‘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.
positioned directly above the shoreline of prasoudi on corfu’s peaceful south-west coast, this waterfront villa occupies an exceptional 2,000 sqm plot where mature mediterranean gardens and an expansive lawn extend towards the sea. hidden behind established planting and enjoying direct access to the beach below via a private wooden staircase, the property combines privacy, generous outdoor space and uninterrupted views across the ionian, all framed by corfu’s celebrated sunsets.
extending across 175 sqm over two levels, the villa offers four bedrooms and two bathrooms within warm, welcoming interiors that have been designed to embrace their coastal setting. timber ceilings, natural materials and fireplaces introduce character throughout, while large openings invite natural light inside and draw the eye towards the sea from the principal living spaces.
a waterfront garden villa where expansive lawns lead to the beach below.
the main living room centres around a traditional fireplace and opens directly onto a generous covered terrace overlooking the coastline. arranged for outdoor dining, morning coffee or evenings watching the sun disappear into the horizon, it forms a natural extension of the interior. a fully equipped kitchen and thoughtfully arranged accommodation create a home equally suited to relaxed family living, entertaining guests or extended summer stays.
a private wooden staircase descends directly from the gardens to the beach.
outside, the grounds are a defining feature of the property. broad lawns, mature olive trees, flowering shrubs and established mediterranean planting create a landscape that has evolved over time, offering both privacy and a remarkable sense of space at the water’s edge. a swimming pool, barbecue and a variety of shaded terraces provide places to gather throughout the day, while stairs descend directly to the beach, allowing swimming and coastal walks just moments from the house.
combined with direct beach access, uninterrupted sunset views and a peaceful setting on one of the island’s quieter shores, this is a home whose greatest luxury is the effortless connection between the gardens, the sea and everyday life outdoors.
this property is eligible for both the golden visa and the greek non dom program.
