Staircase to the Sea

A private path leads from the terrace of this Kea villa to flat rocks on the shore of the Aegean Sea – a perfect swim spot when the weather is calm. Just 100 metres along the coast, you’ll find a horseshoe of secluded sandy beach. Or, you can opt to swim in the saline infinity pool and simply admire the sea from on high instead. Sunsets from the dining table on the terrace are particularly spectacular and the summer kitchen can provide rustic feasts. The open kitchen, living and dining room inside feels very much lived-in with trinkets and curios covering most surfaces – but the bonus is the kitchen comes with all the odd utensils and spices you might need.

Home truths:
*The waterfront immediately in front of the villa is flat rocks but there is a sandy bay just 100 metres away too
*For those with reduced mobility, there's a ground-floor bedroom and bathroom here but bear in mind there are a lot of stairs down to the sea
*In a remote location, having a car is recommended and there is private parking for up to two vehicles
*One of the bedrooms does not have air conditioning but has a ceiling fan
*Your host can provide a cot for infants on request
*The swimming pool isn't fenced, so children will need to be supervised at all times