sitting in the most northwesterly corner of greece, corfu is an elegant and cosmopolitan island, wearing the mantle of its colourful venetian history with style.
‘somewhere between calabria and corfu the blue really begin s...you are aware of a change in the heart of things: aware of the horizon begin ning to stain at the rim of the world: aware of islands coming out of the darkness to meet you’. so begin s lawrence durrell’s 1945 ode to corfu, prospero’s cell. even today, visitors to the island often arrive by sea, approaching from italy in the west, of the greek mainland in the east. emerging in the early morning sunshine, the pastel-hued houses above corfu town’s old port are a jumble of slim tiers with narrow passages running between them, made brilliant with washing hung out to dry from every balcony like festive bunting. the tall venetian mansions display ancient coats of coloured paint, blurred by successive winters and giving visitors to the town the feeling of stepping into a watercolour painting.
the town is centred on a wide tree-lined esplanade called the spianada, whose french arcades echo the rue de rivoli. a drop of britishness is to be found on the noble sweep of this square, which is transformed into a cricket pitch throughout the summer - the world’s only working sports field within a unesco world heritage site.
meanwhile , the corfiot countryside boasts an elegiac greenery, unrivalled across greece and contrasting remarkably with the solemn barrenness of the aegean. bathed in brilliant white sunlight throughout the summer months, the winter rains ensure a sublime frondescence across the island, with the inland valleys thickly carpeted with wild flowers, studded with gnarled olive trees and dense groves of stiffly swaying cypresses. the sophisticated north-east is known as kensington-on- sea, and is the site of the rothschild family’s imposing summer villa. it is here that the luxury villa lifestyle comes into its own, with the hillsides sprinkled with secluded, high-end properties boasting private infinity pools and awe-inspiring sea views, with the snowcapped albanian-epirote mountains rising mysteriously in the east.
set within the verdant landscape of kontokali, just north of corfu town, this neoclassical residence occupies an elevated position overlooking the surrounding countryside, with views extending across the ionian sea towards the mountains of mainland greece. the property combines the symmetry and proportions of classical architecture with the openness and light characteristic of corfu’s coastal setting.
extending across approximately 630 sqm (6,781 sq.ft.) over three levels, the residence was designed with a strong emphasis on scale, balance and natural illumination. a formal entrance introduces a sequence of generously proportioned interior spaces arranged around a central double-height hall. throughout the house, large openings frame the landscape from multiple perspectives, allowing the surrounding greenery, sea views and changing light to remain a constant presence within the interiors.
the principal living spaces occupy much of the main level and flow naturally between reception, dining and everyday family areas. high ceilings and carefully considered proportions create a sense of volume without compromising warmth, while natural materials and traditional detailing reinforce the architectural character of the house. the layout allows for both formal entertaining and comfortable daily living, with direct connections to the terraces and gardens surrounding the residence.
accommodation is arranged across the upper levels, where the principal bedrooms enjoy elevated views across the coastline and countryside. expansive terraces extend the private living areas outdoors, taking full advantage of the property′s orientation and outlook. an independent guest apartment provides additional flexibility while maintaining privacy from the main residence.
the grounds extend across approximately 6,400 sqm (68,889 sq.ft.), creating a sense of separation from neighbouring properties and reinforcing the estate-like character of the home. the landscape unfolds gradually around the residence, with open areas, established planting and shaded corners that enhance the feeling of privacy while preserving uninterrupted views towards the sea.
additional amenities include a fitness area, extensive storage and utility spaces, private parking and a naturally cool cellar integrated beneath the residence. the property is equally suited as a year-round family home or a seasonal retreat, benefiting from its proximity to corfu town, gouvia marina and the island’s international airport.
kontokali remains one of the most convenient residential locations on corfu, combining immediate access to marinas, beaches and everyday amenities with a setting that retains a distinctly residential character. from the upper terraces, the view shifts throughout the day, moving from the soft morning light across the countryside to the changing colours of the ionian as evening approaches.
eligible for the greek golden visa programme.
