Villa Gallini

It’s difficult to believe, when looking down on the jumbled red roofs of the village and harbour of Gaios, that this is an island capital and ferry port, just like Manhattan. Luckily the only resemblance to the latter may be in a cocktail offered at one of the waterfront bars.

Villa Gallini, despite being so close to the centre of island life, has been built so that guests can enjoy the gentle art of pure relaxation in lovely surroundings. Whilst the view of wooded islands, blue sea and sky, and distant mountains may be far-reaching, the swimming pool, with its spacious sun terrace is definitely of the infinity variety.

Built using the local limestone, the villa continues the long island tradition of building houses that complement their surroundings. The interior has been thoughtfully laid out to ensure that the magnificent view can be equally appreciated from indoors. There are two bedrooms, a double and a twin, both opening on to a verandah, and contain a shower room and separate WC. A well-equipped kitchen leads into the living/dining room which again opens onto a shaded verandah and the swimming pool.

The whole island is easily accessible from the villa. The roads might be narrow but tailbacks of more than a couple of cars or an ancient tractor or two are unheard of  and, unlike the M25, are more than likely to have been caused by a wayward goat. Pristine pebble coves, often fringed by overhanging cypresses can be found around every east coast headland, but an evening stroll along the wild and rocky western coast will usually be rewarded with one of the most spectacular sunsets in the Ionian.

Recommended for a family or a small group of friends, Villa Gallini is the ideal base for experiencing the unique Paxiot way of life.

NB: The villa is reached by a steep driveway and 48 steps up to the villa itself.