This unique modern home near Paphos in Cyprus was inspired by its owner Marios' travels. "After traveling a lot," he tells us, "I realized that I had the best time abroad only when I loved the places I stayed at." He set about building a vacation home rental where rule number one is to relax and love your stay.

From there, he continues, guests should jump to rule number two – "enjoy your surroundings and explore new territories, environments and moments. The concept came straight out of my soul, which I gave all of to finish it to the last stone. Building Aiora was much like doing soul geometry."

To achieve his goal, Marios enlisted architects from Phi Studio to design a home that stood out but was also a part of its natural surroundings among the vineyards and cypress trees. They used local stone both inside and out, as well as glass and steel to create a modern box that cantilevers out over the hillside. Interiors feature sparing use of mid-century-style furnishings that allow the space, views and sunsets to do all the work.

This villa for rent in Cyprus, created from a unique combination of mathematics and spirit, is a delightful find, and well situated to make the most of the island. It has two queen bedrooms that sleep four guests on Magniflex mattresses, an open-plan living room, and a fully-equipped kitchen. There are two bathrooms, one of which is en suite, and both feature walk-in rain showers and eco-friendly toiletries from Greek company Korres. The house is located on 2,300sqm of land, with its own private entrance and road.

AROUND

Nestled in the hills of Stroumpi, this villa for rent in Cyprus is surrounded by wineries, which are great for exploring and, of course, sampling. Arrive in August for the village's annual wine festival, named after the ancient Greek god Dionysos, that takes place in its central square.

The house is halfway between Paphos, with its great restaurants and bars, and Polis, with its paved shopping district and lovely beaches on Chrysochous Bay. Both are within half an hour's drive. It's also a 20-minute drive from the entrance to Akamas Peninsula National Park, which boasts dramatic valleys and gorges, as well as sandy bays. Don't miss the Blue Lagoon, Lara Beach, Avakas Gorge, and the Baths of Aphrodite, which are said to have special powers of rejuvenation.

LOCATION

Stroumpi, Cyprus. Nearest airports: Paphos (30km), Larnaca (140km).

BEST TIME TO VISIT: March to April or September to November. June to August is the busiest season. Winters in Cyrpus are mild, and the temperatures rarely fall below 10 degrees