Villa Estia

The morning’s commute, standing room only on an overcrowded train or stuck in a tailback that stretches for miles into the foggy distance.

It’s a little different on Skopelos, especially if you’re starting point is Villa Estia. You might have already enjoyed a swim in the private pool or opened the curtains to see the morning sun light up the tree clad hillside across the bay, before braving the 10 minute rush hour drive down to Skopelos Town, the island's capital, to pick up freshly baked croissants for breakfast, leaving ample time to prepare for the return journey with a leisurely espresso at a quayside taverna. Antidotes to the daily grind don’t come much better than this.

Situated on its own terrace and gardens on a hillside amongst the oak, pine and fruit trees of this the greenest island in the Sporades, with stunning views of Skopelos Town and bay, this newly built two bedroomed villa is a welcome sanctuary from the cares of everyday life. It is no wonder that the monks of old chose these hills as the perfect location for building their monasteries. There are no less than four close by.

The interior of the villa complements its setting. The spacious living and kitchen area on the ground floor opens directly onto the paved terrace and swimming pool. Steps lead up to the master double bedroom with its own balcony and en-suite shower room. On the first floor is a second twin-bedded room with separate shower room.

Lazy days on any of the uncrowded island beaches, or exploring the island’s maze of lanes through forest and fruit orchards can lead to quiet evenings sitting out on the terrace watching the sun set towards the distant mountains of the Pelion, whilst the lights of Skopelos Town fill the shadows below.

Although in ancient Greek, Sporades means scattered, a reference to the string of islands with Skopelos at the very centre, this lovely villa is the perfect base for refreshing mind, body and soul.