Kyparissi

Ithaca , Greece

Overview

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  • Five charming suites
  • Wonderful position overlooking Kioni
  • Private terraces and balconies
  • Sea views
  • Short walk to Kioni waterfront and tavernas

Set above the impossibly beautiful harbour in Kioni sits Kyparissi, a place of such simple charm and authenticity it cannot fail to capture the heart. Serving as a family retreat for several generations, the property is now owned by Calliope who has transformed it into five spacious one and two-bedroom suites and we couldn’t be more delighted that she has chosen to share them with us.

Her artistic background, respect for the island’s history and innate passion for the aesthetics of the natural world have led to a delightful restoration overlooking the azure waters of the Ionian. The suite interiors are light, bright, almost ethereal in feel, with primary colours inspired by the abstract paintings of Mondrian adding accents of colour to the simple whitewashed walls. The effect is one of peace, harmony and relaxation, a fitting backdrop to the seductive beauty of Ithaca’s spectacular landscape and coastline.

Two-bedroom suites are split level and situated on the upper floors, each with a large balcony leading off the living room, small balcony from the main bedroom and magnificent Ionian views. Ideal for couples seeking a little extra space, or families in the peak season (children over 16 only), they offer the finest views but if you’re after a romantic hideaway, the one-bedroom suites each enjoy a private garden terrace, ideal for a quiet siesta as the gentle breeze drifts in from the sea.

Kyparissi is named after the cypress trees found in the gardens, where the soft scent of Mediterranean pine is infused with jasmine, rose, lavender and rosemary – a real treat for the senses and a calm oasis above the rhythm of daily life in Kioni. Yet just a five-minute stroll leads down to the harbour front. It’s a decidedly classy little fishing village - lively by day during the peak summer months when the yachts moor up for lunch, yet wonderfully laid back in the evenings. Here you’ll find a bakery, grocery store and delicatessen as well as an appealing selection of boutique shops and tavernas serving delicious fresh fish and local dishes. Amble down at sunset for a pre-dinner drink at one of the waterside cafes - perfect as the sky turns crimson and the lights begin to twinkle around the bay.

There are several pebble beaches within easy walking distance of Kyparissi and a 15-minute stroll along the waterfront leads to a traditional cantina serving drinks and snacks. And though we highly recommend you hire a boat to discover those parts of the island more easily accessible from the sea, it’s not just the coast that’s worth exploring. Walking trails uncover ancient churches and the fertile remnants of Ithaca’s wealthy past exporting home-grown lavender and raisins across the continent. It’s very easy to come to this part of Ithaca without a car and still feel you’ve scratched beneath the surface of the island’s rich history; walk up to the one-time capital Anogi and you’ll find an old church housing priceless Byzantine treasures and a rather quaint restaurant in the village square where you can dine with the locals.

Ithaca is an island where ancient history and mythology meet, the evocative destination for Odysseus in Homer’s Iliad and as far removed from the hustle and bustle of city life as you could ever wish to be. And though the Kyparissi suites have no lofty pretentions when it comes to high-tech gadgetry, they lack nothing when it comes to heart, soul and artistic character. A stay here has a poetic quality that lingers long after you’ve said your sad goodbyes and as you might expect, it attracts a loyal following. If it sounds like the place for you, early booking is highly recommended.

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