Built in 1878, this graceful traditional three storey Santorini Mansion is located in the heart of the picturesque village of Megalochori. At the turn of the century the first floor would have been used as the living quarters with the ground floor serving as a winery and cellar. The original structure has not been altered and the mansion has been sensitively renovated, retaining many of the original features.
The cave-like style of architecture, found throughout Santorini is featured perfectly at Mansion 1878 and allows the temperature inside to remain cool throughout the hottest months of the year, a reminder of how cooling issues were successfully achieved in the past without the need for air-conditioning.
From the village square a winding footpath leads you to the Mansion. Entering the property one is greeted by a large cobbled, private courtyard, complete with swimming pool, hammock, sun loungers and a profusion of colourful Mediterranean flowers. A stone stairway leads you to the first floor with large terraces and sweeping views of the village and agricultural land beyond. This part of the island is home to many of the vineyards that produce the excellent wines of Santorini and the wineries offer tours and tastings.
Mansion 1878 consists of two spacious self-contained wings with a private pool located within a walled courtyard. It has been tastefully furnished with fine antique pieces which complement the simple colours of the interior.
The ground floor once served as the wine cellar and workshop of the Mansion and was originally carved out of the rock face. The result is something quite unique with arched ceilings featuring throughout. Every room oozes character, is stylishly decorated with few but effectively chosen pieces of furniture. They resound with simplicity providing a clean and simple space in which to relax and experience the true flavour of this very special property. Each traditional feature has been artistically utilized to enhance the space. Old wine vats - cylindrical troughs sunk into the ground provide unique lighting. Three huge antique doors with iron hinges lead from the various rooms out to the courtyard, each piece has been carefully chosen and the end result is really very special.
On the ground floor level, there is a well equipped, traditional-style central kitchen which leads into the beautifully lit dining room featuring an antique dining table and chairs for 10 guests. Arched doorways on either side of the kitchen allow for an easy flow through the house and the comfortable lounge is well appointed and spacious.
At the opposite end of the ground floor level are two traditional 'cave style' bedrooms - one with king-size bed and one with French 3/4 bed. These bedrooms share a central, shared seating and dressing area. A large bathroom is shared between these two rooms.
The first floor consists of a traditional style small kitchen but well equipped with modern appliances. Beyond the kitchen is a large dining room with antique dining table for 6 guests. This dining area features wooden floors and vaulted ceiling, providing a dramatic space to sample the creative delights of the kitchen. A comfortable living area adjoins the dining area with cream sofas punctuated with bold coloured cushions. The spacious master bedroom suite is also comfortably furnished, bright and airy featuring a king-size bed.
A carved stone staircase leads to a private landing and a second large bedroom suite that has 2 single beds that can be coverted to a king-size double bed and with its own separate living area. An attractive bathroom featuring wood and stone serves both of these upper bedrooms.Located close to the swimming pool is a delightful guest bedroom with double bed and en-suite shower room.
Prices include transfer to and from the airport or port to the villa; car hire (manual Group B category), daily housekeeping and concierge services. There is air-conditioning on the first and second floors. The property is well equipped with Sat TV, DVD player, iPod docking station and WIFI.
The property is situated close to the centre of Megalochori village which is one of the prettiest villages on the island retaining its authentic character with local tavernas and restaurants just a stone's throw away. Being in the heart of the wine-region of Santorini, guests can enjoy wine tasting at the villa with an expert sommelier, cooking classes and Greek language lessons can also be arranged in the village square.
This is a very unique property that is perfect for 2 families or a large group of friends wanting to experience truly authentic Greek island life in luxurious surroundings.