In the heart of the Aegean, between Mykonos and Santorini, is the small island of Ios. One of the most untouched islands in Europe boasting extreme natural beauty and outstandingly beautiful beaches. An exclusive and enticing combination of wild beauty and somewhat surprisingly, fun.
Back in the 70’s Ios was known as something of a “hippie haven” and party hotspot.
Today it still offers vibrant nightlife but has also moved on to re-brand as a truly authentic, luxury destination, with a rich mythological background.
Those interested in culture will enjoy the large number of events on the island. One of the best loved is the “Homerian”, a tribute to the ancient Greek poet of Iliad and Odyssey which takes place in May.
Legend has it that Homer took his last breath on the island and many visit his last resting place at Plakoto, high on hill at the northernmost part of the island. A wonderful spot to also enjoy some of the most magnificent views.
Ios is typically Greek with its tiny whitewashed houses, small churches with painted blue roofs and narrow cobblestone streets. It is famous for its traditional windmills, which in the past were used to grind barley and wheat to make bread for the locals. Three of them have been restored to their former glory and are a real must-see.
The island of Ios embraces and actively promotes sustainable tourism in order to protect its cultural and natural heritage.
This authentic destination is destined to retain its authenticity for many years to come. Our children and our children’s children will be able to continue to experience its natural beauty and unbound hospitality.
Ios is easily accessible and regular ferries run from Piraeus , Rafina, Crete and the Cyclades.
azurine unfolds across the hillside of ios as a low, linear composition of stone, concrete and glass, positioned to face the open aegean from nearly every part of the property. the architecture is deliberately restrained, allowing the horizon, the changing light and the stillness of the landscape to remain the dominant presence throughout the house.
arrival takes place through a series of stone retaining walls and sheltered courtyards that gradually reveal the sea beyond. rather than sitting above the terrain, the villa appears embedded within it, with natural stonework continuing from the surrounding hillside directly into the structure itself. long horizontal rooflines create deep shaded terraces, while broad overhangs temper the intensity of the cycladic sun during the hottest hours of the day.
the principal living spaces open entirely toward the water through retractable wall-to-wall glazing. inside, the palette is intentionally quiet: polished concrete floors, bespoke timber cabinetry, textured stone walls and soft neutral furnishings create an atmosphere that feels both minimal and deeply comfortable. the proportions are generous without becoming formal, and the continuity between interior and exterior spaces gives the entire house a sense of openness and ease.
at the centre of the villa, the kitchen and dining area stretch directly toward the infinity pool and sea beyond. a large island and breakfast bar anchor the space, while the dining area sits beside full-height openings that allow the evening air to move naturally through the house. as daylight fades, the interior lighting reflects softly against the stone surfaces and the water outside begin s to mirror the colours of the sky.
running the full length of the façade, the covered veranda functions almost as an outdoor living room. multiple seating areas, shaded lounges and dining spaces are arranged beneath the cantilevered roofline, all facing uninterrupted views across the coastline and neighbouring islands. the pool itself extends outward toward the horizon, with shallow platforms and submerged terraces designed for long afternoons beside the water.
the five bedrooms continue the same architectural language found throughout the villa. each is oriented toward the sea, with large openings framing the surrounding landscape rather than decorative elements. several suites open directly onto private terraces, while the principal bedrooms incorporate natural stone detailing and custom joinery that soften the otherwise clean contemporary lines. morning light enters gradually through the eastern exposure, illuminating the interiors in warm reflected tones from the surrounding hills.
despite its minimalist appearance, the property has been designed for year-round comfort and practical living. energy-efficient systems, a fully equipped gym, laundry room, extensive storage and a two-car garage are integrated discreetly into the structure without interrupting the visual calm of the architecture.
the setting remains notably peaceful, even during the height of summer. positioned away from the busier parts of the island, azurine feels connected more to the contours of the landscape and the sea below than to neighbouring properties or roads. from the terrace at dusk, the water becomes almost indistinguishable from the sky, while the last light settles slowly across the distant islands on the horizon.
