Hard to imagine a more spectacular view over the scenic Greek island of Tinos and beyond than from Villa Leonora.
Crafted high in the hills, not only does this elegant property offer spectacular views down to the attractive whitewashed homes of the island’s main harbor town of Chora jutting out to the sea, but also across the Aegean Sea to a basket of 11 other Cyclades islands including Mykonos and Santorini.
Now operating for its third season, this spacious villa, complete with outdoor infinity pool, was constructed by the talented Andreas Lekasi and named after his loving wife.
With a facade of carefully carved stone quarried from the island and completed in just six months, this single-storey home blends naturally into the surrounding landscape.
A series of sliding double doors lead seamlessly to a private patio offering rich panoramic views. Here an outdoor dining table and chairs, four soft chaises longues, a moveable barbecue grill and an outdoor shower make lingering outside a relaxing treat not to be hurried.
Flying doves perching on nearby wires and a friendly tabby cat in search of some loving add to the romantic sense of timelessness.
Two ensuite bedrooms, with kitchen and living-room between, provide ample space for four people.
The villa is rented complete with all mod-cons including oven, dishwasher, large refrigerator, television (with a comfortable sofa in front) and all crockery and cutlery required.
While located in the hilly Arnados region, Villa Leonora is only ten minutes from Chora and my companion and I we were able to drive easily there to visit its historical cathedral and to enjoy the island's annual jazz festival and the art exhibitions at the Cultural Foundation of Tinos.
The villa also stands on a winding road leading to a string of charming villages, including Kampos, which hosted a dynamic festival of traditional music and dance that continues well into the night.
Other places within easy reach are the romantic seaside village of Panormos with its horseshoe bay and dramatic mountain backdrop and Steni with its warren of narrow marble-topped laneways and traditional folk museum.
One of the delights of staying at Villa Leonora is the dramatically changing vista one experiences as the day progresses. Morning light coats everything in a dazzling brightness with azure blue skies and powerful summer sunshine, even the houses on the surrounding islands clearly visible.
As afternoon turns to dusk, the islands slowly fade away becoming mere silhouettes, shadows of their former selves, before disappearing altogether. Broad daylight is then replaced by a velvet darkness, twinkling lights of villages appearing as if constellations of stars in the greater universe.
Being a family owned and operated luxury villa, we were warmly welcomed by different family members. Theodora, the eldest sibling, made all the necessary arrangements smoothly and efficiently in advance of our arrival.
Leo and John, the younger brothers, made sure we had lovely fresh fruits in the fridge as well as a nice bottle of bubbly to enjoy by the pool, as well as a variety of foods for our first breakfast. We also enjoyed meeting the parents, Andreas and Leonora, both amiable, hard working and down-to-earth people.
Tranquility, comfort and remarkable views are hallmark memories of a stay at Villa Leonora, marking it as a classic Greek island retreat destination.
