It would be tempting to never leave the cocooned splendour of The Wheatfield House, a sprawling estate on the Greek island of Sifnos. We plan to while away the days floating in the infinity pool with its rustic backdrop of mountains and views over the Aegean. Or ambling around the estate's olive groves, vineyards and fruit orchards, stopping for a picnic in the shade of a gnarled olive tree. Or just kicking back and relaxing on one of the villa's many whitewashed terraces. You may be visited by a friendly cat during your stay. This is a getaway in the truest sense.
The property is a match for its environment. The villa has three plush suites, each one a paean to understated, modernist luxury. The master bedroom alone (which spans the entire top floor) has four terraces (with views to four islands), two verandas and 360-degree views. There’s also a home office, a dining room, a chef’s kitchen and even a powder room. The design is simple, clean and informed by its Cycladic surroundings: white walls, neutral materials and a commitment to sustainability.
But don't miss the other charms of this island paradise – its golden beaches fringing the coastline, the delectable food scene for which the island is known, and the network of local villages rich with chapels, tavernas and artisan shops. There's plenty to do – but always that temptation to do absolutely nothing.
Highs
- Privacy – surrounded by 2 hectares of quiet farmland, where the only interruptions are the hum of cicadas and tinkling goat bells
- Space – five verandas plus assorted nooks and crannies for reading, relaxing and meditating
- Sustainability – the estate is committed to organic farming, and from 2024 it'll produce much of its own electricity and have an electric car charger
- The 60sq.m heated infinity pool – just look at that view!
- The location – Sifnos has a gourmet reputation and some lovely beaches, and the lack of an airport means it's not overrun with tourists
Lows
- You’ll definitely need a car. The nearest towns of Artemonas and Apollonia are 3-5km away and the nearest beach is a 20-minute drive
- Minimum stay of 1 week; Sat-Sat only
- No extra beds and no twin beds
- Kids are welcome but the house is not specifically designed to be child-proof
- The gardens are recently planted and have yet to mature
Best time to go
The season in Sifnos is relatively short – May to October – which is when most of the shops and restaurants are open and the sea begins to warm. In spring, Sifnos is lush green with carpets of wildflowers, perfect for those seeking authentic Cycladic experiences. It doesn’t get too hot in summer thanks to the gentle Aegean breeze. For walking trips, autumn is best but the dining options may be limited. The villa is closed in winter.
Our top tips
Naturally for such a small island, nightlife is subdued, but Saturday night is party night and Apollonia is the centre of the action. It has a host of chic cocktail bars that have sprung up recently. After midnight, Botzi is a hive of Afro-Cuban tunes, punchy mojitos and smoke-filled rooms. But also check out Argo and Terrasse.