Even in the 21st Century life in a small, unspoilt Kefalonian village revolves around the Plateia, and the village square in Assos also happens to enjoy one of the most spectacular locations in the Ionian, facing a Venetian fortress and beside a sheltered harbour enclosed by ancient terraced hillsides and rocky headlands. Sofia’s Cottage, located beside the Plateia, opens out directly onto the waterfront with a beach no more than a few steps away.

Sofia is a typical small, traditional fisherman’s cottage, simply furnished but comfortable and has the benefit of a large covered verandah looking directly across the harbour to the fortress on the headland beyond. The beach might be only five metres away, but you will have to walk at least ten to reach the Plateia with its magnificent plane trees and perhaps double that for a choice of tavernas and the mini-market.

The verandah is also the perfect spot to watch the fishing boats returning with the evening menu on board. Inside there is a dining room with kitchenette in one corner, with two bedrooms, a twin and a double with a bathroom and shower.

Assos itself feels very secluded but is by no means remote. It is only a 20 minute drive to the world famous Myrtos Beach. Roads criss-crossing the island make exploration by car straightforward, but there are also some fascinating and spectacular walks nearby on mule trails built many hundreds of years ago.

However, it would be completely understandable if you made Sofia’s verandah your permanent base.