the quiet main town of gaios, which has retained its elegant venetian architecture, acts as the island’s harbour and social centre. the two other villages of note are loggos and lakka, with their tiny cluster of houses and cafes. however, the natural beauty of paxos lies in its charming countryside. hire a boat and explore the island’s coastline, visit different coves or beaches daily, or hike through the interior’s olive groves and pine forests. meanwhile , the cliffs around erimitis beach are home to a network of caves called ‘blue caves’ due to the vivid colour of the seawater.
dining on paxos can rival any great culinary hotspot despite being such a small island. take a seat at erimitis, an elegant and upmarket establishment perched high up on cliffs of the west coast, where fresh grilled octopus and prawn linguine are served alongside unbeatable sunset views. for low-key, beachfront dining, try ben’s bar in loggos, with its boho-chic vibes and menu of wood-fired pizzas and fresh salads from the kitchen garden. paxos is notable for its distinctive golden olive oil, made from the island’s subtle lianolia olives and, for the most part, organically farmed. moreover, paxos’ even smaller neighbour, antipaxos, is blanketed in vineyards and the home of a selection of rare but celebrated wines.
with no international airport and only a few hotels, paxos has remained an exclusive island, strictly for those in the know. the island is a particular favourite of high-society italians – for example, the southernmost tip of paxos is home to the palatial holiday villa of the fiat-owning agnelli family, whilst several leading figures in the arts & culture scene return to holiday on the island every summer.
positioned in the wooded hills above logos, this contemporary stone villa looks west across the ionian sea from one of paxos’ most peaceful settings. designed entirely on a single level, the house follows the natural contours of the landscape, combining clean architectural lines with traditional island materials and wide outdoor living spaces that remain closely connected to the surrounding olive groves and cypress trees.
a long infinity pool runs the full width of the terrace, drawing the eye directly toward the sea beyond. pale stone walls, soft-toned terraces and shaded pergolas give the property a calm and understated character, while the elevated position allows open views across the coastline and the hills descending toward the water.
inside, the main living space is open and generously proportioned, with high beamed ceilings painted in white and large sliding openings that allow light to move through the interiors throughout the day. neutral limestone flooring, natural wood finishes and carefully selected furnishings create a restrained atmosphere that feels both contemporary and connected to the island setting. the sitting area, dining space and kitchen flow naturally together, while full-height glazing opens directly onto the pool terrace and outdoor dining areas.
the kitchen is positioned at the centre of the home, fitted with understated cabinetry and integrated appliances, designed for relaxed everyday use as much as for longer summer stays. from almost every part of the living area, the sea remains visible through the trees beyond the terrace.
both bedrooms are arranged for privacy, each with its own en suite bathroom and direct access to the exterior terraces. the bedrooms continue the same calm palette found throughout the house, with vaulted ceilings, soft natural light and views toward the surrounding landscape and sea. bathrooms are finished in pale stone and simple contemporary fittings, maintaining the villa’s quiet architectural consistency.
outside, the property has been carefully designed around outdoor living. a shaded dining pergola sits beside the pool, while a separate gazebo lounge area creates shelter during the warmer hours of the day. wide terraces surround the water, with multiple seating areas positioned to capture different moments of light, from early morning sun to the softer colours that arrive across the sea in the evening. the mature trees surrounding the villa provide natural privacy and help cool the outdoor spaces during summer months.
although entirely secluded, the villa remains within easy reach of logos and the northern coastline of paxos, known for its small harbours, traditional tavernas and exceptionally clear water.
