Xenon Estate
Spetses, Greece New!
A secluded hilltop hideaway: 3 adjoining villas (for 2-8) with stunning views of Spetses and the Saronic Gulf
Perched on a hillside in a secluded corner of Spetses, a beguiling
Greek island 2-3 hours from Athens, Xenon Estate is ideal for those
looking for peace and privacy in a sleek, self-catering set up.
It's reached along narrow, winding roads lined with whitewashed
cottages, and set in beautiful landscaped gardens complete with
gnarled olive trees, sun-bleached pebbles, a fragrant herb garden
and flower-covered pergolas. A glorious pool, with wooden decking
and canvas loungers, provides a shared focal point. You feel far
from the noisy mopeds of Dapia and bustling restaurants of the old
harbour (though they're only 20 minutes' walk); and a world away
from the noisy madness of Athens.
Adjoined but completely autonomous, the 3 villas –
with names derived from Greek mythology – blend traditional
island architecture and boutique hotel design, with the advantages
of a rented villa. You get fully equipped kitchens, sitting rooms
with flatscreen TV and surround sound, luxurious bathrooms with
robes and Korres toiletries, and diligent attention from owners
Alex and Elina, who spend summers here with their little
girl.
And did I mention the panoramic views? Over pine trees and the
rooftops of Dapia, you look across the startling blue of the
Saronic Gulf to the jagged islands of Hydra and Dokos, and the
mountainous outline of the Peloponnese Coast. Car-free Spetses has
some lovely beaches, so explore the island by fishing boat or
moped, then cool off in its largest pool.
Reviewed by Sarah Gilbert
Last updated
29 July 2010
Highs
- Stunning views over Spetses and the Saronic Gulf from your balcony or terrace
- The tranquil location and sense of seclusion, though you can mix with the (few) other guests around the pool if you are feeling sociable
- Spacious, well-designed and fully-equipped villas with 1-4 bedrooms
- Alex and Elina are helpful, hands-on owners; they (or their caretakers if they are in Athens) can arrange everything from a boat trip to a private chef
Lows
- It’s a 15-minute walk downhill to the centre of Spetses – and longer uphill; it can be costly getting a taxi both ways in the evening, and tiring dodging mopeds if you walk
- The island can be very quiet outside of weekends and high season
- There's a minimum stay of 4-7 nights (depending on season), and the estate is closed for 6 months in winter
