Up That Hill

Just outside the beautiful hilltop village of Zia, this bolthole for two radiates romance. First of all, there’s the terrace outside. Shaded by a wooden pergola, the view from here is incredible and really makes the most of the hilltop position. Hills dotted with sugar-cube houses fall away to the sea beyond as islands float on the horizon. Did we mention there’s a jetted plunge pool out here? So there’s no need to worry about hot sunny days. If you’re feeling sociable, you can head to the communal barbecue garden.

Or, cook something in your own kitchen and enjoy on the terrace. The dine-in kitchen has everything you need to whip up breakfast, lunch and dinner. In the cosy living room, an exposed stone wall keeps things feeling traditionally Greek and wood beams run across the ceiling. If you want to get out and explore, head to Zia (a four-minute drive or fifteen-minute walk away) where the picturesque streets have to be seen to be believed. Whitewash houses and cobbled alleys bursting with bougainvillaea.

Home truths:
*In a remote location, having a car is recommended and there is free private parking with this villa
*You'll need to climb a set of stairs to reach this home so it may not be suitable for those with limited mobility
*There is a shared barbecue area on the complex
*Cleaning takes place three times a week
*Your host can provide a cot and high chair for infants on request