In the Peloponnese, cradle of the original Olympic Games, Dafne offers a prize that doesn’t require a javelin or a marathon: a delightful home-from-home with stunning views, perfect for exploring this beautiful corner of Greece.
Set on a hillside among centuries-old olive trees, this single-storey villa looks out across one of the last truly wild regions of Europe, with open views stretching over the Messinian landscape and out to sea.
The villa is arranged on one level, with a step up to the kitchen area and also the hallway leading to the bedrooms. Inside, the open-plan living and dining area is bright and uncluttered, with high wooden beams, traditional tiled floors and soothing, neutral tones. Air conditioning throughout keeps everything comfortably cool. Two bedrooms, one double and one twin, share a contemporary shower room, ideal for couples, friends or a small family.
Outside, the private pool takes centre stage. It may not be Olympic-sized, but it’s perfect for cooling off, floating lazily or practising your gold medal-winning backstroke, before claiming your sun lounger as a podium. A covered terrace and built-in barbecue set the scene for long lunches and relaxed evenings.
Agios Nikolaos is just five minutes away by car, a small fishing village with a pretty harbour and tavernas serving freshly caught seafood. Pantazi Beach lies 1.5km away, while the livelier resort of Stoupa is within easy reach.
In Ancient Olympia, champions were crowned with an olive wreath. At Dafne, the rewards are just as appealing: local Kalamata olives, a chilled glass of something Greek, sea views and the quiet satisfaction of having won the contest of choosing exactly the right villa for your summer holiday. Yamas!