Xyloporta

Traditional stone clad former olive-pickers' cottages are clustered together around a pretty courtyard, infinity pool, and look out on to the most spectacular views of the sparkling, luminous waters of the Ionian Sea.

Vines adorn the exteriors of the cottages, and ancient olive trees provide shade and a home to the many cicadas which provide the soundtrack to your stay. Set among five acres of olive groves you are guaranteed privacy and peace, extras such as a maid service and the option of a private chef ensure the only work you will have to do will be on your sun tan.

A large terrace wraps around the ground floor of all the properties uniting all the guests who also have their own private slice of heaven. The four cottages boast seven en-suit double bedrooms and a children's ensuite bedroom too, so there is plenty of room for family and friends to spread over four separate abodes ensuring privacy and space is available when required.

Each cottage has been renovated sympathetically and in-keeping with its surroundings The interiors have been decorated and furnished to a high standard in classic blues and whites, while touches such as hand carved limestone basins ensure the character of these lovely habitats is retained. Pale blue wooden shutters, cool stone floors and timber ceilings painted white recur throughout all the cottages all enhancing the character and giving it an archetypical Greek dwelling atmosphere.

The bathrooms feature rainfall showers and double basins, as well as comfy towels, bathrobes and linens all of which are of a high quality. The living areas are light and cool, and large, deep sofas make a great place for a post-lunch siesta out of the midday sun. There is a well-equipped kitchen which boasts two large fridges, as well as a kitchen dining table large enough for lively breakfasts and long wine-fuelled dinners.

Alternatively, take the party outside and make use of the four private terraces and two communal terraces, perhaps cook dinner in the outdoor wood fired oven. Should you be tempted to head out and experience some local food and nightlife, there are several traditional tavernas nearby and a beach club. Zakynthos island is one of the loveliest in Greece and has some spectacular beaches, while nearby Kefalonia and Ithaca are a ferry ride away and make for great day trips.