zakynthos (zante) is one of the ionian islands. it is reachable by air (the flight duration is 50 minutes from the athens international airport) and by sea (ferryboats from kyllini, peloponnese – period of travel less than 2 hours). kyllini is located 80 kilometres south of the port of patra, which links the peloponnese to italy.
due to its diverse underwater environment, zakynthos and, especially, the region “keri” are considered paradises for those who love scuba diving, as they offer the chance to explore caverns and tunnels. furthermore, lovers of marine life are attracted to the island to see the beach of laganas gulf, where sea turtles lay their eggs on the beach. laganas beach is a protected area and belongs to the national marine park of zakynthos.
zakynthos is the birthplace of many intellectuals, among them dionysios solomos, the greek poet who wrote the “hymn to liberty” that became the national anthem. also, the island has a long musical tradition of serenade love songs sung by men, expressing their feelings under the moonlight.
in ancient times, zakynthos was part of odysseus’s kingdom, while during contemporary history the island incurred many years of venetian, french and british domination until 1864 when it was united with greece. the island’s history interweaves with earthquakes, so the building regulations are stringent.
the island’s patron saint, saint dionysios, is considered a remarkable example of forgiveness as, according to tradition, he saved the murder of his beloved brother. his body remains intact and rests in the church of saint dionysios in the capital of the island.
set within the hills above agios nikolaos in northern zakynthos, this stone-built residence occupies a private 3,660 sqm plot surrounded by the island’s characteristic landscape. positioned to capture distant views towards the ionian sea while remaining sheltered within its natural setting, the property combines traditional zakynthian architecture with a strong sense of privacy, only a short drive from the beaches, harbour and village amenities of the area.
constructed entirely from local stone, the house is designed around the materials, proportions and architectural traditions of the island. thick masonry walls, timber ceilings and a series of covered terraces create a residence that feels naturally connected to its surroundings. the architecture sits comfortably within the landscape, with outdoor spaces unfolding gradually around the house and creating a seamless relationship between the built environment and the land itself.
inside, the interiors retain a strong sense of authenticity through the consistent use of natural materials and traditional detailing. exposed stonework, timber beams and softly curved openings establish continuity throughout the house, while carefully positioned windows and doors allow natural light to move gently through the rooms across the day. the principal living spaces are warm and welcoming, combining generous proportions with a relaxed and informal atmosphere that reflects the character of the island.
the kitchen and dining areas form an integral part of the house, connecting directly with the surrounding terraces and creating an easy transition between indoor and outdoor living. throughout the residence, the emphasis remains on simplicity, comfort and a close relationship with the landscape beyond.
five bedrooms are arranged across the property, each benefiting from its own outlook towards the surrounding grounds or distant sea views. the private areas continue the same architectural language found throughout the house, combining traditional materials with practical contemporary living. the overall atmosphere remains calm and understated, allowing the character of the building and its setting to take precedence.
the outdoor spaces are distributed across different levels around the residence, creating a variety of areas that follow the natural contours of the site. a swimming pool occupies a position slightly below the principal terraces, taking advantage of the openness of the landscape and the distant views towards the coast. the arrangement of the grounds allows for both openness and privacy, with the house maintaining a strong sense of seclusion throughout.
from the upper terraces, views extend across the surrounding countryside towards the ionian sea beyond. the elevated position allows the changing light to become a defining feature of the property, particularly in the evening when the landscape softens and the coastline gradually emerges in the distance.
combining traditional zakynthian architecture, substantial private grounds and a peaceful hillside setting close to the coast, the residence reflects a way of living closely connected to the landscape of northern zakynthos. as the day draws to a close, the shifting light across the hills and sea becomes the defining element of the setting.
