an island getaway

Sometimes luxury can merely be the time we have free to enjoy simple things. Simple things like Mediterranean sunshine, the blossoms and fruits of autumn, the halcyon days in winter, the clarity and abundance of spring and the warm summer seas. The house lies on the residential side of Eretria harbour, and with its own garden and waterfront, it combines privacy outdoors with easy access to the sea. The shops are a short stroll away, and tavernas, cafes and bars line the other side of our small harbour. There are sandy public beaches both to the west and to the east.

The old-fashioned living room has a fireplace and a long balcony looking south over the waters of the Gulf and the Attic mainland in the distance. It is a lovely spot for an aperitif at sunset and moonrise, and quietly magical if one is up to welcome the dawn.

Both of the double bedrooms have sea views. There are modern conveniences in addition to the traditional sunshine and sea breezes.

Access is from the street through a shady garden with a variety of flowering vines and fruit trees. The kitchen is fully equipped with microwave and dishwasher, and there is a laundry nook for the washing machine and iron.

Eretria lies on the coast between the fertile vineyards, orchards and gardens of the Lelantine and Amarynthian plains on Euboea (Evia) Island. Artefacts and monuments from Antiquity and the Middle Ages abound on the roadsides, in the waters of the harbour... and in the archaeological museum. Horseback riding, watersports and tennis are all locally available. Last, but not least, it is about 90 minutes from Athens and Athens airport via either the Oropos ferryboat or the bridge at Chalkis, making it easy to visit the city or have friends come and visit.

2008 ice and fire