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Beautifully artistic villa with private plunge pool situated in an authentic traditional setting close distance to beach and tavernas with wonderful sea views
House of the Lanterns is situated in the traditional village setting of Kasteli with wonderful views over the Aegean Sea. This three story house has been well designed to accommodate 5-6 guests and has been decorated with exceptional taste by its artistic owner.
A little laneway leads up from the sea to an arched doorway painted in blue. Through the archway, you enter a shaded courtyard garden dappled with light and surrounded by pretty potted plants. This is a lovely place to sit and enjoy a tiny cup of strong, Greek coffee in the peace and cool of the morning.
Upon entering the house, the main floor comprises an open plan living area, dining area and kitchen. The living room has comfortable sofas around a large coffee table, an open-fireplace, Satellite TV and a docking station for i-pod and i-phone. The lovely dining area is suitable for 8 guests and the modern kitchen is very well equipped and smartly decorated. Doors lead out onto a pretty terrace overlooking the bay with built-in benches heaped up with cushions and a large table for outdoor dining.
A softly hewn Egyptian marble staircase leads to the upper floor with its light and airy landing with windows looking out over the hills of Spetses. The master bedroom with its calming white and cream dcor and pale blue paintwork is an oasis of calm. The double doors lead to a romantic balcony with uninterrupted views over the glistening sea below. In the morning from the bed, you have a perfect view of the sea. Next to the master bedroom is an office area with single bed and windows looking out over the sea view. This room also has a small TV which can be moved to the master bedroom. These two bedrooms share a bathroom with bath and shower decorated in Byzantine style mosaic tiles.
The lowest level of the house is perfect for a second couple or for older children who would enjoy some independence. Here there is an equally beautiful double bedroom with doors leading directly to the pool. On this level there are two beautifully tiled bathrooms – one with WC and shower; the second with WC, shower and bath. On this level, there is also a second living room with Satellite TV, DVD, music system and Playstation 3 with a selection of games. This living room has been delightfully decorated with comfortable furnishings and nicely chosen artefacts and cosy lamps and lanterns for the evenings. Double doors lead out onto a delightful and private walled garden with plunge pool. This is a wonderful place to lounge on the outdoor sofa or recliners and to enjoy a cool dip in the pool in the hotter parts of the day, or a private skinny-dip in the evenings.
Throughout, the property has been exquisitely decorated and the effect is one of joy, lightness and tranquillity, and at night with the lanterns and candles lit the house takes on a magical atmosphere.
The villa is well equipped with air-conditioning throughout, WIFI, utility room with washing machine, dishwasher in the kitchen as well as espresso and cappuccino maker together with all the usual kitchen appliances.
The location of the house is also unique since Kasteli used to be the ancient capital of the island and has an appealing, authentic village atmosphere. Yet, you are only about 10 mins walk down to the nearest beach and to the nearest tavernas at Dapia, the main town of the island. It is uphill on the way back so guests may want to consider hiring a scooter or quad bike.
House of the Lanterns would suit either two couples or a family with older children who would enjoy the calm and peace of the surroundings whilst being close to the nearest beaches and tavernas. For guests who relish in well designed and exquisitely decorated properties with feeling and integrity, this delightful house is a treasure. Please note that due to the open staircase and veranda, the property may not be suitable for very small children.