamakia is a tiny port, half way up the east coast of Alonissos. The port is effectively Megali Ammos beach is located 7 km home for four local families. The wives and northeast of Patitiri the capital of Alonissos but daughters look after the four waterfront is in fact on the lesser known west coast of tavernas and the husbands and sons cast the island. The beach is small, pebbly and with their nets daily from their caiques to ensure a crystal clear water. This is a wilder, unspoilt rich selection of fresh fish. Nearest provisions area, beloved of those wanting to be at one are in Steni Vala, further south along the east with nature. coast, a drive of five minutes, where there is a mini market and waterfront tavernas. KATIA’S HOUSE KALAMAKIA • ALONISSOS

Couples seeking a touch of romance on their trip to Greece need look no further than Katia’s House. The views alone will get your heart pumping. The villa is perched on a hillside above the charming port town of Kalamakia, so it comes with vistas of the Alonissos coast and the nearby islands of the National Marine Park. Relax in the al fresco dining area at dusk to watch the moon emerge in gold and silver over the island of Peristera.

Then there’s Kalamakia itself, a homely port populated by a few friendly local families. A two- minute stroll down to the quay allows you to dine in one of their tavernas, feasting on the fresh fish they land each day.

Katia’s house is halfway up the south east coast of Alonnisos, making it ideal for exploring the island. The beaches of Glyfa and Agios Dimitrios are both under 10 minutes’ drive, while you can hire a boat in Kalamakia for a trip on the water.

Sleeps up to 4 1 bedroom (1D) 1 sofa bed (1D) 1 bathroom Car hire included Swimming pool Air conditioning Early booking offer

The setup Ground floor • Sitting room and kitchen • Shower room First floor • Double bedroom • Bathroom

• Swimming pool (8m x 5m and depth 1.10m-2.10m)

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com ALONISSOS 35 PREMIER COLLECTION PAPAROUNA KATO CHORAFI • ALONISSOS

Rustic charm meets modern elegance in the exquisitely located Paparouna. This spacious, recently renovated hillside villa packs in everything you could want for a relaxing holiday. Fancy an infinity pool with a spectacular view? Paparouna offers you a swim facing the panorama of Patitiri harbour and neighbouring islands of Ta Dio Adelfia. Need space for several people? Use the separate, fully equipped studio.

The flagstone-paved verandas come with a wood- burning oven, bougainvillea-covered, shaded terraces and comfortable furniture – ideal for al fresco dining. Inside, the spacious rooms come with a combination of antique and contemporary furniture and large picture window, so you never have to tear yourself away from the views.

You can embrace the utter seclusion and privacy of Paparouna, but local amenities are never far away. The shops and cafés of Patitiri and Alonissos Old Town are five minutes’ drive.

Sleeps up to 6 3 bedrooms (1D-2T) 3 bathrooms Car hire included Swimming pool Air conditioning WiFi

The setup Ground floor • Open-plan living room with dining area, kitchen and utility room • Twin bedroom with en suite bathroom First floor • Double bedroom with en suite bathroom Separate studio • Twin bedroom, sitting area, kitchenette, bathroom • Swimming pool (10 x 5m and depth 0.75m-2.20m) • Jaccuzi pool (6.6m x 2.5m and depth 1.5m)

36 GIC THE VILLA COLLECTION View from Paparouna

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com ALONISSOS 37 RURAL COLLECTION VILLA MANOLIA KATO CHORAFI • ALONISSOS

Villa Manolia combines traditional Greek architecture with spacious accommodation and complete privacy. This picturesque house, hidden in the hills of southern Alonissos, is modern and exceptionally comfortable.

With three sizeable bedrooms, a large pool and an open-plan ground floor, Villa Manolia is ideal for groups and families seeking space and serenity. You can play in the pool and unwind on the sun loungers with views of rolling hills, olive groves and the distant sea. A traditional, outdoor wood-burning oven and a covered, al fresco dining area create a relaxing, homely atmosphere as the evening arrives.

If you ever feel like leaving this spectacular location behind, Patitiri and the Old Town are both within walking distance, offering an array of tavernas and shops. You can also stroll down to the beach of Megalos Mourtias or go walking in the forests of Kato Chorafi. Look to the skies and you may catch a glimpse of beautiful Eleonora’s falcons, gliding on the thermals above you.

Sleeps up to 7 3 bedrooms (2D-1T) 1 Sofa bed (1S) 3 bathrooms Car hire included Swimming pool Air conditioning WiFi Early booking offer

The setup Ground floor • Open-plan sitting room with dining area, kitchen and utility room • Double bedroom with balcony • Bathroom First floor • Double bedroom with en suite bathroom • Twin bedroom with en suite bathroom • Swimming pool (10 x 5m and depth 0.80m-1.85m)

38 GIC THE VILLA COLLECTION Villa Manolia

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com ALONISSOS 39 VILLA AQUILO MEGALI AMMOS • ALONISSOS

Surrounded by the trees and rolling hills of Alonissos’ east coast, Villa Aquilo feels truly hidden. This private, secluded property blends in with the spectacular landscape, using stone and wood to create a natural aesthetic. The lack of nearby towns makes this feel like a true escape.

Embrace this tranquillity and spend your evening on the patio by the pool. You won’t hear the noise of civilisation and the stars shine brighter here without any light pollution. In the daytime, stroll down to the nearby pebble beach, which is only five minutes away, and you can swim in crystal-clear water or relax with views of the coastline.

The nearest town may be 20 minutes away by car, but that’s the appeal here – you won’t want to leave the villa. An open-plan dining room, living area and kitchen creates a sociable space for groups or families. Wooden beams, comfortable modern furniture and a pool terrace will swiftly turn Villa Aquilo into an Alonissos home away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Sleeps up to 6 3 bedrooms (2D-1T) 3 bathrooms Jeep hire included Swimming pool Air conditioning WiFi

The setup Ground floor • Open-plan sitting room with dining and kitchen area • Double bedroom with en suite bathroom • Twin bedroom with en suite bathroom First floor • Double bedroom with en suite bathroom • Swimming pool (9.50m x 5.50m and depth 1.30m)

40 GIC THE VILLA COLLECTION Villa Aquilo

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com ALONISSOS 41 VILLA EOS KATO CHORAFI • ALONISSOS

Villa Eos is named after the Greek goddess of the dawn; if you make it up to watch the sun rise, you'll understand how this scenically-situated house earned its name. Relax on the villa’s spacious balcony and enjoy the first glimpse of the sun inching above the Ta Dio Adelfia islands from a hilltop vantage point.

The spectacular views aren’t the only advantage to this location. When you can tear yourself away from this comfortable, modern villa, the charming Old Town is just minutes away, and is home to a range of superb cafés and restaurants.

If you’re looking for somewhere to stay with your family, the spacious, adaptable rooms of Villa Eos are the ideal choice. You can even book it alongside the neighbouring Villa Selene for a larger party. Equally, you can book Villa Eos for a romantic retreat, thanks to the beauty of the location and its proximity to nearby Chrisi Milia beach.

Sleeps up to 5 2 bedrooms (2D) 1 sofa bed (1S) 2 bathrooms Car hire included Swimming pool Air conditioning WiFi Early booking offer

The setup Ground floor • Open-plan lounge with kitchen and dining area • Double bedroom First floor • Double bedroom with en suite bathroom • Swimming pool (8.7m x 3.9m and depth 0.35m-1.60m)

42 GIC THE VILLA COLLECTION View from Villas Eos & Selene

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com ALONISSOS 43 VILLA SELENE KATO CHORAFI • ALONISSOS

Few places are better placed than Villa Selene for experiencing the old-world charm and stunning coastal views of Alonissos. This modern villa comes with comfortable furnishings, space for families and even the option to book with the neighbouring Villa Eos for larger group holidays. An inviting pool and sun loungers facing the sea could tempt you to never leave the exquisite, private grounds of the villa.

Should you want to venture out, however, Villa Selene’s idyllic setting on a hillside in the Kato Chorafi forests gives you quick access to walking trails, beaches such as Chrisi Milia, and the charming, café- filled Old Town. The nearby port of Patitiri offers boat hire for a trip around Alonissos’ beautiful, coastline.

Villa Selene’s namesake, the Greek goddess of the moon, hints at one of the property’s most appealing features. Pour yourself a drink and take a seat on the pool terrace as the sun sets, when you will be treated to a stunning moonrise. Watch and relax as the Aegean Sea, the distant Ta Dio Adelfia islands and the picturesque villa all become bathed in a warm, golden light.

Sleeps up to 5 2 bedrooms (1D-1T/D) 1 sofa bed (1S) 2 bathrooms Car hire included Swimming pool Air conditioning WiFi Early booking offer

The setup Ground floor • Open-plan lounge with kitchen and dining area • Double bedroom • Bathroom First floor • Twin/double bedroom with en suite bathroom • Swimming pool L Shaped (7m x 4.7m and depth 0.35m- 1.60m)

44 GIC THE VILLA COLLECTION BEACH FISHERMAN’S COTTAGE COLLECTION NEAR KALAMAKIA • ALONISSOS

Get a taste of the old world in the Fisherman’s Cottage, an idyllic villa for two on the east coast of Alonissos. There is room in the cottage and a sofa- bed for extra guests, but you might just want to keep the romance of this picturesque destination for the two of you. The clay-tiled cottage is directly next to the coast, and a terrace with comfortable lounge chairs offers uninterrupted views of the Aegean Sea and the island of Peristera.

Stairs lead from the villa straight down to a secluded beach, allowing you to swim at any time. Lie down by the water here and spend your days reading, sun-bathing or watching the occasional fishing boat chug past.

There are charming, welcoming tavernas in the nearby fishing village of Kalamakia, which is five minutes away by car, or in Steni Vala which is 10 minutes away. Or, if you wish, you can cook your own food in the beautifully decorated kitchen. Rustic wooden shelves, a rope chandelier and an open fire give the room a sense of authentic tradition.

Sleeps up to 3 1 bedroom (1D) 1 sofa bed (1S) 1 bathroom Car hire included Air conditioning WiFi

The setup • Open-plan sitting room with kitchen and dining area • Double bedroom • Bathroom

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com ALONISSOS 45 SPORADES ISLANDS SKIATHOS

Beaches in abundance and a cosmopolitan, lively town make the small island of Skiathos an uncomplicated and vibrant destination. Skiathos Town A beach on Skiathos’ east coast

A mere eight miles long and six miles wide, Attracted by its simple beauty and pristine Skiathos still manages to find room for over waters, Skiathos is prized by holidaymakers fifty splendid beaches that lie against a from all over Europe, which gives the shimmering clear sea, sheltered by lush, island’s only town a particular energy and green pine-topped hills. character. For those who want lazy days and colourful nights, Skiathos is an excellent All along the southern coast are stretches of choice. sandy beaches with watersports and friendly tavernas, whilst the northern shore remains Multi-Centre Options virtually untouched, offering a special Skiathos with Skopelos or Alonissos experience to anyone exploring by boat.

KASTRO CAPE SKIATHOS LALARIA

N KOUROUPI LECHOUNI

EVANGELISTRIA LIMENARIA MONASTERY

PROFIT ILIAS

KATAVOTHRA ASPRONISSOS LAKE ISLAND POUNTA ASSELINOS PLAGIA BOURTZI KOUNISTRES SKIATHOS TOWN ARGOS ZORBATHES ISLAND KORAKONERI STROPHILIA AG. ELENI BAY PLATANAKIA MARAGOS STROPHILIA LAKE ACHLADIES ISLAND KRASSAS TOURKOVIGLA SKLITHRI BAY MARATHA AY B TSOUGRI S Y TZANERIA BAY E TROULOS Y A ISLAND I A AR YPOROS B B KANAPITSA N BA IA S S OU S AN IO O KALAMAKI UK O AT L N KO OUL PL KO IM TR OL OM VR TSOUGRIAKI ISLAND

Skiathos Town SPORADES ISLANDS SKIATHOS 47 Fabulous beaches, vibrant nightlife yet utterly peaceful if you care to look

SKIATHOS TOWN ACHLADIES BEACH

The only town on the island and a thriving Located three kilometres from the capital, cosmopolitan centre, Skiathos Town can Skiathos Town, Achladies is a large, sandy, accommodate all tastes. fine sand cove with clear and safe waters and suitable for all kinds of watersports. In ancient times the Persians, Greeks and The beach is 100 metres below the east Macedonians fought battles in the seas coast road of Skiathos which runs from around the island. In the 13th century it Skiathos Town to Koukounaries. was the Venetians that controlled Skiathos and in the 18th century when under The beach is easily reached on foot, by Ottoman rule, the town - and specifically car, by regular sea taxis from Skiathos the Evangelistria Monastery - played a part Town or by local bus. There are several in the Greek War of Independence. In the tavernas on the beach itself and, behind 19th century age of sail, the island became the beach, on the road, are more tavernas an important Aegean ship building centre and supermarkets. because of the abundance of pine trees which were almost wiped out as a result. KECHRIA BEACH & BAY

The town has a population of about 7,000 A 35 minute drive (10 km) along unmade, and is very attractive, with its jumble of forested road takes you across from red-roofed houses and climbing stone- Skiathos town to the north west corner of paved streets. During the day the town Skiathos to a fabulous selection of beaches can appear somewhat sleepy but in the in Kechria Bay. Choose from Kechria, evenings the waterfront hums with life and Asselinos and Ligaries beaches. This is one is confronted with a daunting array of what Skiathos used to be like. Here the restaurants, cafe bars and tavernas. trees come down to the sea to fringe the Nightlife could mean a quiet cafe, a lively part sandy, part pebble pristine beaches. bar or an up-to-the minute music club. There is an excellent taverna on Kechria Beach with fresh fish direct from the tiny Fast catamarans link Skiathos Port with harbour. There are another 5 restaurants in Skopelos and Alonissos, water taxis the area. provide transport to a variety of sandy Note: beaches and excursions available include the road to Kechria & Ligaries a good selection of boat trips. beaches is not suitable for all cars. BEACH ACHLADIES BEACH COTTAGE COLLECTION ACHLADIES BEACH • SKIATHOS

Craving a holiday destination where you’re never far from the sea? Achladies Beach Cottage, as the name suggests, is only moments away from the blue Aegean. A tree-lined pathway of just 15m next to the villa leads straight down to the seaside. Wander down here first thing in the morning, before any other visitors have arrived, for a refreshing swim in absolute privacy.

The simple, comfortable cottage is a picturesque base for spending your holiday by the golden sands of Achladies beach. The homely open-plan kitchen and seating area is decorated with rustic charm. The neighbouring small resort offers tavernas, supermarkets and a bus stop, but you can also hop on an hourly water taxi to Skiathos Town in summer.

Come here on a romantic trip or visit with a couple of friends; it's well suited to both couples and small groups. The patio area, shaded by a web of vines and trees, creates an enchanting atmosphere at dusk. Alternatively, watch the moon rise from your vantage point on Achladies beach itself, enjoying the warmth of a Mediterranean evening.

Sleeps 4 2 bedrooms (1D-1S) 1 sofa bed (1S) 1 bathroom Air conditioning (sitting room) MiFi Early booking offer

The setup • Open-plan sitting room with dining and kitchen area • Double bedroom • Single bedroom • Bathroom

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com SKIATHOS 49 FAMILY COLLECTION VILLA PEFKA NEAR SKIATHOS TOWN • SKIATHOS

Families looking for Greek accommodation to suit all ages will relish the space and location offered by Villa Pefka, one of the best properties for children in our collection. Younger visitors will enjoy playing on the expansive lawns, meeting the resident rabbits and swimming in the pool. Parents, meanwhile, can unwind on the sun loungers, faced with incredible views of nearby islands.

The design of the house, with its spacious, open-plan lounge, kitchen and dining area has a social vibe. The traditional design, furnished balconies and modern conveniences will make you feel at home immediately. Relax on the patio at dusk for a barbecue with the whole family, enjoying the tranquil atmosphere created by the surrounding woodland.

Nearby amenities include two family-run tavernas, that are within walking distance, and Skiathos Town, with its boats, cafés and shops.

Sleeps up to 6 3 bedrooms (1D-2T) 2 bathrooms Car hire included Swimming pool Air conditioning WiFi

The setup • Open-plan sitting room with dining and kitchen area • Double bedroom with en suite bathroom • Two twin bedrooms • Bathroom • Swimming pool (8m x 5m and depth 0.80m-1.70m)

50 GIC THE VILLA COLLECTION Villa Pefka

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com SKIATHOS 51 PREMIER COLLECTION VILLA ZAKAROULA NEAR SKIATHOS TOWN • SKIATHOS

Villa Zakaroula takes full advantage of its spectacular location and the views here are among the best on the island of Skiathos. Take a seat on the balcony or pool terrace and you can find yourself whiling away an hour just taking in the scene. The small islands of Argos, Maragos and Tsougria lie scattered near the shore, while in the distance you can just make out the green of Evia.

The villa’s hillside location also comes with the promise of seclusion and privacy. The spacious accommodation is decked out with modern furnishings and décor, providing maximum comfort during your Skiathos holiday. You won’t want to spend long indoors, though, as the spacious terrace comes with sun loungers, a dining area and a barbecue.

When you manage to tear yourself away from the immaculate Villa Zakaroula and its accompanying views, you'll discover the warmth of the local community. A friendly taverna is just a short stroll from the property. A bakery and two further tavernas can be found within 2km, while a beautiful beach is just 10 minutes away by car.

Sleeps up to 4 2 bedrooms (1D-1T) 3 bathrooms Car hire included Swimming pool Air conditioning (bedrooms) WiFi Early booking offer

The setup Ground floor: • Sitting room with dining and kitchen area • Bathroom First floor: • Double bedroom with en suite bathroom • Twin bedroom with en suite bathroom • Swimming pool (8m x 4m and depth 0.90m-2.00m)

52 GIC THE VILLA COLLECTION Villa Zakaroula

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com SKIATHOS 53 GROUPS COLLECTION ATRIUM VILLAS KECHRIA • SKIATHOS

With three different buildings on the beautiful north west coast of Skiathos, the Atrium Villas are perfectly placed to give families and friends a holiday to remember – the whole property can accommodate up to eight people in a mix of twin and double bedrooms. The open-plan living area of the main building suits a social atmosphere, while there's also enough space for everyone to do their own thing.

But what really sets the Atrium Villas apart is the view out towards the Pelion peninsula. Spend the days floating in the private swimming pool and basking in the sunshine, or just enjoy the beauty of the coastline with a drink.

Cook your meals in the spacious kitchen, or take a short drive to some of the islands finest cafes, tavernas and bars. The golden beaches of Skiathos are just a 15-minute drive away. Historical Kastro is a 3km walk through rich evergreen pine forrests.

Sleeps up to 8 4 bedrooms (2D-2T) 3 bathrooms Car hire included Swimming pool Air conditioning (3 bedrooms/1 with fan) WiFi

The setup Each villa is comprised of two buildings connected by a pergola which cleverly forms an inner courtyard. Main building: • Open-plan living area with kitchen • Two bedrooms • Bathroom Annexe: • An extension to the living space continues to a covered terrace with dining area. • Two bedrooms both with en suite bathroom • Two double bedrooms • Two twin bedrooms • Swimming pool (7.50m x 3.50m and depth 1.40m)

54 GIC THE VILLA COLLECTION Atrium Villas

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com SKIATHOS 55 IONIAN ISLANDS CORFU

An unspoilt interior; oranges, figs and wild pears; a coastline of small coves and limitless beaches; and a capital irresistably Venetian. Corfu Town Nissaki

Large enough to have PEROULADES SIDARI AGIOS IOANNIS ACHARAVI several different KASSIOPI AGIOS KAROUSSADES STEPHANOS ST. STEPHANOS aspects, the range of MAGOULATHES EPISKEPSI TRITSI KOULOURA ARILLAS PANDOKRATOR KALAMI Corfu’s appeal extends from AGNI AGIOS GEORGIOS NISSAKI the energy of organised ANO KORANKIANA BARBATI resorts to the stillness of serious IPSOS CORFU birdwatching, from sharing a PALEOKASTRITSA DASSIA KOMENO moment of timeless harmony in a KONTOKALI

ROPA POTAMOS taverna across from a white-washed VALLEY ERMONES KERKIRA church in a village square to relaxing quietly GLYFADA CORFU TOWN PELEKAS AFRA ANALIPSIS on a sheltered beach accessible only by PERAMA boat. N GASTOURI

Travellers have been drawn to Corfu for centuries – from the Phoenicians AGIOS MATTEOS MESSONGHI onwards, and perhaps even from the time HALIKOUNAS of Poseidon himself – and its appeal has LAKE KORISSION never diminished. Overlooked by the summit PETRITI ARGIRADES of Mount Pandokrator, the glorious “Emerald LEFKIMI Isle” lies before you, a multi-faceted jewel of cypress trees and pine, pastel-coloured houses, Multi-Centre Options olive groves, lemon trees and oranges, encircled Corfu with Paxos (Corfu first), by an azure sea. or two resorts within Corfu.

IONIAN ISLANDS CORFU 57 Popular, spectacularly beautiful and cultured – Corfu has it all

NISSAKI east coast of the island and south points for wheelchairs have been For a greater variety of of Glyfa and Nissaki. Mount provided. There are one or two restaurants, tavernas and bars Situated on the picturesque north Pantokrator rises steeply behind cantina snack bars and a taverna. kassiopi is only a few kilometres east coast of the island and 23km the resort to create a dramatic There are no umbrellas or sun away. north of Corfu Town, the area is setting of white cliffs crowned by beds for hire. heavily wooded with pine and by cypress and pine. The long PALEOKASTRITSA olive trees and in the foothills of white shingle beach with a few AGHIOS GORDIS For many, the craggy cliffs and Corfu's highest peak, Mount tavernas to one end and with A 30 minute drive south west soaring cypress trees of Pantokrator. This is not a busy views across to Corfu Town and from Corfu Airport will bring you Paleokastritsa represent the best location but there is a variety of the Albanian coast glistens in the to this small and family friendly that Corfu has to offer. The view good beachside tavernas and sun. This is a perfect place for resort set below verdant hillsides down from the mountain tops to shops. Nightlife is modest families and couples looking for a and rugged cliffs. The sea here is the bay and the historic compared to its neighbour Barbati quiet beach holiday. The bay is crystal clear and Aghios Gordis is monastery of Paleokastritsa atop but it is to be noted that Nissaki is sheltered and the crystal clear known for its spectacular of the hill of the peninsula an area rather than a village. water shallow though it does drop sunsets. The Blue Flag, one reaching out into the bay must be Nissaki boasts a variety of small off steeply some way out. kilometre long sandy beach with one of the most famous in Corfu; coves of sparkling white shingle, one or two shingle outcrops, is some say in the whole of Greece. excellent for swimming and HALIKOUNAS glorious and the resort behind snorkelling. A perfect area for BEACH Located in the northwest of Corfu provides everything you would hiring small motorboats. There are and 25 km from Corfu Airport (40 The south west coast of Corfu need but is not rowdy. Most many traditional villages in the minute drive), legend has it that has many long stretches of sandy people here quietly relax on the surrounding hills that are worth Paleokastritsa (the old fortress) beach and the long stretch of beach during the day and exploring and views from this area was the place that Odysseus Halikounas Beach with it's frequent the many tavernas at are across the bay to Corfu Town disembarked to meet Nausica for extensive sand dunes protects night. The road ends on the and to Albania. the first time. The spectacularly Lake Korission from the sea. beach in Aghios Gordis, so there located monastery dates from is no through traffic. A perfectly BARBATI The lake is 5km long and 1km 1225 and contains a museum. balanced resort. wide at its centre and is a haven The locals say that a rock, The main village of Barbati with for over 100 species of birdlife, AVLAKI situated in the middle of the bay the usual restaurants, cafes and including great white egrets, is the petrified ship of Odysseus. souvenir shops, which still oyster catchers and curlews. Avlaki Beach lies 38 km north of manages to hang on to some Paleokastritsa has long been a Turtles and tortoises abound. Corfu town between Aghios traditional Greek charm, is along popular resort and stretches Stephanos and Kassiopi. This a and above the main road which Here there are no hotels or bars along the coastal road, around pebbly beach with crystal clear runs along the coast with small and the beach remains pristine beautiful bays to the picturesque waters but not particularly well roads and tracks running down to and very safe for swimming as the harbour. Even though one of the known. the beach. It takes about 10 waters are shallow for some main tourist areas in Corfu, minutes to walk down (steep on distance. Even in the peak The beach is quiet and ideal for nothing can detract from the the way up) from the main road to summer season this beach is families. Two good tavernas line stunning beauty of this region. Barbati Blue Flag beach. uncrowded as it is difficult to the beach. Watersports are a reach unless by hired car. feature here, especially sailing The beach lies 18 km north of and canoeing. Corfu town on the beautiful north Interestingly, various access VILLA LENTZOS AGHIOS GORDIS • CORFU

Villa Lentzos is a very pretty and immaculately kept villa set in a pretty garden above the small, family friendly resort of Aghios Gordis. It is the perfect location for couples or families looking for a beach holiday, as a 20 minute walk down the lane brings you to Aghios Gordis beach, a 1.5km stretch of sand and a choice of waterfront tavernas – the sunsets from the beach are exquisite.

If you don’t fancy the beach, then you have your own pool set in a private walled garden. The property is very much a home away from home as Villa Lentzos is furnished like a private house by the owners who holiday at the property themselves.

The villa has every modern convenience and is surrounded by stunning scenery. The nearest taverna is a 15 minute walk. Corfu Town, the Island's capital and a UNESCO listed World Heritage Site is a 30 minute drive.

Sleeps up to 6 3 bedrooms (2D-1T) 2 bathrooms Car hire included Swimming pool Air conditioning WiFi

The setup • Sitting room • Kitchen • Dining room • Two bedrooms with king size bed. One bedroom has French windows to the veranda • Twin bedroom • Bathroom • Shower room • Swimming pool (3.50m x 5.10m)

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com CORFU 59 AVLAKI BEACH VILLA AVLAKI BAY • CORFU

A quiet location just two minutes' walk from the pebble beach and crystal-clear water of Avlaki Bay makes this large villa ideal for families or groups of friends looking for an unspoilt base in Corfu. Large grounds and modern interiors mean the villa is a lovely place to relax, but it also has a stand-out location for enjoying the best parts of the island.

In the north-eastern corner of the island, Avlaki Beach Villa is in a private setting with two great tavernas within walking distance, as well as the sailing centre at quiet Avlaki beach, where you can also hire kayaks and paddle-boards.

The grounds have fruit trees dotted around, and there are spacious patios, shaded and sunbathed. You can easily spend a week here without having to venture far. But if you are tempted to explore, the village of Kassiopi is just five minutes’ drive away, and larger Acharavi is only a little further.

Sleeps up to 9 4 bedrooms (4D-1S) 3 bathrooms Car hire included (Not essential – Taxi transfers available) Swimming pool Air conditioning WiFi

The setup • Two double bedrooms • Two twin bedrooms • Open-plan living room with kitchen and dining area • Two bathrooms • Extensive grounds and large pool area • Swimming Pool (15m x 5m depth 1m– 1.8m)

60 GIC – THE VILLA COLLECTION Avlaki beach

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com CORFU 61 GROUPS COLLECTION VILLA GREGORY KALAMI BAY • CORFU

Well, you couldn’t get much closer to the water. Sleepwalkers beware. Kalami Bay is where the Durrells lived during their spell in Corfu and it is one of the magical and most sought after bays of Corfu.

The exterior of Villa Gregory is very much a typical Corfiot house but in 2015 the interior was completely renovated to create a chic,contemporary interior with the latest fittings. The villa is large, with the family bedroom having two double beds and a further single bed and a juliet balcony just 5 metres from the water’s edge.

The covered veranda which spans half the length of the waterfront side of the property is ‘the’ place to sit and read and watch the comings and goings of yachts in the bay with the sound of the sea lapping at your feet.

If you only swim in a pool, then you have full use of the large pool at the Kalami Apartments which are 150 metres up the hill behind the villa.

The nearest taverna is 10 metres away. A car is included to enable you to explore the island, though not really necessary at this location.

Sleeps up to 11 4 bedrooms (1K-1D-2 3/4-1S) 3 bathrooms Private transfer Use of swimming pool Air conditioning WiFi

The setup • Open-plan sitting room, dining room and kitchen • Master bedroom with en suite shower room • Twin bedroom with en suite shower room • Family bedroom with two double beds and a single bed. The room shares a bathroom with a further double bedroom • Utility room

62 GIC THE VILLA COLLECTION FAMILY THE OLD BAKERY COLLECTION NISSAKI • CORFU

This is a beautiful 4 bedroomed country house set in olive groves overlooking Nissaki on Corfu’s east coast. The detached guest house by the pool sleeps another two-people making it the perfect choice for groups of friends or families with older children.

The Old Bakery was indeed a bakery which served the hamlet of Katavolos. Combining the restored bakery with a modern, airy section constructed some years ago has created a spacious cool and beautifully furnished home. Views from the windows are picture perfect.

A covered veranda spans the rear of the house which serves as a shady cool location for relaxing and an outdoor dining room in the evening. The 10m x 5m pool is surrounded by flagged patios and an abundance of tropical foliage. This is a very private area with spectacular views down to the sea. A covered pergola with wicker sun loungers completes the picture.

Sleeps up to 10 4 bedrooms (2D-2T) + Annex 3 bathrooms + Annex Car hire included Use of swimming pool Air conditioning WiFi

The setup The villa: • Open-plan living room with dining area • Kitchen • Master bedroom with en suite shower room • Three further bedrooms with two shared shower rooms • Swimming pool (10m x 5m) Annexe: • Bedroom • Shower room • Swimming Pool (10m x 5m depth 1.2m–2m)

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com CORFU 63 BEACH COLLECTION BARBATI BEACH HOUSE BARBATI • CORFU

With a lush garden courtyard and just moments from Barbati beach, this house is perfect for a no-hassle holiday. Here, everything is on your doorstep. A 50m stroll will lead you to Barbati’s Blue Flag beach, lively without being overcrowded, and a choice of water sports and boat hire. Back from the shoreline is Barbati itself with its choice of tavernas and bars.

Barbati Beach House offers a comfortable, homely base in this charming part of Corfu and is the ideal choice if you’re looking for a balance between tranquillity and a bit of a buzz. For some quiet relaxation you can lounge by your own pool and amongst the trees in the courtyard.

Sleeps up to 5 2 bedrooms (1D-1T) 1 Sofa bed (1S) 2 bathrooms Car hire included (Not essential – Taxi transfers available) Swimming pool Air conditioning WiFi Early booking offer

The setup Ground floor: • Open-plan lounge and kitchen • Double bedroom • Shower room First floor: • Twin bedroom with sea view balcony • Bathroom • Mature gardens • Swimming pool (8m x 4m and depth 1.20m-1.80m)

64 GIC THE VILLA COLLECTION Barbati beach

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com CORFU 65 BARBATI BEACH SUITE BARBATI • CORFU

This modern, open plan, one bedroomed property is ideally located right on the beach towards the quieter side of Barbati Beach, one of the best loved beaches on Corfu.

A car is not necessary here as a short walk will bring you to the livelier part of the beach with some trendy cafes and bars on the beach but with also some very traditional establishments.

Ideal for couples both young and old, the property could accommodate a couple with 2 children as there are pull out sofas in the lounge.

There is plenty of space in the garden which accommodates a hot tub/jacuzzi and an attractive dining area. There is direct access to the pebble beach through a gate at the bottom of the garden.

Sleeps up to 4 1 bedrooms (1D/T) 1 Sofa bed (1D) 1 bathrooms Car hire included (Not essential – Taxi transfers available) Hot tub Air conditioning WiFi Early booking offer

The setup • Open-plan sitting room with dining and kitchen area • Double/twin bedroom • Shower room

66 GIC THE VILLA COLLECTION For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com CORFU 67 VILLA SAN NIKOLAS BARBATI • CORFU

You could easily spend a week at San Nikolas Villa without walking more than ten minutes from your front door. With the sea just 60m away, and Barbati's tavernas and bars a minute or so further on, convenience is the watchword. Between that and the villa's large, grassy garden and pool, you've got the easiest setup you could want for a break in one of the prettiest parts of Corfu.

Sat at the foot of Corfu's highest mountain, Barbati beach is a nice balance of lively and laidback. It's fairly busy and has everything you'd expect of a well- equipped, popular Greek beach – there's boat hire, water sports, sun loungers for hire and a good selection of tavernas and bars. Most important are the perfectly clear water, white pebble beach and a genuinely stunning view of the mountainous Corfiot coast.

With plenty to do and lots of space, Villa San Nikolas is a great hassle-free base for a family or group holiday.

Sleeps up to 6 3 bedrooms (2D-1T) 3 bathrooms Car hire included (Not essential – Taxi transfers available) Swimming pool Air conditioning WiFi Early booking offer

The setup Ground floor: • Double bedroom with adjacent bathroom • Twin bedroom with adjacent bathroom • Open-plan living room, dining and kitchen area First floor: • Double bedroom with sea facing balcony • Bathroom • Swimming pool (8m x 5m and depth 1.30m)

68 GIC THE VILLA COLLECTION Villa San Nikolas

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com CORFU 69 HELLYHUNTER VILLA AGIOS GEORGIOS • CORFU

Hellyhunter’s terraces and swimming pool come with fantastic views of the sea and hills.

In a quieter part of Corfu this charming three- bedroom villa is ideal for a relaxing break, and well- suited if you want to mix up eating out and cooking for yourself – the barbecue area on the patio is perfect for long al fresco dinners and the views are exceptional. This is the kind of place you can easily go days without leaving.

But you'll still find everything you need nearby. The closest beach is Agios Georgios, a 15-minute walk down the hill. It is an excellent sandy beach, with sun loungers, boat hire and pedalos, as well as a water sports centre. There are several tavernas and bars here, as well places for a quick snack. Venture further and there are several other beaches within a short drive.

Sleeps up to 7 3 bedrooms (2D-1T) 1 Sofa bed (1S) 3 bathrooms Car hire included Swimming pool Air conditioning WiFi Early booking offer

The setup Ground floor: • Sitting room • Twin bedroom with en suite bathroom • Kitchen and dining area • Cloakroom First floor: • Two double bedrooms both with en suite bathroom • Swimming pool (12m x 5m and depth 1.40m-2.40m)

70 GIC THE VILLA COLLECTION Hellyhunter Villa

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com CORFU 71 BEACH COLLECTION PALEOKASTRITSA BEACH HOUSE PALEOKASTRITSA • CORFU

Right on the water’s edge, with steps down to a beach, and set in one of the most beautiful areas in Corfu, must make for one of the best holiday locations.

From the veranda there are uninterrupted views of the sea, the ideal place from which to read, dream and dose. To the rear of the villa is a completely separate two level Cottage comprising of a downstairs spacious kitchen and dining area, and an upstairs sea facing sitting area and double bedroom and bathroom with shower.

A day’s free boat hire is included for guests, to enable you to visit the caves and many beaches accessible only by boat. A five minute walk brings you to tavernas, shops, café and it is a 15 minute walk to the centre of Paleokastritsa.

Please note that this property is reached by a number of steps and as such is not suitable for those with mobility difficulties. Unless specified, the annexe is only included for parties of over six people.

Sleeps up to 8 2 bedrooms (2D-1T) + Cottage 1 Sofa bed (1T) 2 bathrooms + Cottage Car hire included (Not essential – Taxi transfers available) Air conditioning WiFi Early booking offer

The setup Main house: • Open-plan living room • Kitchen • Two bedrooms both with en suite bathroom Cottage : • Kitchen with dining area • Sitting room • Double bedroom • Bathroom • Courtyard with seating

72 GIC THE VILLA COLLECTION For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com CORFU 73 VILLA ZAIRA NEAR HALIKOUNAS BEACH • CORFU

Afternoons by the pool, sunset drinks on your own rooftop terrace and a barbecue cooked by the villa's Corfiot owner – add in one of the quietest locations in Corfu and you've got one very relaxing break. That's what you can expect from Villa Zaira; set in the olive groves behind Halikounas beach in southwest Corfu, this villa proves you can still enjoy rural feel away from the tourist centres on Corfu.

This is a long way from the island's party areas– both physically and in terms of the atmosphere. There's no real nightlife nearby, so if that sounds like a blessing then this is the place for you. You'll need a car, as the nearest shop is around a 10-minute drive and it's about a 20-minute walk to the local taverna, but it's also walking distance to sandy Halikounas beach, with its dunes backed by Lake Korission.

Sleeps up to 6 3 bedrooms (1D-2T) 2 bathrooms Car hire included Swimming pool Air conditioning WiFi Early booking offer

The setup • Double bedroom with en suite bathroom • Two twin bedrooms • Bathroom • Open-plan living room with kitchen and dining area • Swimming pool (8.50m x 5m and depth 1.20m-1.80m) • Children’s pool • Roof top terrace

74 GIC THE VILLA COLLECTION Halikounas beach

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com CORFU 75 VILLA PERSEPHONI NEAR HALIKOUNAS BEACH • CORFU

Who says you can’t escape the crowds on Corfu? There are still quiet, rural corners on the island, and Villa Persephoni is in one of the prettiest and most peaceful. Surrounded by olive groves and tucked away behind sandy Halikounas beach, you will feel the stresses of everyday life ebb away the moment you arrive. The only sound is the rustle of trees.

This modern villa, with its own pool, offers a real feeling of privacy. The relatively remote location means you need a car here – the nearest shop is a 10-minute drive – but once you’re stocked up, you’re free to enjoy the calming environment at leisure.

Sleeps up to 4 2 bedrooms (1D-1T) 2 bathrooms Car hire included Swimming pool Air conditioning WiFi Early booking offer

The setup • Double bedroom with en suite bathroom • Twin bedroom • Open-plan living room with kitchen and dining area • Bathroom • Swimming pool (8m x 4m and depth 1.75m)

76 GIC THE VILLA COLLECTION VILLA HALIKOUNAS NEAR HALIKOUNAS BEACH • CORFU

On the southwest coast of Corfu, Villa Halikounas enjoys one of the quietest and most idyllic spots on the island. Named after nearby beach, the property is within striking distance of Lake Korission and the Ionian Sea and affords glorious views over both. It is a view that will see you reaching for your camera, especially as the sun falls towards the horizon.

Here you can feel a million miles away from everyday life. The pool, gardens and spacious interiors provide plenty of space in which to relax and unwind. There’s some great walking in the area too plus an unspoilt sandy beach and local taverna, and, with your car, it is easy to explore further afield.

Sleeps up to 6 3 bedrooms (1D-2T) 3 bathrooms Car hire included Swimming pool Air conditioning WiFi Early booking offer

The setup • Living room • Kitchen • Double bedroom • Two twin bedrooms • Three bathrooms • Swimming pool (10m x 5.50m and depth 0.90m-1.80m)

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com CORFU 77 Taverna near to Halikounas

78 GIC THE VILLA COLLECTION VILLA SAIA NEAR HALIKOUNAS BEACH • CORFU

Villa Saia is a real Corfiot idyll with traditional styling, a private pool and a sea view. It is an authentically Greek getaway in a quiet and unspoilt setting.

Outside, the large patio and grassy areas give you plenty of space for sunbathing, and the shaded veranda is great for long, lazy lunches on hot afternoons. In the evenings you can take a walk or short drive to three tavernas nearby, or drive to Moraitika on the east coast (you need a car hire as the beauty is the villa’s relative remoteness).

Villa Saia is in one of the island’s more rural areas; there are olive groves and vineyards nearby. This is a destination where you can get a feel for traditional island life and history, and mingle with the locals. Byzantine Gardiki Castle, the only remaining medieval fortress in the south of Corfu, is a short drive away – worth a visit. There are also great walking opportunities and sandy Halikounas beach is within 15 minutes’ walk.

Sleeps up to 4 2 bedrooms (1D-1T) 2 bathrooms Car hire included Swimming pool Air conditioning WiFi Early booking offer

The setup • Open-plan living room with kitchen and dining area • Double bedroom with en suite bathroom • Twin bedroom • Bathroom • Swimming pool (9.20m x 4.60m and depth 1.10m-1.70m)

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com CORFU 79 IONIAN ISLANDS PAXOS

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. Erimitis Loggos

Just seven miles long and three miles wide, About half of the island’s population of 3,000 Paxos encapsulates the magical beauty and live in the three villages of Gaios, Loggos and variety of the Ionian: over 30 sheltered Lakka, and help create that special sense of beaches on the east coast, dramatic cliffs on serenity, sociability and relaxation that the west, olive trees and tall pines inland, characterises Paxos. surrounded by the clearest Take a boat trip to the satellite island of LIGHT HOUSE crystal waters, and fringed Antipaxos and for a short while you can with caves, grottoes LAKKA experience a real Robinson Crusoe moment, and unpopulated as you step onto one of the many unspoilt islands. LOGGOS and deserted beaches, and reflect on what PAXOS makes life so precious.

MAGAZIA S FONTANA E L PANAGIA I M

ISLAND 0 1

BOIKATIKA U F R O ST NICOLAS C O ISLAND T TO BOGDANATIKA GAIOS PARGA, GREEK

9 MIL N ES MA OZIAS INLAND VELIANTATIKA MOGONISI FANARIOTATIKA ISLAND

KALTSONISI ISLAND

ANTIPAXOS VRIKA

VOUTOUMI

AGRAPIDIA Multi-Centre Options

Paxos with Corfu (Corfu first) LIGHT HOUSE

Loggos IONIAN ISLANDS PAXOS 81 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. The smallest and most attractive Rare among Greek islands, the little fishing village on Paxos, Loggos flagstoned square with its church is remains unspoilt. Thirty little houses right on the water. The village is a cluster around the old platia which is maze of narrow streets lined with an right on the sea. Silver and green assortment of little shops, tavernas olive groves cover the hills and bars. A host of attractive bays surrounding the village. Tavernas and coves lie nearby. Boats, to serve good food and small shops reach the sandy beaches of provide a wide range of groceries. Antipaxos, depart from the square Waterfront café bars offer delightful every morning. vantage points for people and boat watching. Good bathing from beaches and rocks is within five MAGAZIA minutes’ walk.

At the heart of Paxos, the small village of Magazia has come into its LAKKA own over recent years. It has grown from a charming rural community to The little port of Lakka with its a central hub whose magnetic pull almost circular harbour and crystal attracts locals and visitors from all clear sea, framed by green and over the island. Its far reaching silver olive trees, is an artist’s views and the juxtaposition of delight. traditional and contemporary, as Narrow streets, picturesque well as the excellent bakery and grill gardens, numerous small shops, restaurant, make it well worth the tavernas, bars and friendly people short detour from the coast. 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.

Gaios THE OLIVE PRESS NEAR GAIOS • PAXOS

There's a lot to love about The Olive Press. Its location balances a secluded spot in the unspoilt south with easy access to the pretty port of Gaios. And its accommodation is packed with character – this is a centuries-old working building, and incorporates traditional stone walls and parts of the original olive-pressing floor. Romantic in every sense, it's the perfect choice for couples who want to relax into the slow, peaceful rhythms of Paxos life.

By day, kick back on the sunny terrace, take a dip in the pool or head out on foot to explore the area on the old donkey tracks and quiet country lanes. Both east and west coasts are within easy reach – Gaios is 15 minutes on foot or five minutes by car, and a short walk will bring you to the beautiful beach at Avlaki or the Trypitos Arch, a striking and remote rock formation.

In the evening, an open-plan living area allows you to cook and chill out together, and an enclosed, beautifully lit patio creates the perfect environment for romantic al fresco meals. Alternatively, try out one of the two excellent tavernas just a short stroll away.

Sleeps up to 3 1 bedroom (1D) 1 sofa bed (1S) 1 bathroom Car hire included Swimming pool Air conditioning (bedroom only) Early booking offer

The setup • Open-plan living room with kitchen and dining area • Double bedroom • Bathroom • Two terraces, one with private pool (6m x 4m and depth 1.50m)

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com PAXOS 83 RURAL COLLECTION VILLA YAKOVOS NEAR GAIOS • PAXOS

There are plenty of beautiful villas on Paxos, but few offer the kind of view you get at Villa Yakavos. It's best taken in from the pool terrace or first-floor balcony – a broad vista that runs down over forested hills to the blue Ionian Sea, and out to Antipaxos. If your idea of villa heaven is relaxing with a cool drink while the sun sinks spectacularly into the sea, the pool terrace of Villa Yakavos is the place to be.

While Gaios is only a short drive away, Villa Yakavos is deep in Paxos's wild south, set in expansive grounds and surrounded by olive groves. The feeling of seclusion is total, but the small village of Ozias is just a short stroll away, and has a handy shop-café- bar run by the villa's owner. Paxos's small scale makes exploring further afield easy – great local walks include the scenic path to Trypitos Arch, and the road from Ozias to the sandy, family-friendly beach at Moggonissi.

Back at the villa, a spacious, modern living area and a large pool terrace create the perfect atmosphere for a relaxed family or small group holiday.

Sleeps up to 4 2 bedrooms (1D-1T) 1 bathroom Car hire included Swimming pool Air conditioning MiFi Early booking offer

The setup • Open-plan living room with kitchen and dining area • Double bedroom • Twin bedroom • Bathroom • First-floor balcony • Terrace with private pool (11m x 5.50m and depth 1.10m- 2.40m)

84 GIC THE VILLA COLLECTION Villa Yakavos

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com PAXOS 85 RURAL COLLECTION POSEIDON’S NEST NEAR GAIOS • PAXOS

Set on a cliff edge with infinite views, perhaps Eagles Nest would have been more apt. Olive groves surround the property and the private terraced gardens have an intimate feel.

Across the sea one can see Antipaxos and on a clear day even Lefkas appears on the horizon. Sunsets with Antipaxos in the foreground are unforgettable.

This is a quiet place, with the winds and the waves to keep you company and the silence disturbed only by the song of the cicadas.

Gaios is only a 10 minute drive as are nearby beaches. A boat can be hired and moored in Gaios.

Sleeps up to 6 2 bedrooms (1D-1T) 1 sofa bed (1D) 2 bathrooms Car hire included Swimming pool Air conditioning MiFi Early booking offer

The setup • Open-plan living room with kitchen and dining area • Double bedroom with en suite • Twin bedroom with en suite • Terrace with private pool • Swimming pool (6m x 4m and depth 1.30m-1.65m)

86 GIC THE VILLA COLLECTION For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com PAXOS 87 FAMILY COLLECTION VILLA BONAS NEAR GAIOS • PAXOS

Set on the top of a hill overlooking the picturesque, bustling harbour of Gaios and amidst well maintained gardens this is a lovely 3 bedroomed, 300 year old Paxiot house nestling within 1.5 acres of olive groves. The property is totally private although only 10 minutes’ (15 to 20 minutes back) walk from the centre of the island’s capital, with all its restaurants, tavernas and bar/cafes.

The villa is simply but comfortably furnished, roomy and cool in summer and with ample balconies and terraces. The swimming pool to the front of the property also offers panoramic views over Gaios Harbour.

The Paxos Beach Hotel is just a 10 minute walk down the lane and non residents are welcome to use their facilities as long as you frequent the poolside bar and restaurant for drinks and snacks. Some of the island’s best beaches are within a 10 to 15 minute walk.

Sleeps up to 5 3 bedrooms (1D-1T-1S) 2 bathrooms Car hire included Swimming pool Air conditioning WiFi Early booking offer

The setup Upper ground floor: • Living room with dining area • Kitchen • One double room and one single room • Bathroom Lower ground floor: • Twin bedroom with en suite bathroom • Swimming pool (6m x 4m and depth 1.30m-1.64m)

88 GIC THE VILLA COLLECTION View from the swimming pool

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com PAXOS 89 VILLA MARGARITA NEAR MAGAZIA • PAXOS

Villa Margarita’s vantage point on the west coast of Paxos makes it an ideal place to watch the sun set over the island. Take a seat by the pool outdoors and enjoy views of the rolling olive groves and the Mediterranean Sea, then pour yourself a drink as the sun sinks below the horizon.

This peaceful location is beautiful at all times of day. Take a dip in the swimming pool and float around, accompanied by the sounds of chirruping insects in the olive groves. The shaded patio, backed by green wooden shutters and bordered by colourful plant pots, is a picturesque spot for starting the day with an al fresco breakfast. Indoors, the exposed stone walls and wooden floors further enhance the atmosphere of relaxed, rural tranquillity.

Take a walk away from Villa Margarita to discover the sights of Paxos. The highest point on the island is a short hike away, and it's just a five-minute drive to the pretty town of Gaios, where you hire a boat and dine in a choice of great restaurants.

Sleeps up to 4 2 bedrooms (1D-1T) 2 bathrooms Car hire included Swimming pool Air conditioning WiFi Early booking offer

The setup • Open plan sitting with dining and kitchen area • Double bedroom • Twin bedroom • Two bathrooms • Sea-view balcony • Swimming pool (4.5m x 3.20m and depth 1.25m-1.7m)

90 GIC THE VILLA COLLECTION For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com PAXOS 91 VILLA PETRA NEAR MAGAZIA • PAXOS

Enjoy privacy and beauty in equal measure at the gorgeous Villa Petra. The property feels quintessentially Greek, as it overlooks a rolling rural landscape and is surrounded by copses of cypress and olive trees. The stone building has an earthy feel to it, while the infinity pool faces a gap in the trees, revealing stunning views of the sea.

There is a rustic, simple beauty to the interior design of the villa. Exposed stonework and overhead wooden beams enhance the natural beauty of the location. The rooms all flow outside to the spacious verandas that come with comfortable furnishings and expansive panoramas. Enjoy your breakfast on the upper-floor balcony to truly appreciate the dramatic scenery of Paxos.

Villa Petra is conveniently located in the middle of the island, placing within easy distance of many of the sights of Paxos. Nearby places to walk to include the village of Magazia, which comes with two tavernas, and scenic Erimites Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches in this part of the island.

Sleeps up to 4 2 bedrooms (2T) 2 bathrooms Car hire included Swimming pool Air conditioning Early booking offer

The setup Ground floor: • Twin bedroom with en suite bathroom and veranda • Sitting area First floor: • Sitting room with two sea facing verandas • Open-plan kitchen and dining area • Twin bedroom with en suite bathroom and veranda • Swimming pool (11m x 5m and depth 0.90m-1.90m)

92 GIC THE VILLA COLLECTION For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com PAXOS 93 VILLA PELAGOS NEAR MAGAZIA • PAXOS

Elegant Villa Pelagos combines a dramatic location in the hills on the west coast of Paxos with an alluring sense of privacy and seclusion. The views over the cypress and olive groves below are superb. Enjoy the stillness and tranquillity of the villa, where the only sounds are birds flying overhead and the wind rustling the trees.

The villa’s charming character comes from its wooden beams and stone walls, giving the interior a strong sense of tradition and history. All the furnishings, however, are modern and comfortable, blending in beautifully with the old-world design of the house. One of the most enticing features is the infinity pool, with an edge that promises unbroken views of the stunning coastline.

Villa Pelagos is located near the centre of Paxos, making it a comfortable and convenient base for exploring the rest of the island. From here you can walk to the picturesque Erimites beach or to the nearby village of Magazia, which has two tavernas, as well as a historic cafeneion where you can enjoy a drink with the locals.

Sleeps up to 4 2 bedrooms (1D-1T) 2 bathrooms Car hire included Swimming pool Air conditioning Early booking offer

The setup Ground floor: • Twin bedroom with en suite bathroom and veranda • Sitting area First floor: • Sitting room with two sea facing verandas • Open-plan kitchen and dining area • Double bedroom with en suite bathroom and veranda • Swimming pool (11m x 5m and depth 0.90m-1.90m)

94 GIC THE VILLA COLLECTION For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com PAXOS 95 PREMIER COLLECTION ERIMITIS VIEW NEAR MAGAZIA • PAXOS

The owners of Villa Andromeda, one of the first modern villas to have been built on Paxos, are building a one bedroom villa in the hamlet of Manesatika, overlooking the dramatic west coast of Paxos.

Named after the Erimitis cliffs, the villa looks south towards the beach of Erimitis and the locally famous sunset restaurant. The sunsets from here will be very dramatic as the light will be reflected on the cliffs.

The villa is close to Magazia, the centre of the island and equidistant from the ports of Loggos, Lakka and Gaios. Magazia is fast becoming a centre in its own right, with a new bar with terraced gardens looking towards the mainland, a grill room serving the best grilled meats on the island and a very creative dessert bar. A mini market and cafenion can also be found there.

This will be a very romantic perfectly located property and ideal for couples.

Sleeps up to 4 1 bedroom (1D) 1 folding bed (1D) 1 bathroom Car hire included Swimming pool Air conditioning WiFi Early booking offer

The setup • Open-plan living room with dining and kitchen area • Double bedroom • Bathroom • Terrace with private swimming pool (3.5m x 10m and depth 0.8m-1.6m)

96 GIC THE VILLA COLLECTION For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com PAXOS 97 GROUPS COLLECTION VILLA ANDROMEDA NEAR LOGGOS • PAXOS

Got a big family or a large group heading to Paxos? Stay in the spacious Villa Andromeda, which has room enough for eight people to all feel at home. You won’t be jostling for space here, either. When you’re looking for somewhere to relax, you can choose between a balcony, living room, shaded patio or pool terrace, each amply furnished.

The dramatic views add to the sense of space. Head up the marble staircase to the first-floor balcony for expansive vistas that take in olive groves, the Greek mainland and even the southern tip of Corfu.

You can walk easily to nearby tavernas, the charming village of Fontana and down the hill to Loggos.

If the sizeable Villa Andromeda still doesn’t accommodate your party, you can always book the neighbouring Villa Perseus as well, for a larger group trip to the island.

Sleeps up to 10 4 bedrooms (1D-3T) 2 sofa beds (2S) 3 bathrooms Car hire included Swimming pool Air conditioning WiFi Early booking offer

The setup Ground floor: • Sitting room and kitchen • Two twin bedrooms • Bathroom First floor: • Double bedroom with en suite bathroom • Twin bedroom • Bathroom • Swimming pool (10m x 7.50m and depth 1m-2.40m)

98 GIC THE VILLA COLLECTION For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com PAXOS 99 VILLA ELIA NEAR LOGGOS • PAXOS

Watch the world go by from your vantage point in Villa Elia. Take a seat on the spacious pool terrace or beneath the shaded balcony and you'll be greeted with views of verdant forests and the distant sea – the perfect place to lazily watch yachts and ferries cruising past. This is a villa that compels you to slow down and enjoy the peace and quiet of the place.

The traditional design of the stone house, hidden in the olive groves of central Paxos, complements the natural beauty of the location and gives you a real homely feel. It feels like a true escape, especially with the comfortable, rustic interior. If you need an escape from everyday life, Villa Elia will take you a world away for a relaxing island break.

The surrounding area is equally beautiful. Stroll away from the villa for 10 minutes and you will reach the charming village of Fontana, an atmospheric place to grab dinner. Walk a little further to get to Alati beach for a day of swimming and sunbathing by the Mediterranean Sea.

Sleeps up to 4 2 bedrooms (1D-1T) 2 bathrooms Car hire included Swimming pool Air conditioning WiFi Early booking offer

The setup Ground floor: • Open-plan sitting room with dining and kitchen area • Bathroom • Sea facing terrace First floor: • One double bedroom and one twin bedroom • Bathroom • Swimming pool (8.50m x 5m and depth 1.20m-1.70m)

100 GIC THE VILLA COLLECTION VILLA PERSEUS NEAR LOGGOS • PAXOS

Villa Perseus invites you in with a picturesque, traditional exterior, then compels you to stay with its chic, contemporary interior. This brightly-decorated, perfectly-placed villa blends beautiful stonework, burnt red tiles and an elevated pool terrace to create an idyllic home for your Paxos holiday.

The setting is beautiful at any time of day. Lounge by the pool in the daytime to soak up the sun and drink in the views. From this peaceful vantage point you'll be looking over a valley of olive trees and out to sea, with views of the Greek mainland on the horizon. Stay out here into the evening, perhaps cooking on the barbecue, and the villa takes on a magical quality. The terrace lights up, the moon rises over Greece and the towns below begin to twinkle with lights.

Make the most of the walking routes that leave from the villa. A short stroll will take you to the tavernas in Fontana, while a longer trek downhill leads to Gaios and Loggos.

Sleeps up to 4 2 bedrooms (1D-1T/D) 2 bathrooms Car hire included Swimming pool Air conditioning WiFi Early booking offer

The setup Lower ground floor: • Master bedroom (double or twin) with en suite bathroom Upper floor: • Open-plan kitchen with dining and sitting area • Double bedroom • Bathroom • Swimming pool (10m x 5m and depth 1.20m-2.40m) and terrace

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com PAXOS 101 LOGGOS MILLS NEAR LOGGOS • PAXOS

The Loggos Mills are a picturesque cluster of three studios and one detached cottage, all unified by a shared outdoor area and sizeable pool. Each individual accommodation is beautifully laid out, with modern, comfortable furnishings and stunning views of the surrounding area. Look out to the horizon for views of the Greek mainland and southern Corfu.

The Loggos Mills are flexible according to the type of trip you want to book. Each cottage can be booked individually for an intimate romantic retreat, or you can book all the cottages together for a group of up to eight. A shared barbecue also brings guests from the different cottages together, making the perfect place to congregate in the evenings.

Beyond the property, you can discover the charm and character of the surrounding area – you're close to the little villages of Loggos and Fontana. Once here, stroll to the nearby tavernas or wander down to the idyllic seafront.

Sleeps up to 4 1 bedroom (1D) 1 Sofa bed (1D Juniper) (1S Agathi, Lotus and Myrtle) 1 bathroom Car hire included Swimming pool Air conditioning MiFi Juniper Cottage Early booking offer The setup Juniper Cottage: • Open plan living with dining and kitchen area • Double bedroom • Shower room • Sea-facing balcony Agathi, Lotus and Myrtle Cottages: • Three attached studio cottages • Large open-plan living, dining and sleeping areas • Kitchen corner • Sea facing balcony • Shared swimming pool (11m x 7m) Juniper Cottage Juniper Cottage

102 GIC THE VILLA COLLECTION Lotus Cottage

Juniper Cottage

Agathi Cottage Agathi Cottage

Loggos Mills

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com PAXOS 103 BEACH COLLECTION LEVRECCHIO BEACH HOUSE NEAR LOGGOS • PAXOS

The chief appeal of the Levrecchio Beach House is hinted at in its name. The picturesque stone property is next to the beach of the same name, giving you quick access to the idyllic stretch of shore. Come down to the beach in the morning, before anyone else arrives, for an invigorating dip in the shimmering blue water.

You may be tempted to stay at the beach all day, eating at the adjoining taverna and lingering there well into the balmy evening. When you do make it back to the beach house, though, you'll only want to carry on relaxing. The villa is decked out with modern furnishings and a spacious terrace for enjoying the views of the coastline, with the hills and forests of Corfu in the distance.

If you do feel like exploring, you can always walk a little further to nearby Marmari beach. Alternatively, head towards the waterfront in the charming town of Loggos, where you'll find tavernas for Greek specialities, as well as markets and boat hire.

Sleeps up to 6 2 bedrooms (1D-1T) 1 sofa bed (1D) 2 bathrooms Swimming pool Air conditioning Early booking offer

The setup • Open-plan kitchen with dining and living area • Double bedroom • Twin bedroom • Two bathrooms • Swimming pool (5.5m x 2.5m and depth 1.25m-1.75m)

104 GIC THE VILLA COLLECTION Levrecchio beach, showing Levrecchio Beach House on the right

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com PAXOS 105 COUPLES COLLECTION VILLA SOMNIUM NEAR LOGGOS • PAXOS

With one of the best locations on Paxos within walking distance of both a village and beach, Villa Somnium also comes with tasteful interior design and your own private pool, all adding up for maximum convenience in a gorgeous spot. This beautiful property is ideal for a romantic couple’s escape, although you can use the gallery bedroom to accommodate smaller groups or families too.

The elegantly simple interior, with its stone tiles and wooden ceiling, gives Villa Somnium a modern and homely feel, with glass doors opening out to the terrace. From the pool area you are treated to views of the sea and the Greek mainland in the distance. Spend hours by the pool or on the shaded patio soaking up the intoxicatingly peaceful atmosphere.

The villa feels pleasingly remote, but it’s located above the picturesque Marmari beach and within walking distance of Loggos. The well-equipped kitchen and barbecue allow you to cook all your meals from Villa Somnium, but it's a short stroll to the summer taverna by Levrecchio beach for dinners out.

Sleeps up to 4 2 bedrooms (1D-1T) 1 bathroom Car hire included Swimming pool Air conditioning WiFi Early booking offer

The setup • Open-plan living room with kitchen and dining area • Gallery twin bedroom • Double bedroom • Bathroom • Patio and pool terrace • Swimming pool (9m x 4.50m and depth 0.80m-1.80m)

106 GIC THE VILLA COLLECTION Villa Somnium

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com PAXOS 107 VILLA HARA NEAR LOGGOS • PAXOS

‘Hara’ means joy in Greek and we are sure that staying in this villa will be a joyful experience whether for couples or families.

When driving out of Loggos towards Lakka, a road branches off through the olive groves and towards the Hamlet of Kangatika. Views from the pool and terrace are over Loggos towards the mainland and the south of Corfu.

This is an intimate villa with substantial terraces to the front and side and olive groves to the rear. A perfect location for those that like exploring on foot. It’s also ideal for those wishing to be within a short drive of Loggos.

Photographs of the villa, which is in the final stages of construction, will be available in January 2018.

Sleeps up to 6 2 bedrooms (1D-1T) 1 sofa bed (1D) 2 bathrooms Car hire included Swimming pool Air conditioning WiFi Early booking offer

The setup • Open-plan living room with dining area and kitchen • One double bedroom and one twin bedroom • Two bathrooms • Substantial terraces with private swimming pool (4.5m x 7.5m and depth 1.00m to 1.8m)

108 GIC THE VILLA COLLECTION For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com PAXOS 109 PREMIER COLLECTION NASSOS HOUSE NEAR LOGGOS • PAXOS

Perched above the village of Loggos sits the elegant Nassos House. The outdoor terrace is immediately striking, with chairs and tables arranged under a canopy of vines, and sun loungers and the pool facing out towards the compact crescent of the village. Clay flowerpots around the edges and light flagstone paving lend the whole terrace a classical feel. With views of the Greek mainland, which are particularly spectacular at sunrise and dusk, you may never want to go indoors.

When you do head inside you'll find that this combination of modern comfort and traditional aesthetics continues. The living room faces out to the terrace and the views below, while some of the bedrooms come with en suite bathrooms or private balconies. Families and groups will all find that they have their own space in Nassos House.

Nearby, there is a small beach with steps that lead directly to the villa. The village of Loggos itself offers boat hire, great tavernas and tempting bakeries.

Sleeps up to 7 3 bedrooms (2D-1T) 1 sofa bed (1S) 2 bathrooms Swimming pool Air conditioning Early booking offer

The setup Ground floor: • Living room and dining area leading to terrace • Kitchen • Bathroom • Double bedroom with balcony and en suite bathroom First floor: • Double bedroom with balcony • Twin bedroom • Swimming pool (10m x 3.5m and depth 1.40m to 1.00m)

110 GIC THE VILLA COLLECTION For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com PAXOS 111 HARBOUR VIEW LOGGOS • PAXOS

Harbour View offers that elusive combination of privacy and quick access to amenities on Paxos. It’s set far enough back from the village of Loggos to feel separate and quiet, but close enough to be just a short walk away. The view that gives the villa its name is the beautiful result of this location, as the secluded terrace looks out over the small harbour, with cypress and olive trees framing it against the sea.

After just a short time in Harbour View you'll come to love the rhythms of life in Loggos. Wake up each morning and breathe in the smells of freshly baked bread from the wood-fired oven of the local bakery. Enjoy lunches sat beneath the shade of olive trees on the stone veranda, or stroll along to Levrecchio beach, with its summer taverna, for a lazy day by the calm, clear sea.

Harbour View is ideal for families with older children or small groups wanting to explore Paxos.

Sleeps up to 5 2 bedrooms (1D-1T) 1 sofa bed (1S) 2 bathrooms Air conditioning Early booking offer

The setup • Just metres from the waterfront to the front door • Open-plan living room and kitchen • One double bedroom • One twin bedroom • Two bathrooms

112 GIC THE VILLA COLLECTION COUPLES VILLA ADRIANNA COLLECTION LOGGOS • PAXOS

Villa Adrianna places you in the heart of Loggos, a charming harbour village with views of the Greek mainland. The intimate, attractive house is backed by trees, away from any main roads, and features a private pool, so it still feels romantically secluded. Yet its location means that you always have quick access to the shops and tavernas of Loggos. You don’t need a car when staying here – it's a great spot for exploring on foot though.

The waterfront is just two minutes away – add extra romance to your trip and hire a boat to cruise around the beautiful coastline of Paxos, or just wander down and enjoy relaxing by the sea.

After days spent exploring, you can come back to maximum comfort at Villa Adrianna. The modern interior maintains a traditional atmosphere, with stone walls, open fireplaces and wooden beams. A private balcony overlooking the landscape and a barbecue area on the patio ensure that the villa will swiftly become a home-from-home during your stay in this stunning corner of Greece.

Sleeps up to 4 1 bedroom (1D) 1 sofa bed (1D) 1 bathroom Swimming pool Air conditioning Early booking offer

The setup • Living room and dining area leading to covered balcony • Kitchen • Double bedroom with covered balcony • Bathroom • Swimming pool (9.5m x 4m and depth 1.20m-1.70m)

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com PAXOS 113 LOCAL COLLECTION KAPASSA HOUSE LOGGOS • PAXOS

The steep walk up to Kapassa House is your first sign that you are heading somewhere special. The scent of lemon and olive is thick in the air as you walk along an ancient donkey path through groves of trees. It’s atmospheric, leafy and utterly secluded.

Kapassa House is situated in the tiny hamlet of Dendiatika and offers you a total escape from the modern world. The elegant home has contemporary, comfortable furnishings, but feels rooted in tradition, and the lack of WiFi on the property cements the feeling of a real retreat.

Relax on the stone terrace, surrounded by blooming flower pots, and pause to enjoy the scenery. Stretching out in front of you is a view of the little harbour village of Loggos, the Ionian Sea and the rolling hills of the Greek mainland. And the refreshing private pool, shaded walks and romantic location all mean that you may never want to leave.

When you do need to return to something like the real world, Loggos is 15 minutes away on foot, while Fikia beach is a 25-minute walk from the villa.

Sleeps up to 4 2 bedrooms (1D-1S) 1 sofa bed (1S) 1 bathroom Swimming pool Air conditioning Early booking offer

The setup • Living room • Kitchen • Double bedroom • Single bedroom • Bathroom • Swimming pool (6m x 4m and depth 1.20m-1.60m)

114 GIC THE VILLA COLLECTION Loggos waterfront

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com PAXOS 115 IONIAN ISLANDS 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. With an area of a mere five square kilometres and a population of about 50 VRIKA people, Antipaxos clearly belongs to a world VOUTOUMI distinct and apart from our usual daily lives. It may have in its history one of the greatest AGRAPIDIA naval battles between the Greek City N states of Corinth and Corfu in 432BC but today it prefers to offer those who relish nature’s simplicity an unique escape to LIGHT HOUSE some of the best soft sand beaches and clearest water in the Mediterranean.

IONIAN ISLANDS ANTIPAXOS 117 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 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. Bacchus 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.

118 GIC THE VILLA COLLECTION COUPLES BACCHUS HOUSE COLLECTION ANTIPAXOS

Imagine a cosy cottage set on top of a Greek island with soothing winds and heart-stopping views out to crystal-clear water. That's Bacchus House, a one-of- a-kind villa for two on the east coast of Antipaxos. Here, you’ve got complete privacy and the ultimate escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Its charming atmosphere makes it a popular honeymoon destination, as well as a romantic getaway option for couples wanting to recharge and reconnect.

Inside the villa, snuggle up in the double bedroom or share a drink on the terrace that faces the sea. On a warm day, dip your feet in the swimming pool or spread out on a beach towel to soak up the sun. Make it a date night and rustle up a romantic dinner to enjoy in the quaint dining area, or just enjoy some quiet time relaxing with a book.

You can plan your days on a whim here. Check out one of the tavernas or run your toes through the sand at the picture-perfect beaches nearby.

Sleeps up to 2 1 bedroom (1D) 1 bathroom Swimming pool Air conditioning WiFi Early booking offer

The setup • Open-plan living room with dining and kitchen area and opening to seafront terrace • Double bedroom • Bathroom • Swimming pool (5m x 2.5m and depth 1.10m-1.40m)

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com ANTIPAXOS 119 IONIAN ISLANDS LEFKAS

Fertile and green, with sweeping mountains and a turquoise sea, Lefkas encapsulates the dramatic panorama of Greece. Nidri Bay An east coast beach

Across a canal originally excavated in 640BC, a swing-bridge joins the spectacular island of LEFKAS

Lefkas to the Greek mainland. Twenty one LEFKAS AGIOS IOANNIS TOWN FANEROMENI miles long and nine miles wide, Lefkas is GREEK MAINLAND divided by the towering spine of Mount TSOUKOULADES AGIOS Stavratos, so that each corner of the island NIKITAS ASPROYERAKATA

KATHISMA LIGIA has its own character. KATOUNA LAZARATA KALAMITSI PIGADISANI KARIA To the north, windswept dunes and ruined ALEXANDROS NIKIANA fortresses; to the west, magnificent beaches EXANTHIA PLATISTOMOS PERIYALI VAFKERI of perfect sand beneath steep limestone EGKLOUVI SPARTI NIDRI ISLAND CHORTATA cliffs; the east, more sheltered, with honey- PALIOKATOUNA KORAKIAS SKORPITHI ISLAND SKORPIOS coloured beaches stretching as far as the ISLAND GENI eye can see. VLICHO SIVROS DESSIMI AGIOS PETROS Georgeous countryside dotted with VATHI POROS SPARTOCHORI KATOMERI villages and crooked backstreets with MARANTHOCHORI EGREMNI VASILIKI MEGANISSI multi-coloured houses in PORTO ISLAND KATSIKI SIVOTA Lefkas town complete a N magical picture.

CAPE ARKOUDI LEFKADA ISLAND Multi-Centre Options Lefkas with Meganissi or Parga and Sivota (tailor-made)

Nidri harbour IONIAN ISLANDS LEFKAS 121 A varied and beautiful landscape with very welcoming people

LEFKAS TOWN surrounded by vineyards and selection of tavernas, a olive groves. Here you are close pharmacy, a couple of bakeries, The old town of Lefkas, located to nature and the rustic village two mini-markets and coffee at the northern most tip of the cafe is a welcoming resting shops. A 15 minute drive south island, is quite charming, with its place. However, you are not is the seaside village if Agios mass of tiny streets and lanes, completely isolated because Nikolaos and Milos and lined with traditional Lefkadian shopping and tavernas are 1km Kathisma beaches. It is only houses all painted in different away and the nearest beaches 6km to Lefkas Town. pastel colours. This is a small 8km. town and it takes no more than PERIYIALI 15 minutes to walk across it. A SIVOTA delightful boulevard, which is Set between Nidri and Nikiana pedestrianised in the evenings, The tiny, pretty bay of Sivota on and a 5 minute drive from both leads to the town square where the tip of the south east coast is (2 km and 20 minutes walk), there are many restaurants, a natural safe haven for sailors Periyiali is a small coastal village cafes, bars and ice cream and the village itself, with its tiny with a population of 284 and parlours. The town has a large harbour, is ideal for evening popular with holidaymakers. The marina full of sailing boats and strolls and people watching. All village has a small beach, fishing yachts. The town boasts a the local flotilla companies tend harbour and several tavernas. phonograph museum, a to moor here for the night so Many excursions starting in Nidri municipal art gallery and a there is always a lot of activity are available from Periyiali as the recently expanded on the seafront. There are village is on the road to the archaeological museum. The several harbour front fish interior of Lefkas. Behind town also hosts two cultural tavernas and cafe bars. Small Periyiali rise the wooded festivals which run in parallel - boats can be hired from here. mountains of Lefkas culminating the International Folklore Festival There are two supermarkets but in the peak of Mount Stavrota at and Speech & Arts Events. Both if a greater variety is required 1182 metres. these festivals run from June to then the larger resort of Vasiliki September but peak in August. is only 5km to the west. LAZARATA Performers come from all over Beaches can be found at Vasiliki The village of Lazarata village is the world. The beaches on the and Poros to the north, also a located 4 km from the traditional west coast are only a few 8km drive. village of Karia and 5 km away kilometres away. TSOUKOULADES from the picturesque village of Agios Nikitas. In close proximity KAVALOS This simple farming village on are some of the most beautiful A village full of character with a the main coast road on the west beaches of the island (Pefkoulia, population of 292 souls, of the island lies within a Mili and Kathisma). The village Kavalos is located in the hills beautiful landscape of cypress has several tavernas a above Lefkas Town and is and olive trees. There are a supermarket and a bakery. COUPLES VILLA KYPARISSI COLLECTION PERIYALI • LEFKAS

From its private, elevated hillside position Villa Kyparissi gives you a little piece of Lefkas to yourself. Yet is just five minutes' drive to Nidri for the beach, water sports and boat trips to neighbouring islands – and the seaside village of Periyiali is even closer.

The views are fine and far reaching, stretching over the town and across the water to the Greek mainland and the islands of Meganissi and Skorpios, and can be enjoyed from the terrace and from the villa’s infinity pool. And if you're looking for an extra little touch, you'll find it out here – the pool comes with your own swim-up bar with an outdoor fridge.

This modern property is ideal for couples seeking comfortable relaxation, especially those who enjoy being within striking distance of the mountains and its cooling air.

Sleeps up to 2 1 bedroom (1D) 1 bathroom Car hire included Swimming pool Air conditioning WiFi Early booking offer

The setup Ground floor: • Open-plan living room with dining and kitchen area • Cloakroom First floor: • Double bedroom with en suite bathroom.The bedroom is accessed by a spiral staircase. • Swimming pool (8.75m x 4.25m and depth 0.80m-1.50m)

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com LEFKAS 123 VILLA AMBELINA PERIYALI • LEFKAS

Villa Ambelina is designed so that you never have to be far away from its dramatic views. French doors in the bedrooms, wide windows in the modern bathroom, and outdoor dining areas ensure that you can always see the panorama to the islands of Skorpios, Madouri and Meganissi. Perhaps the best way to appreciate the vista, however, is from the ledge on the infinity pool and swim-up bar, as you cool off with nothing but the spectacular landscape before you.

This comfortable, well-equipped villa provides everything you need for a relaxed holiday on Lefkas. Embrace the slower pace of life that its secluded location offers, enjoy drinks at twilight and spend days lounging by the pool.

Its picture-perfect location comes with the bonus of being close to local amenities. Drive for just two minutes and you’ll be in Periyali, a village that offers tavernas, a mini-market and a pretty shingle beach.

Sleeps up to 4 2 bedrooms (1D-1T) 2 bathrooms Car hire included Swimming pool Air conditioning WiFi Early booking offer

The setup • Open-plan lounge with dining and kitchen area • Double bedroom with en suite bathroom • Twin bedroom • Shower room • Swimming pool (8.50m x 4.75m and depth 0.80m-1.50m)

124 GIC THE VILLA COLLECTION Villa Ambelina pool

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com LEFKAS 125 VILLA HELONAKI PERIYALI • LEFKAS

Villa Helonaki, at the same time, feels classically Greek and appealingly modern. Take the glorious terrace, which comes complete with an infinity pool, for instance. The space has been pleasantly-styled using traditional stone and brightly-coloured bougainvillea but it also offers a swim-up bar.

Tucked into a forested hillside, three minutes’ drive from Periyali, this open-plan villa comes with a host of modern conveniences and affords some of the best views on the island. At every turn you are greeted with a view of the neighbouring islands dotted around in the glimmering sea. Bring your camera; the views from Villa Helonaki really need capturing, and sunrises are stunning – if you’re up in time.

With a separate studio annexe, Villa Helonaki is suitable for families and groups.

Sleeps up to 6 3 bedrooms (1D-2T) 3 bathrooms Car hire included Swimming pool Air conditioning WiFi Early booking offer

The setup Main house: • Open-plan sitting room with dining and kitchen area • Double bedroom with en suite bathroom • Twin bedroom with en suite bathroom Studio annexe: • Twin bedroom with en suite bathroom • Swimming pool (8.4m x 4.3m and depth 0.80m-2.20m)

126 GIC THE VILLA COLLECTION Villa Helonaki

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com LEFKAS 127 COUPLES COLLECTION VILLA MILOS KAVALOS • LEFKAS

Villa Milos, a converted windmill that opens straight onto its own pool, complete with exquisite panoramic views, oozes character and style. From its barrel shape adorned with the flour mill’s original sail structure, to the high ceilings and the wooden crossbeam inside, Villa Milos is a unique place for an island holiday and is special enough for a relaxed honeymoon.

Of course, Villa Milos is not just for couples celebrating their nuptial. Its inland setting is ideal for those looking for a private escape and closeness to nature; you can explore the island's trails, gorges and forest with their superb views and crumbling monasteries from here, though you're only five minutes' drive from shops and restaurants, and a little further to the beach.

The location surrounded by vineyards in the hills of northern Lefkas means you get a cooling breeze in the hot months of July and August, and on a clear day you can see all the way to Paxos and Antipaxos 40 miles to the north. We like to say that the air conditioning is 100% natural.

Sleeps up to 2 1 bedroom (1D) 1 bathroom Car hire included Swimming pool WiFi Early booking offer

The setup Ground floor: • Open-plan sitting room with dining and kitchen area • Bathroom First floor: • Double bedroom ‘in the round’ with a large wooden beam, part of the old mill mechanism • Swimming pool (22sqm and depth 1.65m)

128 GIC THE VILLA COLLECTION Villa Milos

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com LEFKAS 129 RURAL COLLECTION VILLA YESEMI NEAR SIVOTA • LEFKAS

Villa Yesemi’s simple, open-plan design offers everything you need for a romantic trip to Lefkas. The villa is tucked away on the olive-covered hillside outside the port of Sivota, and offers total seclusion. It’s chic, atmospheric and well-equipped enough to be a real home away from home.

Few places offer better views of Meganissi, and there's no better way to experience them than from the ledge in the villa’s infinity pool. There is a romance to the setting of Villa Yesemi; your time here is all about enjoying sunsets from the terrace, barbecues together and breakfasts on the comfortable balcony.

Drive for five minutes and you'll reach a selection of cafés, bars and tavernas. Vasiliki, on the south coast, is just a short drive away and is a water sports hub that's popular with windsurfers, as well as offering a pebble beach with sun loungers for relaxing.

Sleeps up to 3 Studio (1D) 1 sofa bed (1S) 1 bathroom Car hire included Swimming pool Air conditioning Early booking offer

The setup • Open-plan studio with sitting, dining and kitchen area • Bathroom • Swimming pool (8m x 4.5m and depth 1m-1.80m)

130 GIC THE VILLA COLLECTION VILLA ELEONORA NEAR SIVOTA • LEFKAS

Wake up in Villa Eleonora and the first sight you see is the spectacular view of the Aegean from up on your hillside. The modern, comfortable bedrooms come with wide, French doors and private balconies that maximise the impact of the vista in front of the house. Even the stylish sitting room leads straight to the attractive pool terrace. Here might be the best place to appreciate the view, which takes in the green coastline of Lefkas, as well as the islands of Meganissi, Kefalonia and others.

Stroll down the track that leaves the villa, and in about two kilometres you reach the picturesque bay of Sivota. Here you'll find boat hire, cafés and tavernas, as well as mini-markets to stock your fridge. Vasiliki, a little further away, has a range of water sports on offer.

If you’re coming to Lefkas with a larger group you can also book the neighbouring Villa Constantina for more space and excellent facilities.

Sleeps up to 6 3 bedrooms (1D-2T) 3 bathrooms Car hire included Swimming pool Air conditioning

The setup Ground floor: • Open-plan sitting room with dining and kitchen area • Twin bedroom • Bathroom First floor: • Double bedroom with en suite bathroom • Twin bedroom with en suite bathroom • Swimming pool (10m x 4m and depth 0.50m-2m)

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com LEFKAS 131 VILLA CONSTANTINA NEAR SIVOTA • LEFKAS

Feel the stresses and strains of everyday life ease- away during a stay at Villa Constantina. Everything about this modern property has been designed to help you relax and unwind and even a few moments on the terrace, with its views over the Aegean archipelago – especially beautiful at sunset, will reinvigorate.

You’re treated to seclusion and privacy here. And whilst this modern property is large enough for families and groups, it is also a popular choice for couples looking for peace, quiet and spacious surroundings.

The harbour town of Sivota is five minutes’ drive away and beaches can be found five kilometres north.

Sleeps up to 6 3 bedrooms (2D-1T) 3 bathrooms Car hire included Swimming pool Air conditioning

The setup Ground floor: • Open-plan sitting room with dining and kitchen area • Twin bedroom • Bedroom First floor: • Two double bedrooms with en suite bathrooms • Swimming pool (10m x 4m and depth 1m-1.80m) Note: Villa Constantina can be booked in conjunction with neighbouring Villa Eleonora to accommodate more visitors.

132 GIC THE VILLA COLLECTION VILLA ANEMOS NEAR TSOUKALADES • LEFKAS

Are you looking for a relaxed destination in which to unwind with family and friends? Villa Anemos could be the property for you.

This three-bedroomed luxurious villa combines a traditional style with all the modern amenities on Lefkas's desired west coast. A private swimming pool, Jacuzzi, barbecue area, fireplace, expansive sun terrace and far reaching views make it a destination in its own right, and yet the island's capital and beaches call-out for you to visit.

The highlight of any stay is an evening al fresco dinner with your loved ones, as you watch the sun set over the water. You could even take a twilight dip or enjoy a sundowner of local wine.

Sleeps up to 8 3 bedrooms (3D) 2 sofa beds (2S) 3 bathrooms Car hire included Swimming pool Air conditioning WiFi

The setup Ground floor: • Open plan sitting room with dining/kitchen area First floor: • 2 double bedrooms with single sofa bed and en suite bathroom Second floor: • Double bedrooms with en suite bathroom and a large balcony • Swimming pool

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com LEFKAS 133 VILLA GAIA NEAR TSOUKALADES • LEFKAS

From couples to families and groups of friends, Villa Gaia is an excellent choice for a stay on the lush island of Lefkas. Accommodation is offered in a spacious, top floor, one-bedroom apartment with additional rooms on the ground floor opened to accommodate extra guests when required. Regardless of your party size you will have access to the property’s fabulous pool, decked terrace and covered dining area with barbecue.

Villa Gaia has been sympathetically built in harmony with its natural surroundings and offers spectacular views over the Ionian Sea, especially magical at sunset. To the rear is a backdrop of cypress and olive trees.

This is a quiet, rural setting and yet only 15 minutes’ drive from the seaside village of Agios Nikolaos. The ideal choice for a relaxing and restful break.

Sleeps up to 8 3 bedrooms (3D) 2 sofa beds (2S) 3 bathrooms Car hire included Swimming pool Air conditioning WiFi

The setup Ground floor (accessed externally): • 2 double bedrooms with single sofa bed and en suite bathroom First floor: • Open plan sitting room with dining/kitchen area and a large balcony • Double bedroom with en suite bathroom • Swimming pool

134 GIC THE VILLA COLLECTION VILLA HELIOS NEAR TSOUKALADES • LEFKAS

Glorious beaches, sleepy bays, olive-clad hills and rural communities combine on the island of Lefkas to create a diverse holiday destination with an immense sense of local pride and tradition.

Villa Helios is located close to the village of Tsoukalades on the north west coast of Lefkas, and a short drive from the island's capital and the beaches of Agios Nikitas, Kathisma, Egremni and Porto Katsiki.

This is a modern villa made using natural stone, and in a design that blends sympathetically with its surroundings. Bare stone walls add a rustic charm to an otherwise fresh and neutral interior. Large picture windows in the open-plan living room and bedrooms make the most of the view, which stretches out to the Ionian blue for miles around.

With an open fireplace and a covered, outdoor dining area and barbecue, Villa Helios is a great choice for family gatherings no matter the season.

Sleeps up to 8 3 bedrooms (3D) 2 sofa beds (2S) 3 bathrooms Car hire included Swimming pool Air conditioning WiFi

The setup Ground floor: • Open plan sitting room with dining/kitchen area First floor: • 2 double bedrooms with single sofa bed and en suite bathroom Second floor: • Double bedrooms with en suite bathroom and a large balcony • Swimming pool

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com LEFKAS 135 VILLA KATIA TSOUKOULADES • LEFKAS

Combine a great location with plenty of space and some of the best sunsets in the Ionian at this four- bedroom villa. Set inland, just 10 minutes from the beaches of Lefkas’ west coast and 800m from the farming village of Tsoukoulades, with tavernas and two mini-markets, you've got all the ingredients for a no-hassle, relaxing family holiday.

Behind Villa Katia, the mountains stretch away with mainland Greece in the background. But the villa is built to make the most of its location, and the pool and outdoor areas face west towards the sea, giving you an excellent view that becomes even more spectacular at sunset. As well as the pool there is a first floor, large terrace and a freestanding pagoda.

You'll find enough peace and quiet to totally switch off when you want to, but there's plenty nearby to keep everyone entertained too – Lefkas Town is 15 minutes’ drive away.

Sleeps up to 8 4 bedrooms (2D-2T) 1 bathroom Car hire included Swimming pool Air conditioning WiFi Early booking offer

The setup Ground floor: • Open-plan living room with dining and kitchen area • Double bedroom • Shower room First floor: • Double bedroom with en suite bathroom • Two twin bedrooms • Bathroom • Swimming pool (8m x 4m and depth 1.10m-1.90m)

136 GIC THE VILLA COLLECTION Villa Katia

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com LEFKAS 137 IONIAN ISLANDS MEGANISSI

Tiny, quiet and secluded, Meganissi is the gentlest of antidotes to the bustle of our usual lives. Vathy Agios Ioannis Beach

Just over a thousand people live on the twenty square kilometres that make up this ABELAKI BAY exquisite and delightful island, untouched by SPILIA any sign of mass tourism. A haven of BAY VATHY restfulness and tranquillity, there is little to SPARTOCHORI KATOMERI disturb the simple pleasures of sun, sand and LIMONARI crystal clear waters.

Gentle tracks lead through terraces of olive MEGANISSI groves down to undisturbed beaches; cascades of bougainvillaea blaze against the

whitewashed houses in the three sleepy N villages. Multi-Centre Options Meganissi with Lefkas or Parga and Sivota KYTHROS (tailor-made)

Vathy IONIAN ISLANDS MEGANISSI 139 A short ferry crossing from Lefkas but a different world

LIMONARI cobblestones and whitewashed houses bordered by flowers. It is a 10 Katomeri is the small island capital of to 15 minute walk up the road or via Meganissi and the cove of Limonari is a series of steps from the port. at the end of a narrow, 1km road Here you will find two tavernas, one which winds down from the village. pizzeria and two mini markets. Spilia Here there are two beaches, Mikro port has three waterfront tavernas (small) Limonari and Megalo (large) and a sheltered pebble beach, Limonari. The sand/pebble beaches backed by olive trees, just round the here are fringed with olive and pine corner. A hired boat can be moored trees and the waters clear and at Spilia. inviting. These are uncrowded beaches with no facilities or tavernas. VATHY Katomeri, with a population of around Tiny Vathy, on the North coast of the 500 persons has a petrol station, island, is the main ferry port on bakery and a few tavernas and is Meganissi and is about 6km south very much a traditional village with east of the larger island of Lefkas. stone built houses and courtyards Fishing boats and visiting yachts bedecked with colourful potted moor alongside the waterfront plants. Port Vathy is a drive of about houses, tavernas and shops. A good 10 minutes from this area. spot to watch the comings and SPARTOHORI goings in the harbour. A coastal road winds through the The village of Spartohori with island’s beautiful landscape of olive approximately 500 inhabitants, is groves and pine trees, leading to perched high above the little port of secluded beaches and coves and Spilia in Spilia Bay and enjoys connects Meganissi’s three main dramatic views across the sea to the villages. An area which is good for mountains of the Greek mainland. walking and cycling. This is a sleepy and very pretty village, with its narrow streets of THE LIMONARI VILLAS LIMONARI • MEGANISSI

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 a few tavernas. Vathy is a drive of ten minutes and has three supermarkets, four waterside tavernas, a pizzeria and ouzeri.

Villa One sleeps up to 3 Villa Two sleeps up to 5 1 bedroom (1T) 2 bedrooms (1D-1T) 1 sofa bed (1S) 1 sofa bed (1S) 2 bathrooms 2 bathrooms

Villa Three sleeps up to 3 All villas Lower villa 1 bedroom (1D) Car hire included 1 sofa bed (1S) Swimming pool 2 bathrooms Air conditioning Early booking offer

The setup • Open-plan sitting room with dining and kitchen area • One or two bedrooms as detailed • Swimming pool (8m x 4m and depth 0.85m – 1.70m)

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com MEGANISSI 141 FAMILY COLLECTION VILLA ALEKA NEAR SPARTOHORI • MEGANISSI

Dreaming of a relaxing holiday spent soaking in the Greek sunshine? Choose Villa Aleka for its spacious living quarters, modern interior, manicured gardens and the feeling of blissful seclusion. With multiple bedrooms and beautiful sea-facing panoramas this is an ideal property for couples and families alike.

Sit out and sunbathe on the terrace or take a dip in your private swimming pool. The crystal-clear water will leave you feeling refreshed and ready to enjoy all the villa has to offer. Then come together in the open-plan sitting room for a morning coffee or an evening chat.

Venturing out into the surrounding area is incredibly easy from Villa Aleka. You can be riding the waves on a boat from Spilia port in 10 minutes, and the village of Spartohori is just a five minute walk away. Down at the waterfront, you’ll find two tavernas and a sheltered beach perfect for a sunset swim.

Sleeps up to 6 3 bedrooms (1D-2T) 3 bathrooms Swimming pool Air conditioning WiFi Early booking offer

The setup Ground floor • Ground floor open-plan sitting room with dining and kitchen area • Two twin bedrooms both with en suite bathroom First floor • Double bedroom with en suite bathroom • Swimming pool (10m x 5m and depth 0.80m-1.60m with Jacuzzi section)

142 GIC THE VILLA COLLECTION VILLA ELENI NEAR SPARTOHORI • MEGANISSI

Indulge in the finer things in life at Villa Eleni, a shining example of a quaint Greek villa oozing with character. The views across the bay and over the local village of Spartohori never fail to impress, while its location on a hillside terrace give privacy and the freedom to enjoy Greece your way.

The villa can sleep up to six people, so why not take the whole family or your best friends? The living plan is open and spacious, giving you plenty of room to spread out. Enjoy the sunrise from the balcony off every room, spend a lazy afternoon in the bubbling jacuzzi and cook a delicious evening meal around the barbecue.

If you want to explore your surroundings, Villa Eleni’s prime location makes it easy to reach Spartohori (five minutes’ walk) or the port of Spilia (ten minutes’ walk). Here, you’ll find boat hire, as well as restaurants for when you want to indulge yourself in classic tastes of Greece. Be sure to bring your swimming costumes to take advantage of the sheltered beach behind the ordered rows of olive groves.

Sleeps up to 6 3 bedrooms (1D-2T) 3 bathrooms Swimming pool Air conditioning WiFi Early booking offer

The setup Ground floor • Ground floor open-plan sitting room with dining and kitchen area • Two twin bedrooms both with en suite bathroom First floor • Double bedroom en suite bathroom • Swimming pool (10m x 5m and depth 0.80m-1.60m with Jacuzzi section)

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com MEGANISSI 143 VILLA KALISTI NEAR SPARTOHORI • MEGANISSI

Villa Kallisti is the latest addition to our programme from the owner of two of our most popular villas - Aleka and Eleni. It is a five minute walk from the charming 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. Many other beaches can be reached using the local boat hire service.

Sleeps up to 6 3 bedrooms (1D-2T) 3 bathrooms Swimming pool Air conditioning WiFi Early booking offer

The setup Ground floor • Ground floor open-plan sitting room with dining and kitchen area • Two twin bedrooms both with a terrace. One bedroom has an en suite bathroom • Bathroom First floor • Double bedroom with en suite bathroom • Swimming pool (11m x 5m and depth 0.80m-1.60m)

144 GIC THE VILLA COLLECTION Villa Kallisti

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com MEGANISSI 145 PREMIER COLLECTION VILLA KALA PETRA NEAR VATHY • MEGANISSI

Looking to treat the family or your loved one to a private Greek getaway? Villa Kala Petra is just the place. Enjoying a private, elevated hilltop position, this is a great property for anyone who values stylish interiors and plenty of room in which to relax. And from the private grounds there are spectacular vistas in all directions.

Indoors, a sleek and modern design gives this place that extra bit of cool. Cook your own meals in the fully-equipped kitchen, or head out to the surrounding villages for a stroll and a bite to eat. There’s something for everyone here, whether you want to laze the days away under the covered terrace or splash around in the private swimming pool.

Villa Kala Petra is driving distance from the island’s capital, Vathy. From here, you can take a boat out to some of the island’s sparkling white pebble beaches, or just take in the views of Atherinos Bay. Don’t forget your spending money, as Vathy is home to some quaint shops and cafes, as well as a supermarket to help you prep for the week’s big family meal.

Sleeps up to 6 3 bedrooms (1Q-1D-1T) 3 bathrooms Car hire included Swimming pool Air conditioning WiFi

The setup • Open-plan sitting room • Covered terrace with outside dining table • Two double bedrooms with queen-sized beds • Twin bedroom • Sea-facing balcony • Swimming pool

146 GIC THE VILLA COLLECTION SHAMBALLA ABELAKI BAY • MEGANISSI

Shamballa is just a fifteen-minute walk from the small port of Vathy, one of the island’s two ports on the north coast.

Bordered by olive and pines trees, the villa has a secluded hillside position overlooking a sheltered bay and across the sea to the mountains on the Greek mainland and is a five-minute walk from the nearest beach. Abelaki Bay has two good tavernas just above the water.

Shamballa has been built and designed to the exacting standards of a British couple who have. searched the Ionian islands for a hidden spot to have comfort, privacy, a surrounding natural and beautiful landscape and dramatic views of the sea.

Modern and comfortably furnished interiors open out on to a selection of private terraces to capture sun and shade and the plunge pool/Jacuzzi has the best views of the bay below.

Sleeps up to 4 1 bedroom (1D) 1 sofa bed (1T) 1 bathrooms Plunge pool Air conditioning WiFi Early booking offer

The setup • Open plan sitting room with dining and kitchen area • Double bedroom with en suite bathroom • Plunge pool

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com MEGANISSI 147 IONIAN ISLANDS 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. Vathy

The legendary island of Odysseus, Ithaca is strangely one of the least known. Narrow and AFALES BAY ITHACA gently mountainous, with spectacular views, it EXOGHI N has 100 kilometres of coastline. FRIKES PLATRITHIA KIONI Surrounded by green crystal waters that lap STAVROS BAY OF against white-pebbled beaches, Ithaca is POLIS

dotted with tiny fishing villages, where the ANOGHI MT. NIRITOS sight of the returning boats in the shimmering 806 m

dusk is unforgettable – along with the LEFKI AGIOS morning smell of freshly baked bread and the YANNIS tinkling sound of distant goat bells. In the convivial taverna of the harbours at Kioni and VATHY

PERACHORI Frikes, excellent local produce tempts the PISO AETOS palate. PALEOCHORA

The geography of the island lends itself to ARETHUSA’S FOUNTAIN 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 Multi-Centre Options destined for.” Ithaca with Kefalonia

Kioni Bay IONIAN ISLANDS ITHACA 149 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 Vathy, the capital town of Ithaca, has a overlooked by three old windmills, and beautiful horseshoe waterfront of from here one sees the old village houses overlooking a magnificent bay, houses dotted on the hillsides behind flanked by green hillsides. The port the little port. The water is clear and and narrow backstreets have a good there are four beaches within the bay selection of shops, tavernas and bars itself, all with views across to the and boat hire is available to visit pastel coloured houses and nearby beaches. surrounding olive groves. POLIS BAY There are five waterfront tavernas and four small café bars. A general store The olive tree covered hills slope down sells nearly everything from snorkels to into the sea at the the Bay of Polis on fresh peaches. the west coast of Ithaca. There are two pebble beaches here, with clear FRIKES turquoise waters. On one beach there is a simple cantina serving fresh fish The sheltered bay of Frikes, a few snacks, salads, assorted savouries and kilometres north of Kioni, holds a ice creams. The hilltop village of cluster of beaches and a small village Stavros overlooks the bay, but it take a waterfront of one supermarket, one good 25 minutes to walk up to the café bar and four tavernas. A small village and the going is steep. The marina accommodates visiting yachts village has four tavernas, a mini market, and the ferry to Lefkas and Kefalonia butcher, baker and grocery store. whilst the fishing and hire boats jostle Boats can be hired from the beach. for position at the waterfront beach. 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 LOCAL COSTA’S HOUSE COLLECTION KIONI • ITHACA

Like the idea of waking up every morning to a spectacular view of the blue Ionian Sea and boats sailing into Kioni harbour? Each of the three bedrooms in Costa's House opens straight onto its own balcony overlooking the little town's waterfront.

Set just above the bustle of Kioni harbour, Costa's House is directly connected to the waterfront by 100 steps and combines convenience with quiet and seclusion.

The large patio area is great for dinner or lounging in the sun and whiling away the afternoon, watching the comings and goings at the little port.

Sleeps up to 6 3 bedrooms (1D-2T) 1 bathroom Early booking offer

The setup Ground floor: • Sitting room • Dining room • Kitchen First floor: • Double bedroom with private balcony • Two twin bedrooms both with private balcony • Bathroom

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com ITHACA 151 COUPLES COLLECTION GEORGAKIS HOUSE KIONI • ITHACA

With traditional décor and a location right on the waterfront, just feet from the boats moored in Kioni, Georgakis House gives you a feel for laidback life in a Greek fishing village.

Sit out on the balcony and watch the boats come and go, or head to one of the nearby beaches – Georgakis House's major attraction is its excellent location near the tavernas and cafés of Kioni, along with its authentic feel. It’s a charming traditional house and well-designed to make the most of the cooling sea breezes.

You'll find almost everything you need on your doorstep in Kioni, but it's also a short drive to other excellent beaches, including quiet Krovoulia beach just 10 minutes away to the north. With a few steps to the entrance, Georgakis House is easily accessible from ground level, and affords great views from the balcony across the harbour.

Sleeps up to 4 2 bedrooms (1D-1T) 1 bathroom Air conditioning Early booking offer

The setup • Open-plan kitchen with dining and sitting room • Double bedroom • Twin bedroom • Bathroom

152 GIC THE VILLA COLLECTION Kioni

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com ITHACA 153 HOUSE OF PHOEBE KIONI • ITHACA

Close to Kioni village without being in the thick of it, House of Phoebe is a traditional island home updated with all modern amenities.

Ten minutes’ walk from Kioni's waterfront and tavernas, the house makes for a peaceful break, with sun-trap patio areas that are ideal for sunbathing, and a postcard-worthy view over the deep blue waters of the bay. The sunrise over the smaller Ionian islands and Greek mainland in the east is a highlight of any stay.

Take a short walk down the hill to Kioni Bay for a dip in the sea or head a little further over the hill to the beaches towards Frikes. A cafénion is 10 minutes’ walk away at the top of the hill that gives House of Phoebe its stunning views.

Sleeps up to 6 3 bedrooms (1D-2T) 1 bathroom Early booking offer

The setup • Open-plan sitting room • Two twin bedrooms • Double bedroom • Bathroom

154 GIC THE VILLA COLLECTION LORENZO’S HOUSE KIONI • ITHACA

The indoor-outdoor styling of the open-plan living area in Lorenzo's House gives you a bright, airy atmosphere in a stunning vantage point above the harbour of Kioni.

Lorenzo's House sits high in the hills in the pretty, historic hamlet of Rachi, surrounded by old, traditional stone houses. Kioni, with its waterfront, tavernas, and beaches for swimming, is around 15 minutes’ walk away (longer on the way back) and Mavrounas beach is a little closer in the other direction towards Frikes.

The crazy paving-style flooring in the living area helps keep it cool, while the two doors opening straight onto the house's sea-facing terrace let the Ionian sunshine into the stylish interior, designed by its Italian architect owner. The design-conscious property is ideal for a grown-up holiday; two of the three bedrooms have their own terraces, so whether you're a family or a group of friends, you can have some private space when you want it.

Sleeps up to 4 2 bedrooms (1D-1T) 1 bathroom MiFi Early booking offer

The setup • Open-plan sitting room • Double bedroom with terrace • Twin bedroom with terrace • Bathroom • Laundry room

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com ITHACA 155 PETRINO HOUSE NEAR FRIKES • ITHACA

Experience a peaceful cottage-style country retreat among the olive groves of northern Ithaca at Petrino House. This rustic house is full of character with exposed timbers, antiques and traditional furnishings inside, and a large stone terrace to relax on outside. Its environs are a gorgeous, shady garden of bougainvillaea, jasmine and citrus trees.

Lying by the pool you can enjoy superb views of the rugged green hills surrounding the property. Your immediate neighbours are nearby, but the setting is otherwise secluded, reached by a small country lane through an olive tree-lined valley, and the tavernas and little harbour of Frikes are a short distance away.

Sleeps up to 5 3 bedrooms (1D-1T-1S) 1 bathroom Car hire included Swimming pool Air conditioning WiFi Early booking offer

The setup • Open-plan sitting room with dining and kitchen area • Double bedroom • Twin bedroom • Single bedroom • Bathroom • Swimming pool (6m x 3.5m and depth 0.90m – 1.40m)

156 GIC THE VILLA COLLECTION VILLA NONDAS NEAR VATHY • ITHACA

There is much to recommend Villa Nondas as your Greek retreat. First is its location: quiet and relaxed, set among the olive groves that line the hillsides above Vathy Bay. Then there is the charming ambience and décor which sympathetically blend modern facilities with hints of Greek tradition. And we cannot forget to mention the far-reaching panoramas from its terrace and swimming pool surrounds.

Although tranquil Villa Nondas is not isolated - you’ll find tavernas and plenty of life in Vathy, just 15 minutes’ walk away, and it is a short drive to the hilltop town of Perachori.

The paving of the pool terrace is laid around the olive trees, offering natural shade from the sun when desired, and there are terraces on both sides of the house for relaxing outside and enjoy meals with a view. This well-equipped and refurbished villa is suitable for families or friends. Unless specified, the annexe is only included for parties of over six people.

Sleeps up to 8 3 bedrooms (2D-1T) + Annexe 2 bathrooms + Annexe Car hire included Swimming pool Air conditioning WiFi Early booking offer

The setup Ground floor: • Open-plan sitting room with dining and kitchen area • Double bedroom • Twin bedroom • Bathroom First floor: • Double bedroom Annexe: • Double bedroom • Bathroom • Swimming pool (7m x 4m and depth 1m-1.60m)

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com ITHACA 157 GROUPS COLLECTION THE LEFKI VILLAS NEAR AGIOS IOANNIS BEACH • ITHACA

Fancy floating in your own infinity pool high above the Ionian Sea as you watch the sun set behind Kefalonia just across the water? Each of the three Lefki Villas on Ithaca's west coast is perfect for a relaxing break, making the most of a stand-out location with the island's best sunsets and excellent beaches nearby.

Choose from three villas, each suitable for a family or two couples, with two bedrooms and outdoor spaces that include a pool area perfect for sunbathing, a barbecue and an outdoor dining area shaded by a pergola. Lounge on the terrace or make the short journey along the nearby coast road to the gorgeous golden sands of nearby Agios Ioannis beach – one of the best on Ithaca.

These modern villas are well-equipped with a private setting near the village of Lefki; ideal whether you're keen to explore Ithaca or are looking for a villa and setting you just won't want to leave.

Sleeps up to 4 2 bedrooms (1D-1T) 2 bathrooms Car hire included Swimming pool Air conditioning MiFi Early booking offer Calypso

The setup Three villas each with • Open-plan sitting room with dining and kitchen area • Double bedroom with en suite bathroom • Twin bedroom with en suite bathroom Note: The twin bedroom in Calypso and Penelope is located on a mezzanine floor • Swimming pool (7m x 4m and depth 1.60m) Calypso Penelope

158 GIC THE VILLA COLLECTION Odysseus

Odysseus

Calypso

Calypso villa pool

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com ITHACA 159 IONIAN ISLANDS KEFALONIA

Both “the jewel” and the largest of the Ionian islands, Kefalonia combines countless beaches with dramatic scenery under an achingly blue sky. Myrtos beach Agia Efimia

Lying opposite the mouth of the Gulf of Towering above at 1627m, Mount Aenos Corinth and just sixty miles south of Paxos, looks down upon a luxurious landscape of Kefalonia is ringed with countless bays and pine, olive, cypress, orange, lemon and inlets. There are beaches of spectacular white grape, imbued with the heady scent of wild coral, while on the south coast the beaches lavender. are of fine golden sand that shelve gently under an aquamarine sea, making them AFALES BAY FISCARDO perfect for children. EXOGHI ALATIES EVRETI FRIKES MANGANOS PLATRITHIA KIONI Elsewhere, subterranean lakes, KATSERATA STAVROS KEFALONIA BAY OF stalactite-encrusted caverns and VASSILIKADES POLIS ANOGHI MT. NIRITOS AGIOS SPIRIDON 806 m marine turtles wait to be discovered. ASSOS AGIOS YANNIS Thanks to a good road network, the MYRTOS VATHY island lends itself to easy exploration. Venetian fortresses and Byzantine AGIA EFIMIA churches, underground Mycenean ITHACA tombs dating from 1200BC, a KARAVOLIMOS SAMI HALIOTATA ruined Roman villa with dazzling LIXOURI mosaics, precipitous mountain ARGOSTOLI communities, a host of small fishing LASSI LAKITHRA MAKRIS MT. AENOS YALOS villages and the unique Kefalonia VARDIANA 1625 m N ISLAND MINIES POROS SVORONATA Firs jostle for attention. AIRPORT KARAVADOSFiscardoSPARTIA TRAPEZAKI AVITHOS AGIA HELIS LOURDAS SCALA Multi-Centre Options KATELIOS Kefalonia with Ithaca or South Kefalonia with North Kefalonia IONIAN ISLANDS KEFALONIA 161 Diverse in all that it offers, Kefalonia provides sophistication and tradition

THE SOUTH COAST KARAVOMILOS

From Lassi to Scala the south coast Karavomilos is a small, quiet village has a series of beautiful sandy which lies in-between Sami, the beaches. Easily accessible by car, island’s main port, and Agia Efimia. these beaches have the dramatic Here you will find one of the island’s backdrop of Mount Aenos and foothills most beautiful attractions, the of olive groves, vineyards and cypress Melissani Lake. This was discovered in trees. Makris Yalos and Lassi have the the 1950s when the roof collapsed to distractions of a popular resort with the cave unveiling the sparkling lake watersports and an extensive selection beneath. Now you can go on a small of tavernas, bars and shops. Katelios boat tour of the cave and learn about has plenty of tavernas and restaurants the water phenomena in which the sink whilst Spartia is smaller and quieter. holes from the coast of Argostoli deliver water underground to the The drive from south coast to north Karavomilos and Melissani Lakes. coast takes up to two hours. There are a few pebble beaches to choose from and just a short walk into FISCARDO Sami where there are restaurants and souvenir shops to choose from. The attractive port of Fiscardo, with its beautiful Venetian architecture, lies on the north east coast and looks out to AGIA EFIMIA the island of Ithaca. On one side of the Agia Efimia is a small port at the horseshoe bay, a sixth century basilica, northern end of Sami Bay, on the east surrounded by pines, looks down on to coast and looks out across the sea to the eighteenth century houses, tavernas Ithaca. The coastline on either side of and café bars, which line the waterfront. the village holds many attractive white- Pebble beaches in secluded coves, pebble coves and small beaches below forested hillsides, can be found shelving into clear waters. on either side of Fiscardo Bay. Small The waterfront of restaurants and bars hamlets hide away amongst the olives leads to small side streets with a and pines on the hillsides behind bakery and shops. Eight kilometeres Fiscardo. The transfer from Kefalonia away, the small town and port of Sami Airport takes approximately two hours. has a daily ferry to Ithaca and a further four kilometres south is the beautiful beach of Antisamos. VILLA MELISSANI KARAVOMILOS • KEFALONIA

Elegance, seclusion and spectacular views all combine to make Villa Melissani a very special destination. This modern house comes with a private pool, balconies with views of Sami Bay and an al fresco dining area. Spend your time here soaking up the sun, seeing the sights of the region or just enjoying the peace and quiet. The variety of rooms and spacious ground floor make the villa ideal for families or small groups.

The villa is in the friendly village of Karavomilos, where you'll find a bakery and a couple of tavernas. The nearby port of Sami has even more dining options, as well as shops and beaches.

The villa is named after a nearby attraction, Melissani Lake, where one of the owners, Aris, works. Head down into the caves and you can take a trip on a boat into the middle of the subterranean lake. The water's shade of blue changes at different times of day, due to the shifting light that shines through the cave ceiling.

Sleeps up to 5 2 bedrooms (1D-1T) 1 sofa bed (1S) 2 bathrooms Swimming pool Air conditioning WiFi Early booking offer

The setup Ground floor: • Open-plan sitting room with dining and kitchen area • Cloakroom First floor: • Double bedroom with en suite bathroom • Twin bedroom • Bathroom • Swimming pool (8m x 4m and depth 1.20m-1.90m)

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com KEFALONIA 163 VILLA SCORPIOS KARAVOMILOS • KEFALONIA

Feel truly at home with your family on holiday at Villa Scorpios. The spacious, rural villa has room for up to six people and easy access to the welcoming village of Karavomilos. Children will enjoy the large living room and swimming pool. Adults, meanwhile, can relax on the quiet terrace with views of Sami Bay and the island of Ithaca.

Cook for yourselves here and spend evenings outdoors, surrounded by orchards and pine trees, or wander into Karavomilos or Sami for dinner at one of the friendly tavernas. The community here loves welcoming guests, especially in August during the annual music and arts festival Saristra – great for its party atmosphere and a look into some local culture. When staying in Villa Scorpios, don't miss Melissani Lake, one of the jewels of Kefalonia. This underground lake changes colour throughout the day as the light shines through the roof of the cave.

Sleeps up to 6 3 bedrooms (2D-1T) 2 bathrooms Swimming pool Air conditioning WiFi Early booking offer

The setup Ground floor: • Living room with dining area • Kitchen • Double bedroom with en suite bathroom • Cloakroom First floor: • Double bedroom with sea view balcony • Small twin bedroom with sea view balcony • Bathroom • Swimming pool (6m x 4m and depth 1.70m)

164 GIC THE VILLA COLLECTION Villa Scorpios

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com KEFALONIA 165 PREMIER COLLECTION VILLA HARMONY KARAVOMILOS • KEFALONIA

Looking for a villa that's modern but embraces the traditional character of Kefalonia? Look no further than Villa Harmony, a spacious new build with stylish facilities that sympathetically blend in with the old- world ambience of the island.

Families seeking a private escape will enjoy the tranquillity of Villa Harmony. A large outdoor terrace comes with a cooking area, swimming pool and sun loungers, all surrounded by olive and pine trees. The first-floor balconies have uninterrupted views of the village below, rolling into the Ionian Sea. Younger visitors will enjoy the mod-cons of a games console, WiFi and music stations.

The well-equipped kitchen is ideal for self-catering with your group, but nearby Karavomilos and Sami both offer an array of tavernas for long nights dining by the waterfront. One of the villa’s owners, Aris, also rows boats on nearby Melissani Lake, an unmissable underground attraction that's famed for its vivid colours.

Sleeps up to 5 3 bedrooms (1D-1T-1S) 2 bathrooms Car hire included Swimming pool Air conditioning WiFi Early booking offer

The setup Ground floor: • Lounge • Dining room • Kitchen First floor: • Double bedroom with en suite bathroom and sea view balcony • Twin room with sea view balcony • Single bedroom with rear facing balcony • Bathroom • Swimming pool (10m x 5m and depth 1.20-1.90m)

166 GIC THE VILLA COLLECTION Karavomilos

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com KEFALONIA 167 FAMILY COLLECTION VILLA OKEANIS KATELIOS • KEFALONIA

Looking for your own space, good sandy beach options and some of the freshest seafood on Kefalonia? That's what you can expect at Villa Okeanis in the fishing village of Katelios. Waterfront tavernas are owned by local fishermen, so this is an excellent place to enjoy super-fresh seafood.

The waterfront and main village are around 10 minutes' walk from the villa and there are several excellent, larger beaches within a short drive, such as wide, sandy Kaminia beach and Potamakia along the coast. Just a little further afield is the larger town of Skala, at 15 minutes' drive away, with its shops, popular beach and bars and tavernas.

Whilst close to all local amenities the property is also private and peaceful. Villa Okeanis is well-suited to families or groups of friends.

Sleeps up to 6 3 bedrooms (1D-2T) 3 bathrooms Swimming pool Air conditioning WiFi Early booking offer

The setup Ground floor: • Sitting room • Study • Kitchen and dining area • Bathroom • Utility room First floor: • Double bedroom • Two twin bedrooms each with en suite bathroom • Separate spa annexe with sauna and hot tub (available at a local charge) • Swimming pool (9m x 5m and depth 1.10m-1.70m)

168 GIC THE VILLA COLLECTION Katelios beach

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com KEFALONIA 169 GROUPS COLLECTION TRAPEZAKI VILLAS TRAPEZAKI • KEFALONIA

Sandwiched between massive Mount Aenos and the sea, with views of both, these little family-run villas are ideal whether you're a couple or a couple of friends.

Each of the four Trapezaki Villas has its own good- sized pool and shaded patio area, both facing the sea below, with excellent views south towards Zakynthos. The friendly owners are really attentive and also run the local supermarket next-door, so you're always well-supplied and looked-after if you want to be. But you'll also find plenty of privacy here, with your own garden and more outdoor space than you'll usually get in a two-bedroom property, so you can properly relax in your own home-from-home.

Trapezaki has the best of both worlds in beach terms; the village's own beach is small but rarely busy, and it's a short drive to other larger beaches – popular Lourdas is just 10 minutes away. Trapezaki also has four traditional restaurants that you can wander down to for dinner, one of which is by the waterfront. The villas are just 20 minutes from the airport, and the Robola winery is under half an hour's drive.

Sleeps up to 3 1 bedroom (1T) 1 chair bed (1S) 1 bathroom Car hire included Swimming pool Air conditioning WiFi Early booking offer

The setup Each villa has: • Twin/double bedroom • Bathroom • Open-plan sitting room with kitchen area • Swimming pool (8m x 5m and depth 1m-1.80m)

170 GIC THE VILLA COLLECTION A Trapezaki pool

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com KEFALONIA 171 BEACH COLLECTION NOCTILUCA BEACH HOUSE MAKRIS YALOS • KEFALONIA

Noctiluca allows you to experience all the fun and excitement of the resort of Lassi while still enjoying the rural side of Kefalonia. Lassi’s bars and restaurants are just 10 minutes away on foot, but the comfortable and modern villa is secluded enough to grant your party privacy.

The pretty décor, which combines ceramic floor tiles with private balconies and elegant furnishings, makes the house feel like a real home. A patio with stunning views of the Ionian Sea is the ideal spot for an al fresco dinner. Take a seat beneath the shade of pine trees and while away the evening as the sun sets.

From the house you can directly access one of the best beaches in the area. Stroll down to Makris Yalos beach, which is long, sandy and family-friendly. Head here for hours of sunbathing or to swim in the clear waters. Kefalonia’s lively capital, Argostoli, isn’t far away, offering the chance to meet the loggerhead turtles that call this island home.

Sleeps up to 7 3 bedrooms (2D-1T) 1 chair bed (1S) 2 bathrooms Air conditioning WiFi Early booking offer

The setup Ground floor: • Open-plan sitting room with dining area • Kitchen • Double bedroom • Twin bedroom • Two bathrooms • Sofa bed Gallery floor: • Double bedroom with balcony

172 GIC THE VILLA COLLECTION For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com KEFALONIA 173 VILLA KAMINI NEAR ASSOS • KEFALONIA

Villa Kamini is almost as beautiful as the spectacular landscape that surrounds it. The modern villa features elegantly decorated rooms with exposed beams and stone walls, blending in with its stunning hilltop location.

Best of all, this stunning property comes with unrivalled views. Take a dip in the infinity pool on the terrace, then swim up to its edge for breathtaking vistas of the Ionian Sea and the green Kefalonian coastline. You may never want to leave this terrace, especially as it comes with a comfortable al fresco dining area and barbecue.

Villa Kamini’s location in the northwest of the island also places it near some of Kefalonia’s best attractions. From your hillside vantage you can spot the town of Assos and its neighbouring fortress, which are only 10 minutes away. Famous Myrtos beach is just a 20-minute drive away too.

Sleeps up to 6 3 bedrooms (2D-1T) 3 bathrooms Car hire included Swimming pool Air conditioning WiFi Early booking offer

The setup Ground floor: • Lounge • Kitchen • Double bedroom • Bathroom First floor: • Double bedroom with en suite wet room • Twin bedroom • Bathroom • Swimming pool (8m x 4m and depth 1.10m-1.70m)

174 GIC THE VILLA COLLECTION Villa Kamini

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com KEFALONIA 175 RURAL COLLECTION SUNSET HOUSE NEAR FISCARDO • KEFALONIA

Looking for a quiet little piece of the Greek good life? High on a Kefalonia hilltop, Sunset House is a proper home-from-home. If your perfect getaway is all about total privacy with stand-out views, you'll find it here. Multiple beds mean the house can accommodate families, but its quiet, naturally beautiful setting means it’s also ideal for a romantic break.

The pool points out from your elevated position towards the sea, giving you a special view of the Ionian and Kefalonia's rugged landscape stretching away down the coast. On warm evenings it's perfect for swimming to the end of the pool, leaning your elbows on the side and watching the sun dive into the sea before you get ready for dinner.

Sunset House is driving distance from most amenities, but not totally remote. It's a short drive to two nearby tavernas, and under 20 minutes by car to Fiscardo. Take a 10-minute walk down the hill and you'll arrive at quiet Jerusalem Beach.

Sleeps up to 6 3 bedrooms (2D-1T) 2 bathrooms Car hire included Swimming pool Air conditioning (bedrooms) WiFi Early booking offer

The setup Main house: • Open-plan sitting room with dining and kitchen area • Double bedroom • Bathroom Annexe Connected to the main house by a courtyard shaded by grapevine and bougainvillaea • Split level sitting room and kitchenette • Double bedroom • Bathroom • Twin bedroom • Swimming pool (8m x 4m and depth 1.10m-1.70m)

176 GIC THE VILLA COLLECTION Sunset House

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com KEFALONIA 177 STAFILIA HOUSE NEAR FISCARDO • KEFALONIA

Greet the Mediterranean evening with a glass of wine, soaking up the views from Stafilia House’s stone terrace, and you may just think you’ve found your own corner of paradise. Hidden in the hillside woods of northern Kefalonia, Stafilia House is a popular escape for couples or families who want to experience the beauty of the island on a private retreat.

The old stone house, which combines modern comforts with traditional aesthetics, matches the beauty of its setting. There are few better ways to start your day than waking up beneath cypress wood ceilings and facing French doors that look out to views of Kefalonia’s west coast. The limestone floors of the open-plan dining and seating area ooze rustic comfort, while the pool terrace at the back of the property offers a welcoming escape from the hot Greek sun.

Nearby, you can enjoy days on the beach, which is only 10 minutes away on foot, or dinner at one of the nearby tavernas. Drive to nearby Fiscardo and you can hire boats for a trip out around the coastline.

Sleeps up to 4 2 bedrooms (1D-1T) 1 bathroom Car hire included Swimming pool Air conditioning (bedrooms) WiFi Early booking offer

The setup • Open-plan sitting room with dining and kitchen area • Double bedroom • Twin bedroom • Bathroom • Swimming pool (8m x 4m and depth 1.20m-1.80m)

178 GIC THE VILLA COLLECTION VILLA CASSANDRA NEAR FISCARDO • KEFALONIA

Villa Cassandra is a perfect vantage point with classic Greek views of sea that go on forever, and a location that balances convenience and tranquillity. Not to mention the splendid sunsets that are the highlight of this side of the island.

The large pool area means there's plenty of space for lounging, with room left for kids to play, and the gated entrance to the pool means you can also keep it off-limits if you need to. The master bedroom opens onto its own balcony – ideal for a morning coffee with the view, or for quiet evening drinks while others are asleep.

Villa Cassandra is in the little hamlet of Zambelata, just 10 minutes’ drive from Jerusalem beach – one of the quietest beaches on Kefalonia. There are shops and restaurants within similar distance.

Sleeps up to 6 3 bedrooms (2D-1T) 2 bathrooms Car hire included Swimming pool Air conditioning (bedrooms) WiFi Early booking offer

The setup Ground floor: • Open-plan sitting room with dining and kitchen area • Small double bedroom • Bathroom First floor: • Double bedroom • Twin bedroom • Bathroom • Swimming pool (8m x 4m and depth 1m-1.80m)

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com KEFALONIA 179 VILLA ISLANDS VIEW NEAR FISCARDO • KEFALONIA

Follow the short track to Villa Islands View and you immediately realise how this attractive stone building earned its name. A spacious pool terrace looks out to expansive views of Ithaca to the east and Lefkas to the north. Head up to the first-floor balcony of the property and the views get even better, making it a magical place to watch the sun or moon rise over the Ionian Islands.

An elegant interior combining flagstone paving and wooden furnishings ensures total comfort throughout your stay and there is plenty of space for the whole family.

Villa Islands View is in the north of Kefalonia, well- placed for days exploring the island. The village of Antipata is a short walk and has useful amenities, while Fiscardo is a five-minute drive away. This sophisticated village survived the 20th-century earthquake that damaged other parts of the island, so it has maintained an enchanting old-world atmosphere. Hire a boat from here for a scenic trip around the coastline.

Sleeps up to 6 3 bedrooms (2D-1T) 3 bathrooms Car hire included Swimming pool Air conditioning WiFi Early booking offer

The setup Ground floor: • Open-plan living room with dining area and kitchen • Twin bedroom with en suite bathroom First floor: • Double bedroom with en suite bathroom and balcony • Double bedroom with en suite bathroom and balcony • Swimming pool (3.50m x 8.50m and depth 1.20m-1.80m)

180 GIC THE VILLA COLLECTION Villa Islands View

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com KEFALONIA 181 HORIZON VILLA NEAR FISCARDO • KEFALONIA

As its name suggests, the vista takes centre stage at Horizon villa on the north-east coast of Kefalonia. Stretching out to sea as far as the eye can see, and with the island of Odysseus as its support act, it is a magical scene at any time of day or night.

The accommodation here is modern and spacious, opening onto the sun terrace and infinity swimming pool; it almost feels as if you could dive-in from the open-plan living room. Both bedrooms also open onto this al fresco space.

At only 10 minutes’ drive from Fiscardo and 20 minutes from Assos, Horizon is ideally placed for exploring the northern district of Kefalonia. Head to the nearby Agios Jerusalem beach and discover a local secret that remains relatively quiet in high season and which has an excellent local taverna - popular for sundowners.

Sleeps up to 4 2 bedrooms (1D-1T) 2 bathrooms Car hire included Swimming pool Air conditioning WiFi Early booking offer

The setup • Open plan lounge and kitchen/diner • Double bedroom • Twin bedroom • Two bathrooms • Swimming pool (7m x 3.5m and depth 1.20m-1.80m)

182 GIC THE VILLA COLLECTION ELENI’S COTTAGE FISCARDO • KEFALONIA

Eleni’s Cottage is a cosy little hideaway snuggled in behind blooms of bright pink bougainvillea, yet just a stone’s throw from the seafront and the charming fishing village of Fiscardo. It is the perfect choice for couples and families in search of privacy and tranquillity, but who don’t want to be in a remote location – a car isn't a prerequisite here.

This little cottage has everything you could need for a relaxing holiday. The interior is compact, well- equipped and comfortable, but, in our opinion, you’re likely to spend most of your time outside. Dine in the pretty little courtyard under the old fig tree and grapevine, or peek through the apricot tree and fuchsia flowers on the front veranda for views across the straits to the mountains of Ithaca.

The villa is just one road back from the sea, and the gentle slosh of the waves is audible on a quiet evening. Walk a few minutes along the coast to find a delightful little beach, or just a little further to find yourself in the heart of Fiscardo, with its shops, tavernas, harbour-side restaurants and pastel- coloured buildings.

Sleeps up to 3 2 bedrooms (1D-1S) 1 bathroom Air conditioning WiFi Early booking offer

The setup • Open-plan sitting room with dining and kitchen area • Double bedroom • Single bedroom • Bathroom

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com KEFALONIA 183 VASSILI’S APARTMENT FISCARDO • KEFALONIA

This lovely apartment is on the third and top floors of a charming, bougainvillea-clad house overlooking the sea. This means one thing: majestic views. From your crow’s nest vantage point you can spend whole afternoons just looking out across the straits towards Ithaca.

A fresh palate of white, terracotta and wooden ceilings adds even more space to this roomy apartment. An outdoor spiral staircase provides private access to the apartment. Large doors and two terraces let the fresh sea air pour through the building, while the extra bedroom makes Vassili's Apartment ideal for families, as well as couples.

The fishing village of Fiscardo is just a short walk away – choose to dine on the harbour’s edge, amble past the whitewashed buildings and meet the locals in the laidback tavernas. There are also lovely little beaches within walking distance. Or hire a car and venture further afield to explore Kefalonia’s rugged beauty in full.

Sleeps up to 4 2 bedrooms (1D-1T) 1 bathroom Air conditioning WiFi Early booking offer

The setup • Sitting room • Kitchen • Double bedroom with balcony • Twin bedroom • Bathroom

184 GIC THE VILLA COLLECTION Fiscardo

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com KEFALONIA 185 LOCAL COLLECTION VILLA NICHOLA FISCARDO • KEFALONIA

You can hear the waves lapping from your bed in this elegant whitewashed villa. The views are spectacular, the villa glamorous, and the pretty outside spaces a maze of sea-fringing terraces and tropical plants.

Villa Nichola is perfect for families or groups of friends in search of time together, yet space to unwind. Spread across three floors and with two lounge areas, it's both spacious and sophisticated. Open the doors and windows to let the sea breeze blow through, and while away days diving into the sea from your own swimming platform, entertaining on the terraces and channelling old-time glamour while sipping cocktails at sunset. The sunrise over Ithaca is worth an early morning too.

Foki beach is just 10 minutes’ walk away, while the tavernas and pretty harbour side of Fiscardo are a short walk in the other direction.

Sleeps up to 8 4 bedrooms (1D-3T) 3 bathrooms Air conditioning WiFi Early booking offer

The setup Ground floor: • Sitting room and games • Twin bedroom • Bathroom • Utility room First floor: • Open-plan sitting room with dining and kitchen area • Cloakroom Second floor: • Double bedroom with en suite bathroom and shared balcony • Two twin bedrooms • Bathroom

186 GIC THE VILLA COLLECTION Villa Nichola’s private sea-side terrace

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com KEFALONIA 187 LOCAL COLLECTION VILLA ALEXANDER FISCARDO • KEFALONIA

Villa Alexander occupies a truly enviable location on Kefalonia’s north-eastern tip. A short walk from the picturesque fishing village of Fiscardo, with its pastel- coloured houses, pretty harbour side and maze of cafes, tavernas and shops, it makes for a great choice for a convenient and relaxing trip.

Families or groups of friends will delight not only in the elegant ambience of this spacious seaside villa, but in its lovely outside spaces. A series of terraces tumble down to their very own swimming platform and jetty, where you can moor a boat if you decide to hire one. Soak up the sunsets on the terraces or head indoors for some friendly competition in the games area.

The neighbouring (and identical) Villa Nichola can be hired to create a space for an extended family or group of up to 14 people. With some of the island’s most staggering sea views, and Fiscardo and Foki beach within easy walking distance, these villas are very hard to beat.

Sleeps up to 6 3 bedrooms (1D-2T) 2 bathrooms Air conditioning WiFi Early booking offer

The setup First floor: • Open-plan sitting room with dining and kitchen area • Cloakroom Second floor: • Double bedroom with en suite bathroom and shared balcony • Two twin bedrooms • Bathroom

188 GIC THE VILLA COLLECTION Villa Alexander private sea-side terrace

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com KEFALONIA 189 WATERFRONT APARTMENTS FISCARDO • KEFALONIA

Set within one of Fiscardo’s oldest and largest Venetian houses, with private waterfront access, these nine apartments offer you the chance to soak up some of Kefalonia’s most spectacular views. With spaces ranging from studios to three-bedroom apartments, there are plenty of options for couples and small families alike.

Lounge on the verandas and look across a bay fringed by olive trees and out to the legendary island of Ithaca. Cool breezes swirl through the apartments and there are grapevines weaving across the terrace canopies so you can get some shade when you want to. Walk or swim to the nearest little beach in under a minute, or hire a boat and moor it on the private jetty.

Nine apartments sleeping up to 6 Air conditioning WiFi Early booking offer

The setup Top-floor penthouse: • One double bedroom • One twin bedroom • Open plan kitchen and living area • Shower room

Three first-floor apartments: • Two with one double and one single bedroom, and kitchen, dining area, terrace and shower room • One studio

Four waterfront apartments at ground level: • One studio • Two one-bedroom apartments with open plan kitchen and living room • One three-bedroom apartment with one double and two twin bedrooms, two shower rooms, and open-plan kitchen, dining and living area

190 GIC THE VILLA COLLECTION The Waterfront Apartments terrace

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com KEFALONIA 191 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 Aghios Nikolaos Stoupa

The Peloponnese has for too long been DELPHI ignored by visitors. There seems to be a notion that Greece is about islands and PATRAS

that the mainland is, well, just the mainland! CORINTH PELOPONNESE ATHENS European culture was born in the north OLYMPIA MYCENAE NAFPLION Peloponnese. The ancient sites of Corinth, TRIPOLIS Mycenae, Epidavrus, Olympia, Argos,Tyrins KILADA

and Nemea are outstanding. To the west, KALAMATA SPARTA

the Messinian peninsula has the best PYLOS KARDAMILI N METHONI STOUPA beaches, is much greener with a FINIKOUNDA GYTHION gentler landscape and has its fair MONEMVASIA share of share of sites, namely Olympia, Ancient Messinia and Nestor’s Palace. Along the coast there are two dramatic, Venetian castles UNESCO World Heritage site of Byzantine Methoni and Koroni. Mystras, the caves of Diros and right to the east the medieval fortified rock island of Further south is the legendary Mani region, Monemvasia, joined to the mainland by a never conquered by the Turks; craggy and causeway. wild, with the Taygetos mountains running along its spine. Here you will find the Multi-Centre Options Combine a week in the south with a week in the north via our sister company Sunvil.

Stoupa PELOPONNESE 193 Long ignored by visitors to Greece a magical land of history and culture

STOUPA & AGHIOS harbour here are the perfect place from NIKOLAOS which to watch the boats come and go. Pantazi beach is a 15 minute walk to The delightful village of Stoupa lies just the south, its wide stretch of over an hour's drive south from sand/shingle shaded by trees. The Kalamata and is the closest thing the whole area is excellent for walking so Mani has to a small resort, thanks to its we are pleased to offer our clients a free two beautiful, sandy beaches, Kalogria walking guide on request. and Stoupa. The setting is complemented with a backdrop of olive KILADA covered hills and the magnificent Taygetos mountains, making for a truly Fertile and unspoiled, combined with a stunning location with all the facilities for flavour of old Greece is what makes this a relaxed holiday. You should not be area so enchanting and worth surprised to read that Stoupa holds exploring. Two and a half hours from particular appeal for couples of all ages Athens, the sleepy village of Kilada, with and younger families. Despite Stoupa's a population of approximately 1000 popularity (the beaches do get busy in people, is a little known corner of the season) it remains low key, evening eastern Peloponnese. This delightful, entertainment here still centred around small fishing village, nestled in a tranquil a wide variety of good quality tavernas. bay and surrounded by rolling Facilities include several supermarkets, countryside, untouched by tourism is a good bakery and ATMs. A range of the perfect escape. Traditional tavernas interesting excursions last year included sit on the water’s edge and the safe Olympia, Mystras and the spectacular sandy beach of Lepitsa is but a short Dirou Caves, and small bicycles, walk away. Further afield, the nearby pedalos and motorboats can be hired. resorts of Ermoni and Porto Heli are There is a lovely footpath above the sea easily reached by car from where a which leads you to neighbouring Aghios short boat journey reaches the islands Nikolaos in about an hour. Aghios of Hydra and Spetses. To the north are Nikolaos is the archetypal sleepy Greek the ancient sites of Epidavros, Corinth, fishing village, and the cafés and Mycenae and Nemea. restaurants above the exquisite small VILLA IBISCUS AGIOS NIKOLAOS • PELOPONNESE

Amidst a gentle hillside of olive trees, Villa Ibiscus has been handpicked by our team for its splendid views and setting. It is our only property in the Mani and is an excellent base for exploring the region; the fishing village of Aghios Nikolaos is a few minutes’ drive and Stoupa can be reached in ten minutes. Further afield the Taygetos Mountains are a popular destination for walkers, and for history lovers there are abandoned stone towers and atmospheric villages to discover and explore.

This is a single-storey property, tastefully designed and decorated using a combination of modern furniture and traditional pieces. Outside, the swimming pool and terrace enjoys splendid vistas across the Gulf of Messinia and lush surroundings - it is easy to while away the hours here.

Sleeps up to 4 2 bedrooms (1D-1T) 1 bathroom Car hire included Swimming pool Air conditioning

The setup • Lounge • Kitchen • Double bedroom • Twin bedroom • Bathroom • Cloakroom • Swimming pool (7m x 3.5m)

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com PELOPONNESE 195 PREMIER COLLECTION SEA VIEW VILLA KILADA • PELOPONNESE

For a luxurious stay in the Peloponnese look no further than Sea View Villa. From daily maid service to the option of having your own personal chef making Greek classics, this is the perfect choice if you’re looking to indulge and treat yourself.

The villa holds up to 10 people in its spacious bedrooms but it is also a great options for couples who want to experience a romantic getaway in an idyllically secluded property. Relax in the open-plan living space and feel the natural warmth as the sun streams through the floor-to-ceiling windows; enjoy dinner in the garden, bursting with colour and local fauna, and take a refreshing dip in your private pool.

There’s a variety of walks in the surrounding area for those who wish to venture outside of the villa - although it can be hard to tear yourself away. The sea is only 150m and a bit further on is a classic fish taverna and beach. Nearby Kranidi and Port Heli have a good selection of tavernas.

Sleeps up to 10 4 bedrooms (4D) + Annex 3 bathrooms Car hire included Swimming pool Air conditioning WiFi

The setup Main villa: • Open-plan lounge with dining and kitchen area leading out to a sea facing terrace • Master suite with double bed, en suite bathroom and large sea facing terrace Guest wing: • Lounge with large sea facing balcony • Three double bedrooms, one with en suite bathroom • Bathroom • Guest weekend room with lounge leading to pool terrace • Swimming pool (20m x 7.5m)

196 GIC THE VILLA COLLECTION Sea View Villa

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com PELOPONNESE 197 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. Taverna in Kaliviani Kalives

First settled by humans 130,000 years ago reinvention of Knossos to the arid mystery of and positioned between Africa and Europe, Phaestos. Three separate mountain ranges Crete was the cradle of Mediterranean riven with spectacular gorges and rivers civilisation and still retains its own strong stretch from west to east, with lush valleys identity and culture, characterised by a falling to a varied coast of small fishing history of proud resistance against invaders villages and magnificent sandy beaches. through the ages. An absorbing mix of Minoan, Venetian and Rich in its physical contrasts, the island has Turkish architecture, the island’s towns weave always been the source of legend and together palaces, churches, castles, and adventure. Fascinating archeological remains minarets alongside the bustle of markets, are sited all over the island, from the colourful cafés and tavernas.

I R O H C O D U CRETE O M A X KALIVIANI

SAMONAS SAMARIA GORGE LAKE KOURNAS MT. IDI

ISTRON N

Multi-Centre Options Combine two resorts within Crete

Chania CRETE 199 The white mountains provide the backdrop for western Crete’s dramatic landscape.

NEROKOURO of Crete. The sandy beaches of THERISSO Georgoupolis are about a 15 minute Although just nine kilometres from drive and the dramatically located At 580 metres above sea level, 14 km Chania there are no signs of tourism village of Chora Sfakion on the south from Chanea and accessed through in Nerokouro: a church, a mini- coast a 45 minute drive across The the stunning, picturesque Therisso market, a small bakery; a friendly White Mountains. Many gorges and Gorge, the village was a centre for the community and beautiful views over small villages are in the vicinity making struggle against the Turks. In 1905 it valleys towards Souda Bay. Souda Vrisses an excellent base from which was the headquarters for Venizelos in Bay with its supermakets, fresh fish to walk in the area and also to explore the drive for union of Crete with stalls, cafes and tavernas is only 5 the whole of western Crete by car. Greece. Tavernas and restaurants minutes’ drive away. abound in Therisso and the in the The village has a good selection of neighbouring villages of Zouvra, VAMOS tavernas, a cafenion, a butcher, two Drakona and Meskla. There are bakers, a couple of mini-markets and several picturesque walks and drives Vamos is really a small town with even a bank and pharmacy. across the mountins. many folk and neoclassical architectural influences. There are KALIVES STYLOS some very interesting buildings in the village, notably the churches of Agios About 20km east of Chania and at The modern village of Stylos is 23 km Nikolaos and Agios Georgios and the the entrance of the dramatic Souda from Chania and 2 km from the town restored school, originally built in Bay, Kalives has retained its village and beaches of Kalives. Several 1863. Twenty six kilometres from atmosphere and boasts two long tavernas are set around streams that Chania, the village has narrow sandy beaches, one to either side. run through the village, making it a cobblestone streets and lanes Centred around a tree-shaded refreshing place to sit and eat. There passing by interesting and attractive square, housing a couple of cafes and is one mini-market in the village. stone houses. There is a large square a fine church, Kalives has authentic There are many walks around Stylos shaded by plane trees. The beaches local tavernas and small shops which and the Diktamos Gorge begins here. of Kalives are 6km away. Vamos has a cater for most needs. For the curious, next to the church of good selection of traditional tavernas, St. John, the fossilized remains of a The village has a population of 1,400 coffee shops, post office, bank, Cretan dwarf elephant, and in Byzantine towns was the likely chemist and a variety of small shops. Palaeoloxodon Chaniensis, can seen. site of Kissamos, one of the ancient A wonderful and beautifully kept city of Aptera's two harbours. To one village. side of the village is the sea and behind low hills covered by orange VRISSES and olive groves with the dramatic White Mountains in the background. A very well situated, working village with a backdrop of the White A highly recommended spot, with Mountains and about 30 minutes easy access to atmospheric Chania, drive to either of the two main towns the Venetian built main town in the of Rethymnon and Chania in the west west of Crete. RURAL VILLA STELLA COLLECTION NEROKOURO • CRETE

At first glance, Villa Stella seems to grow straight out of the landscape. The tiered terraces and steep stairs of the villa follow the contours of its environment, lined with bougainvillea, hibiscus and mulberry trees. Each tier brings new delights, from the tastefully- decorated double bedroom to the pool terrace.

As you walk around the beautiful grounds of the property you're greeted with stunning views of Souda Bay. Enjoy the total privacy of these shaded terraces, where you can enjoy an evening glass of wine or cook a barbecue for an al fresco dinner. It’s the perfect couple’s retreat, though the steep 50m walk from the car parking area to the villa means it can be a slight challenge for those with mobility problems. If that's a concern for you, just get in touch with our team, who will be happy to recommend a property to suit you.

This romantic retreat is in the charming village of Nerokourou, away from the busier tourist hubs nearby. There's a mini-market in the village, but the nearest tavernas are in the towns of Chania or Souda. Drive a little further to Kalives for some of the island's best beaches.

Sleeps up to 2 1 bedroom (1D) 1 bathroom Car hire included Swimming pool Air conditioning WiFi

The setup Ground floor: • Open-plan sitting room with dining and kitchen area • Bathroom Gallery: • Double bedroom • Swimming pool (7m x 5m and depth 1.50m-1.60m)

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com CRETE 201 VILLA STATHIS VAMOS • CRETE

History meets modernity at Villa Stathis. This atmospheric property is around 100 years old, but it comes with the comfort and convenience of the 21st century. The beautiful interior, which mixes bleached white walls and overhanging wooden beams with contemporary furnishings, will immediately make you feel at home. Its outdoor terrace, shaded by a canopy of vines, opens onto a swimming pool and blissful seclusion.

This enticing combination of old and new is also reflected in the location of Villa Stathis. The property is on the outskirts of Vamos, a picturesque town that oozes Cretan character. You can pick up supplies at the shop here or dine in one of the tavernas without ever getting in a car. You’ll end up feeling like one of the locals in no time at all.

The surrounding area adds to the appeal of Villa Stathis – if you're looking to get outdoors, head into the White Mountains for excellent hikes, and there's an array of picture-perfect sandy beaches within 10 minutes'drive.

Sleeps up to 6 3 bedrooms (1D-2T) 2 bathrooms Car hire included Swimming pool Air conditioning WiFi

The setup Ground floor: • Open-plan living area with dining and kitchen area • Twin bedroom with en suite bathroom Mezzanine: • Twin beds First floor: • Double bedroom with en suite bathroom • Swimming pool (8m x 4m and depth 0.60m-1.50m)

202 GIC THE VILLA COLLECTION VILLA APHRODITE NEAR VRISSES • CRETE

Embrace the alluring rustic tranquillity of Villa Aphrodite, a traditionally-styled house with expansive views of the White Mountains. Life moves at a slower pace here, so you can easily while away the hours swimming in the pool, wandering through the well- kept gardens or relaxing on a lounger with a drink.

The cosy interior has a traditional character, with its fireplace, exposed stone walls and wooden ceiling, making it a romantic place to spend quiet evenings in. Or stay outdoors and usher in the evening with a barbecue, watching as the sun sets over the surrounding pine and olive trees.

Choose between privacy or sociability during your stay in Villa Aphrodite. The raised garden and pool area allows you to enjoy the grounds without ever meeting another person. But if you feel like mingling, there are other houses and a taverna in the hamlet of Maza. You can walk there for dinner in just five minutes. Nearby, the sandy beaches of Georgioupolis are perfect for sun, sea and sand.

Sleeps up to 4 2 bedrooms (1D-1T) 2 bathrooms Car hire included Swimming pool Air conditioning WiFi Early booking offer

The setup • Open-plan sitting room with dining and kitchen area • Double bedroom with en suite bathroom • Twin bedroom • Bathroom • Swimming pool (8m x 4.5m and depth 0.90m-1.40m)

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com CRETE 203 FAMILY COLLECTION VILLA FILOXENIA GERANI • CRETE

There is much to recommend Villa Filoxenia for your Cretan escape but none-more-so than the elegant interiors which complement the property’s natural surroundings. Sunlight floods the open-plan living space and is supported by the use of fresh colours and homely touches.

Outside the focus is on the sizeable swimming pool, with designated children’s area, and extensive, well- maintained lawns. There is an air of calm and grandeur here, yet convenience is also on offer with the quaint village of Gerani, and its amenities, on your doorstep. We’ve loved dining al fresco in the privacy of our own home-from-home and sampling the local tavernas when we desired.

Gerani is a destination for walkers, nature lovers and for families. Set in the foothills of the White Mountains there are hiking trails galore, green rural communities to discover and watersports on the village’s sand/ pebble beach in the height of season. You are also just 20 minutes’ drive from the historical town of Chania and the lively resort of Platanias. Travel far or stay close to home, be as active or as relaxed as you wish, either way you’ll be glad with your choice of villa.

Sleeps up to 6 3 bedrooms (3D or T) 3 bathrooms Car hire included Swimming pool Air conditioning WiFi

The setup • Open-plan living room with dining and kitchen area • Three bedrooms (double or twin) with en suite bathrooms • Swimming pool (8m x 4m and Children’s pool 3m x 4m)

204 GIC THE VILLA COLLECTION BEACH VILLA ANASTASIA COLLECTION KALIVES • CRETE

Immerse yourself in authentic Greek life in this delightful villa tucked away in a traditional seaside village. Twenty kilometres from Chania and just a few minutes’ drive to Almirida, the village of Kalives offers bustling little tavernas, shallow sandy beaches and far-reaching sea views.

Villa Anastasia is the perfect escape for couples looking for a tranquil getaway or families with children. While the interior is cool, airy and spacious, with a traditional wood-beamed, terracotta-tiled kitchen, Villa Anastasia’s outdoor spaces are the highlight. In the pretty little garden, the lawn-fringed swimming pool is perfect for cooling off on hot summer days and there are plenty of sun loungers. The upstairs terrace makes a fine spot for an evening drink, a balmy family meal and watching the sun go down.

Everything you could need is within walking distance from the villa – lovely sandy beaches with gentle waves, friendly little tavernas serving up authentic Cretan dishes, and a great selection of shops.

Sleeps up to 7 3 bedrooms (1D-1T-1TR) 2 bathrooms Swimming pool Air conditioning WiFi Early booking offer

The setup Ground floor: • Open-plan sitting room with dining and kitchen area • Bathroom First floor: • Double bedroom • Twin bedroom • Triple bedroom • Bathroom • Swimming pool (8m x 4m and depth 1.40m-1.80m)

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com CRETE 205 PREMIER COLLECTION VILLA GEORGIA NEAR VRISSES • CRETE

The magnificent Villa Georgia promises a relaxing Cretan holiday to remember. Perched in the foothills of the White Mountains, the villa’s crowning glory is its full 360-degree view. Swim to the edge of the vast swimming pool and soak up panoramas of undulating olive groves and breathe in the scent of pine trees.

Villa Georgia manages to combine grandeur and homely comfort with ease. Inside, the villa has traditional dark wood furniture. Yet modern luxuries such as a jacuzzi bath are a welcome addition. Outside, enjoy days splashing in the pool, dining under the covered patio and sizzling up some Greek specialities on the barbecue. There's even a pizza oven for some fun experimenting.

The villa is in the heart of nature, near the village of Vrisses. This is the perfect location for day-trip forays; the sandy beaches in the resort of Georgioupolis are just 15 minutes’ drive away, the National Road is 10 minutes away, and you can be exploring the island’s staggering south coast in under an hour.

Sleeps up to 6 3 bedrooms (1D-2T) 3 bathrooms Car hire included Swimming pool Air conditioning WiFi Early booking offer

The setup Ground floor: • Open-plan sitting room with dining area • Kitchen • Twin bedroom • Bathroom First floor: • Double bedroom with en suite bathroom • Twin bedroom with en suite bathroom • Swimming pool (10m x 4.5m and depth 0.90m-1.70m)

206 GIC THE VILLA COLLECTION Villa Georgia pool

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com CRETE 207 VILLA MARIS NEAR VRISSES • CRETE

Head just five minutes by car from the quaint little village of Vrisses into the foothills of the White Mountains, and a small track will lead you to Villa Maris. This house is striking, with spacious rooms, traditional décor and French doors leading from the bedrooms onto balconies. Yet it’s the panoramic views around that leave guests in awe – 360-degree vistas of vineyards and farms, olive groves and pine forests nestled below the great peaks.

Grassy gardens and an expansive patio wrap around the stone-built villa, with the large swimming pool taking pride of place. There are pretty fruit orchards, an impressive outdoor kitchen with barbecue and pizza oven, and a welcome shaded eating area that looks over both the pool and sweeping landscape.

If you can tear yourself away from Villa Maris, the nearby National Road provides easy access to northwest Crete’s sights, while the lovely sandy beaches of Georgioupolis are just 10 minutes’ drive away. Meanwhile, the rugged south coast is under an hour's drive.

Sleeps up to 8 4 bedrooms (1D-3T) 3 bathrooms Car hire included Swimming pool Air conditioning WiFi Early booking offer

The setup Ground floor: • Open-plan sitting room with dining and kitchen area • Twin bedroom • Bathroom First floor: • Double bedroom with en suite bathroom • Two twin bedrooms • Bathroom • Swimming pool (8m x 5m and depth 1m-1.60m)

208 GIC THE VILLA COLLECTION VILLA KARINA NEAR VRISSES • CRETE

Villa Karina has a private, countrified setting on the outskirts 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 Karina has views over the surrounding countryside and valleys of pine forest and olive groves unfolding towards the White Mountains. Attention to detail is apparent throughout and the result is a comfortable home from home.

Sleeps up to 6 3 bedrooms (1D-2T) 2 bathrooms Car hire included Swimming pool Air conditioning WiFi

The setup • Open-plan sitting room with dining and kitchen area • Double bedroom with en suite bathroom • Two twin bedrooms • Bathroom • Swimming pool (8m x 5m and depth 0.80m-1.50m)

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com CRETE 209 VILLA THERISSO THERISSO • CRETE

For those in search of total tranquillity, Villa Therisso is the ideal Cretan escape. The village of Therisso might be just 16 kilometres south of Chania, but it’s a world away from the hustle and bustle of the city, tucked away at the far end of a stunning gorge in the foothills of the White Mountains.

The villa is delightful, with classic charm, and light and airy rooms. Fling the windows open and let the smell of pine trees breeze through, lie in bed and enjoy dramatic views of the peaks and valleys through the open French doors, or enjoy a romantic breakfast on the little balcony. Indoors and outdoors blend beautifully at Villa Therisso, with an inviting swimming pool, barbecue area and series of terraces – perfect for family meals under the stars and days splashing around.

Therisso might not have a supermarket, but it is well- stocked in tavernas and cafes, and has a fascinating World War II history, along with a museum on Eleftherios Venizelos, the Cretan Prime Minister responsible for reuniting Crete with mainland Greece after 400 years of Turkish rule.

Sleeps up to 5 2 bedrooms (1D-1T) 1 sofa bed (1S) 2 bathrooms Car hire included Swimming pool Air conditioning WiFi

The setup Ground floor: • Open-plan sitting room and kitchen • Study • Cloakroom First floor: • Double bedroom with en suite bathroom • Twin bedroom with en suite bathroom • Swimming pool (9m x 4.5m and depth 0.70m-1.70m)

210 GIC THE VILLA COLLECTION STYLOS RIVER HOUSE NEAR STYLOS • CRETE

Tasteful modernity blends with the ancient Cretan landscape to create a stylish villa surrounded by centuries-old olive and orange groves, with far- reaching views. Stylos River House has mastered the art of contrasting delights. It's wonderfully private, secluded and romantic, yet it's under three miles from the seaside village of Kalives, with its sandy beaches. Close by, the sleepy village of Stylos just two kilometres away promises evenings in traditional tavernas chatting to locals.

Lovely gardens surround a good-sized swimming pool, and a river runs along the rear of the villa. You can even pick your own vegetables from the garden – throw them on a fresh pizza and pop it in the outdoor oven for a meal to remember.

Explore a hidden corner of Crete along quiet tracks, where the sound of sheep bells floats on the air, walk the six-kilometre Diktamos Gorge, which passes through rugged mountain landscapes and farms. Stylos River House is ideal for couples or families in search of a modern villa where they can unwind and explore.

Sleeps up to 5 2 bedrooms (2D) 1 sofa bed (1S) 3 bathrooms Car hire included Swimming pool Air conditioning WiFi Early booking offer

The setup Ground floor: • Open-plan living room with dining area and kitchen • Bathroom First floor: • Two double bedrooms both with en suite bathroom • Swimming pool

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com CRETE 211 CYPRUS

With a beautiful and largely unspoilt coastline and a mountainous interior, the third largest island in the Mediterranean is a kaleidoscopic blend of histories and cultures. An island that is a world unto itself, Cyprus type of warm-hearted, genial hospitality that breathes the spirit of three continents and typifies a Greek island holiday, with a sapphire numerous empires. Ever since the New Stone sea, breathtaking scenery, delicious Mezes, Age, Europe, Africa and Asia have left their and time to spare. various marks, from the Pharoahs of Egypt to Away from the coast, it is as if you have the Emperors of Rome, from Ottoman passed into another century, with sleepy Sultans to Knight Crusaders and Venetian villages nestling in the spectacular Troodos Doges, in a great spread of cultural treasures Mountains, amidst goats, olive and lemon and antiquities. groves, and in springtime some of the most The long coastline is studded wonderful displays of wild flowers on earth. with glorious beaches and N small fishing villages, and holiday resorts have been CYPRUS established to cater for all tastes – a few less attractive than others. There POMOS NICOSIA remains, though, an LATCHI POLIS abundance of small, PRODROMI relaxed locations that LARNACA PEYIA continue to offer the PAPHOS

LIMASSOL PISSOURI

Multi-Centre Options Cyprus with any of the Greek Islands (tailor-made)

CYPRUS 213 Lively resorts to monastic serenity, cacophonous street life to ageless village silence POMOS LATCHI

Beneath the wooded foothills of the Between Polis and the Baths of Paphos mountains lies the large Aphrodite, Latchi with its Blue Flag village of Pomos. Blessed with a Beach is more a collection of fish variety of small coves, beaches and tavernas and shops than a village. rock pools, and overlooked by The place to come to for freshly volcanic crags and innumerable caught fish at a waterside restaurant circling birds, Pomos is a restful after a walk in the peaceful Akamas delight. or a swim at one of the nearby beaches. Boat trips leave from the A renowned sea-food restaurant, the harbour and motorboats can be Kanali, benefits from the local fish rented. caught and brought into the tiny, newly-built harbour. Pomos and the surrounding villages have a variety of PEYIA family run restaurants a short drive A very large, almost overwhelmingly away. friendly village, now designated a town with its own municipality. Peyia PRODROMI is spread across the hills about 3.5kms from Coral Bay and 15kms The small village of Prodromi, with its from Paphos. There are many coffee traditional bakery, minimarket and shops, grocers and heartily several tavernas is 1 km from Polis welcoming tavernas which provide and, in reality, is a suburb of the simple but excellent food at very town. It is a 10 minute walk to the reasonable prices. Coral Bay beach centre of Polis with its shops, is 10 minutes’ drive. restaurants and cafes and 20 minutes’ walk through olive and citrus groves to the sea and the sand/shingle beaches of Latchi.

View from Villa Buffavento terrace GROUPS VILLAS STELLA MARIS & BUFFAVENTO COLLECTION NEAR POMOS • CYPRUS

Set your sights towards the sky at Villas Stella Maris and Buffavento. Situated just above a stunning volcanic cliffside, these villas offers incredible views of the mountains and the chance to relax under the stars. Use the provided telescopes to see which constellations you can spot or just look out the windows with all the lights off to lose yourself in night sky here.

Up to six people can enjoy the villas more than comfortably, and the properties are particularly suited to couples, families with older children and groups of friends. When you’re not taken in by the fantastic views, you can appreciate the modern interiors and private swimming pool that make you feel truly at home. 150 Steps lead down to a shingle beach cove amidst rocky pools, a paradise for snorkel and rock pool enthusiasts.

Foodies will love the choice of restaurants available in the local villages. Have an incredible evening out dining on Greek Cypriot classics while the sun sets behind the mountains.

Sleeps up to 6 3 bedrooms (1D-2T) 2 bathrooms Car hire included Swimming pool Air conditioning WiFi Early booking offer

The setup Ground floor: • Living/dining room • Fully fitted kitchen • Two twin bedrooms • Bathroom First floor: • Double bedroom, accessed by a spiral staircase, with en suite bathroom • Swimming pool (10m x 5m and depth 1m-2.70m)

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com CYPRUS 215 VILLA SPILIO ANAVARGOS • CYPRUS

Built on top of the ancient ruins of a Cyprus church, Villa Spilio is where history comes to life. An old bread oven has been carefully preserved as part of the property, and the original village house has been turned into the living room. Smell the blossoms of the garden as you make your way to the swimming pool out back, or enjoy the views towards Paphos and the sea.

With two floors, Villa Spilio suits families and friends. On warm days, choose between the cool interior or basking in the sun on the terrace. When it’s cooler outside, open fireplaces will keep you cosy.

You wouldn’t know by the tranquil atmosphere inside the villa, but there is a taverna just steps away that fills the area with live music a few nights a week. This adds to the uplifting atmosphere in the village, where the name of the game is to let loose and have some well-deserved fun on your holiday.

Sleeps up to 8 2 bedrooms (1D-1T) 2 sofa beds (2D) 3 bathrooms Car hire included Swimming pool Air conditioning WiFi

The setup Ground floor: • Living room • Kitchen • Double bedroom • Bathroom First floor: • Twin bedroom • Living room with kitchenette • Bathroom • Swimming pool (10m x 4m and depth 1.20m-2.10m)

216 GIC THE VILLA COLLECTION VILLA ANNA MARIA PEYIA AREA • CYPRUS

Experience charming village life from a stunning Cyprus villa. While Villa Anna Maria is just a short walk from the sights and sounds of the village of Peyia, it also has plenty of privacy and extensive gardens to give you an oasis within an oasis, with its rows of carob trees and fig trees.

The main bedroom comes with a king-size bed, and has the building's original roof beams. The pool is perfect for families, as kids can splash around in the water while the adults sunbathe on the deck. If you’re taking your friends, you’ll find that the dining area under the covered veranda is the perfect setting for long talks and late nights.

When you’re ready to explore Peyia, it’s right on your doorstep. Villa Anna Maria is nestled among local houses and just a short walk from amenities. Hop in the car for a short drive to beaches or the Coral Bay resort, where you can find plenty of bars and tavernas to keep you entertained.

Sleeps up to 8 3 bedrooms (1D-2T) 1 sofa bed (1D) 3 bathrooms Car hire included Swimming pool Air conditioning

The setup Ground floor: • Bedroom with king size bed • Twin bedroom with en suite bathroom Lower ground floor: • Open-plan lounge with dining area and kitchenette Annexe: • Open-plan living area with dining area and kitchenette • Twin bedroom • Bathroom • Swimming pool (9m x 5m and depth 1.40m-2.40m)

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com CYPRUS 217 THE SUNVIL THE GENEVIEVE FAMILY A UNIQUE VESSEL FOR YOUR RIVER THAMES CHARTER CRUISE

GIC – The Villa Collection (Greek Islands Club) Genevieve is a 40 foot beaver stern The saloon has bevelled windows and became part of the Sunvil family in 1998 making saloon launch, built by Taylor and opening lights with port and starboard Bates of Chertsey in 1914. Her hull seating. She also has a spacious, Sunvil the leading specialist operator to Greece and planking is African mahogany and all canopied, forward cockpit with her islands. topside and interior fittings are in teak. additional seating for approximately Back then, her selling price was 10 people. Further aft is the cooler Sunvil has pioneered many specialist destinations in £1,150! unit and storage, then the galley with its 48-year history. The original directors still play an In 1998, she was found rotting away a sink, gas hob and oven/grill, and the active part in the day-to-day running of the on a canal in Lancashire and Peter toilet locker is to port. There is an company and we are all proud that repeat and Freebody, owner of one of the another small cockpit aft, with further seating. Genevieve is powered by a recommended holidaymakers make up 70% of our foremost UK boatyards for renovating classic boats, was immediately taken six cylinder Sea Prince petrol engine, customers – due testament to our expertise and in by her shape and decided she must smartly sited under a teak and glass dedication to quality. be saved for future generations to engine case. In chilly weather, the enjoy. The extensive, painstaking engine supplies heat to the saloon Everyone in the team visits our specialist renovation requested by Sunvil and cockpit. destinations and they know them extremely well. finished in May 2010. The launch is For further details see Unusually, in this web-based travel age, we take full unique and very rare and she is www.vintagethamescharters.com responsibility for our holidays, too, putting us in the Sunvil’s flagship. very top echelon of companies that you can really trust to look after your holiday plans. Sunvil is proud, over 47 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 30 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 took part in the historic boat section of the Thames River Pageant to mark The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee on Sunday 3rd June 2012. 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.

villas luxury holidays

wildlife cultural and encounters city breaks family holidays honeymoonswinter fly-drive and beach holidays escapes touring

activity holidays

find the real country in Greece • Cyprus • Portugal and the Azores • Italy • Sicily • Spain • Sweden • Norway • Denmark (Copenhagen) • Costa Rica • Guatemala • Mexico • Panama • Argentina • Bolivia • Brazil • Chile • Ecuador & the Galapagos • Peru • Colombia

visit sunvil.co.uk for inspiration on your next journey TheVilla Collection

Sunvil International Sales Limited, 10-12 Upper Square, Old Isleworth, Middlesex TW7 7BJ Telephone 020 8232 9780 email: [email protected] http://www.gicthevillacollection.com

ABTA No.V6218

Our CAA Licence no. is ATOL 808 Member of the Association of Independent Tour Operators – AITO © 2018

Photographs by R. Jewell; S. Outram; Aegean Images; C. Tsiringakis; M. Evans; Iosif Vatsakis; George Agapiou; Richard Farish; John Banfield; Rebecca Telford; Robert Birkby Photography; Julia Manetas; Baseline Creative; Nikiforos Photography; Nigel Bowen Designed by Baseline Creative Printed by Linney Group

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