Immaculately Restored Villa of Famous Greek Poet Sikelianos

Sikelianos Villa, set in the seaside town of Xylokastro, was once home to famous Greek poet Angelos Sikelianos.

Having been declared a historical monument of Greece, by former Minister of Culture Melina Mercouri, the stunning residence recently received an immaculate renovation that blends harmoniously its grandeur with contemporary design. The unique Greek holiday villa now offers guests a secluded stay with 360-degree views of the Corinthian Gulf and the lush pine forest of Pefkias.

Located only an hour and fifteen minutes away from the centre of Athens, this expansive property is one of the most beautiful seafront escapes closest to the Greek capital. Plus the perfect base to explore many ancient historic wonders of Greece- with Mykines village only one hour drive from the villa; it’s just two hours from Ancient Olympia and Delphi.

Sikelianos is the perfect stay for guests in search of a private and bespoke getaway; and here you can enjoy breakfast on your own terrace or inside the nearby resort’s beautiful gardens. Along with the dreamy landscape comes a private beach, a pool, delightful dining choices, a spa and a wellness centre, which are all connected to the villa’s resort. 

The idyllic Venetian Villa was built by the famous poet Angelos Sikelianos himself, and his American wife Eva Palmer, on their return to Greece in 1912. It’s hosted countless celebrations dedicated to art and poetry while having welcomed numerous intellects of the 20th century up to the mid-1930s; including famous Greek artists such as Palamas, Kazantzakis and Karyotakis who were very close to the couple.

The construction of the villa began in 1912 and ended in 1916. It was the couple’s first architectural attempt, and the estate combines a variety of designs from different eras, including columns that draw inspiration from Classical Greece, windows from the Byzantine era; while all terraces have strong Venetian influences.

The 50 square metre private property consists of a master bedroom with a king-size bed, ensuite, a very spacious bathroom, a living room and a dining area. Each room has a fireplace carved ornately from stone, as well as large, tall windows overlooking the estate’s lush, fragrant gardens. From its three fully furnished terraces, guests can enjoy the sea view and the evergreen pine forest.

Right at the heart of the villa’s charming gardens guests can enjoy a late lunch or dinner at the delightful restaurant that features authentic Italian cuisine and a fairytale ambience. The outdoor dining experience under the moonlight that blends harmoniously with the timeless elegance of the candle-lit terraced villa- is a perfect way to end your evening here. 

About Angelos Sikelianos 

Angelos Sikelianos was a Greek lyric poet and playwright. Born in March 1884 on the island of Lefkada where he spent his childhood, in 1900 Angelos registered with the Athens Law School but never graduated. In the course of the following years, he travelled extensively and devoted himself to poetry. Critics claim Sikelianos’ finer lyrics are among the best in Western literature. His poems are inspired by Greek history, religious symbolism as well as universal harmony. From 1946 until 1951, he was nominated for the Nobel Prize for Literature.

A: Sikelianou, Sikia, Xylokastro

Tour a Luxury Villa in Corfu

Corfu has long been an isle of refuge and respite. Unsurprising then, that recent years have seen this Greek island sanctuary welcome waves of worldwide visitors, many hoping to eclipse the pandemic beneath the Mediterranean sun. From creatives to billionaires and their friends, a flurry of activity is transforming once summer-only residences into cozier year-round homes.

With a rare 360-degree view of the Ionian sea, this family residence is full of natural light and a colour palette inspired by the Mediterranean below. Set on 2.9 acres, Anassa is located just off the main road to Agni Bay, and was built with local stone, maintaining the traditional character of the island.

Offering privacy throughout, the estate features three properties, including the main home and two villas. The main home boasts six bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms, a steam room, gym and cinema. The interiors are elegant and romantic, furnished in pastel tones it has an elegant yet cozy feel.

Insights Greece - Tour a Luxury Villa in Corfu

Double gates open up onto a tarmac driveway which leads to a large garage and there is also an elevator, which leads to the main entrance of the villa and its guesthouse.

Outside you will find a terrace carved into the rock, providing natural protection for the shaded lounge/ dining area, which leads to a free-form infinity pool with spectacular sea views. From here you can also walk down to a small private cove, which is the ideal spot to relax and enjoy the crystal clear waters.

Insights Greece - Tour a Luxury Villa in Corfu

Taking its cue from the immutable light of Greece, every aspect of this 12.8 million € listed property exudes a radiance that captures all its guests. With bright white interiors and a large outdoor lounge overlooking the azures of the private pool and the bay below, this property is the perfect retreat for those seeking privacy within a gated community.

Just a short walk away from the picturesque Agni Bay, an unspoilt sandy beach on the north east of Corfu, it’s just under 30km from Kerkyra town, which is less than an hour’s drive. 

Click here to view the property