‘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.
villa la rossa is a 3-floor mansion, originally built in the late 19th century. it was designed by an english architect in the contemporary european style and surrounded by rich tropical vegetation. in 2018 it was fully refurbished and improved with the introduction of modern technology but always balanced with respect for the original mansion’s historic design and architecture.
the result is a heaven on earth where guests can enjoy all up-to-date comforts in a unique setting of corfiot architectural elements; the arches, the venetian blinds, the wooden staircase and the heavy 19th century wooden door. la rossa is a faithful exhibition of corfu’s rich history that can meet all needs, combining the comforts of a 5-star hotel with the privacy of a beautiful and luxurious mansion.
the location of la rossa also makes it an attractive choice. it is very close to the old city of corfu (a unesco world heritage site) and the town-centre, making it ideal for long walks, shopping, and evening entertainment while at the same time perfectly situated to explore the whole island.
the view of the blue ionian sea from every room adds a touch of greek serenity to the villa’s timeless luxury and the luscious garden is available for endless play or relaxation.
some of its modern-day amenities is the playground and the pool area which kids would love
