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Immaculate 17th-Century Holiday Home in Tinos

On a charming mountainous village in the centre of Tinos, you will come across a traditional 17th Century home (that once belonged to a local bishop). After being beautifully restored, it has now become one of the coziest holiday villas on the island. 

Perched on the high slopes of Mount Exombourgo, the fabulously renovated Xinara House in Tripotamos is the ideal place to stay if you are looking for an authentic Cycladic experience. 

Boasting an elevated position that offers unobstructed views of nearby charming hillside villages and the majestic Aegean Sea (that’s extra-spectacular during sunset), the property includes a set of two immaculate villas, tastefully styled to blend in beautifully with their natural surroundings. 

Proud owners and hosts, Peter and Susan Marston, who purchased the home in 2016, worked closely with locals to retain as much of the traditional architecture as possible, and throughout the villa, you will find locally produced Tinos marble, which is featured on the floors, tables and even solid-marble basins for the bathrooms and kitchen. 

The light-filled home also features originally carved marble fanlights, plasterwork, and traditional island pebble-patterns are laid on the terrace. Xinara House is a real “home away from home” and guests are able to rent out the entire property, which accommodates up to 13 people; otherwise the villas can be divided into two, with the House, being the bigger option; and Blacksmith, which fits 2-3 people.

The exterior of the villa has been perfectly repainted with natural limewash and there are also splashes of  ‘loulaki’ (Greek island blue) giving the villas a traditional, yet fresh facade. Outside really is just as spectacular (if not more so) than the interior spaces; as this is where guests are really able to feel the island vibe and sense true Cycladic life.

The private bougainvillea-filled gardens are home to mulberries, walnuts, almonds, figs, and other delightful fruit trees; amongst the pretty terraces, Peter and Susan grow organic fruit and vegetables for their guests to enjoy throughout their entire stay. A vineyard has also been planted and produces rosé, and new vegetable gardens (plus fresh eggs) stock the kitchens. Breakfast is included; with generous servings of fresh and organic island milk and yogurt, eggs, bread, granola, fruit, and a perfect shot of espresso- the ideal way to start your day! 

On the private terraced gardens, guests are encouraged to create their own tasty lunches and dinners; and the outdoor kitchen space includes an original wood-fired oven. Guests are able to help themselves with the organic vegetables and other delicious local produce available, including the lovely wine produced from the property’s own vineyard. 

Spend time relaxing and unwinding on one of the many loungers and hammocks; or wander around and get up close to the lemon and orange trees, ancient olives, and cactus. From here you are also only minutes away from beaches and restaurants, or hike around the island’s ancient paths and villages. Only 10 – 15 minutes from the main town of Xinara, old tracks from the house will lead you directly to the mountain, down to old villages, the port, and to one of the island’s best beaches (safe, sandy, and with a beach bar) it’s just a short drive from the house and ideal for families. 

Nearby you will also find a nice variety of taverns, cafes, bakeries, and other stores. These come personally recommended by Paul and Susan, who want their guests to have the most memorable stay in Tinos, an amazing island they have completely fallen in love with. 

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