voted best island in europe 2018 (travel + leisure magazine), paros is known throughout the world for its divine white marble. today, its quarries are quiet, but the same bright stone can be seen across this carefree destination, reflecting the warm greek sun throughout the year.
a medium sized island, paros is a pleasingly round shape, formed by a single mountain sloping gently down on all sides towards the sea. just a 3-4 hour ferry trip from athens, or a short 40 minute flight from the city to paros national airport, the island is well connected and centrally located within the aegean, making it the perfect choice for international visitors all year long.
peaceful throughout the winter, paros bursts into life during summer, with countless boutiques, cafes, artisan workshops and traditional shops opening their doors to visitors from the greek mainland and beyond. despite its role as a popular tourist destination, paros has managed to preserve its local spirit in a way some other islands have not. traditional houses are whitewashed with blue doors and window-frames, whilst larger buildings may have beautiful private gardens filled to the brim with fragrant orange trees and vibrant bougainvillea.
the first choice for the smart set is naousa, a typical cycladic settlement filled with cobbled streets and simple, white buildings. the tiny harbour is home to countless traditional tavernas and ouzeries, whilst the sight of fresh octopus hung up to dry on is a regular, ever-day occurrence. gastronomy lovers are spoiled for choice at this culinary hotspot of the aegean, with prestigious names including barbarossa, mario restaurant and le sud serving the freshest seafood all summer long. naousa also boasts a vivid nightlife scene, from elegant city clubs and award-winning bars to traditional kafeneions and laid-back cafes.
apantima is a newly completed residence positioned within the softly rolling landscape of northern paros, where wide views across the aegean unfold toward the horizon and the coastline around naousa remains within easy reach. set on a 4,500 sqm plot, the villa combines the restrained geometry of contemporary cycladic architecture with the warmth of natural stone, creating a house that feels both rooted in the island and distinctly modern.
the architecture follows a low linear arrangement that allows nearly every principal room to face the sea. stone volumes alter nate with whitewashed surfaces and deep openings, while the surrounding terraces extend naturally into the landscape. from the approach, the residence appears quiet and self-contained, framed by dry terrain, low planting and the muted tones of the cycladic countryside.
the main living spaces are defined by simplicity, proportion and light. full-height openings draw the exterior inward, allowing uninterrupted views across the terraces and pool toward the water beyond. interiors are finished in soft neutral tones with pale stone flooring, timber detailing and carefully integrated cabinetry that reinforce the calm atmosphere throughout the house. the kitchen and dining spaces remain visually connected to the outdoor areas, creating a continuous flow suited to the rhythm of island living.
apantima includes three en-suite bedrooms within the main residence, each designed with the same restrained material palette and strong visual connection to the landscape. large windows frame open views toward the sea and surrounding hillsides, while linen textures, soft light and minimal detailing create interiors that feel restful rather than decorative. morning light moves gently through the rooms, reflecting against pale surfaces and natural wood finishes.
a separate guest house introduces an additional layer of privacy and independence. containing its own en-suite bedroom, sitting area and kitchenette, it functions comfortably as self-contained accommodation for visiting family or guests while remaining fully integrated with the overall architectural composition of the property.
outdoor living forms the centre of daily life at apantima. broad terraces surround the swimming pool, with shaded seating and dining areas positioned to face the sea and evening light. the landscape design remains intentionally restrained, allowing the openness of the site and the horizon beyond to remain the dominant visual elements. as the sun lowers toward antiparos, the stone surfaces gradually soften in colour and the pool reflects the changing light across the terrace.
despite its sense of seclusion, the property is positioned just a ten-minute walk from skalakia beach and approximately ten minutes by car from naousa. this balance between privacy and accessibility allows the house to function equally well as a seasonal retreat or a longer-term island residence connected to the everyday life of paros.
