Villa Lefki, nr Stavros - Ithaca

The present occupier of that other White House may never get an opportunity to stay in this superbly appointed villa, which is a shame, because the views of the Kefalonia coastline through the beautiful cypress trees with the forests and mountains of Kefalonia and the sunsets, would undoubtedly lift the spirits and allow the cares of the world to drift away.

By carefully combining the use of traditional stone and wood with the latest in contemporary fixtures and fittings, the Villa Lefki is the perfect holiday home from home.

Lefki village, a straggle of houses perched between mountain and sea has a distinguished history out of all proportion to its diminutive size. During the last war it was used as a staging post for escaping allied prisoners. The inhabitants took huge risks to hide the escapees until such time as their onward journeys to safety could be arranged. In recognition of their sacrifice the British Government funded the rebuilding of the village after the great Earthquake of 1953.

The echoes of war are thankfully very faint now. What remains is an ideal base for a relaxing holiday. One of Ithaka’s finest beaches at Agios Ioannis is a mere 10 minute drive away. Old mule tracks criss-cross fertile olive and citrus groves, passing ancient cisterns and wells. Stavros, the main centre of northern Ithaka with its shops, tavernas and bakery is ten minutes away by car whilst Vathi is only a little further away in the other direction, along a good road that follows the spectacular spine of the island.

The interior of the house, with its spacious master bedroom, double bed and en suite bathroom, is complemented by an open plan lounge/dining room and a fully fitted kitchen. The accommodation also includes a twin-bedded room with separate shower and toilet. Outside you will find a spacious terrace with a good sized pool for those lazy summer days.