The Eco House is located in an area of outstanding natural beauty on the dramatic Lipsopergos peninsula. From its secluded and private position, the villa commands panoramic views over Vasiliki Bay right across to the island of Kefallonia. This is the first low-carbon, ecologically designed house on the island with a negligible carbon footprint that has been ingeniously designed to offer a high level of comfort to guests. Constructed in wood with stone floors, this single storey property is split level and is naturally cooled being open to the prevailing afternoon breezes that are characteristically found in this part of the Ionian.
The property has a fully equipped kitchen and a large open plan living room with dining area. There is a highly efficient fridge with freezer compartment, CD player and speakers, charging points for batteries and other appliances such as MP3 players, laptops, iPods, mobile phones etc – all run on 12 volt power (all that guests need to bring is an ordinary in-car/cigarette lighter type plug to charge their gadgets). Hot water is provided by the solar-powered system which is so efficient that in summer, you need to take care, the water is so hot! For Spring or Autumn holidays, there is a cosy wood-burning stove in the living room.
Doors lead from the living room to a covered veranda facing west with outdoor dining area and barbecue. From here the sunsets are theatrical and hours can be spent on this veranda spotting the dolphins in the bay below, as well as the eagle owls and many migratory birds that are found in these parts.
The villa has two bedrooms. The master bedroom has king-size double bed and a veranda with spectacular views over the pristine nature and sea below. The small second bedroom has twin beds that can be made into a double if required. These bedrooms share a well-equipped bathroom with shower. All rooms have high vaulted wooden ceilings with stone flooring throughout, and all doors and windows are fitted with insect blinds.Steps from the main covered veranda lead down to the pool terrace. The 35 sqm infinity pool is surrounded by stone terraces and has dramatic views out over the olives to the light house on Cape Lefkas and to Sappho’s Leap.
The property sits above a terraced olive grove of great antiquity and lush glades of indigenous strawberry trees mingle with seasonal crocuses, orchids, cyclamen and wild grass varieties now rarely found in other parts of Europe. There are numerous spots throughout the garden both in sunshine and shade to relax. For lazy afternoons, a hammock slung between two olive trees is the ideal way to enjoy the pristine nature and utter peace of the setting.
Although the property is very private and secluded, there are some beautiful beaches within walking distance – one gorgeous little gem of a cove is only about 5 mins down the track. The main beach of Amoussa Bay is only a few minutes further on and here there is also an excellent taverna with great home cooking.
The nearest shops to the property are in Marantochori (about 6kms) and in Vasiliki which has narrow winding streets and a quayside lined with tavernas and cafes, as well as 2 excellent supermarkets. Vasiliki is also renowned for watersports and boat hire can be arranged. Jeep hire is essential since the approach to the property is via an unmade road.
This is a wonderful house and setting to feel truly at one with nature without missing out on the comforts of a conventionally-constructed villa. With such close proximity to beaches, this villa would suit small families or couples wanting a unique holiday in quiet and peaceful surroundings.