Beautifully situated amongst the lush vegetation of north east Paxos, above the glittering waters of the Ionian Sea, The Thymari Estate has a seductive charm and warm elegance that is utterly bewitching. In this mesmerising spot, the Italian owner Federico Spinola has established a luxurious and sophisticated home-from-home; large enough to host a house party for up to 17 family and friends, yet intimate enough to offer a restful haven for smaller groups.

The six exquisite stone houses that make up the estate merge seamlessly with the gorgeous landscape they inhabit, offering all the space and comfort you could wish for and a lay-out perfectly suited to mixed groups and extended family gatherings; ideal when everyone would like a little independence and piece of the island to call their own. To ensure a truly restorative getaway, a chef is included for the duration of your stay, serving breakfast and dinner daily, and light lunches on request (payable locally). Special requests and dietary requirements can be catered for, though certain ingredients may be charged as an extra, and meals are served in Afroditi's House, the largest of the houses. With its magnificent living room and terrace, exquisite decor and truly beautiful views across the water to the mainland, the atmosphere here couldn’t be more conducive to leisurely breakfasts and cordial entertaining. The other houses offer a choice of one, two and three-bedrooms; all have their own kitchenette, terrace and private pool, are beautifully furnished and individually styled. The elegant antiques, luxury linens and charming boho touches reflect the owner’s passion for travel and eye for detail.

Orkos and Arkoudi beaches are both within walking distance of the estate, and you can opt to use one of the three electric club cars for part of the way, though the final descent involves an unmade rocky path and has to be made on foot. Like most Paxos beaches, the beauty here is 100% natural, and while there are no man-made facilities, shade can be found beneath the olive trees.

Anthoula is on hand throughout the day to ensure guests have everything they need for a truly memorable stay; in addition to co-ordinating meals, offering advice for daytrips and enchanting all who meet her with her attentive service, she is also happy to arrange indulgent extras such as beauty treatments, fitness instruction and yoga, subject to availability.

There’s a pathway nearby leading down through the olive and cypress trees to the waterfront village of Lakka – a 20-minute stroll on the way there, but steep and much harder work on the return, so you may prefer to taxi it back instead. But the island’s many other highlights are all within easy striking distance; if you’re looking for somewhere to relax and enjoy the tranquillity of Paxos at its most luxurious and joyous, you couldn’t be better placed than here.

Good to know… Completely private and separated from The Thymari Estate, villa Arkoudaki lies within the grounds. For large groups seeking the ultimate Paxiot retreat, the two properties can be booked together.

Our choice of Greek properties is as diverse as the islands themselves, ranging from simple seaside charm to genuine luxury and style. Much of our portfolio is privately owned, and price alone is therefore not a universal guide. We contract all our accommodation in person, and each property has its individual appeal. To help you make the right choice based on your own priorities, we have devised a simple grading guide to be considered in conjunction with each individual property description, awarding up to a maximum of five stars for the below categories.