‘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.
in the early morning sunlight, the pastel-hued houses overlook corfu town’s historic port. they create a charming medley of slender levels interconnected by narrow alleyways. laundry hangs from every balcony, resembling vibrant festive bunting swaying in the breeze.
towering venetian mansions, bearing ancient coats of colourful paint softened by countless winters, give town visitors the sensation of stepping into a watercolour masterpiece.
corfu has rightfully earned its reputation as greece’s music capital
the island boasts a multitude of music associations, orchestras, bands, and a musical tradition dating back 400 years to the venetian era of the island.
at the heart of the town lies a broad tree-lined promenade known as the spianada. elegant french arcades reminiscent of rue de rivoli echo through the air. an intriguing british influence can be discovered on this grand square. it transforms into a cricket pitch during the summer, a unique feature as it’s the only operational sports field within a unesco world heritage site.
meanwhile , the corfiot countryside showcases a mournful beauty unparalleled across greece. it contrasts starkly with the stark barrenness of the aegean. drenched in brilliant white sunlight during summer, the island undergoes a sublime transformation thanks to winter rains. this causes lush greenery to blanket the inland valleys, which are thickly carpeted with wildflowers and adorned with gnarled olive trees, while dense groves of swaying cypresses punctuate the landscape.
in the sophisticated northeast, known as “kensington-on-sea,” you’ll find the finest real estate in greece. the imposing summer villa of the rothschild family anchors it. here, the luxury villa lifestyle reigns supreme. hillside properties are secluded amidst the landscape, boasting private infinity pools and awe-inspiring sea views. the enigmatic epirote mountains, crowned in snow, loom mysteriously in the east.
positioned on the hillsides above pelekas, vita nova occupies 7,000 sqm (75,347 sq.ft.) of land overlooking corfu’s western coastline. the residence is carefully integrated into its setting, following the natural contours of the terrain and taking full advantage of the elevated position. from throughout the property, uninterrupted views extend across the ionian sea, while the surrounding landscape creates a strong sense of privacy and seclusion.
the architecture draws on the character of traditional corfiot building while maintaining a contemporary and restrained identity. natural materials, soft-toned finishes and carefully considered proportions allow the house to sit comfortably within the landscape rather than stand apart from it. the positioning of the residence creates a natural balance between openness and shelter, with principal living spaces oriented towards the sea and the surrounding hillsides providing protection from the prevailing winds.
the interiors are defined by simplicity, warmth and a close relationship with natural light. living and dining spaces unfold as a series of connected volumes that face the view, while large openings create a seamless transition between the interior and the terraces beyond. throughout the day, changing light moves through the house, softening the natural materials and reinforcing the calm atmosphere that characterises the residence.
the main living areas are arranged around the western outlook, allowing the landscape to remain the focal point of the house. generous proportions, clean architectural lines and a restrained material palette create spaces that feel both contemporary and timeless. covered outdoor areas extend the living spaces beyond the walls of the house, creating sheltered zones that remain comfortable throughout the warmer months.
vita nova comprises four bedrooms and five bathrooms, each designed with the same emphasis on light, privacy and connection to the outdoors. the private accommodation is integrated naturally within the overall composition of the residence, maintaining uninterrupted views while preserving a sense of retreat from the principal living spaces. bathrooms follow the same understated architectural language, using natural materials and carefully controlled light to create calm and functional spaces.
outdoor living unfolds across a series of terraces that step gently with the terrain. the arrangement of the external spaces allows for different experiences throughout the day, from open areas positioned towards the sea to more sheltered corners integrated into the landscape. the elevated position ensures that the surrounding coastline remains a constant presence, while the orientation captures the changing character of the light from morning through to sunset.
a gym, sauna and cinema room are incorporated within the residence, continuing the same architectural approach found throughout the house. these spaces feel fully integrated into the overall design rather than separate amenities, maintaining the consistency of material, proportion and atmosphere that defines the property.
located just outside pelekas village, the villa combines privacy with convenient access to the beaches of corfu’s west coast, local amenities and corfu town. the elevated setting creates a sense of distance from the busier areas of the island while remaining connected to them when required.
vita nova is a residence shaped by its landscape, orientation and setting. as the afternoon light moves across the western coastline, the sea gradually becomes the defining element of the view, stretching uninterrupted towards the horizon beyond.
eligible for the greek golden visa and non dom programme.
