KASTANIDA

Kastanida is situated near the northwest coast of Paxos, a few kilometres away from the island's picturesque towns of Loggos, Lakka and Giaos, all welcoming little harbours with idyllic seafront tavernas, shops and bars. The nearest village with shops is Magazia, which is about 2km away. Gaios, the main port of entry to the island, has frequent boat services to Corfu and Paxos' tiny sister island, Antipaxos. 

Inside: accommodation at Kastanida is spread across three original stone structures. The first is given over to an open-plan living, dining and kitchen area, furnished with a comfy seating area and a dining table. The minimalist palette of white walls, white beamed ceilings, grey polished concrete floor and hints of grey and wood sets the tone for the rest of the property. One door leads out to a covered pergola and the pool area, while another leads to the al fresco dining area to one side.

The two other structures are to be found behind and to one side of the living and dining area. Each has a light, airy double bedroom and a shower room, one en-suite, the other just next door, accessed externally.

Outside: life at Kastanida revolves around its multifaceted wrap-around terraces, which provide plenty of space for reclining, dining, swimming and view-gazing. At the front, looking over Lakka harbour and the sea, is the sleek long-and-narrow pool, whose contemporary style reflects the property's minimalist interior design.

A step back from the pool and you come to a shady living area, invitingly furnished with cushioned daybeds and a comfortable seating area. Another step back and up a couple of steps, is the dreamy outdoor dining area, which is conveniently served by a barbecue zone.

Fragrant Mediterranean shrubs and climbers add a splash of colour to the stone façades while the intense blue of the sea and the vivid green of the surrounding woodland provide the perfect backdrop to this relaxing, romantic idyll.