Kyknos

Finding such a gentle pace of life, relaxing ambience and unspoilt environs, the first time visitor to Meganisi could be forgiven for thinking that this is a place where time has largely stood still… or at the very least appears slow in restarting! One of only five villas situated in a restful and attractive little enclave, the views from Kyknos encompass rolling hills of pine and olive trees, the local hilltop village of Spartohori, a swathe of glittering Ionian Sea and the rugged Western coastline of mainland Greece.

Kyknos translates as ‘swan’ in English, so it is perhaps only appropriate that the swimming pool area is a noticeably attractive feature of the property. Two individual pools with varied depths, one sitting just above the other, create a choice of bathing options for a range of age groups, while non-swimmers will surely appreciate the wide Roman steps that not only give access to the smaller pool but provide a cooling spot in which to sit or paddle.

Internally the appealing light wood and pale cream interior of the open plan ground floor is well proportioned and offers convenient, direct access to the pool terrace, while three smart bedrooms and three bathrooms ensure sharing parties can enjoy a harmonious distribution of facilities. A balcony and a separate part-shaded sun terrace off the first-floor bedroom offer visitors additional privacy as well as being an extra viewpoint from which to survey the eye-catching vista.

Nearby, the charmingly sleepy village of Spartohori (750m) is home to essential amenities including a minimarket, bakery and local taverna or the attractions of the two other largest villages on the island, amiable Katomeri and the welcoming waterside capital Vathy, are both easily accessed in about a ten minute drive. Numerous lovely beaches including Agios Ioannis, Spilia, Barbarezou and Fanari lie within a further 5-15 minutes driving time.