It is not every day that you can step into your favorite postcard, but this is exactly how we felt when we drove up the driveway at Villa Foteinari in Plakias. This recently renovated cozy family vacation home has been lovingly and smartly updated to ensure a comfortable stay. But what is truly spectacular is the garden, which was the pride and joy of the owner’s late father. He created the perfect complement to the striking views of the small cove and blue sea nestled at the base of the cliffs upon which this home rests. A little beach, known to a few, is literally 90 seconds from the front door. It is also important to note that the location is quiet, and the perch offers complete privacy, as there are no other homes with line of sight.
This garden/veranda is mostly shaded by a grape arbor from which a bounty of grapes awaited our attention and our tummies. Geraniums and azaleas flourish, splashing pink, purple and red hues against the white-washed walls and across the slate floor of the garden patio. Across the driveway are fig and pomegranate trees. The figs were ripening and Zoe, the mother of Markella, encouraged us to pick and eat. There is nothing more delightful than eating fresh, chemical-free fruit straight from the tree or the arbor. We are jealous of those who will have the pomegranates later in the season.
The house has all the necessities for a wonderful holiday. Having been recently renovated, all of bedding and appliances are new. The kitchen is well-equipped (including its own stock of olive oil). The real charmer, however, is the old family barbecue. We used it four times in one week, grilling fresh vegetables, olive oil topped bread, meat and fish. On the nights when we did not eat in, we had a list of the family’s favorite eateries in Plakias or Souda Beach. Plakias is a five-minute drive, and one can also find supermarkets and bakeries, among other shops in town. In late July, when we were there, we found plenty of parking in town. The restaurants are within walking distance. Souda Beach is less than a 10-minute walk.
Markella and her mother went out of their way to make us feel as welcome as if we were family. They were easily accessible by phone and anything we needed was provided quickly. Zoe also came by to clean the garden and otherwise freshen-up the house halfway through our stay.
Writing this review makes us want to go back all the more.