hidden riviera of the peloponnese, where exclusive estates and private beaches whisper of crystalline waters and refined seclusion.
porto heli is a little known area to outsiders even though it’s just a couple of hours drive from athens or a few hours by yacht. exclusiveness is its hallmark and, although on first sight it looks just like any other small greek coastal town, if you dig a little deeper you will discover that it is actually an area full of stately hillside mansions and very private beaches that usually come with their own super yacht jetties.
known endearingly as the riviera of the peloponnese, it’s not difficult to understand why. the late former king of greece, constantine ii, had an impressive palm-shaded property there. its stunning natural harbour and protected cove offers crystalline waters, lovely pine-clad hillsides and pretty fishing boat vistas. the small hamlets of aghios aimilianos, ververontas and costa are the privé playgrounds of the kind of mega rich who don’t need to draw attention to themselves. luxury resorts sit in the wings, such as amanzoe in kranidi, a fabulous escape for jet setters seeking solace for all the senses, while the trendy nikki beach offers miami style vacations to affluent european sun seekers with mediterranean trimmings.
you can jump on a water taxi to the cosmopolitan island of spetses which sits just opposite, and step back in time to the elegant past of the belle époque, with its horse-drawn carriages, captain’s mansions and french riviera feel. otherwise, speed over to the charismatic island of hydra, where artists like leonard cohen found their creative juices running and so decided to take up permanent residence there it’s all oh-so-positano and the beauty of it is that you can zip from one stunning location to another and still be back home for dinner, whether that be a selection of the finest seafood on a waterfront taverna or a discreet dinner on your moored pleasure yacht.
starcrest occupies 11,500 sqm (123,785 sq.ft.) of landscaped grounds in ververonta, above porto heli, where the elevated position opens towards expansive views of the saronic gulf and the island of spetses beyond. conceived as a private estate rather than a single residence, the property is arranged as two independent villas set discreetly within the landscape, creating a sense of privacy, separation and flexibility across the wider holding.
accessed through a gated entrance and private driveway, the estate unfolds gradually across the hillside. the buildings are positioned to take full advantage of the orientation towards the sea, with living spaces, terraces and outdoor areas facing the changing light across the bay. the elevated setting provides uninterrupted views of both the coastline and the surrounding countryside, while the scale of the land creates a feeling of seclusion despite the property′s proximity to porto heli.
together, the two villas provide approximately 440 sqm (4,736 sq.ft.) of accommodation. the architecture follows a relaxed mediterranean character, combining clean lines, natural materials and generous openings that maintain a constant connection to the landscape. interior spaces are bright and open, with living and dining areas flowing naturally towards covered terraces and outdoor living areas. throughout the estate, the emphasis remains on openness, natural light and the relationship between the buildings and their surroundings.
accommodation is arranged across eight bedrooms and eight bathrooms, allowing the property to function equally well as a family estate or as a residence with independent guest accommodation. several of the upper-level rooms open directly towards the sea, while the elevated position allows views to extend across the gulf and towards spetses. the orientation of the buildings encourages natural airflow during the warmer months, while covered outdoor areas provide shade throughout the day.
the outdoor spaces are integrated into the overall composition of the estate rather than functioning as separate amenities. broad terraces, open areas around the pool and a series of sheltered spaces create different settings across the property while maintaining visual continuity with the surrounding landscape. the arrangement allows movement between the various parts of the estate without losing the sense of connection to the sea and the wider views beyond.
in addition to the principal residences, the property includes dedicated wellness facilities, staff accommodation and supporting infrastructure that allow the estate to operate independently and comfortably throughout the year. the wider grounds provide both privacy and flexibility, while the scale of the site ensures generous distances between the built elements.
despite its secluded setting, starcrest remains close to porto heli′s harbour, beaches and year-round amenities. the combination of elevation, privacy and uninterrupted sea views creates a property that feels closely connected to the surrounding landscape, with the coastline and the waters of the gulf remaining a constant presence throughout the estate.
eligible for the greek golden visa and greek non dom programme.
