Skinopi Lodge: Elies Villas

Mesmerizing Aegean Views from a Bluff Above the Sea

Facing Milos Bay and the blue Aegean, these two holiday homes in Greece offer the ultimate indoor-outdoor island experience, on a rugged cliff above the sea. Rising from the bluff in intersecting monolithic forms of stone, the homes have a serene sense of belonging. Modeled after the traditional fishermen’s houses or syrmatas that still dot the island,  they were designed by architects Kokkinou-Kourkoulas to reflect local culture, but with the plush comforts of modern life.

Part of a small complex of eco-lodges that share a secluded stretch of the bluff, the villas can be reached down a dirt road and can be rented individually or together. All have different orientation to secure privacy. They also have direct access to the sea and private decks. Please inquire for availability.

Set above the tiny fishing village of Skinopi and surrounded by olive trees and herb gardens, these two villas sit just above the water, offering mesmerizing views of the sea and boats passing by. The all-in-one, open-plan design features floor-to-ceiling glass and folding doors that open out to nature with room for two (a sofa bed is also available). 

Unwind within the rugged stone and whitewashed walls of Cycladic cane, and a soothing palette of soft grey colors and pure linen draped furnishings. Clever outdoor kitchens are designed for alfresco dining, with a table for two as well as indoor/outdoor showers for bathing under the stars.

The grounds were designed by landscape architect Ellie Pagalou with a subtle intervention that respects the native beauty. Relax to the sound of the sea, laze in the sun loungers and marvel at the sensory delights of island life. 

AROUND

One of the more overlooked islands in the Cycladic chain, Milos has nevertheless gone down in history as the founding site of the famous Venus de Milo now housed in the Louvre, and the fascinating ancient remains of civilization dating back thousands of years. 

Blasted out of the sea by a volcano, the principal crater forms one of the largest harbors in the Aegean at Adamas. 

The island has more than seventy beaches with many considered the best in the Aegean. Take a boat to get to the many secluded and inaccessible turquoise bays and caves at Kleftiko for an unparalelled experience.

Discover the remains of the ancient amphitheater that once held over seven thousand spectators, catacombs second only in historical significance to Rome's, and numerous hot springs praised by Hippocrates. With a mining history dating back 11,000 years, there are haunting remnants from obsidian, sulphur and mineral mining dotting the island. 

The port of Adamas is just a mile away on a dirt road with the nearby villages of Kilma, Plaka and Tripiti just a 10-minute drive.

The lovely pedestrian-only village of Plaka with labyrinthine cobbled streets, and its castle at the summit makes for a lazy day to wander, enjoy the tavernas, and admire the gorgeous views.

LOCATION

Milos Island, Greece. Nearest airport: Milos (15 minutes). A 4x4 vehicle is recommended to get to the house via a dirt road.

BEST TIME TO VISIT: Year round