Villa Elia is a beautiful property that was originally built as a family home – giving it the space, level of comfort and ambiance not normally found in a purpose-built holiday home. The villa stands in four acres of lovely grounds at the end of a private country lane and is not overlooked. Surrounded by lawns, flowering shrubs, pine and citrus trees, it provides a peaceful, private and secluded oasis - yet has the convenience of being only a five minute drive from huge sandy beaches of Kalamaki and a vast selection of restaurants, tavernas and shops in both Kalamaki and Argassi. The sunny main terrace leads onto the pool terrace with its substantial sparkling pool which is serviced daily, a shady pergola and stunning views. To the side of the villa is another vine covered terrace and full size dining table and chairs - the perfect place for eating with its fabulous backdrop of the bay on one side and the harbour and Zante Town on the other. There is also a third, raised terrace in the garden with stunning sunset views over the western hills. Inside the property is a spacious open plan living area with a large, comfortably furnished lounge, internet flat screen television with BBC, ITV etc. channels, DVD player and music system with bluetooth (bring your iPod as there is a hook up via the amplifier!). You’ll also find some homely touches like bookshelves loaded with books, a selection of board games and a great choice of films on DVD. There’s even a wifi connection. The farmhouse style kitchen has a table that seats six and lots of storage, plus fridge freezer, a dishwasher, full sized oven and a microwave. Elia really is a home from home, and comes fully equipped with everything you could need – including the kitchen sink! There is a vegetable garden where you can pick your own. Zakynthos is proud to be the first Marine Park protected area in the Mediterranean due to its beaches being the chosen nesting place of the caretta caretta (turtles). As a result, all development in the Park is forbidden, allowing Elia to enjoy wonderful solitude whilst at the same time benefiting from the convenience of nearby beaches and resorts. Zakynthos, or Zante as it is more commonly known, is also referred to as the ‘Flower of the Ionian’ in recognition of the island’s exceptional beauty. The locals are renowned for their true Greek hospitality, which no doubt accounts for why so many holidaymakers return to the island time and time again. Geographically the island is the most southern of the six Ionian Islands and is located off western mainland Greece. It has a Mediterranean climate with long hot summers and warm wet winters (making it very green and fertile). The capital Zakynthos Town with its shops, museums, restaurants, bars and outdoor cinema, is architecturally extremely attractive and full of the influence and culture of its Italian ancestors.