GIC Villas The Villa Collection

The Villa Collection OUR PASSION

•

YOUR M EMORI ES

GREECE & CYPRUS 2019

CELEBRATING

50 YEARS

OF V I L L A H O L I D AY S

O U R PA S S I O N • YOUR MEMORIES

2 GIC THE VILLA COLLECTION

Elounda Beach Hotel and Villas, Crete

Albania

Greek Mainland Corfu

A E G E A N

● Sivota Paxos AntiPaxos

S E A

Skiathos Alonissos

I

Skopelos

O

Lefkas

Tu r k e y

Meganissi

N

I

Ithaca

A N

Kefalonia ●

Athens

Samos

Peloponnese

S E A

●

Stoupa

Crete

M

E

D

I

T

E

R

Contents A welcome from our Managing Director Why choose GIC The Villa Collection?

Our villa collections Luxury yachting GIC hotel villas Weddings in Greece and Cyprus Our destinations Samos Skopelos Alonissos Skiathos

4 6 8 10 11 11 12 14 18 32 46

Corfu Paxos Antipaxos Lefkas Meganissi Ithaca Kefalonia Peloponnese Crete Cyprus

56 80 116 120 138 148 160 192 198 212

R

A

N

E

A

N

S

E

A Cyprus

100% Financial Protection GIC The Villa Collection is a fully bonded tour operator. Our air travel inclusive holidays are ATOL protected by the Civil Aviation Authority. Accommodation and land arrangements are protected by ABTA. Customer service We set high standards for ourselves and our team; we hope that you will find our service levels to be friendly and efficient, with a personal, caring touch.

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 name. Names and companies are bought and sold on a regular basis and with new management come new members of staff that neither know the history or heritage of the operator. In the last 50 years the travel industry has seen enormous change. Many of the old and respected specialists have disappeared, others are still here but in name only as those that created those operators have long since gone.

It takes many years of service to begin to understand the ethos of a company, to get to know its partners abroad and how the company interacts with them. It isn’t just a matter of arriving in Greece or Cyprus and signing up properties that look the part - there are plenty of those.

The relationship of a specialist with its overseas suppliers goes much deeper than that. GIC The Villa Collection has worked with many of its owners for the 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.

I joined the Greek Islands Club (GIC) in 1994 as a local representative and I’ve been here ever since. I started from the bottom, which is the best way to understand a company and how it works. I am passionate about Greece and throughout the season I dash out to our various resorts for a few days every two or three weeks, to make sure that all is well and to keep abreast of new events and happenings. It’s attention to detail that counts.

We are all passionate about our company and its image. The fact that after 50 years we are still here and still independent shows that the pride in what we do has not dimmed. It’s still very exciting to discover a fabulous new villa or hidden beach or quaint resort, and to introduce our guests to these finds.

So, welcome to our world and to our passion for our destinations.. Within these pages you will find a villa which you can make your very own for those all too brief weeks away from home.

Chris Wright Managing Director chris.wright@sunvil.co.uk

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

O U R PA S S I O N • Y O U R M E M O R I E S 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 professionalism and friendliness of our overseas representatives, many of whom live and work in Greece and Cyprus year-round. Whether you meet Effi on Paxos, Julia on Corfu, Julie on Lefkas, Julia on Alonissos, Angela on Cyprus etc. you can relax, safe in the knowledge that you will be, unobtrusively, looked after. Our overseas teams project our holidays to another level.

We take full responsibility for all aspects of our holidays and offer 100% financial protection.

With 50 years of experience comes a depth of knowledge that goes far beyond the surface of our destinations. Greece and Cyprus are in our blood: we love these countries, their scenery, culture, heritage and people, and we want nothing more than to share this passion with you.

Honesty Our brochure has been compiled using the information obtained through our visits and from our experienced overseas team. Our descriptions are not flowery – they are honest and designed to highlight the key selling points of each villa, so that you know exactly what to expect. We focus on the comfort, views, facilities and proximity to local amenities. If it is a simple property but the surroundings are breathtaking or the owner is extremely hospitable, this will be described.

There are no hidden extras. All our holidays include: 20kg hold luggage PLUS 5kg of hand luggage per person A UK airport representative. Departures are available from London Gatwick, London Stansted, Manchester, Bristol and Birmingham An experienced local representative Car hire and/or transfers A welcome pack full of goodies for your first night All this is backed up by an experienced villa team in the UK – on hand to help and advise from the initial planning to your return from holiday – and a 24 hour emergency line.

Variety: A holiday for all

We only feature villas that we have handpicked, and places that we have enjoyed visiting.

Our reservations team have been with us for an average of 10 years each and have visited each of our featured destinations. If you have any questions, or need advice on the best island or property for you, they can assist. They will also share their insider tips.

Call 020 8232 9780 or visit gicthevillacollection.com

Whether you are dreaming of a romantic hideaway amongst the olive-clad hills of the Ionian; a spacious 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 COLLECTION

FAMILY COLLECTION

OUR 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 with pool or a village home where you can truly immerse yourself in the local community. All properties featured in our collection and have been handpicked by our overseas team and destination specialists.

We understand that so much choice can be somewhat overwhelming which is why, in 2019, we have introduced nine holiday collections. Choose your dream holiday from our Premier, Family, Beach, Couples, Rural, Local and Groups collections, plus our luxury yachting options and hotel villas.

Over the following pages each collection will be introduced alongside a two villa sample that we feel illustrates the concept. Throughout the brochure the coloured label will identify further villas within each collection and our website contains the full listing.

As always our knowledgeable reservations team are on hand to help and advise.

Call 020 8232 9780 or visit gicthevillacollection.com 8 GIC THE VILLA COLLECTION

Villa Aleka, Meganissi

Paparouna, Alonissos

Premier Collection

Family Collection

Offering a higher standard of comfort, quality furnishings, stylish interiors, stunning locations and breathtaking views.

From toddlers to teenagers, parents and grandparents we have villas of all sizes for memorable family holidays.

Thalassa Vista, Skopelos Page 22 We love it because...

• An elegant villa offering the ideal balance of tranquillity and convenience • Homely interior adorned with quality furnishings and intricate touches. Attention to detail is apparent throughout • Spacious living and outdoor areas, including its own private swimming pool • Exquisite views over the harbour of Skopelos Town

Villa Bonas, Paxos Page 88 We love it because...

• Totally private and set amidst 1.5 acres of olive groves, yet only 15 minutes’ walk from Gaios harbour and some of Paxos’ best beaches • Swimming pool with panoramic views over the island’s capital to the Ionian beyond • Three spacious bedrooms and an al fresco dining area • Table tennis • Day trips are available to the neighbouring island of AntiPaxos. The crystal-clear, turquoise waters here have to be seen to be believed

Paparouna, Alonissos Page 36 We love it because...

• Tastefully combines rustic charm with modern elegance • Wonderful infinity swimming pool. It is easy to while-away the hours enjoying the view over Patitiri harbour and the twinkling Aegean Sea • The interior design has been finished to a standard expected of a luxurious hotel • Utter seclusion and privacy. Perfect for a romantic break or for parties desiring quality time together

Villa Aleka, Meganissi Page 142 We love it because...

• Spacious living quarters, modern interior, manicured gardens and blissful seclusion • Three bedrooms (one double and two twin) all with en suite bathrooms – thus offering privacy for all members of the family • Barbecue, Jacuzzi and views to the coast – ideal for sundowners and relaxed afternoons • Only 10 minutes’ walk from Spilia port from where small boats can be hired – a holiday highlight for many families

BEACH COLLECTION

COUPLES COLLECTION

RURAL 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 those who want to be close to the sea

A romantic retreat to wine and dine under the stars and share moments of tranquillity and togetherness

A true “get away from it all” – rural retreats in secluded locations offering total privacy

Fisherman’s Cottage, Alonissos Page 45 We love it because...

• A romantic, private cottage set at the end of a secluded shingle beach • Watch the waves ebb and flow from your seafacing terrace • Direct access to the bay below • Bright, modern interior flooded with natural light • Calm location within a short drive of an authentic Greek fishing village

Villa Pyrgos, Skopelos Page 30 We love it because...

• A magical and remote castle adorned with unique artefacts • Perched atop a cliff on the northeast coast of Skopelos and with endless views • Away from it all, you can focus on yourselves and what it’s important to you • Private swimming pool looking across the strait towards Alonissos

Levrecchio Beach House, Paxos Page 104 We love it because...

• Occupies an enviable position on an idyllic stretch of shore • A characterful stone cottage which sympathetically blends traditional and modern features • Swimming pool with uninterrupted views over the turquoise waters of the Ionian • Within walking distance of Marmari beach and Loggos harbour • Awake to the sound of cicadas in the hills and forest surrounding your home-from-home

Villa Somnium, Paxos Page 106 We love it because...

• Intoxicatingly peaceful and romantic setting • Private swimming pool with gorgeous views • Within walking distance of Marmari and Levrecchio beaches and Loggos harbour - where there is a good choice of restaurants for dining al fresco in the evenings • Tasteful interior design

Villa Manolia, Alonissos Page 38 We love it because...

• Combines traditional Greek architecture with spacious accommodation and complete privacy • Enveloped by rolling hills and olive groves. This is a nesting area for the Eleonora falcon and with many marked walking trails • A stroll from Patitiri and Alonissos Old Town for when you can tear yourself away from this relaxed spot • Terrace for al fresco dining and equipped with a wood-burning oven

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com

Sunset House, Kefalonia Page 176 We love it because...

• A home-away-from-home offering total privacy and stand-out views • Enjoys an elevated position and a naturally beautiful setting • As its name suggests, the sunsets from your vantage point are remarkable • 20 minutes’ drive from the harbour of Fiscardo and a selection of tavernas and bars • The perfect choice for groups of friends thanks to its independent two-bedroomed annexe VILLA ESCAPES 9

LOCAL COLLECTION

GROUPS COLLECTION

Costas’s House, Ithaca

LUXURY YA C H T I N G

Villa Luna, Samos

Local Collection

Groups Collection

Close to a town or village for ease of access to the local amenities – all within walking distance.

Large villas or neighbouring properties ideal for groups of friends or extended families, spacious both indoors and outdoors

Costas’s House, Ithaca Page 151 We love it because...

• Each of the three bedrooms open straight onto their own balcony overlooking Kioni’s waterfront • 100 steps connect this traditional house to the harbour and a short stroll will take you to the town’s five tavernas and four café bars • A short stroll from four beaches • While-away the houses watching the comings and goings at the little port • An ideal choice for those desiring a genuine Greek destination and a relaxed holiday Villa Nichola, Kefalonia Page 186 We love it because...

• Nothing stands between you and the watersedge at this sophisticated villa; the waves lap at your terrace and there is a private swimming platform too • Light and spacious accommodation just 10 minutes’ walk away from the heart of Fiscardo and Foki beach • A good chance of tavernas, restaurants and bars can be found at Fiscardo port • Perfect for families or groups of friends 10 G I C T H E V I L L A C O L L E C T I O N

Villa Luna, Samos Page 17 We love it because...

• An independent three bedroomed villa that can be combined with the neighbouring property to accommodate groups of up to 12 people • The property affords jaw-dropping views over the coast towards Turkey, a scene that can be enjoyed from the private balconies and pool terrace • There is a small children’s pool • 2km from the picturesque port of Pythagorion and a choice of local tavernas • Shaded outdoor dining area and barbecue Villa Gregory, Corfu Page 62 We love it because...

• Directly located on the watersedge in Kalami, a charming hamlet with a small selection of tavernas • Kalami is famed for its connection to British authors Gerald and Lawrence Durrell, who lived in the White House nearby • The villa sleeps up to 11 people across four bedrooms • Relax on your seafront terrace watching the comings and goings in the bay

What better way to explore the Greek Islands but on a private luxury yacht. Just sit back and enjoy and prepare to be pampered – no experience required!

Book exclusively for friends and family or simply take a cabin on a cabin-charter week. Long weekends in low season are from as little as £560 per person.

Prices for 7 nights Saturday to Saturday sailing from Corfu start from £1,120 per person. The only extras are for on board dinners if required and alcoholic drinks. Prices do not include flights full package prices available on request.

GIC HOTEL VILLAS Clients have often commented to us that one of the drawbacks of staying in a secluded, private villa is that they miss the variety that a hotel offers and their children do not have the opportunity to

Our solution is to feature properties that have private villas attached, yet offer all the facilities of the hotels to those holidaying in the villas. So, you will have privacy and peace in luxury villas while at the same time benefitting from access to a high standard of hotel services, excellent restaurants, bars, sports facilities, a variety of swimming pools and, in most cases, world class spas.

meet and make new friends.

Costa Navarino

Elounda Beach Hotel & Villas

Peloponnese – Greek Mainland

Elounda – Crete

Set amidst olive groves and overlooking the Ionian Sea, this luxury environmentally friendly aware resort is luxuriously appointed to create a distinctive and inspiring environment of heartfelt hospitality.

As the first hotel on Crete’s northeast coast, this resort has long been considered one of Greece's finest. An accolade it justifiably deserves.

Grand Resort Lagonissi

Aphrodite Hills Resort

Athens – Greek Mainland

Paphos – Cyprus

Grand by name and by nature, the Grand Resort Lagonissi is nestled within a 72 acre peninsula on the Athenian Riviera, 45km south of the Greek capital.

Dramatically located in the hills above Paphos, The Aphrodite Hills Resort, with arguably the best golf course on the island, offers a luxury experience like no other.

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com

WEDDINGS IN GREECE OR CYPRUS Through our in-house wedding planners we are able to provide tailor-made arrangements for those wanting a special wedding in Greece or Cyprus.

From a romantic, guitar-serenaded arrival at Corfu’s historic town hall to a beach wedding on the beautiful island of Kefalonia or the opportunity to exchange your vows by the poolside of your private villa in Cyprus, we can offer a wealth of ideas ranging from the classic to the most unusual nuptial venues. Tailor-made advice and information is available regarding all types of wedding ceremonies and receptions with options to suit all tastes and budgets. Full support with legal paperwork is provided and personal consultations with couples always available.

V I L L A E S C A P E S 11

D E S T I N AT I O N S The Greek mainland, bordered in the northwest by Albania and Macedonia, and by Bulgaria and Turkey in the north-east, stretches its mountainous fingers southwards into the Mediterranean Sea. On the western coast of Greece, the Ionian Sea laps around its olive-tree-clad islands while, off its eastern shoreline, the Aegean Sea boasts three groups of islands – the Sporades, the Cyclades and the Dodecanese. Well over two thousand islands lie within Greek waters, yet only a hundred or so are inhabited. Each island has its own history, character and charm.

Each in turn adds to the overall beauty of the country of Greece, just as its mythical gods and goddesses, its philosophers, writers, mathematicians and scientists have contributed to the culture, language and knowledge bank of the world over many centuries.

Cyprus, in many ways very similar to Greece, is the third largest island in the Mediterranean and offers a wide variety of landscapes, activities and natural splendour.

With sandy beaches on which turtles nest, wild unspoiled countryside, the Troodos mountains and national parks to explore – on foot, by bicycle or four-wheel drive vehicle – plus a myriad of historical sites, both mythical and real, Cyprus offers outdoor experiences galore.

Once you get to know these magical destinations with their warm hospitality, like us, you too will be equally passionate.

12 G I C T H E V I L L A C O L L E C T I O N

THE AEGEAN ISLANDS

Skiathos pages 46-55

Samos pages 14-17

Close to Turkey, Samos is a refreshing combination of pine and olive, mountain and beach. It is large enough to offer plenty of variety, and has a special feel for walkers.

THE SPORADES ISLANDS

Skopelos pages 18-31

Rich, green hillsides of pine and olive sweep down to enticing beaches. Skopelos is an island for those wanting to explore by boat, car and foot and to have a wide choice of intimate waterfront tavernas.

Alonissos pages 32-45

Slow and quiet, Alonissos appeals more to the escapist who wants the simple pleasures of a friendly community, unspoilt surroundings, deserted beaches and good tavernas.

Skiathos offers a colourful variety of spectacular beaches, well organised watersports, good Aegean food, relaxed or vibrant nightlife in town, wonderful scenery and a cosmopolitan atmosphere.

THE IONIAN ISLANDS

Corfu pages 56-79

An undulating interior of olive and pine-clad hillsides hiding hamlets and villages. A beautiful coastline of small coves and large beaches. A capital of stunning Venetian architecture.

Paxos pages 80-115

On an island 7 miles by 3 miles you are never far from anywhere. An undulating landscape of silver olives, many sheltered coves and pretty fishing villages – Paxos offers an enchanting escape from the crowds.

Ithaca pages 148-159

CRETE

pages 198-211 Antipaxos pages 116-119 The tiny satellite island, just one mile off Paxos, offers a rarely found Robinson Crusoe experience. Sandy beaches, valleys of vineyards and just four tavernas.

Lefkas pages 120-137 Lefkas will attract explorers to her green, mountainous interior and those wanting peaceful seclusion close to her beautiful beaches.

Ithaca has remained untouched by tourism because, like Paxos, it has no airport and can only be reached by ferry from neighbouring islands or the mainland. A holiday in Ithaca is for those who seek a relaxed break in a friendly environment.

An island suited to those who want a more sophisticated choice of holiday activities. An extensive coastline of fishing villages, towns and beaches and a dramatic interior of unique beauty.

CYPRUS

Kefalonia pages 160-191 Kefalonia, the largest of the Ionian islands, is popular for its superb beaches and stunning scenery. Kefalonia caters for both the explorer and the seeker of variety.

pages 212-217 THE MAINLAND

Meganissi pages 138-147

Peloponnese pages 192-197

An island of great diversity with something to please everyone from nature at its wildest to historical sites of great magnitude as well as a myriad of activities and international cuisine.

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

V I L L A E S C A P E S 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 of Samos shares a rugged and mountainous interior with lush plains covered with vineyards and olive groves, and – in spring – colourful swathes of wild flowers. Its coastline curves between pine-clad cliffs with pebbled bays and long, sweeping beaches of golden sand.

The island is recognised as one of the sunniest places in Europe. Perhaps the reward of the goddess Hera, whose temple – larger than the Parthenon in Athens – once rose outside the relaxed harbour town of Pythagorion. After all, it was the Samos-born astronomer Aristarchus who first identified 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 LIMNIONAS

PSILI AMMOS PYTHAGORION

N

Pythagorion

A E G E A N I S L A N D S S A M O S 15

Samos offers such variety that everyone should be able to find what they want from a holiday here PYTHAGORION Pythagorion is Samos’s largest settlement on the south coast (although there is not much competition!). Boasting a handsome semi-circular harbour it has a wide promenade lined with plenty of cafes and restaurants from which to enjoy the comings and goings. Pythagorion is in fact a UNESCO World Heritage site. The island’s tyrant ruler, Polykrates, had his capital here in the 6th century BC, and evidence of his original harbour walls can still be seen. There are the remains of Roman Baths to the west and the castle above the harbour dates from the 19th century. The remarkable feat of ancient engineering that is Evpalinas Tunnel, in the hills above, was made to ensure the water supply in times of siege and was bored for over 1000 metres through the mountain in 550 BC. Even older (8BC) is the Temple of Hera some 5 kms to the west. Behind the harbour, narrow lanes and cobbled streets

add to the characterful small town atmosphere. Boat trips run to local beaches and include a picnic lunch; to Kusadasi in Turkey, from where you are taken to ancient Ephesus; and to Patmos for the day. The town has a small but perfectly serviceable sandy beach just past the harbour, and to the west is the very long, clean sand/pebble beach which has sunbeds and umbrellas for hire, and seasonal watersports.

PSILI AMMOS Psili Ammos is popular with Greek families, as it is the best sandy beach in the area. Only 3km from Villa Luna, it enjoys lovely sea views to Turkey across the strait. With clear blue shallow water – ideal for children, it has a selection of traditional tavernas serving a variety of seafood dishes and local flavours. A ten minute walk, past a wildfowl reserve, brings you to the long, uncrowded Mykali beach, its gleaming white pebbles leading into a turquoise Blue Flag sea.

Villa Luna

VILLA LUNA

GROUPS 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

S A M O S 17

SPORADES ISLANDS

SKOPELOS Relaxed and unpretentious, green and hilly Skopelos has spotlessly clean beaches and a laid-back, generous atmosphere.

Kastani Beach

The hillsides are made up of wild flowers and fruit trees, olive groves and pines, and are dotted with small churches and whitewashed monasteries. The only sounds are the bells of wandering goats and the calls of birds, and everywhere you look there are dramatic views across the Aegean Sea to neighbouring islands.

Reached by flying cat/ferry from Skiathos, stepping onto Skopelos it feels like you have shed a life of hassle and manufactured entertainment, and entered a world of simple, timeless pleasures: translucent waters, cerulean skies, star-filled nights and good food and wine in friendly company.

With a coastline of mostly steep cliffs, the island’s beaches have a special importance and are noted for their immaculate condition.

The steep, winding warren of Skopelos Town and the intimate tavernas under the lights of the waterfront are part of the changeless pleasures of Greek island life.

Multi-Centre Options Skopelos with Skiathos or Alonissos

SKOPELOS

N

MACHALAS

GLOSSA LOUTRAKI KLIMA PAXIMADA ISLAND

GLISTERI

PLEVRO ISLAND ELLIOS KASIDIS ISLAND

AG. GEORGIOS ISLAND

SKOPELOS TOWN

KASTANI DASIA MILIA ISLAND STROGILO ISLAND

MIKRO NISI ISLAND

PALOUKI MOUNTAIN

ANANIAS RACHES PANORMOS

PEFKIAS

ARAPIS STAFILOS AGNONDAS

DRAGON CLIFFS

Skopelos Town

S P O R A D E S I S L A N D S S K O P E L O S 19

A romantic, heavily wooded island with a classic amphitheatrical capital and wonderful coves to explore SKOPELOS TOWN Nothing epitomises what a Greek island town should be better than Skopelos, the capital of this, the largest island in the Sporades. Legend has it that Skopelos was founded by Staphylos, one of the sons of the god Dionysos.

The island was a Cretan colony in the late bronze age. A town, with a current population of approximately 3,000, Skopelos was designated a traditional town of outstanding architectural heritage in 1978.

Strict building regulations and preservation orders have kept it colourful, clean and tidy, with narrow climbing streets, countless tiny chapels and houses linked by bridges in the typical architectural style of the Sporades. No house is higher than two stories, all must have a traditional stone or tile roof and all doors, windows and balconies have to be made of wood.

Mulberry trees line the waterfront and shade numerous cafes and restaurants and there are many good quality shops selling local crafts.

As well as offering a really relaxing holiday in friendly and attractive surroundings, Skopelos Town and its surroundings offer excellent walking.

There are some very good beaches to choose from, most of them on the sheltered west coast and easily reached from Skopelos Town by bus or

hire car. These range from tiny coves (generally shingle) to long stretches of dazzling white pebbles or sand/shingle, such as popular Stafylos Bay, 4km from the town. The sea is sparkling and clear and the swimming excellent.

The countryside around Skopelos Town is dotted with historic churches and monasteries (about 300 of them), three of which are still inhabited. An ideal spot to be in order to explore this picturesque island by either bike, car or local bus.

PA N O R M O S Twelve kilometres and a 20 minute drive from Skopelos Town and through the ever present pine forests is the seaside village of Panormos. On the south west coast of the island, the bay of Panormos is deep and sheltered and Panormos beach is one of the most popular on the island and tends to fill in the peak season. Mostly shingle but excellent for swimming, the beach here shelves pretty steeply into the sea which is crystal clear and of an emerald colour. The large bay has many other small coves and inlets which can be reached by walking around the bay and over rocks. You can, of course, always swim or wade there.

Strung along the sea front, the village has a mini marketand is connected to Skopelos Town by a local bus service.

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

S K O P E L O S 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)

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Thalassa Vista

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com

S K O P E L O S 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, openplan 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 treefilled 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)

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Villa Joanna

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com

S K O P E L O S 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)

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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)

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House of Dimitri

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com

S K O P E L O S 29

COUPLES COLLECTION

VILLA PYRGOS N E A R G LY S T E R I B E A C H • S K O P E L O S

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)

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Villa Pyrgos

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com

S K O P E L O S 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

Offering stunning views on all sides, walking trails run along the narrow island’s backbone, winding through olive groves and almond trees.

Nobody is in a hurry on Alonissos. The island seems to wish only to be enjoyed. In the villages, whitewashed houses and narrowpaved streets almost doze in the sun, whilst the rocky limestone coastline offers perfect shelter for the many secret pebbled beaches and deep caves carved out of the steep cliffs.

MOULES FRANGOVERGA

Exceptionally rich in sealife, the surrounding waters are part of a Marine Park, protecting the Mediterranean Monk Seal and many rare species of bird. One ALONISSOS may even see the occasional dolphin.

VDHONERI DHIASSELO

MOURTITSA

Several small islands lie close offshore, uninhabited except for a few shepherds and many goats, including Gioura, home to ‘the cave of the Cyclops’.

MOURTERO AGIOS DIMITRIOS

PERISTERA ISLAND

VAMVAKIES KALAMAKIA

MANOLAS

N

STENI VALA STEFANI

MEGALI AMMOS ORMOS TSOUKALIA

LEFTO YALO BAY TZORTZI BAY

AGIOS ANDREAS

Multi-Centre Options Alonissos with Skiathos or Skopelos

Steni Vala

VRACHOS

VOTSI KALOVOULOS ALONISSOS OLD TOWN MIKRO MOURTIA BAY

PATITIRI

MARPOUNTA

S P O R A D E S I S L A N D S A L O N I S S O S 33

Quaint, mysterious, a step back in time and utterly beautiful ALONISSOS OLD TOWN

K AT O C H O R A F I

Of the three islands of the Sporades, Alonissos is the least developed. Until the 1965 earthquake, most of the island's population of 3,000 lived in The Old Town, dating back to Byzantine times, perched on the top of a hill and with dramatic panoramic views across the island and down to the fishing port of Patitiri. Following the earthquake, most of the population moved down to live in Patitiri and the Old Town above was abandoned and virtually fell into ruin.

This is a heavily pine wooded area ideal for walkers and is just below the old town of Alonissos which is set on a hilltop. It is an ideal location, with dramatic views up to the Old Town and also over olive groves to the stretch of sea between Alonissos and Skopelos.

Patitiri, the main port of the island is a five minute drive, the shops and tavernas of the old town can be reached on foot via a donkey path in 15 to 20 minutes and by car in 10 minutes. The nearest beach is that at Megalos Mourtias a ten minute drive away.

The Old Town is now largely restored. It is certainly very picturesque and holds particular interest for artists, writers and walkers. The village now has a dozen tavernas, a pizzeria, several cafes and bars and two mini markets.

Old Alonissos has one minimarket and a bakery and is linked by bus to Patitiri (up to 10 times a day in high season) and, if one prefers to walk, then it takes about 45 minutes via a goat track. The beach of Megalo Mourtia is about half an hour walk downhill but, be warned, this is a hilly location and not suitable for those with walking difficulties. The island's four taxis are always available for a ride to Patitiri and to the various beaches.

L E F T O YA L O B AY The beautiful sheltered bay of Lefto Yalo is on the island's south east coast. The beach here is uncrowded and one of the most picturesque on the island. Two tavernas are set back from the beach of dazzling white pebbles and crystal clear waters. Patitiri, the island's port is a 15 minute drive south while the pretty fishing port of Steni Vala takes much the same time but due north. For walking enthusiasts there are many interesting trails leading from the bay up to the forested Issiomata (a flat piece of land in Greek) plateau and along the coast towards Steni Vala.

KALAMAKIA Kalamakia is a tiny port, half way up the east coast of Alonissos. The port is effectively home for four local families. The wives and daughters look after the four waterfront tavernas and the husbands and sons cast their nets daily from their caiques to ensure a rich selection of fresh fish. Nearest provisions are in Steni Vala, further south along the east coast, a drive of five minutes, where there is a mini market and waterfront tavernas.

MEGALI AMMOS Megali Ammos beach is located 7 km northeast of Patitiri the capital of Alonissos but is in fact on the lesser known west coast of the island. The beach is small, pebbly and with crystal clear water. This is a wilder, unspoilt area, beloved of those wanting to be at one with nature.

K AT I A’ S H O U S E 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 twominute 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

A L O N I S S O S 35

PREMIER COLLECTION

PAPAROUNA K AT O C H O R A F I • A L O N I S S O S

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 woodburning 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)

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View from Paparouna

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com

A L O N I S S O S 37

RURAL COLLECTION

VILLA MANOLIA K AT O C H O R A F I • A L O N I S S O S

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)

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Villa Manolia

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com

A L O N I S S O S 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)

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Villa Aquilo

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com

A L O N I S S O S 41

VILLA EOS K AT O C H O R A F I • A L O N I S S O S

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)

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View from Villas Eos & Selene

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com

A L O N I S S O S 43

VILLA SELENE K AT O C H O R A F I • A L O N I S S O S

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, caféfilled 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 0.35m1.60m)

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FISHERMAN’S COTTAGE

BEACH 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 sofabed 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

A L O N I S S O S 45

SPORADES ISLANDS

S K I AT H O S 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, Skiathos still manages to find room for over fifty splendid beaches that lie against a shimmering clear sea, sheltered by lush, green pine-topped hills.

Attracted by its simple beauty and pristine waters, Skiathos is prized by holidaymakers from all over Europe, which gives the island’s only town a particular energy and character. For those who want lazy days and colourful nights, Skiathos is an excellent choice.

All along the southern coast are stretches of sandy beaches with watersports and friendly tavernas, whilst the northern shore remains virtually untouched, offering a special experience to anyone exploring by boat.

Multi-Centre Options Skiathos with Skopelos or Alonissos

KASTRO CAPE

SKIATHOS

LALARIA KOUROUPI LECHOUNI

N

EVANGELISTRIA MONASTERY

LIMENARIA

PROFIT ILIAS KATAVOTHRA

LAKE

ASPRONISSOS ISLAND

POUNTA

ASSELINOS

PLAGIA

KOUNISTRES ZORBATHES

BOURTZI SKIATHOS TOWN

ARGOS ISLAND

S

Skiathos Town

S

BA Y

KORAKONERI STROPHILIA MARAGOS PLATANAKIA AG. ELENI BAY STROPHILIA LAKE ACHLADIES ISLAND TOURKOVIGLA SKLITHRI BAY KRASSAS Y MARATHA TSOUGRI A B TZANERIA BAY S TROULOS ISLAND Y E RI POROS BA KANAPITSA AY NA NIA OU SB TA LIO NO KALAMAKI K OUK P L A KO L I M UL O O R T MO TSOUGRIAKI VRO ISLAND

S P O R A D E S I S L A N D S S K I AT H O S 47

Fabulous beaches, vibrant nightlife yet utterly peaceful if you care to look S K I AT H O S T O W N

ACHLADIES BEACH

The only town on the island and a thriving cosmopolitan centre, Skiathos Town can accommodate all tastes.

Located three kilometres from the capital, Skiathos Town, Achladies is a large, sandy, fine sand cove with clear and safe waters and suitable for all kinds of watersports.

The beach is 100 metres below the east coast road of Skiathos which runs from Skiathos Town to Koukounaries.

In ancient times the Persians, Greeks and Macedonians fought battles in the seas around the island. In the 13th century it was the Venetians that controlled Skiathos and in the 18th century when under Ottoman rule, the town - and specifically the Evangelistria Monastery - played a part in the Greek War of Independence. In the 19th century age of sail, the island became an important Aegean ship building centre because of the abundance of pine trees which were almost wiped out as a result.

The town has a population of about 7,000 and is very attractive, with its jumble of red-roofed houses and climbing stonepaved streets. During the day the town can appear somewhat sleepy but in the evenings the waterfront hums with life and one is confronted with a daunting array of restaurants, cafe bars and tavernas.

Nightlife could mean a quiet cafe, a lively bar or an up-to-the minute music club.

Fast catamarans link Skiathos Port with Skopelos and Alonissos, water taxis provide transport to a variety of sandy beaches and excursions available include a good selection of boat trips.

The beach is easily reached on foot, by car, by regular sea taxis from Skiathos Town or by local bus. There are several tavernas on the beach itself and, behind the beach, on the road, are more tavernas and supermarkets.

K E C H R I A B E A C H & B AY A 35 minute drive (10 km) along unmade, forested road takes you across from Skiathos town to the north west corner of Skiathos to a fabulous selection of beaches in Kechria Bay. Choose from Kechria, Asselinos and Ligaries beaches. This is what Skiathos used to be like. Here the trees come down to the sea to fringe the part sandy, part pebble pristine beaches.

There is an excellent taverna on Kechria Beach with fresh fish direct from the tiny harbour. There are another 5 restaurants in the area.

Note: the road to Kechria & Ligaries beaches is not suitable for all cars.

ACHLADIES BEACH COTTAGE

BEACH COLLECTION

A C H L A D I E S B E A C H • S K I AT H O S

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

S K I AT H O S 49

FAMILY COLLECTION

VILLA PEFKA N E A R S K I AT H O S T O W N • S K I AT H O S

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)

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Villa Pefka

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com

S K I AT H O S 51

PREMIER COLLECTION

VILLA ZAKAROULA N E A R S K I AT H O S T O W N • S K I AT H O S

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 G I C T H E V I L L A C O L L E C T I O N

Villa Zakaroula

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com

S K I AT H O S 53

GROUPS COLLECTION

ATRIUM VILLAS K E C H R I A • S K I AT H O S

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 G I C T H E V I L L A C O L L E C T I O N

Atrium Villas

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com

S K I AT H O S 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 KASSIOPI several different 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 BARBATI KORANKIANA resorts to the stillness of serious IPSOS CORFU DASSIA PALEOKASTRITSA birdwatching, from sharing a KOMENO moment of timeless harmony in a KONTOKALI POTAMOS ROPA taverna across from a white-washed VALLEY KERKIRA ERMONES CORFU TOWN GLYFADA church in a village square to relaxing quietly AFRA ANALIPSIS PELEKAS on a sheltered beach accessible only by PERAMA N GASTOURI boat.

Travellers have been drawn to Corfu for centuries – from the Phoenicians onwards, and perhaps even from the time of Poseidon himself – and its appeal has never diminished. Overlooked by the summit of Mount Pandokrator, the glorious “Emerald Isle” lies before you, a multi-faceted jewel of cypress trees and pine, pastel-coloured houses, olive groves, lemon trees and oranges, encircled by an azure sea.

AGIOS MATTEOS

MESSONGHI

HALIKOUNAS LAKE KORISSION PETRITI ARGIRADES LEFKIMI

Multi-Centre Options Corfu with Paxos (Corfu first), or two resorts within Corfu.

I O N I A N I S L A N D S C O R F U 57

Popular, spectacularly beautiful and cultured – Corfu has it all NISSAKI Situated on the picturesque north east coast of the island and 23km north of Corfu Town, the area is heavily wooded with pine and olive trees and in the foothills of Corfu's highest peak, Mount Pantokrator. This is not a busy location but there is a variety of good beachside tavernas and shops. Nightlife is modest compared to its neighbour Barbati but it is to be noted that Nissaki is an area rather than a village.

Nissaki boasts a variety of small coves of sparkling white shingle, excellent for swimming and snorkelling. A perfect area for hiring small motorboats. There are many traditional villages in the surrounding hills that are worth exploring and views from this area are across the bay to Corfu Town and to Albania.

B A R B AT I The main village of Barbati with the usual restaurants, cafes and souvenir shops, which still manages to hang on to some traditional Greek charm, is along and above the main road which runs along the coast with small roads and tracks running down to the beach. It takes about 10 minutes to walk down (steep on the way up) from the main road to Barbati Blue Flag beach.

The beach lies 18 km north of Corfu town on the beautiful north

east coast of the island and south of Glyfa and Nissaki. Mount Pantokrator rises steeply behind the resort to create a dramatic setting of white cliffs crowned by by cypress and pine. The long white shingle beach with a few tavernas to one end and with views across to Corfu Town and the Albanian coast glistens in the sun. This is a perfect place for families and couples looking for a quiet beach holiday. The bay is sheltered and the crystal clear water shallow though it does drop off steeply some way out.

HALIKOUNAS BEACH The south west coast of Corfu has many long stretches of sandy beach and the long stretch of Halikounas Beach with it's extensive sand dunes protects Lake Korission from the sea.

The lake is 5km long and 1km wide at its centre and is a haven for over 100 species of birdlife, including great white egrets, oyster catchers and curlews.

Turtles and tortoises abound.

Here there are no hotels or bars and the beach remains pristine and very safe for swimming as the waters are shallow for some distance. Even in the peak summer season this beach is uncrowded as it is difficult to reach unless by hired car.

Interestingly, various access

points for wheelchairs have been provided. There are one or two cantina snack bars and a taverna.

There are no umbrellas or sun beds for hire.

For a greater variety of restaurants, tavernas and bars kassiopi is only a few kilometres away.

PA L E O K A S T R I T S A AGHIOS GORDIS A 30 minute drive south west from Corfu Airport will bring you to this small and family friendly resort set below verdant hillsides and rugged cliffs. The sea here is crystal clear and Aghios Gordis is known for its spectacular sunsets. The Blue Flag, one kilometre long sandy beach with one or two shingle outcrops, is glorious and the resort behind provides everything you would need but is not rowdy. Most people here quietly relax on the beach during the day and frequent the many tavernas at night. The road ends on the beach in Aghios Gordis, so there is no through traffic. A perfectly balanced resort.

AV L A K I Avlaki Beach lies 38 km north of Corfu town between Aghios Stephanos and Kassiopi. This a pebbly beach with crystal clear waters but not particularly well known.

The beach is quiet and ideal for families. Two good tavernas line the beach. Watersports are a feature here, especially sailing and canoeing.

For many, the craggy cliffs and soaring cypress trees of Paleokastritsa represent the best that Corfu has to offer. The view down from the mountain tops to the bay and the historic monastery of Paleokastritsa atop of the hill of the peninsula reaching out into the bay must be one of the most famous in Corfu; some say in the whole of Greece.

Located in the northwest of Corfu and 25 km from Corfu Airport (40 minute drive), legend has it that Paleokastritsa (the old fortress) was the place that Odysseus disembarked to meet Nausica for the first time. The spectacularly located monastery dates from 1225 and contains a museum.

The locals say that a rock, situated in the middle of the bay is the petrified ship of Odysseus.

Paleokastritsa has long been a popular resort and stretches along the coastal road, around beautiful bays to the picturesque harbour. Even though one of the main tourist areas in Corfu, nothing can detract from the stunning beauty of this region.

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

C O R F U 59

AVLAKI BEACH VILLA AV L A K I B AY • C O R F U

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 G I C – T H E V I L L A C O L L E C T I O N

Avlaki beach

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com

C O R F U 61

GROUPS COLLECTION

VILLA GREGORY K A L A M I B AY • C O R F U

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 G I C T H E V I L L A C O L L E C T I O N

THE OLD BAKERY

FAMILY 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

C O R F U 63

BEACH COLLECTION

BARBATI BEACH HOUSE B A R B AT I • C O R F U

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 G I C T H E V I L L A C O L L E C T I O N

Barbati beach

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com

C O R F U 65

BARBATI BEACH SUITE B A R B AT I • C O R F U

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 G I C T H E V I L L A C O L L E C T I O N

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com

C O R F U 67

VILLA SAN NIKOLAS B A R B AT I • C O R F U

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 wellequipped, 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 G I C T H E V I L L A C O L L E C T I O N

Villa San Nikolas

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com

C O R F U 69

H E L LY H U N T E R V I L L A 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 threebedroom villa is ideal for a relaxing break, and wellsuited 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 G I C T H E V I L L A C O L L E C T I O N

Hellyhunter Villa

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com

C O R F U 71

BEACH COLLECTION

PALEOKASTRITSA BEACH HOUSE PA L E O K A S T R I T S A • C O R F U

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 G I C T H E V I L L A C O L L E C T I O N

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com

C O R F U 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 G I C T H E V I L L A C O L L E C T I O N

Halikounas beach

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com

C O R F U 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 G I C T H E V I L L A C O L L E C T I O N

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

C O R F U 77

Taverna near to Halikounas

78 G I C T H E V I L L A C O L L E C T I O N

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

C O R F U 79

IONIAN ISLANDS

PA X O S 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

About half of the island’s population of 3,000 live in the three villages of Gaios, Loggos and Lakka, and help create that special sense of serenity, sociability and relaxation that characterises Paxos.

Just seven miles long and three miles wide, Paxos encapsulates the magical beauty and variety of the Ionian: over 30 sheltered beaches on the east coast, dramatic cliffs on the west, olive trees and tall pines inland, surrounded by the clearest LIGHT HOUSE crystal waters, and fringed with caves, grottoes LAKKA and unpopulated islands.

LOGGOS

Take a boat trip to the satellite island of Antipaxos and for a short while you can experience a real Robinson Crusoe moment, as you step onto one of the many unspoilt and deserted beaches, and reflect on what makes life so precious.

MIL

FONTANA

PANAGIA ISLAND

10

MAGAZIA

ES

PAXOS

N VELIANTATIKA

C

ST NICOLAS ISLAND BOGDANATIKA

O

RF

U

BOIKATIKA TO

TO

GAIOS

OZIAS FANARIOTATIKA

PA

RG

A, G 9 RE M E IL K ES M

MOGONISI ISLAND

AI

NL

AN

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KALTSONISI ISLAND

ANTIPAXOS

VRIKA VOUTOUMI

AGRAPIDIA

Multi-Centre Options Paxos with Corfu (Corfu first)

Loggos

LIGHT HOUSE

I O N I A N I S L A N D S PA X O S 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.

Rare among Greek islands, the little flagstoned square with its church is right on the water. The village is a maze of narrow streets lined with an assortment of little shops, tavernas and bars. A host of attractive bays and coves lie nearby. Boats, to reach the sandy beaches of Antipaxos, depart from the square every morning.

The smallest and most attractive fishing village on Paxos, Loggos remains unspoilt. Thirty little houses cluster around the old platia which is right on the sea. Silver and green olive groves cover the hills surrounding the village. Tavernas serve good food and small shops provide a wide range of groceries.

Waterfront café bars offer delightful vantage points for people and boat watching. Good bathing from beaches and rocks is within five minutes’ walk.

MAGAZIA At the heart of Paxos, the small village of Magazia has come into its own over recent years. It has grown from a charming rural community to a central hub whose magnetic pull attracts locals and visitors from all over the island. Its far reaching views and the juxtaposition of traditional and contemporary, as well as the excellent bakery and grill restaurant, make it well worth the short detour from the coast.

LAKKA The little port of Lakka with its almost circular harbour and crystal clear sea, framed by green and silver olive trees, is an artist’s delight.

Narrow streets, picturesque gardens, numerous small shops, tavernas, bars and friendly people give Lakka a special character of its own. Lakka’s wide bay of clear, turquoise waters contains a stretch of olive-fringed beaches, which shelve to sand.

Gaios

THE OLIVE PRESS N E A R G A I O S • PA X O S

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

PA X O S 83

RURAL COLLECTION

VILLA YAKOVOS N E A R G A I O S • PA X O S

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-cafébar 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 1.10m2.40m)

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Villa Yakavos

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com

PA X O S 85

RURAL COLLECTION

POSEIDON’S NEST N E A R G A I O S • PA X O S

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)

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For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com

PA X O S 87

FAMILY COLLECTION

VILLA BONAS N E A R G A I O S • PA X O S

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)

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View from the swimming pool

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com

PA X O S 89

VILLA MARGARITA N E A R M A G A Z I A • PA X O S

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)

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For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com

PA X O S 91

VILLA PETRA N E A R M A G A Z I A • PA X O S

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)

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For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com

PA X O S 93

VILLA PELAGOS N E A R M A G A Z I A • PA X O S

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)

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For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com

PA X O S 95

PREMIER COLLECTION

ERIMITIS VIEW N E A R M A G A Z I A • PA X O S

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)

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For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com

PA X O S 97

GROUPS COLLECTION

VILLA ANDROMEDA N E A R L O G G O S • PA X O S

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)

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For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com

PA X O S 99

VILLA ELIA N E A R L O G G O S • PA X O S

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)

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VILLA PERSEUS N E A R L O G G O S • PA X O S

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

PA X O S 101

LOGGOS MILLS N E A R L O G G O S • PA X O S

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 Early booking offer

Juniper Cottage

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

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Juniper Cottage

Lotus Cottage

Juniper Cottage

Agathi Cottage

Agathi Cottage

Loggos Mills

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com

PA X O S 103

BEACH COLLECTION

LEVRECCHIO BEACH HOUSE N E A R L O G G O S • PA X O S

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)

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Levrecchio beach, showing Levrecchio Beach House on the right

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com

PA X O S 105

COUPLES COLLECTION

VILLA SOMNIUM N E A R L O G G O S • PA X O S

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)

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Villa Somnium

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com

PA X O S 107

VILLA HARA N E A R L O G G O S • PA X O S

‘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)

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For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com

PA X O S 109

PREMIER COLLECTION

NASSOS HOUSE N E A R L O G G O S • PA X O S

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)

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For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com

PA X O S 111

HARBOUR VIEW L O G G O S • PA X O S

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

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VILLA ADRIANNA

COUPLES COLLECTION

L O G G O S • PA X O S

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

PA X O S 113

LOCAL COLLECTION

KAPASSA HOUSE L O G G O S • PA X O S

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)

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Loggos waterfront

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com

PA X O S 115

IONIAN ISLANDS

A N T I PA X O S 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 people, Antipaxos clearly belongs to a world distinct and apart from our usual daily lives.

It may have in its history one of the greatest naval battles between the Greek City states of Corinth and Corfu in 432BC but today it prefers to offer those who relish nature’s simplicity an unique escape to some of the best soft sand beaches and clearest water in the Mediterranean.

VRIKA VOUTOUMI

AGRAPIDIA

N

LIGHT HOUSE

I O N I A N I S L A N D S A N T I PA X O S 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.

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BACCHUS HOUSE

COUPLES COLLECTION

A N T I PA X O S

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-ofa-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

A N T I PA X O S 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 to the Greek mainland. Twenty one miles long and nine miles wide, Lefkas is divided by the towering spine of Mount Stavratos, so that each corner of the island has its own character.

LEFKAS LEFKAS TOWN

AGIOS IOANNIS

FANEROMENI

AGIOS NIKITAS

ASPROYERAKATA

KATHISMA KALAMITSI

To the north, windswept dunes and ruined fortresses; to the west, magnificent beaches of perfect sand beneath steep limestone cliffs; the east, more sheltered, with honeycoloured beaches stretching as far as the eye can see.

LIGIA KATOUNA LAZARATA PIGADISANI KARIA ALEXANDROS NIKIANA

EXANTHIA

PLATISTOMOS PERIYALI

EGKLOUVI CHORTATA

VAFKERI NIDRI

PALIOKATOUNA

Nidri harbour

SPARTI ISLAND SKORPITHI ISLAND SKORPIOS ISLAND

VLICHO DESSIMI

AGIOS PETROS

VATHI POROS SPARTOCHORI KATOMERI MARANTHOCHORI

EGREMNI PORTO KATSIKI

CAPE LEFKADA

Multi-Centre Options Lefkas with Meganissi or Parga and Sivota (tailor-made)

KORAKIAS

GENI SIVROS

Georgeous countryside dotted with villages and crooked backstreets with multi-coloured houses in N Lefkas town complete a magical picture.

GREEK MAINLAND

TSOUKOULADES

MEGANISSI ISLAND

VASILIKI SIVOTA

ARKOUDI ISLAND

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A varied and beautiful landscape with very welcoming people LEFKAS TOWN The old town of Lefkas, located at the northern most tip of the island, is quite charming, with its mass of tiny streets and lanes, lined with traditional Lefkadian houses all painted in different pastel colours. This is a small town and it takes no more than 15 minutes to walk across it. A delightful boulevard, which is pedestrianised in the evenings, leads to the town square where there are many restaurants, cafes, bars and ice cream parlours. The town has a large marina full of sailing boats and yachts. The town boasts a phonograph museum, a municipal art gallery and a recently expanded archaeological museum. The town also hosts two cultural festivals which run in parallel the International Folklore Festival and Speech & Arts Events. Both these festivals run from June to September but peak in August.

Performers come from all over the world. The beaches on the west coast are only a few kilometres away.

surrounded by vineyards and olive groves. Here you are close to nature and the rustic village cafe is a welcoming resting place. However, you are not completely isolated because shopping and tavernas are 1km away and the nearest beaches 8km.

PERIYIALI S I V O TA The tiny, pretty bay of Sivota on the tip of the south east coast is a natural safe haven for sailors and the village itself, with its tiny harbour, is ideal for evening strolls and people watching. All the local flotilla companies tend to moor here for the night so there is always a lot of activity on the seafront. There are several harbour front fish tavernas and cafe bars. Small boats can be hired from here.

There are two supermarkets but if a greater variety is required then the larger resort of Vasiliki is only 5km to the west.

Beaches can be found at Vasiliki and Poros to the north, also a 8km drive.

TSOUKOULADES K AVA L O S A village full of character with a population of 292 souls, Kavalos is located in the hills above Lefkas Town and is

selection of tavernas, a pharmacy, a couple of bakeries, two mini-markets and coffee shops. A 15 minute drive south is the seaside village if Agios Nikolaos and Milos and Kathisma beaches. It is only 6km to Lefkas Town.

This simple farming village on the main coast road on the west of the island lies within a beautiful landscape of cypress and olive trees. There are a

Set between Nidri and Nikiana and a 5 minute drive from both (2 km and 20 minutes walk), Periyiali is a small coastal village with a population of 284 and popular with holidaymakers. The village has a small beach, fishing harbour and several tavernas.

Many excursions starting in Nidri are available from Periyiali as the village is on the road to the interior of Lefkas. Behind Periyiali rise the wooded mountains of Lefkas culminating in the peak of Mount Stavrota at 1182 metres.

L A Z A R ATA The village of Lazarata village is located 4 km from the traditional village of Karia and 5 km away from the picturesque village of Agios Nikitas. In close proximity are some of the most beautiful beaches of the island (Pefkoulia, Mili and Kathisma). The village has several tavernas a supermarket and a bakery.

VILLA KYPARISSI

COUPLES COLLECTION

P E R I YA L I • L E F K A S

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

L E F K A S 123

VILLA AMBELINA P E R I YA L I • L E F K A S

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)

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Villa Ambelina pool

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com

L E F K A S 125

VILLA HELONAKI P E R I YA L I • L E F K A S

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)

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Villa Helonaki

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com

L E F K A S 127

COUPLES COLLECTION

VILLA MILOS K AVA L O S • L E F K A S

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)

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Villa Milos

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com

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RURAL COLLECTION

VILLA YESEMI N E A R S I V O TA • L E F K A S

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)

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VILLA ELEONORA N E A R S I V O TA • L E F K A S

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

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VILLA CONSTANTINA N E A R S I V O TA • L E F K A S

Feel the stresses and strains of everyday life easeaway 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.

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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

L E F K A S 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

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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

L E F K A S 135

VILLA KATIA TSOUKOULADES • LEFKAS

Combine a great location with plenty of space and some of the best sunsets in the Ionian at this fourbedroom 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)

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Villa Katia

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com

L E F K A S 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 exquisite and delightful island, untouched by any sign of mass tourism. A haven of restfulness and tranquillity, there is little to disturb the simple pleasures of sun, sand and crystal clear waters.

Gentle tracks lead through terraces of olive groves down to undisturbed beaches; cascades of bougainvillaea blaze against the whitewashed houses in the three sleepy villages.

Multi-Centre Options Meganissi with Lefkas or Parga and Sivota (tailor-made) Vathy

ABELAKI BAY SPILIA BAY

VATHY

SPARTOCHORI KATOMERI LIMONARI

MEGANISSI

N

KYTHROS

I O N I A N I S L A N D S M E G A N I S S I 139

A short ferry crossing from Lefkas but a different world LIMONARI Katomeri is the small island capital of Meganissi and the cove of Limonari is at the end of a narrow, 1km road which winds down from the village.

Here there are two beaches, Mikro (small) Limonari and Megalo (large) Limonari. The sand/pebble beaches here are fringed with olive and pine trees and the waters clear and inviting. These are uncrowded beaches with no facilities or tavernas.

Katomeri, with a population of around 500 persons has a petrol station, bakery and a few tavernas and is very much a traditional village with stone built houses and courtyards bedecked with colourful potted plants. Port Vathy is a drive of about 10 minutes from this area.

S PA R T O H O R I The village of Spartohori with approximately 500 inhabitants, is perched high above the little port of Spilia in Spilia Bay and enjoys dramatic views across the sea to the mountains of the Greek mainland.

This is a sleepy and very pretty village, with its narrow streets of

cobblestones and whitewashed houses bordered by flowers. It is a 10 to 15 minute walk up the road or via a series of steps from the port.

Here you will find two tavernas, one pizzeria and two mini markets. Spilia port has three waterfront tavernas and a sheltered pebble beach, backed by olive trees, just round the corner. A hired boat can be moored at Spilia.

VAT H Y Tiny Vathy, on the North coast of the island, is the main ferry port on Meganissi and is about 6km south east of the larger island of Lefkas.

Fishing boats and visiting yachts moor alongside the waterfront houses, tavernas and shops. A good spot to watch the comings and goings in the harbour.

A coastal road winds through the island’s beautiful landscape of olive groves and pine trees, leading to secluded beaches and coves and connects Meganissi’s three main villages. An area which is good for walking and cycling.

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 1 bedroom (1T) 1 sofa bed (1S) 2 bathrooms

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

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

Lower villa

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

M E G A N I S S I 141

FAMILY COLLECTION

VILLA ALEKA N E A R S PA R T O H O R I • M E G A N I S S I

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)

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VILLA ELENI N E A R S PA R T O H O R I • M E G A N I S S I

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

M E G A N I S S I 143

VILLA KALISTI N E A R S PA R T O H O R I • M E G A N I S S I

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)

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Villa Kallisti

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com

M E G A N I S S I 145

PREMIER COLLECTION

VILLA KALA PETRA N E A R VAT H Y • M E G A N I S S I

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

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SHAMBALLA A B E L A K I B AY • M E G A N I S S I

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

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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 gently mountainous, with spectacular views, it has 100 kilometres of coastline.

AFALES BAY

ITHACA N

EXOGHI FRIKES PLATRITHIA

Surrounded by green crystal waters that lap against white-pebbled beaches, Ithaca is dotted with tiny fishing villages, where the sight of the returning boats in the shimmering dusk is unforgettable – along with the morning smell of freshly baked bread and the tinkling sound of distant goat bells. In the convivial taverna of the harbours at Kioni and Frikes, excellent local produce tempts the palate.

KIONI

STAVROS

BAY OF POLIS

ANOGHI MT. NIRITOS 806 m

LEFKI AGIOS YANNIS

VATHY PISO AETOS

PERACHORI

PALEOCHORA

The geography of the island lends itself to exploration both on foot and by boat, and soon you will understand why the poet Cavafy advised: “Have Ithaca always in your mind. Your arrival there is what you are destined for.”

Kioni Bay

ARETHUSA’S FOUNTAIN

Multi-Centre Options Ithaca with Kefalonia I O N I A N I S L A N D S I T H A C A 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

VAT H Y

The entrance to Kioni harbour is overlooked by three old windmills, and from here one sees the old village houses dotted on the hillsides behind the little port. The water is clear and there are four beaches within the bay itself, all with views across to the pastel coloured houses and surrounding olive groves.

Vathy, the capital town of Ithaca, has a beautiful horseshoe waterfront of houses overlooking a magnificent bay, flanked by green hillsides. The port and narrow backstreets have a good selection of shops, tavernas and bars and boat hire is available to visit nearby beaches.

There are five waterfront tavernas and four small cafĂŠ bars. A general store sells nearly everything from snorkels to fresh peaches.

FRIKES The sheltered bay of Frikes, a few kilometres north of Kioni, holds a cluster of beaches and a small village waterfront of one supermarket, one cafĂŠ bar and four tavernas. A small marina accommodates visiting yachts and the ferry to Lefkas and Kefalonia whilst the fishing and hire boats jostle for position at the waterfront beach.

P O L I S B AY The olive tree covered hills slope down into the sea at the the Bay of Polis on the west coast of Ithaca. There are two pebble beaches here, with clear turquoise waters. On one beach there is a simple cantina serving fresh fish snacks, salads, assorted savouries and ice creams. The hilltop village of Stavros overlooks the bay, but it take a good 25 minutes to walk up to the village and the going is steep. The village has four tavernas, a mini market, butcher, baker and grocery store.

Boats can be hired from the beach.

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

C O S TA’ S H O U S E

LOCAL 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

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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

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Kioni

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com

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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

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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

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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)

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VILLA NONDAS N E A R VAT H Y • I T H A C A

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

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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

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Penelope

Odysseus

Odysseus

Calypso

Calypso villa pool

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com

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IONIAN ISLANDS

K E FA L O N I A 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 Corinth and just sixty miles south of Paxos, Kefalonia is ringed with countless bays and inlets. There are beaches of spectacular white coral, while on the south coast the beaches are of fine golden sand that shelve gently under an aquamarine sea, making them perfect for children.

Towering above at 1627m, Mount Aenos looks down upon a luxurious landscape of pine, olive, cypress, orange, lemon and grape, imbued with the heady scent of wild lavender.

Multi-Centre Options Kefalonia with Ithaca or South Kefalonia with North Kefalonia

AFALES BAY EXOGHI

EVRETI ALATIES PLATRITHIA MANGANOS KATSERATA STAVROS

Elsewhere, subterranean lakes, stalactite-encrusted caverns and marine turtles wait to be discovered.

Thanks to a good road network, the island lends itself to easy exploration.

Venetian fortresses and Byzantine churches, underground Mycenean tombs dating from 1200BC, a ruined Roman villa with dazzling mosaics, precipitous mountain communities, a host of small fishing villages and the unique Kefalonia Firs jostle for attention.

FISCARDO

KEFALONIA

BAY OF POLIS

VASSILIKADES

AGIOS SPIRIDON

ASSOS

AGIOS YANNIS

FRIKES KIONI ANOGHI MT. NIRITOS 806 m

MYRTOS

VATHY

AGIA EFIMIA

ITHACA KARAVOLIMOS

SAMI

HALIOTATA LIXOURI

ARGOSTOLI LASSI

N

MAKRIS YALOS

VARDIANA ISLAND MINIES AIRPORT

LAKITHRA MT. AENOS 1625 m POROS

SVORONATA

SPARTIA TRAPEZAKI KARAVADOS Fiscardo AGIA AVITHOS HELIS LOURDAS SCALA KATELIOS

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Diverse in all that it offers, Kefalonia provides sophistication and tradition THE SOUTH COAST

K A R AV O M I L O S

From Lassi to Scala the south coast has a series of beautiful sandy beaches. Easily accessible by car, these beaches have the dramatic backdrop of Mount Aenos and foothills of olive groves, vineyards and cypress trees. Makris Yalos and Lassi have the distractions of a popular resort with watersports and an extensive selection of tavernas, bars and shops. Katelios has plenty of tavernas and restaurants whilst Spartia is smaller and quieter.

Karavomilos is a small, quiet village which lies in-between Sami, the island’s main port, and Agia Efimia.

Here you will find one of the island’s most beautiful attractions, the Melissani Lake. This was discovered in the 1950s when the roof collapsed to the cave unveiling the sparkling lake beneath. Now you can go on a small boat tour of the cave and learn about the water phenomena in which the sink holes from the coast of Argostoli deliver water underground to the Karavomilos and Melissani Lakes.

There are a few pebble beaches to choose from and just a short walk into Sami where there are restaurants and souvenir shops to choose from.

The drive from south coast to north coast takes up to two hours.

FISCARDO The attractive port of Fiscardo, with its beautiful Venetian architecture, lies on the north east coast and looks out to the island of Ithaca. On one side of the horseshoe bay, a sixth century basilica, surrounded by pines, looks down on to the eighteenth century houses, tavernas and café bars, which line the waterfront.

Pebble beaches in secluded coves, below forested hillsides, can be found on either side of Fiscardo Bay. Small hamlets hide away amongst the olives and pines on the hillsides behind Fiscardo. The transfer from Kefalonia Airport takes approximately two hours.

AGIA EFIMIA Agia Efimia is a small port at the northern end of Sami Bay, on the east coast and looks out across the sea to Ithaca. The coastline on either side of the village holds many attractive whitepebble coves and small beaches shelving into clear waters.

The waterfront of restaurants and bars leads to small side streets with a bakery and shops. Eight kilometeres away, the small town and port of Sami has a daily ferry to Ithaca and a further four kilometres south is the beautiful beach of Antisamos.

VILLA MELISSANI K A R AV O M I L O S • K E FA L O N I A

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

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VILLA SCORPIOS K A R AV O M I L O S • K E FA L O N I A

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)

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Villa Scorpios

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com

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PREMIER COLLECTION

VILLA HARMONY K A R AV O M I L O S • K E FA L O N I A

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 oldworld 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)

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Karavomilos

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com

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FAMILY COLLECTION

VILLA OKEANIS K AT E L I O S • K E FA L O N I A

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)

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Katelios beach

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com

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GROUPS COLLECTION

TRAPEZAKI VILLAS T R A P E Z A K I • K E FA L O N I A

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 goodsized 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)

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A Trapezaki pool

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com

K E FA L O N I A 171

BEACH COLLECTION

NOCTILUCA BEACH HOUSE M A K R I S YA L O S • K E FA L O N I A

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

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For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com

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VILLA KAMINI N E A R A S S O S • K E FA L O N I A

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)

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Villa Kamini

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com

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RURAL COLLECTION

SUNSET HOUSE N E A R F I S C A R D O • K E FA L O N I A

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)

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Sunset House

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com

K E FA L O N I A 177

STAFILIA HOUSE N E A R F I S C A R D O • K E FA L O N I A

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)

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VILLA CASSANDRA N E A R F I S C A R D O • K E FA L O N I A

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

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VILLA ISLANDS VIEW N E A R F I S C A R D O • K E FA L O N I A

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, wellplaced 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)

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Villa Islands View

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com

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HORIZON VILLA N E A R F I S C A R D O • K E FA L O N I A

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)

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ELENI’S COTTAGE F I S C A R D O • K E FA L O N I A

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, wellequipped 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 pastelcoloured 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

K E FA L O N I A 183

VASSILI’S APARTMENT F I S C A R D O • K E FA L O N I A

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

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Fiscardo

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com

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LOCAL COLLECTION

VILLA NICHOLA F I S C A R D O • K E FA L O N I A

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

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Villa Nichola’s private sea-side terrace

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com

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LOCAL COLLECTION

VILLA ALEXANDER F I S C A R D O • K E FA L O N I A

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 pastelcoloured 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

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Villa Alexander private sea-side terrace

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com

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WATERFRONT APARTMENTS F I S C A R D O • K E FA L O N I A

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

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The Waterfront Apartments terrace

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com

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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 ignored by visitors. There seems to be a notion that Greece is about islands and that the mainland is, well, just the mainland!

DELPHI PATRAS

CORINTH

PELOPONNESE

European culture was born in the north Peloponnese. The ancient sites of Corinth, Mycenae, Epidavrus, Olympia, Argos,Tyrins and Nemea are outstanding. To the west, the Messinian peninsula has the best beaches, is much greener with a gentler landscape and has its fair share of share of sites, namely Olympia, Ancient Messinia and Nestor’s Palace. Along the coast there are two dramatic, Venetian castles Methoni and Koroni.

Further south is the legendary Mani region, never conquered by the Turks; craggy and wild, with the Taygetos mountains running along its spine. Here you will find the

Stoupa

ATHENS

MYCENAE

OLYMPIA

NAFPLION TRIPOLIS KILADA KALAMATA

N

PYLOS METHONI FINIKOUNDA

SPARTA KARDAMILI STOUPA GYTHION MONEMVASIA

UNESCO World Heritage site of Byzantine Mystras, the caves of Diros and right to the east the medieval fortified rock island of Monemvasia, joined to the mainland by a causeway.

Multi-Centre Options Combine a week in the south with a week in the north via our sister company Sunvil.

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Long ignored by visitors to Greece a magical land of history and culture S T O U PA & A G H I O S NIKOLAOS The delightful village of Stoupa lies just over an hour's drive south from Kalamata and is the closest thing the Mani has to a small resort, thanks to its two beautiful, sandy beaches, Kalogria and Stoupa. The setting is complemented with a backdrop of olive covered hills and the magnificent Taygetos mountains, making for a truly stunning location with all the facilities for a relaxed holiday. You should not be surprised to read that Stoupa holds particular appeal for couples of all ages and younger families. Despite Stoupa's popularity (the beaches do get busy in season) it remains low key, evening entertainment here still centred around a wide variety of good quality tavernas.

Facilities include several supermarkets, a good bakery and ATMs. A range of interesting excursions last year included Olympia, Mystras and the spectacular Dirou Caves, and small bicycles, pedalos and motorboats can be hired.

There is a lovely footpath above the sea which leads you to neighbouring Aghios Nikolaos in about an hour. Aghios Nikolaos is the archetypal sleepy Greek fishing village, and the cafĂŠs and restaurants above the exquisite small

harbour here are the perfect place from which to watch the boats come and go.

Pantazi beach is a 15 minute walk to the south, its wide stretch of sand/shingle shaded by trees. The whole area is excellent for walking so we are pleased to offer our clients a free walking guide on request.

KILADA Fertile and unspoiled, combined with a flavour of old Greece is what makes this area so enchanting and worth exploring. Two and a half hours from Athens, the sleepy village of Kilada, with a population of approximately 1000 people, is a little known corner of the eastern Peloponnese. This delightful, small fishing village, nestled in a tranquil bay and surrounded by rolling countryside, untouched by tourism is the perfect escape. Traditional tavernas sit on the water’s edge and the safe sandy beach of Lepitsa is but a short walk away. Further afield, the nearby resorts of Ermoni and Porto Heli are easily reached by car from where a short boat journey reaches the islands of Hydra and Spetses. To the north are the ancient sites of Epidavros, Corinth, Mycenae and Nemea.

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

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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)

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Sea View Villa

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com

P E L O P O N N E S E 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 and positioned between Africa and Europe, Crete was the cradle of Mediterranean civilisation and still retains its own strong identity and culture, characterised by a history of proud resistance against invaders through the ages.

reinvention of Knossos to the arid mystery of Phaestos. Three separate mountain ranges riven with spectacular gorges and rivers stretch from west to east, with lush valleys falling to a varied coast of small fishing villages and magnificent sandy beaches.

XA MO UD OC H

Rich in its physical contrasts, the island has always been the source of legend and adventure. Fascinating archeological remains are sited all over the island, from the colourful

An absorbing mix of Minoan, Venetian and Turkish architecture, the island’s towns weave together palaces, churches, castles, and minarets alongside the bustle of markets, cafÊs and tavernas.

I OR

CRETE

KALIVIANI SAMONAS SAMARIA GORGE

LAKE KOURNAS

MT. IDI

ISTRON

N

Multi-Centre Options Combine two resorts within Crete

Chania

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

NEROKOURO Although just nine kilometres from Chania there are no signs of tourism in Nerokouro: a church, a minimarket, a small bakery; a friendly community and beautiful views over valleys towards Souda Bay. Souda Bay with its supermakets, fresh fish stalls, cafes and tavernas is only 5 minutes’ drive away.

VA M O S Vamos is really a small town with many folk and neoclassical architectural influences. There are some very interesting buildings in the village, notably the churches of Agios Nikolaos and Agios Georgios and the restored school, originally built in 1863. Twenty six kilometres from Chania, the village has narrow cobblestone streets and lanes passing by interesting and attractive stone houses. There is a large square shaded by plane trees. The beaches of Kalives are 6km away. Vamos has a good selection of traditional tavernas, coffee shops, post office, bank, chemist and a variety of small shops.

A wonderful and beautifully kept village.

VRISSES A very well situated, working village with a backdrop of the White Mountains and about 30 minutes drive to either of the two main towns of Rethymnon and Chania in the west

of Crete. The sandy beaches of Georgoupolis are about a 15 minute drive and the dramatically located village of Chora Sfakion on the south coast a 45 minute drive across The White Mountains. Many gorges and small villages are in the vicinity making Vrisses an excellent base from which to walk in the area and also to explore the whole of western Crete by car.

THERISSO

The village has a good selection of tavernas, a cafenion, a butcher, two bakers, a couple of mini-markets and even a bank and pharmacy.

At 580 metres above sea level, 14 km from Chanea and accessed through the stunning, picturesque Therisso Gorge, the village was a centre for the struggle against the Turks. In 1905 it was the headquarters for Venizelos in the drive for union of Crete with Greece. Tavernas and restaurants abound in Therisso and the in the neighbouring villages of Zouvra, Drakona and Meskla. There are several picturesque walks and drives across the mountins.

KALIVES

STYLOS

About 20km east of Chania and at the entrance of the dramatic Souda Bay, Kalives has retained its village atmosphere and boasts two long sandy beaches, one to either side.

Centred around a tree-shaded square, housing a couple of cafes and a fine church, Kalives has authentic local tavernas and small shops which cater for most needs.

The modern village of Stylos is 23 km from Chania and 2 km from the town and beaches of Kalives. Several tavernas are set around streams that run through the village, making it a refreshing place to sit and eat. There is one mini-market in the village.

There are many walks around Stylos and the Diktamos Gorge begins here.

For the curious, next to the church of St. John, the fossilized remains of a Cretan dwarf elephant, Palaeoloxodon Chaniensis, can seen.

The village has a population of 1,400 and in Byzantine towns was the likely site of Kissamos, one of the ancient city of Aptera's two harbours. To one side of the village is the sea and behind low hills covered by orange and olive groves with the dramatic White Mountains in the background.

A highly recommended spot, with easy access to atmospheric Chania, the Venetian built main town in the west of Crete.

VILLA STELLA

RURAL 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 tastefullydecorated 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

C R E T E 201

VILLA STATHIS VA M O S • C R E T E

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)

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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 wellkept 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

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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, wellmaintained 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)

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VILLA ANASTASIA

BEACH 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

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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)

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Villa Georgia pool

For more detailed information & photos visit www.gicthevillacollection.com

C R E T E 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)

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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

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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 wellstocked 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)

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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 farreaching 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

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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 breathes the spirit of three continents and numerous empires. Ever since the New Stone Age, Europe, Africa and Asia have left their various marks, from the Pharoahs of Egypt to the Emperors of Rome, from Ottoman Sultans to Knight Crusaders and Venetian Doges, in a great spread of cultural treasures and antiquities.

The long coastline is studded with glorious beaches and small fishing villages, and holiday resorts have been established to cater for all tastes – a few less attractive than others. There POMOS remains, though, an LATCHI POLIS abundance of small, PRODROMI relaxed locations that PEYIA continue to offer the

type of warm-hearted, genial hospitality that typifies a Greek island holiday, with a sapphire sea, breathtaking scenery, delicious Mezes, and time to spare.

Away from the coast, it is as if you have passed into another century, with sleepy villages nestling in the spectacular Troodos Mountains, amidst goats, olive and lemon groves, and in springtime some of the most wonderful displays of wild flowers on earth.

N

CYPRUS

NICOSIA

LARNACA

PAPHOS LIMASSOL PISSOURI

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

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

L AT C H I

Beneath the wooded foothills of the Paphos mountains lies the large village of Pomos. Blessed with a variety of small coves, beaches and rock pools, and overlooked by volcanic crags and innumerable circling birds, Pomos is a restful delight.

Between Polis and the Baths of Aphrodite, Latchi with its Blue Flag Beach is more a collection of fish tavernas and shops than a village.

The place to come to for freshly caught fish at a waterside restaurant after a walk in the peaceful Akamas or a swim at one of the nearby beaches. Boat trips leave from the harbour and motorboats can be rented.

A renowned sea-food restaurant, the Kanali, benefits from the local fish caught and brought into the tiny, newly-built harbour. Pomos and the surrounding villages have a variety of family run restaurants a short drive away.

PRODROMI The small village of Prodromi, with its traditional bakery, minimarket and several tavernas is 1 km from Polis and, in reality, is a suburb of the town. It is a 10 minute walk to the centre of Polis with its shops, restaurants and cafes and 20 minutes’ walk through olive and citrus groves to the sea and the sand/shingle beaches of Latchi.

PEYIA A very large, almost overwhelmingly friendly village, now designated a town with its own municipality. Peyia is spread across the hills about 3.5kms from Coral Bay and 15kms from Paphos. There are many coffee shops, grocers and heartily welcoming tavernas which provide simple but excellent food at very reasonable prices. Coral Bay beach is 10 minutes’ drive.

View from Villa Buffavento terrace

VILLAS STELLA MARIS & BUFFAVENTO

GROUPS 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

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VILLA SPILIO A N AVA R G O S • C Y P R U S

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)

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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

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THE SUNVIL F A M I LY GIC – The Villa Collection (Greek Islands Club) became part of the Sunvil family in 1998 making Sunvil the leading specialist operator to Greece and her islands.

Sunvil has pioneered many specialist destinations in its 48-year history. The original directors still play an active part in the day-to-day running of the company and we are all proud that repeat and recommended holidaymakers make up 70% of our customers – due testament to our expertise and dedication to quality.

Everyone in the team visits our specialist destinations and they know them extremely well.

Unusually, in this web-based travel age, we take full responsibility for our holidays, too, putting us in the very top echelon of companies that you can really trust to look after your holiday plans. Sunvil is proud, over 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.

THE GENEVIEVE A UNIQUE VESSEL FOR YOUR RIVER THAMES CHARTER CRUISE Genevieve is a 40 foot beaver stern saloon launch, built by Taylor and Bates of Chertsey in 1914. Her hull planking is African mahogany and all topside and interior fittings are in teak.

Back then, her selling price was £1,150!

In 1998, she was found rotting away on a canal in Lancashire and Peter Freebody, owner of one of the foremost UK boatyards for renovating classic boats, was immediately taken in by her shape and decided she must be saved for future generations to enjoy. The extensive, painstaking renovation requested by Sunvil finished in May 2010. The launch is unique and very rare and she is Sunvil’s flagship.

The saloon has bevelled windows and opening lights with port and starboard seating. She also has a spacious, canopied, forward cockpit with additional seating for approximately 10 people. Further aft is the cooler unit and storage, then the galley with a sink, gas hob and oven/grill, and the toilet locker is to port. There is an another small cockpit aft, with further seating. Genevieve is powered by a six cylinder Sea Prince petrol engine, smartly sited under a teak and glass engine case. In chilly weather, the engine supplies heat to the saloon and cockpit.

For further details see www.vintagethamescharters.com

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.

wildlife encounters honeymoons

cultural and city breaks

villas

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fly-drive and touring

beach holidays

family holidays

winter escapes 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

The Villa Collection Sunvil International Sales Limited, 10-12 Upper Square, Old Isleworth, Middlesex TW7 7BJ Telephone 020 8232 9780 email: info@gicthevillacollection.com 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