The Gecko

An ultra-chic, impossibly romantic hideaway on the remote west coast of Lefkas and with views that float out to sea (sleeps 2-4)

A perfect ten – the Gecko indulges every whim, and those in search of the very best should look no further. The two bedroomed villa stands above a sleepy village with long views out to sea. You're on the quiet side of the island with open country around you; ancient stone terraces zigzag across the hillside, while olive trees shimmer in the sun. Inside, a dreamy, uncluttered style flows as freely as the light. The biggest extravagance here is space, with an open-plan sitting room/dining room that stretches the width of the villa, and stairs leading up to a hugely romantic galleried bedroom.

Lie in bed, press a button and blinds rise, revealing views of sun and sea. You also get glossy white rafters, tiny balconies, an old armoire and walnut floors. Pull yourself out of bed (no mean feat) and step out onto the terrace to cushioned teak loungers and an elegant strip of pool; in the cooler months, curl up in front of the log fire on huge blue sofas. In the garden you’ll find a hammock, a shady pond, beds of lavender, rosemary, nectarines, bougainvillea and honeysuckle. The sound of goat bells floats in from the hillside. Honeymoon heaven.

Highs

• The exquisite galleried bedroom
• The impeccable style, the stuff of glossy magazines
• The terrace and pool and the long views to the sea and mountains beyond
• The wild west coast – remote, beguiling, peaceful, with fabulous sunsets

Lows

• You’ll probably want a hire car to get here, but will use it little
• There's a minimum stay of 1 week (Sunday to Sunday)
• It gets booked up quickly
• If coming in early spring / late autumn, bear in mind that for environmental reasons the outdoor pool is not heated - though it's fine for a quick dip