‘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.
set amid the olive groves of north-east corfu, mimoza is a beautiful stone-built villa enjoying sweeping views across the surrounding countryside towards the ionian sea. within walking distance of avlaki beach, the property combines traditional corfiot architecture with spacious interiors and extensive grounds, offering a peaceful setting in one of the island’s most picturesque coastal areas.
occupying a 4011 sq.m. plot, the villa extends to 300 sq.m. across three levels. its natural stone façade, terracotta-tiled roofs and wrought-iron balconies lend the property a timeless mediterranean character, while its elevated position allows views to unfold across the olive-covered landscape, sheltered bays and distant mountains.
inside, exposed stone walls, pale timber-beamed ceilings and natural materials create a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
the spacious open-plan living area centres around a fireplace, with comfortable seating and large sliding doors opening onto the pool terrace. an adjoining fully equipped kitchen and dining area occupies a charming curved section of the house, where a series of windows overlooks the gardens. throughout, soft neutral tones, wooden furnishings and carefully chosen decorative details complement the property’s traditional architectural features.
mimoza offers four bedrooms and four bathrooms, providing comfortable accommodation for family and guests. the bedrooms are bright and inviting, with wooden floors, generous windows and a combination of double and twin arrangements. some open onto private balconies or outdoor terraces, enjoying lovely views across the surrounding greenery towards the sea.
a distinctive open staircase with timber treads and wrought-iron detailing connects the different levels, while the lower floor provides additional space with the potential to accommodate a variety of uses, from guest accommodation to a gym or entertainment room, subject to any necessary approvals.
outside, the swimming pool takes centre stage, surrounded by generous stone-paved terraces, sun loungers and mediterranean planting. a shaded seating area adjoining the house provides a comfortable place to relax, while a separate wooden pergola shelters an outdoor dining area with a substantial stone table. an adjoining built-in barbecue and preparation area makes entertaining outdoors particularly enjoyable.
from the poolside and upper balconies, views stretch across the green landscape to the blue waters of the ionian sea and the mountains beyond.
beyond the terraces, the grounds extend into an established olive grove, creating a beautiful natural setting with a wonderful sense of space and privacy.
the villa is conveniently located within walking distance of avlaki beach, known for its clear waters and attractive natural surroundings. the wider area of north-east corfu is celebrated for its sheltered bays, picturesque coastal villages and excellent waterfront tavernas, providing plenty of opportunities to explore and enjoy the island.
combining traditional stone architecture, extensive olive-covered grounds and beautiful coastal views, mimoza offers an inviting retreat where the natural beauty of corfu is very much part of everyday life.
