zakynthos (zante) is one of the ionian islands. it is reachable by air (the flight duration is 50 minutes from the athens international airport) and by sea (ferryboats from kyllini, peloponnese – period of travel less than 2 hours). kyllini is located 80 kilometres south of the port of patra, which links the peloponnese to italy.
due to its diverse underwater environment, zakynthos and, especially, the region “keri” are considered paradises for those who love scuba diving, as they offer the chance to explore caverns and tunnels. furthermore, lovers of marine life are attracted to the island to see the beach of laganas gulf, where sea turtles lay their eggs on the beach. laganas beach is a protected area and belongs to the national marine park of zakynthos.
zakynthos is the birthplace of many intellectuals, among them dionysios solomos, the greek poet who wrote the “hymn to liberty” that became the national anthem. also, the island has a long musical tradition of serenade love songs sung by men, expressing their feelings under the moonlight.
in ancient times, zakynthos was part of odysseus’s kingdom, while during contemporary history the island incurred many years of venetian, french and british domination until 1864 when it was united with greece. the island’s history interweaves with earthquakes, so the building regulations are stringent.
the island’s patron saint, saint dionysios, is considered a remarkable example of forgiveness as, according to tradition, he saved the murder of his beloved brother. his body remains intact and rests in the church of saint dionysios in the capital of the island.
set among olive groves and mature cypress trees in the hills above agios nikolaos, this stone-built residence captures the slower rhythm and earthy character of northern zakynthos. positioned on a private 3,660 sqm plot with distant sea views and complete privacy, the property combines traditional island architecture with generous outdoor living spaces, only a short drive from the beaches and harbour of the area.
built entirely from local stone, the villa has the atmosphere of an old zakynthian farmhouse, with thick masonry walls, timber ceilings, arched openings, and shaded terraces wrapped in climbing vines. the house rises naturally from the landscape, surrounded by gravel paths, mediterranean planting, and open areas beneath olive trees where the scent of herbs and warm earth settles in the evening air.
inside, the interiors retain a strong sense of rustic authenticity. vaulted timber ceilings, exposed stone walls, and softly lit archways create continuity between the rooms, while large openings allow natural light to move through the house throughout the day. the main living area centres around a traditional fireplace beneath dark wooden beams, giving the space warmth and intimacy during the quieter seasons.
the kitchen is spacious and practical, with handcrafted cream cabinetry, long preparation surfaces, and stable doors opening directly onto the terraces and gardens. dining areas indoors and outside connect easily, allowing the house to adapt naturally to long summer living.
five bedrooms are arranged across the residence, each with its own character and orientation toward the gardens or surrounding landscape. some rooms feature exposed stonework and timber ceilings, while others open directly to terraces shaded by pergolas or climbing plants. the atmosphere throughout remains relaxed and unpretentious, balancing traditional materials with modern comfort.
the outdoor areas unfold gradually around the house. a large swimming pool sits slightly below the main terraces, positioned to capture the open sky and distant sea views between the trees. around it, shaded sitting areas, outdoor dining spaces, and quiet corners beneath the cypresses create multiple areas for privacy throughout the day. at dusk, the stone façades soften under warm exterior lighting while the surrounding gardens become almost entirely still.
from the upper terraces, the coastline of northern zakynthos opens toward the ionian sea, while the village lights begin to appear in the distance after sunset. a wooden table beneath the pergola faces the horizon, with only the sound of cicadas and the movement of the trees surrounding the property.
combining traditional zakynthian architecture, mature landscaped grounds, and a peaceful setting close to the coast, this residence offers an atmosphere that feels deeply connected to the island itself — grounded, informal, and quietly timeless.
