Rural but not remote, rustic yet refined, this romantic villa near Alikias feels like everything we love about Skopelos, wrapped up in one perfect package. What was once a shepherd’s cottage is now an immaculate holiday home set in very extensive grounds. With a pristine private pool and wonderfully peaceful surroundings, it’s an idyllic base if you’re looking for wonderful privacy plus very easy access to tavernas, Panormos beach and nearby Skopelos Town.

The shepherds knew what they were doing when they chose this spot, and the villa is perfectly orientated to enjoy sweeping views over the east and the west of Skopelos. There are multiple terraces so you can squeeze the most out of every sun-blessed day here, from breakfast under the vine-covered pergola to sunsets on the terrace looking out over the pool to the sea and Skiathos island beyond.

Surrounded by 100-year-old olive trees, this is a place to feel at one with nature, and inside the décor is all warm honey and caramel tones that feel instantly welcoming, complimented by two modern shower rooms and a very well-equipped kitchen. There’s aircon in the bedrooms for a good night’s sleep, but if you prefer to drift off with the windows open and wake up to birdsong instead, there are handy mosquito screens on the doors and windows. The thoughtful layout works well for a romantic break, two couples or a smaller family, with a bedroom and shower room on each floor for privacy and convenience. Whoever you travel with, the location is hard to beat, with the nearest taverna just 2km away and the beach, more tavernas and Skopelos Town all within an 8 to 15-minute drive.