Kea’s proximity to the Greek mainland, as well as its connection to the smaller port of Lavrio (rather than Pireaus), has left it unsullied by the heavy tourist developments of many of its compatriots. The ferry remains half empty throughout the summer months, allowing visitors to enjoy their approach in peace and quiet, whilst Ioulis, the main town, is a jumble of white and ochre houses piled onto the mountainside, and is pleasantly car-free. The few visitors to be found meandering its winding streets tend to be cosmopolitan Athenian weekenders, who come to eat well and relax on the island’s many untouched beaches.
Kea’s landscape is unique amongst the Cycladic islands, being as it is blanketed in ancient oak forests. The island is known for its tasty honey – find the best at Anthea’s World, alongside local pasteli and organic prickly pears. Look out for the Kea Lion, carved from slate in the 6th Century BC and lounging in a valley beyond Ioulida.
A highlight of the island is its rich scuba-diving opportunities, providing excellent visibility and rich marine life. The wreck of a 19th-century steamship is a particular favourite for recreational divers and the average sea temperatures of 20°-26°c Kea is also a hikers paradise, with a network of trails crisscrossing the island.
Look out for the new One & Only Kea Island, currently being development by Kerzner and Dolphin Capital and sure to inject a luxury vibe to this rustic island.
phoebe occupies a commanding waterfront position in melissaki on the island of kea, set directly above the shoreline with uninterrupted west-facing views across the aegean. the property is arranged so that the sea remains present throughout, both visually and acoustically, while its elevated position allows the house to follow the natural contours of the coastline. from the terraces and principal rooms, the horizon extends across open water, while the changing afternoon light becomes a defining characteristic of the setting.
built across two levels and finished in a restrained palette of local stone, timber and pale surfaces, the villa has been designed around a continuous relationship between interior and exterior spaces. covered terraces run along the main façade, creating a sequence of shaded and open areas that respond naturally to the climate and orientation of the site. the architecture remains simple and grounded, allowing the position of the house and the surrounding seascape to define the atmosphere.
the upper level contains the principal living spaces, where the kitchen, dining area and sitting room are arranged in an open-plan layout facing the sea. large openings connect directly to the terraces, allowing natural light and sea air to move freely through the interiors. the materials remain intentionally understated, with white-painted timber ceilings and neutral finishes reflecting the brightness of the island landscape. the result is a series of spaces that feel closely connected to the outdoors throughout the year.
five bedrooms are arranged on the lower level, many benefiting from direct access to private outdoor areas facing the water. the accommodation follows the same architectural language as the rest of the house, prioritising comfort, natural ventilation and a strong connection to the surrounding environment. a secondary kitchen on this level allows the accommodation to function with a degree of independence, making the layout particularly well suited to extended stays.
approximately 200 sqm (2,153 sqft) of terraces extend across the property, unfolding gradually towards the coastline below. the outdoor spaces are integrated into the architecture rather than treated as separate areas, creating a natural continuation of the living environment. the infinity pool is positioned to face directly towards the sea, reinforcing the uninterrupted relationship between the house and the horizon beyond.
the landscaping follows the character of the surrounding kea coastline, with the property integrated into the natural terrain rather than separated from it. direct access to the water further strengthens this connection, allowing the house to engage closely with its waterfront setting while maintaining privacy and seclusion.
although peaceful and discreet, the property remains within easy reach of the port and the island’s main village. the combination of its waterfront position, west-facing orientation and direct relationship with the coastline creates a residence that is defined as much by its setting as by the architecture itself. as evening approaches, the light settles across the bay and the horizon becomes the dominant feature of the view, with the sea extending uninterrupted beyond the terraces.
