Where to begin? Talented, kind, and considerate owners Oscar and Rachelle left no stone unturned in their stunning restoration of an imposing neoclassical villa centrally located with easy access (walking distance) to a range of restaurants, markets, and beaches. Their artistic and humorous touches enliven every room. Everywhere you look is an aesthetic pleasure. I have spent a month here and it is a joy to live in such a beautifully decorated home. In addition, the entire place is thoughtfully furnished with everything you could possibly need – including high quality linens, towels and blankets as well as supplies of everything imaginable -- fishing rods, games for children (and adults!), swim goggles, a bucket of sunscreen bottles etc. When I arrived, I found a lovely greeting package of fresh fruit, flowers, food in the fridge, beer, wine – a perfect welcome to Leros!
The villa is incredibly spacious with independent entrances from different rooms into a lovely central courtyard filled with bougainvillea and includes – across the courtyard - an entirely separate studio apartment with an ensuite bathroom and shower built into a former kiln! The verandah on the upper floor is perfect for an apéritif while watching sunset over Pandeli Bay. The upper floor is bathed in sunlight throughout the day. Because of the layout, a large family or group of friends could stay comfortably and still have some privacy.
Importantly, Blue House is one of the few places available on Leros during the winter months. When I decided to stay in Leros in winter, Oscar and Rachel bent over backwards (as they always do!) to ensure that it would be a wonderful experience. They went to great lengths to ensure that the rooms could be properly heated. In addition to heating from the A/C units, they filled the house with oil radiators which work a treat and provided lovely wool blankets and even hot water bottles! I have spent a month here and can only say that it has been a total delight. A car isn’t entirely necessary but I have one since it allows easy access to the entire island – the dedicated parking space for the house comes in very handy.
This is a magical place owned by a delightful and thoughtful couple. If I could give it ten stars, I would!