Agrikea isn’t just a place to stay, it’s a slow-living experience for those who value simplicity, privacy, and a genuine connection to their surroundings.
Here, luxury is found in unspoiled nature, thoughtfully crafted spaces, and the quiet pleasure of watching the sun sink into the Aegean. From the first warm welcome to the last lingering breakfast, every detail reflects the owners’ vision of creating a retreat where you can truly unwind, breathe, and feel at home, and all just an hour from Athens by ferry.
Lowdown
Tucked into the hillside of Roukounas, Agrikea sits just 4 km above the port town, offering a serene escape only an hour’s ferry ride from Lavrio. The slow, scenic drive up winds through rural roads where grazing animals, falcons perched on stone walls, and bursts of wildflowers frame sweeping views of sea and hills. From its perch, Agrikea opens onto 180° vistas stretching across the Aegean, Evia, Attica, and beyond.
Details
Built in harmony with Kea’s traditional stone architecture, Agrikea feels as though it has grown naturally from its terraced hillside. The retreat was constructed using reclaimed site stone and guided by energy-conscious design: ceiling fans in place of air conditioning, solar-heated water, rainwater harvesting, water recycling, eco-friendly cleaning products, and the restoration of native vegetation. The result is a minimalist sanctuary, with space for no more than 13 guests, an adults-only policy (over 13), and a pet-friendly ethos, Agrikea offers an intimate and unhurried atmosphere.
Rooms
Agrikea offers four twin/double rooms (two with kitchenettes) and a suite that accommodates up to three guests, each with its own terrace framing uninterrupted sea and sunset views. Thoughtful amenities include daily housekeeping, complimentary first minibar fill, free Wi-Fi, a garden library, shaded corners for relaxation, and in-room massage options.
Food + Drinks
Breakfast is a highlight and is served wherever you choose, including your terrace, the garden, or under the communal pergola. Ingredients come straight from the property’s orchard and farm, with eggs from free-range hens. The signature Agrikea breakfast features yogurt topped with honey, nuts, and seeds, alongside fruit, eggs, toast, fresh juice, and coffee or tea. For dinner, private Mediterranean-style meals can be arranged under the pergola, either with a local chef sourced independently or through the hosts’ recommendations.
Extra Touches
The 11-metre lap pool, equipped with a jet stream and hydro massage, is one of Agrikea’s most magical spaces. Eco-friendly in design and immaculately maintained, it’s surrounded by artistic seating areas that offer front-row seats to the island’s golden sunsets.
Sustainability runs quietly through every detail: solar energy, water recycling, organic gardens, and passive cooling systems replace air conditioning. Over 250 native trees and Mediterranean botanicals thrive across the property, filling the air with herbaceous aromas and seasonal colour. Rather than a checklist, these initiatives create a setting that feels deeply connected to its natural surroundings.
Though Agrikea doesn’t have a restaurant, the hosts provide discreet concierge-style support- from booking excursions and arranging dining reservations to organising massages or intimate private dinners.
What’s Close By
Just an hour from Athens by ferry from Lavrio, Kea is the closest Cycladic island to the mainland, it’s a quick escape that feels worlds away. Perched in the hills above the port, Agrikea balances seclusion with access: tranquil enough for uninterrupted rest, yet within easy reach of the island’s restaurants, bars, cafés, and nightlife. West- and east-facing beaches are also close by, making it simple to explore both sunrise and sunset shores.
Highlight of Stay
This retreat is a natural choice for eco-conscious travellers drawn to understated luxury, privacy, and authentic connection, all underpinned by warm hospitality and a carefully considered design. As owner Haris Fevgas notes, “Our goal was to create an environment where you can come closer to nature, relax, and enjoy breathtaking sunsets.”
Perfect for… couples in search of slow island living, solo travellers looking to reset in nature, or small groups of friends who value intimacy, style, and sustainability over scene.
Type: 3-star hotel
Location: Agrikea, Kea, Cyclades
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From Kea and Meteora to Nafplio and Delphi, discover some of the most captivating autumn escapes just a short journey from Athens.
Athens is captivating year-round, but there’s something particularly special about autumn in the Greek capital. The blazing summer heat fades into crisp, comfortable days, the streets are less crowded, and the surrounding landscapes are painted with earthy hues.
It’s the perfect time to slow down, soak in the atmosphere, and venture beyond the city for a few days. From ancient sites and seaside escapes to mountain villages and charming port towns, here are some of the best getaways for the season within easy reach of Athens.
Corinth & Nemea
For a perfect blend of history and indulgence, head west to ancient Corinth and the nearby wine region of Nemea. In Corinth, explore the Temple of Apollo, the impressive Acrocorinth fortress that looms above the city, and the remains of the Roman forum where Saint Paul once preached. The Corinth Canal, a narrow waterway connecting the Aegean to the Ionian Sea, is another must-see feat of engineering.
Just a short drive away lies Nemea, one of Greece’s most renowned wine regions, famous for its robust Agiorgitiko reds. Autumn is harvest season, so the vineyards are alive with activity, and many boutique wineries open their doors for tastings and tours. It’s the ideal opportunity to sample Greek wines at their freshest, paired with local cheeses and cured meats, while enjoying the crisp autumn air among rolling hills. Don’t miss the chance to visit Semeli Estate and book a wine tasting in their breathtaking setting.
We also recommend a drink at La Boheme Bistro in Corinth, while notable restaurants in Nemea include 17 Xoria, Estiatorio Sofos, Danaos kai Anastasis, and Oinos kai Gefsi, all celebrated for their focus on fresh, locally sourced products.
Getting there: It’s about an hour’s drive from Athens to Corinth. By public transport, it takes around an hour and ten minutes by train, or about two hours by bus.
Nafplio
If you’re in the mood for romance and seaside charm, Nafplio is the perfect escape. Just two hours from Athens, this Venetian-influenced town enchants visitors with its cobblestone streets, elegant neoclassical buildings, and vibrant bougainvillea spilling over balconies. The autumn atmosphere makes it especially pleasant to stroll along the promenade or sip coffee in lively Syntagma Square without the summer crowds.
For those who love a good climb, the Palamidi Fortress (with its legendary 999 steps) offers breathtaking views of the Argolic Gulf. History enthusiasts can also visit Bourtzi, the small castle on an islet just off the harbor. Autumn light softens the scenery, and the cooler weather makes exploring even more enjoyable.
Nafplio is also known for its culinary delights. Some of our favourite eateries include Wild Duck, Pidalio, Karamalis, To Omorfo Tavernaki, and Kavalaris Corner Mezedopoleio.
Getting there: It’s around a 1 hour 40-minute car ride or about a 2 hour bus trip from Athens.
Delphi
Nestled on the slopes of Mount Parnassus, about a two-and-a-half-hour drive from Athens, Delphi is one of Greece’s most mesmerising archaeological sites. In antiquity, it was considered the centre of the world and home to the famous Oracle of Apollo, where pilgrims sought guidance for centuries. Wandering through the ruins, you’ll encounter the Temple of Apollo, the ancient theatre, the stadium, and treasuries built by city-states to showcase their wealth. The crisp autumn air and golden light give the site an almost mystical aura, making the stones feel alive with history. A visit isn’t complete without exploring the Delphi Archaeological Museum, which houses masterpieces like the Charioteer of Delphi.
When it comes to food and drink, Telescope Café is our go-to spot for coffee with panoramic views, while Taverna To Patriko Mas and Epikouros Restaurant are excellent choices for a leisurely lunch.
Getting there: Around a 2 hour 20-minute car ride from the capital and around a 3 hour bus ride.
Kea
For nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, autumn is the perfect season to explore Kea, the Cycladic island closest to Athens. A short one-hour ferry ride from Lavrio brings you to an island laced with more than 36 kilometres of well-marked hiking trails, many of which follow ancient stone paths that once connected villages and sanctuaries. The cooler weather makes trekking comfortable, and the landscapes are breathtaking. Think valleys dotted with oak trees, terraced hillsides, and sweeping views of the Aegean at every turn.
Highlights include the trail from Ioulida to the iconic Lion of Kea, carved in stone and shrouded in myth, and the route leading to the ancient city of Karthea, where temple ruins overlook a secluded bay. After your hike, reward yourself with a meal in Ioulida or fresh seafood in Vourkari. Some of the best spots to try include Steki, Ta Poularakia, O Paparounas, O Faros, and I Piatsa. Before heading back to Athens, make sure to treat yourself to an ice cream from Tyrakeion.
Getting there: From Athens, head to the port of Lavrio and take the ferry to Kea’s port, Korissia. The journey takes approximately one hour.
Meteora
Although Meteora requires a longer journey, it’s one of the most extraordinary day trips you can make from Athens if you’re willing to start early. This UNESCO World Heritage Site features towering rock pillars topped with centuries-old monasteries, seemingly suspended between heaven and earth. The surreal landscape, combined with the spiritual atmosphere of the monastic community, makes it a deeply moving experience.
In autumn, the surrounding forests turn golden and crimson, adding to the drama of the setting. Several of the monasteries are open to visitors, where you can see stunning frescoes, ornate icons, and panoramic views that stretch endlessly across the Thessalian plain.
No trip to Meteora would feel complete without savouring a traditional meal at Platanos Mykani, Skaros, or Ambrosia, followed by an unforgettable wine-tasting experience at Liakou Winery.
Getting there: By car from Athens, the journey takes around 3.5 hours. By train, it’s about 5 hours to Kalabaka, followed by a 10-minute taxi ride or a 15-minute bus trip to Meteora.
Lake Marathon
For a closer, quieter, off-the-beaten-path option, Lake Marathon offers a refreshing change of pace from Athens’ urban energy. Located less than an hour from the city, this artificial lake is not only a feat of modern engineering (built in the 1920s to supply Athens with water) but also a haven for nature lovers. In autumn, the surrounding hills turn shades of amber and crimson, creating a postcard-perfect landscape.
Walking trails wind around the lake, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely hike, picnic, or even birdwatching. Unlike some of the busier destinations, Lake Marathon remains relatively uncrowded, allowing you to soak in the peaceful atmosphere. A nearby highlight is the Marathon Tomb, a burial mound commemorating the fallen soldiers of the Battle of Marathon, which links natural beauty with a touch of ancient history.
During your visit, enjoy a nice lunch at Matambre, Argentina Restaurant, Taverna Amygdaleza, or Taverna o Loulas.
Getting there: About 40 minutes by car from the centre of Athens.
Discover our complete travel guide to Kea, including where to eat, drink, stay and swim around this beautiful Greek island.
Kea, also known as Tzia, is one of the Cyclades’ best-kept secrets- just an hour from Athens, it offers a completely different pace of life. With its stone-built villages, walking trails, ancient sites and crystal-clear waters, the island blends culture, nature and relaxation without the crowds.
From the hillside charm of Ioulida to hidden coves and long, lazy lunches by the sea, Kea is a reminder of how simple and authentic a Greek island escape can be.
Perfect for…
A peaceful retreat for nature lovers, couples, and families who enjoy hiking, history and calm beaches. With its laid-back atmosphere and charming seaside bars, Kea is ideal for anyone seeking raw Cycladic beauty.
See + Do
Ioulida Castle (Kastro) – Take a serene evening walk through the charming alleys of Ioulida, the island’s capital, and reach the remnants of the Venetian castle. From here, enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding hills and the shimmering Aegean Sea.
Ioulida Windmills – Discover the traditional windmills near Ioulida, a picturesque reminder of the island’s past. Some have been restored and now serve as cultural spots, offering a glimpse into Kea’s history and charm.
Swim and Relax at Kea’s Beaches – Kea is home to beautiful beaches such as Koundouros, Gialiskari, and Otzias. Whether you prefer sandy shores or quiet coves, you’ll find the perfect spot to swim in crystal-clear waters and unwind under the Greek sun.
Archaeological Museum of Kea – Located in Ioulida, this museum houses artifacts from prehistoric to classical times, offering a fascinating insight into the island’s long history.
Alekos Fassianos Museum – Art lovers will enjoy this museum dedicated to the works of renowned Greek painter Alekos Fassianos, featuring a vibrant collection of his iconic paintings.
Lion of Kea (Paleokastro) – Perched on a hill, this ancient 6th-century BC stone lion is a short hike away and rewards visitors with sweeping views of the island and Aegean Sea, which is a must for photography enthusiasts.
Traditional Villages – Explore the quiet villages of Korissia, Vourkari, and Pisses. Each offers charming streets, local tavernas, and peaceful spots to escape the crowds.
Hiking Trails – The island’s network of trails links villages, hidden beaches, and ancient ruins, perfect for nature lovers and those who enjoy scenic, off-the-beaten-path walks.
Eat + Drink
Coffee + Brunch
En Lefko – A stylish spot in the heart of Ioulida, En Lefko blends traditional and modern flavors, with freshly baked goods, healthy brunch options, and excellent coffee.
Panorama – Perched on a hilltop with stunning views, Panorama Kea is the perfect place to start your day with fresh coffee, a homemade breakfast, and a side of island serenity.
O Filakias – This casual café serves homemade orange pie, waffles with homemade ice cream, super bowls, and excellent coffee, all accompanied by a great view.
Lunch…
Steki – Tucked away on the path to the Lion in Ioulida, To Steki offers authentic Greek and Mediterranean dishes by a chef with 35 years of experience, using home-grown and local ingredients like goat in lemon sauce and rabbit in beer.
TaPoularakia – This family-run taverna is a go-to for grilled meats and mezedes. Rustic, hearty, and ideal for meat lovers seeking unfussy, flavour-packed dishes.
O Paparounas – A local favourite and one of Kea’s top foodie spots. Dine on the shaded terrace, chat with longtime regulars, and soak up the island’s authentic atmosphere.
O Faros – A favourite on Kea’s main port, Faros serves freshly prepared Greek meals in the healthiest and most authentic way, overlooking the waterfront.
I Piatsa – At the centre of Ioulida, this taverna buzzes with locals at all hours. Bright orange walls and blue shutters frame a cosy space that feels like stepping into yiayia’s kitchen.
Dinner…
Seirios – A seaside gem in Vourkari, Seirios serves fresh seafood with a creative twist in an elegant setting.
Cousteau All-Bay Stories – Known for its fusion cuisine and modern Cycladic décor, Cousteu offers inventive dishes and signature cocktails in a stylish atmosphere.
Zerât – Located on the shore of Koundouros beach, Zerât serves contemporary Greek cuisine in a modern setting.
Lygaria Farm and Kitchen – Set on a serene farm, Lygaria offers seasonal, farm-to-table meals made with ingredients grown on site.
Sweets…
Tyrakeion – A charming cheese shop and deli in Ioulida, known for its local cheeses, gourmet products, and unique, creamy ice creams made with fresh, island-sourced ingredients and unexpected flavours.
Korissos – Beyond coffee and loukoumades, Korissos delights with homemade bougatsa, kataifi, and galaktoboureko, all crafted with care.
Drinks…
Sunset Bar Resto Aigis – A must-visit lounge at AIGIS Boutique Hotel in Vourkari, offering signature cocktails, fine dining, and unforgettable sunset views over the Aegean.
Abourkouna Wine Bar – Nestled in Ioulida, this natural wine haven features over 100 Greek labels, from rare varietals to biodynamic stars, paired with small dishes and cheese platters.
Balcony – A vibrant cocktail bar with a bold spirit, ever-changing drinks list, and unforgettable signature cocktails.
Beach Bars…
Eora Beach Bar– Just steps from the water, Eora blends laid-back luxury with craft cocktails, freshly made seafood, and sharing plates, all set under a dappled woven roof.
Bond Beach Club – A sophisticated shorefront spot offering Mediterranean-Asian inspired dishes, soft neutral tones, and a buzzy beach atmosphere perfect for soaking up the sun.
Local flavours…
Kea is known for its expertly preserved pork with herbs, called Loza, and a variety of distinctive local cheeses. Try the soft yet tangy Kopanisti, as well as Xino, Xirotiri (dry cheese), and Ladotyri (cheese preserved in extra-virgin olive oil). The island’s thyme-covered landscape also produces rich, aromatic honey, a product of local beekeeping that remains both a tradition and a profession.
Discover
Best beaches…
Gialiskari – A small, organised sandy beach near Korissia, perfect for a quick swim and a coffee at the nearby beach bar.
Koundouros – One of Kea’s most popular beaches, with golden sand, crystal-clear waters, and lively beach bars for a fun day by the sea.
Vroskopos – A sheltered bay on the southwestern coast, known for some of the clearest waters on the island.
Sykamia – A remote, unspoiled beach surrounded by wild scenery, ideal for those seeking peace and natural beauty.
Xila – Enclosed by steep rocky cliffs on the northwestern coast, Xila offers a secluded setting with crystal-clear waters and dramatic landscapes.
Best View…
Pano Kastro Viewpoint – A short walk from Ioulida, this viewpoint offers sweeping panoramas of Kea’s coastline and the Aegean Sea, perfect for sunrise or sunset photography.
Local Gem…
Tucked away on Kea’s southwestern coast, Ancient Karthaia rewards adventurous travelers with history and breathtaking scenery. Accessible by hiking marked trails or by boat, this once-thriving city features well-preserved ruins, including an ancient theatre, temples, and city walls from the 6th century BC, all with stunning views of the Aegean.
Ultimate Day Trip…
Combine a boat trip with a visit to the ancient site of Karthaia, and spend the day hiking, exploring, and diving at nearby Poles Beach, just steps from the ruins.
Make Sure You Take Home…
Bring back Kea thyme honey, artisanal ceramics, Xinotiri cheese, and handmade herbal soaps and oils from local boutiques in Ioulida.
Where to stay…
We recommend staying in Ioulida, the island’s charming capital, to wander its picturesque alleys, visit quaint shops, and soak up its lively yet relaxed atmosphere. This central location also offers easy access to Kea’s cultural sites and hiking trails. Alternatively, consider a seaside stay in Vourkari, a beautiful fishing village just 15 minutes by car, ideal for those seeking a peaceful retreat with cozy tavernas and stunning sunset views.
Where to sleep…
Keos by the Sea – A tranquil seaside retreat with modern, cozy apartments and stunning sea views. Perfect for waking up to the sound of waves and enjoying peaceful evenings on a private balcony.
Agrikea Farm Stay Hotel – Nestled in the countryside, Agrikea offers an eco-friendly escape with stone-built suites, a relaxing pool, and panoramic island views, it’s ideal for travellers seeking total tranquility.
Kea Retreat – A boutique hotel dedicated to yoga retreats, it features minimalist rooms, sea views, farm-to-table food, a pool, and direct sea access.
One&Only Kea – A luxury 5-star resort with private pool villas set above a spectacular stretch of beach.
Porto Kea Suites – Situated by Korissia beach, this stylish hotel features elegant rooms, a beautiful pool area, and close proximity to the port and local tavernas, perfect for a beachfront stay.
Essentials
Getting there…
By sea, ferries from Lavrio Port near Athens take about an hour. Kea is one of the easiest Cycladic islands to reach, making it ideal for a quick getaway.
Best time to go…
May to September offers warm, sunny weather perfect for swimming, hiking, and exploring traditional villages. June and September are particularly pleasant, with even fewer crowds.
Ideal time to stay…
Around 3–5 days is enough to enjoy beaches, charming villages, and some hiking without feeling rushed.
Getting Around…
Rent a car or scooter, for the best way to explore Kea’s hidden beaches, remote villages, and scenic trails at your own pace. Otherwise, a limited but convenient public bus connects Korissia, Ioulida, and popular beaches during summer, providing an affordable option for getting around.
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Take a break from Mykonos, Santorini and Paros, and take in the must-see spots of Kea and Kythnos- two Cycladic islands that have long been favoured holiday escapes for Greek locals in-the-know.
Stop 1: Kea
An hour’s ferry ride from Athens’ Lavrio port, Kea’s rugged, rocky terrain is in stark contrast to its sparkling blue Aegean waters. The most popular beaches on the island Koundouros and Koundouraki boast incredibly inviting pristine waters that will keep you going back in for more. The beaches of Spathi and Xyla subscribe to the saying that “nothing good ever comes easy”, and are well worth the 10-15 minutes of bumpy dirt track to get there. Most beaches on Kea offer sunbeds at around 20-25 € per set, but also have plenty of space for those with their own umbrellas.
Stunning beaches in KeaAlso known as Tzia, Kea is just an hour ferry ride from Athens
The ancient archaeological site of Karthaia is located on the southeastern side of the island and can be accessed via a 45 min rocky walking path. The walk is rewarded by impressive ancient acropolis remains, perched rather majestically on the sea and makes for the perfect post-hike swim. Mythology says that the Lion of Kea (located near the town of Ioulida) was created by Zeus in response to the pleas of the island locals who were troubled by the muses. The lion’s impressively lifelike features make it worth visiting, particularly in the early evening when the summer sun is a little more forgiving.
All this swimming and hiking will no doubt work up an appetite, and Filippaspsistaria in Korrisia is known for the best grilled meat on the island (try their lamb paidakia). 9 Kores sits on the small beach of Vourkari and offers excellent fresh seafood (try their mussels steamed in wine). Steki tou Kalofagadon in Ioulida is your quintessential taverna with an excellent array of traditional cooked dishes like mince-stuffed zucchini topped with avgolemono sauce.
Hamsa Beach BarKythnos at sunset
Stop 2: Kythnos
After a blissful few days on Kea, jump on the one-hour ferry ride to nearby Kythnos. While you’ll probably never get to see all of Kythnos’ 99 beaches, Kolona beach is its crowning beauty and a hot favourite of the super yacht crowd (insider tip: due to its open landscape, Kolona is best visited on a low-wind day). After deciding which side of the sand bar you’ll rest on, take a dip in the crystal waters and then make your way up to the church for a birds-eye view of Kolona in all its glory. Nearby Apokrousi beach is another stunner, while the seaside town of Kanala is a sweet little spot for a quiet afternoon dip. Hamsa beach bar is located near the port and offers a relaxing all-day beach bar experience.
The small town of Dryopida and its characteristic sokakia are lined with tiny cafes and restaurants and make for a lovely morning stroll. While there, step into the folklore museum, which is a beautifully restored traditional home of Kythnos.
Chora is where the island gathers in the evening and has no shortage of food and drink options. To Steki tou Ntetzi will scratch your Greek taverna itch with excellent grilled meats (try their pork kontosouvli) while Margiora offers a modern take on Greek food (try the watermelon and beetroot salad) with an exciting cocktail list and range of Greek wines.
This contemporary, stone-walled villa with breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea, captures the essence of Kea island’s nature while inviting guests to experience a complete luxury getaway in the Cyclades.
This deluxe modern seafront holiday home is a perfect haven for larger groups seeking the ultimate relaxation and privacy. Featuring stunning indoor spaces with minimal decor, Selene Villa in Kea also boasts an oversized deck, two infinity pools, a sauna, a jacuzzi, a tennis court and a basketball court- enough to keep guests active and entertained all day long.
Selene is the perfect place to stay while exploring this under-the-radar Greek island, which happens to be the closest Cycladic isle to Athens (it’s only an hour away by ferry from the port of Lavrion in the Greek capital). Located on the southwest coast of Kea, Selene is just a short stroll from the gorgeous sandy beach of Kambi, where there’s also a taverna for those that wish to dine out.
Designed to blend in harmoniously with the shades, textures and peaceful vibe of its surroundings, the luxury property invites plenty of light to fill its interiors which are open, yet warm and welcoming. Stone, glass and wood add texture to the space, with selected pops of art adding a touch of character to the stunning space.
Featuring seven spacious bedrooms and seven bathrooms, it’s designed to easily accommodate up to 16 people; with the master suite located on one level, the guest rooms are found on the lower floor, where there is also a private terrace.
The outdoor deck is designed for entertaining and large all-day gatherings. With the infinity L-shaped pool taking centre stage- there’s also a spacious surrounding deck, dining and sitting area, a smaller pool at the lower level, professionally equipped bbq, outdoor kitchen, kids play area, ping pong tables, and plenty of space to sit back and enjoy the magical sunsets- while spending quality time with family and friends.
As the weather heats up in Athens, locals and visitors look to escape the Greek capital with some ever-so-tempting island hopping!
Whether you’re after a 1-day cruise from Athens or you’re looking forward to the ultimate island experience, we’ve rounded up 5 of our favourite Greek islands that are just a short ferry trip from the port of Piraeus.
Spetses
Located a little over two hours away from Athens, the luscious island of Spetses is a perfect weekend escape from the Greek capital. This idyllic, car-free island of the Argosaronic Gulf is a favourite spot for affluent Athenians and international jet-setters. The island stands out for its majestic architecture, impressive buildings, crystal-clear waters and off-the-beaten-path activities.
Hydra
A small island in the Saronic Gulf (just 2 hours away from Athens), with its classic beauty, has seduced many international personalities including Sophia Loren, Maria Callas, Aristotle Onassis, and Leonard Cohen, who purchased a house on the island in 1960. Hydra has a charming atmosphere and romantic allure, it’s aristocratic, yet authentic and features a rocky landscape with elegant, imposing stone mansions, narrow cobblestone alleys (with colourful bougainvillaea), plus impeccable sunsets.
Poros
Most ferries connecting Athens with Poros are high-speed, making this trip in less than 1 hour. Boasting lovely landscapes, in Poros, you’ll find small tavernas, yacht marinas, neoclassical buildings, a clock tower, pine forests reaching the sea, serenity and relaxation. Poros is a wonderful island in the Saronic Gulf and a local favourite destination for Athenians looking for weekend getaways, as A perfect spot if you’re looking for an island with strong traditional character and modern amenities.
Kea
So close to Athens (just one hour from the port of Lavrio, east of Athens) is the Greek island of Kea (also known as Tzia), which offers a chic ambience, wonderful beaches and an authentic vibe. Many have visited Kea as a day trip from the Greek capital as Kea is the closest Cycladic island to Athens. It’s an ideal destination for those seeking a relaxing holiday away from the crowds. Here you can enjoy local delicacies and dishes, as well as charming villages and great swimming spots.
Agistri
This amazing tiny island is about an hour from Piraeus by boat and offers lush green landscapes, gorgeous bays and secret coves. It’s a perfect place for those wishing to combine a beach holiday with nature, as you can explore the gorgeous landscapes while trekking, cycling, diving, hiking and kayaking. Agistri is also known for its amazing local dishes and traditional taverns- foodies add this one to your list too!
A beautifully renovated windmill on the lesser-known Cycladic island of Kea is the ideal place to stay if you are looking for a unique and authentic experience in Greece.
This wonderfully renovated windmill villa stands in the area of Koundouros, in an elevated position that boasts unobstructed views of the sparkling blue sea and surrounding countryside, which at sunset is magical.
A five-minute walk takes guests to a pebble beach just below the villa, while just a short drive away you can enjoy wonderful beaches with umbrellas, sun loungers, water sports, food, and drinks, including the sandy beaches of Koundouros (ideal for families) and delightful Koundouraki. There are also a number of charming villages in the area, such as Pisses, with its lovely sandy bay, mini-market, and a traditional taverna serving authentic local dishes.
Built on a private plot, the Mill on the Hill featured the impressive old windmill itself, lovingly restored to provide all modern comforts, along with three independent guest houses.
The windmill is laid out over three main levels, plus a recently built extension at ground level to accommodate the air-conditioned TV room and a fully equipped kitchen. On the ground floor, there is also a cozy living room with a fireplace and storage space.
The first floor features one double bedroom with an en-suite bathroom. There is another double bedroom with an en-suite bathroom on the second floor, which connects with the air-conditioned attic that has two single beds; ideal for children.
Right next to the windmill are the guest houses. The first has a double bedroom, air-conditioning, en-suite bathroom, and veranda access. The second has two double beds, an en-suite bathroom, air-conditioning and opens onto a pergola-shaded veranda. Situated just behind and slightly above the first two, the third guest house has a double bed and sofa bed, air-conditioning, and an en-suite bathroom. The guest houses have spacious outdoor areas for outdoor dining or relaxation and, like the bedrooms in the windmill, you can enjoy majestic sea views.
The natural slope of the hillside means the private land surrounding the property is on different levels, offering guests a variety of choices for outdoor activities and socialising. At the lowest level, there is a large, private, seawater swimming pool with loungers; the ideal spot for soaking up the sun and a refreshing dip at any time of day.
