37°07’52”N, 24°28’29”E Serifos Hideaway, Greece

A laid-back lookout, surveying island-dotted seascapes from its rugged rural perch. Traditional stone walls shelter courtyards, sun terraces with daybeds and a plunge pool with an ocean view. Native Cycladic plants and cosy corners soften clean lines. 

Created by talented Block722 architect Georgia Nikolopoulou, this contemporary take on the ancient miners’ houses of Mega Livadi is purposefully spartan: clutter-free calm designed to combat modern-day stress. A cool colour scheme of grey, white, natural wood and seagrass celebrates timeless style and local craft.

The ground-floor living area and kitchen are open-plan, and share spectacular views. On the upper level, there are two double bedrooms: the master, with a balcony and separate bathroom; and a second bedroom with an ensuite shower and patio. Two further bedrooms on the lower level – a double and a twin – share a third shower room. 

Serifos Hideaway is the perfect Greek holiday villa for a family, group of friends or couples seeking romance: fuss-free rural living with remote beaches and wild walks in every direction.

How far to the nearest…

• Neighbour 60m
• Beach 800m
• Town 5km
• Café/Restaurant 800m
• Airport 165km (Athens); there are domestic airports on Milos (60km) and Paros (75km)

Location Aside from a villa beside you on the hill, there’s no-one to be seen. Your holiday home may be splendidly isolated, but beaches, tavernas and village shops are within easy reach. 

Build Natural local stone walls, Pelion paving, thermally insulating wood-framed structures, whitewashed exteriors, traditional polished cement flooring. Sustainable Greek-made Coco-Mat mattresses and natural cotton bedding.

Environment Set in a designated Natura 2000 site, part of the European nature reserve network created to protect Mediterranean biodiversity. 

Digital detox No TVs except in the main living area. Wifi available.

Creature comforts Air-conditioning and fans. Unheated outdoor pool and alfresco shower. Fully equipped kitchen. Espresso machine. Tivoli radio and Bluetooth speaker. Iron. Hairdryer.

Wildflowers scent the scrubland and the sun is at its most benevolent in spring; meltemi winds temper the heat of July and August and make for perfect kitesurfing weather; September brings the spectacle of the Serifos Sunset Race. Outside peak season, you’ll have the island and its hidden coves entirely to yourselves.

Engage

Serifos is a well-kept secret, beloved of stylish Athenians and unspoilt by mass tourism – surprising given its spectacular, often empty beaches; pretty Vagia beach and its bar is just a few minutes’ drive. Rent a boat and find yourself a private bay to snorkel in. Explore villages that tumble down hillsides like fallen sugarcubes. Hike rugged, rolling landscapes to hilltop monasteries, mining towns and abandoned castles. 

Savour

While away the evening in a traditional village-square taverna – local capers and woody herbs like thyme and oregano lend their sunbaked warmth to grilled souvlaki and seafood. Sip organic wine made with Cycladic varieties at Serifos’ sustainable winery Chrysoloras, where donkeys still carry the harvested grapes from the vineyard.

Go slow

Watch the moon rise over the ocean and count the stars as they twinkle into view. Find native iris and orchid species dotting phrygana and meadows in spring. Spot monk seals and falcons. Fill a sketchbook with watercolours. Tell tall tales as you explore the land of Medusa and the Cyclops.