Kea’s proximity to the Greek mainland, as well as its connection to the smaller port of Lavrio (rather than Pireaus), has left it unsullied by the heavy tourist developments of many of its compatriots. The ferry remains half empty throughout the summer months, allowing visitors to enjoy their approach in peace and quiet, whilst Ioulis, the main town, is a jumble of white and ochre houses piled onto the mountainside, and is pleasantly car-free. The few visitors to be found meandering its winding streets tend to be cosmopolitan Athenian weekenders, who come to eat well and relax on the island’s many untouched beaches.
Kea’s landscape is unique amongst the Cycladic islands, being as it is blanketed in ancient oak forests. The island is known for its tasty honey – find the best at Anthea’s World, alongside local pasteli and organic prickly pears. Look out for the Kea Lion, carved from slate in the 6th Century BC and lounging in a valley beyond Ioulida.
A highlight of the island is its rich scuba-diving opportunities, providing excellent visibility and rich marine life. The wreck of a 19th-century steamship is a particular favourite for recreational divers and the average sea temperatures of 20°-26°c help Kea is also a hikers paradise, with a network of trails crisscrossing the island.
Look out for the new One & Only Kea Island, currently being development by Kerzner and Dolphin Capital and sure to inject a luxury vibe to this rustic island.
set above the coastline of glaronisi on kea’s northeastern shore, villa aesthese occupies an elevated position that captures uninterrupted views across the aegean while remaining closely connected to the island’s rugged terrain. built into the natural contours of the hillside, the residence follows the landscape rather than imposing upon it, combining clean architectural lines with materials and proportions that feel rooted in the character of kea.
the arrival unfolds gradually through a sequence of terraces and stone retaining walls that integrate the house into its surroundings. pale rendered volumes and locally inspired stonework respond to the changing light throughout the day, while the elevated setting ensures open sea views from almost every principal space. the architecture remains low and horizontal, allowing the landscape and horizon to remain the dominant visual elements.
arranged across two levels, the villa has been designed around privacy, natural ventilation and a continuous relationship between interior and exterior spaces. large openings frame the coastline and allow daylight to move deeply into the house, while the layout creates a natural flow between living areas and the terraces beyond. the interiors follow a restrained palette of stone, plaster and timber, creating a calm atmosphere that reflects the colours and textures of the surrounding landscape.
the principal living and dining areas form the heart of the residence, extending directly onto the main terrace through expansive sliding glazing. generous proportions, exposed structural elements and carefully selected natural materials create spaces that feel both contemporary and enduring. throughout the house, the emphasis remains on light, volume and the connection to the sea rather than decorative detail.
five en-suite bedrooms are distributed across the two levels, each positioned to maximise privacy and views. several open directly onto terraces or sheltered outdoor spaces overlooking the coastline, while the principal suite occupies a particularly secluded position within the residence. the private areas continue the same architectural language found throughout the house, combining simple forms, natural materials and carefully framed outlooks across the landscape.
outdoor living is organised across a series of terraces that follow the natural topography of the site. the 80 sqm infinity pool is positioned along the seaward edge of the property, reinforcing the visual connection between the residence and the horizon beyond. shaded outdoor areas create sheltered spaces throughout the day, while the arrangement of terraces allows different perspectives across the coastline as the light shifts from morning to evening.
the landscaping remains intentionally understated, preserving the natural character of the hillside and allowing the architecture to sit comfortably within its setting. the relationship between built form and landscape feels balanced throughout, with the terrain remaining present as an integral part of the experience of the property rather than simply its backdrop .
additional accommodation includes a media and playroom, staff quarters and supporting service areas, allowing the villa to function equally well as a seasonal retreat or a year-round residence. the design also incorporates practical responses to the cycladic climate through orientation, shaded transitional spaces and substantial construction.
although privately positioned, villa aesthese remains within easy reach of the port of kea, the waterfront village of vourkari and the beaches around otzias. the setting combines seclusion with accessibility, offering a quieter expression of island living while maintaining close connections to the island’s principal destinations.
eligible for the greek golden visa and non dom programme.
