Kea is an exceptionally picturesque island hideaway in the Cyclades group of islands. It offers all the advantages of a quiet, peaceful holiday base, still largely undiscovered by foreigners, yet is just a two hour trip away from Athens. As such, it is a popular island destination for Athenians. The beaches are some of the best in the Cyclades offering beautiful sand and crystal clear waters. The landscape consists of hills and valleys, planted with vines and fruit trees, which run right down to pretty bays and the sea.

The island’s capital, Hora, built in the shape of an amphitheatre, is particularly appealing with its two storey houses with tiled roofs, steep, cobbled alleyways and beautiful churches. At the highest point of the village, on the site of the ancient acropolis, is a quarter known as Kastro which commands a breathtaking view of the nearby islands. Ferry boats call at Korissia, on the west coast of the island, in Agios Nikolaos bay, considered to be one of the safest natural harbours on the Mediterranean. Our property here is in the south of the island, overlooking the bay of Koundouros, with its uncrowded beach and colourful tavernas offering fresh fish.

For those looking for an island that is close to Athens but retains the atmosphere and charm of an island much further away, then Kea may be the place for you.