The Yiameli Collection - Levandi

Clad in pale golden stone and finished with olive-green shutters and wrought iron balconies, there’s a definite hint of Provence to Villa Levandi, echoed in its pretty interiors with French vitrines and antique-style painted bedsteads.

Step onto one of the many terraces and balconies however, and the vibe is entirely Ionian, with stunning views of the rugged Zakynthos coastline below and across the sapphire blue water to Kefalonia in the distance.

Each of the five bedrooms enjoys this wonderful sea view, while the living area also opens onto a sunny terrace, perfect for your morning coffee as you plan the day. The kitchen is compact but well-equipped, and for fast food with an authentic Mediterranean flavour, you can harvest a little of the rosemary that grows in abundance around the villa and whip up something wonderful on the large open grill behind the house. The main dining terrace is also here, shaded for comfort in the heat of the day and a secluded spot to gather as evening falls.

Below the villa is your private pool, encircled by Mediterranean plants that lend a splash of colour to the afternoons and heady scent as the sun goes down. At pool level there’s also a studio bedroom with its own en suite and kitchenette, ideal for anyone requiring a little privacy from the rest of the party.

Levandi is one of three detached villas in this delightful spot. They are all well separated, with individual entrances and swimming pools, offset to maximise privacy. The Athens-based owner designed the villas for her children, and therefore included some common areas, including a large additional sun terrace and a boules alley, which all guests are welcome to use.

The sense of privacy is enhanced by the lofty location, tucked away at the end of a short but steep road. It’s just a 2-minute drive down to the smooth pebbles and emerald waters of Climati beach and only 8 minutes in the car to Agios Nikolaos harbour, with its traditional waterside tavernas and essentials mini-market. For more sophisticated dining, there are several appealingly upmarket options along the shoreline between Levandi and the port.