Villa in Skaloto

Contemporary Living in the Cyclades

When you dream about escaping your hectic schedule, it's probably to somewhere like Sifnos. One of the smaller islands in the Cyclades, it is located 80 miles from the port of Piraeus, between Serifos and Milos. Dimension-wise, it's only 9 by 5 miles, and its main town Apollonia has a population of 869. This villa is located just outside the second largest town, Artemonas, which is home to about 800.

Visually, Sifnos has all the appeal of the other Cycladic islands. Whitewashed houses cascade down hillsides, and there are 360 churches scattered throughout the countryside -- which works out at around one per seven residents.

Built to blend in with this pastoral setting, this home is a beautiful tumble of stone that's a nod to ancient island style. However it also has very modern sensibilities, with exposed concrete walls and minimal decor. We love the high ceilings, the sunken living room, the suspended staircase, the inset benches and the floating beds that are all offset with raw stone walls.

Outside, there are shaded terraces built for lazy afternoons by the elegant stone-trimmed pool. There's a garden with organic fruits and vegetables that guests are welcome to eat, plus a donkey pen. Yes, you read that correctly - there are two donkeys who live on the estate.

If you're looking for a peaceful destination, with a chance to experience an authentic island lifestyle, this villa for rent in Greece is a great choice -- especially for families or groups of friends.

The villa is composed of three spaces. The main building has a master bedroom with en-suite living room, desk area and walk-in shower. There are two further double bedrooms, one on the upper floor with its own veranda, and one in the basement. Both have their own walk-in showers. There is also a kitchen, dining area and a living room.

There are two separate guest houses, one with one double bed, the other with two double beds (on the ground floor and in the attic). Both have bathrooms. The outside space has a dining area, a pool and a poolside lounge area. 

ADDITIONAL FEATURES

This villa for rent in Greece has wifi throughout, ceiling fans, a projector and screen, Bluetooth speakers, and a sound system. There are bathroom amenities. Cleaning is provided on a daily basis, with a change of linen twice per week, and cooking services are available upon request. Fee transfer from the port.​

AROUND

Sifnos is one of the Cyclades islands, 80 miles off the coast of mainland Greece. Relatively unspoiled, it has an abundance of walking tracks and a long history of great food. The closest village to the house is Artemonas, which is five minutes away by car. The nearest beach is 20 minutes away, and Chora is 10 minutes.

LOCATION

Skaloto, Sifnos, Greece. Nearest airport: Athens International via the Port of Sifnos, which is 25 minutes away by car.

BEST TIME TO VISIT: May to October.