Description Smile Upon You: Exo Gonia

Thanks to a prime hillside position in the middle of Santorini, this villa is treated to beautiful views of the sparkling Aegean Sea as far as the eye can see. Thankfully, there are plenty of spots where you can just sit and drink in this panorama, whether it's lounging about in the shade of the covered balcony or cooling off from the midday sun in the infinity swimming pool.

Given this sublime scenery, you might perhaps be forgiving if the actual home itself had a few shortcomings, but, rather remarkably, the interior lives up to the exterior. In the open living space, the stark white walls, gold oversized light fixtures and striking collection of artworks feel very en vogue, although the large kitchen with glossy white surfaces means that it's far from a case of style over substance.

When you want to do a little exploring, the whitewashed architecture of Pyrgos takes just over a quarter of an hour to reach on foot and offers shops, restaurants and a castle. What's more, the seaside town of Kamari and its beach is only a ten-minute drive away, too.

Home truths:
*There's private parking available on the premises
*Daily housekeeping, airport transfers and a welcome drink are included in the cost
*The home is spread across two storeys, so it might not be suitable for guests with reduced mobility
*The swimming pool is heated