When past generations of Paxiots first cleared their land and planted the famous olive groves that clothe this small island did they instinctively know that one day the same houses they built out of the warm grey limestone rocks would become havens of peace and tranquility for visitors?
Villa Agathi in the tiny hamlet of Kangatika is one such house. From the outside it blends into its surroundings perfectly, obviously built to last for centuries, but step inside and you find yourself in a beautifully renovated interior, complete with all the comfortable furnishings and modern fittings so essential for truly relaxing holiday living. The open plan sitting room, dining area and well equipped kitchen is light and airy, and as the whole house is air-conditioned is a wonderfully cool retreat on those Ionian summer afternoons, when only the cicadas seem to be busy. The bedrooms are equally attractive. The master bedroom has its own en suite shower. There is an additional twin bedded room and second family bathroom with shower.
Step outside onto the spacious terrace walled on two sides and very private and enjoy a stunning view over olives and cypresses to the hills and mountains of the mainland shimmering in the sunshine that has changed very little since Roman times. Half close your eyes and those yachts and caiques dotted across the blue water could be the battle fleets of Mark Anthony and Augustus Caesar preparing for the decisive Battle of Actium!
Breakfast al fresco on the terrace, which has its own dining area is a delight that can be repeated in the evening with the barbecue lit, the souvlakia or fresh fish grilling and a glass of local wine to hand. The private swimming pool reached by stone steps is just the perfect icing on the cake!
Although we provide a car, exploring the surroundings on foot in the cool shade of the olive trees is a wonderful experience, even in high summer, with countless goat tracks to follow, usually echoing to the sounds of the bells from the flocks higher up the hillsides. Walking down to the little fishing port of Loggos and Levrecchio Beach only takes twnety minutes, and with some careful negotiation you might even persuade one of your party to drive down and meet you in a taverna on the seafront, offering a cool beer or cafι fredo in return for a lift back home!
The Paxiots have always known their island is special. Villa Agathi is the perfect base to discover how right they are.
