Perfect Greek Island Experience
This was our first visit to Greece and we wanted to spend one week of our visit experiencing a Greek island. We were extremely pleased
with our choice of Ysyhia on the island of Skopelos. Skopelos was the perfect Greek island experience and Ysyhia was an exceptional and beautiful place to stay. I agree and reiterate all the other reviews about Ysyhia, Sarah and Matt. I do not think I have ever stayed anywhere that is as quiet and peaceful as Ysyhia. It is a perfect and beautiful place for a quiet and/or romantic getaway.
Matt and Sarah are very friendly and helpful, but respect your privacy. They seem to have thought of everything to make your stay comfortable—beach chairs, cooler bag, sun umbrellas, beach towels, sun tan lotion, etc. And the cottage has what you need for comfort, relaxation, meal preparation, etc. We explored the island and decided the beach closest to the cottage was the best. But Ysyhia with its pool, patio and view provides the best place to relax.
Ysyhia can be a place for both young and old, active and passive. If you want to walk, hike, bike, paddle board, kayak, snorkel, boat, etc., Skopelos has it. We did have a car and were there the 2nd week of October just as the tourist season was ending, so we found the island and roads extra quiet.
We flew from Athens to the neighbor island of Skiathos and took our rental car from Skiathos on the ferry to Skopelos. (You should have a rental car at Ysyhia but not a large one because the roads on Skopelos are narrow and winding, and the driveway to Ysyhia is even smaller. Sarah is very good with arranging the right rental car for you on Skopelos if needed.) Skiathos is the only Greek island we had to compare to Skopelos. We felt Skopelos is a much better choice if you truly want to experience a Greek island with a rustic, local atmosphere and more picturesque beaches. Skiathos was built up with large hotels and resorts and was more crowded with tourists. We loved Skopelos for its rustic and rural atmosphere compared to Skiathos.
We are from the States and it is quite a jaunt for us to get back to Greece. But if we ever do we will be sure to have another visit at Ysyhia. We highly recommend Ysyhia. Thank you, Matt and Sarah, for a wonderful Greek island experience.
October 2017
Tranquility
We booked this cottage as a get away and were not disappointed. The hosts, Sarah & Matt were attentive but not intrusive, they had catered for everything we might need during our stay and even left some home made goodies for our arrival. The views were stunning and enabled us to wind down instantly. We had a great time exploring the island both on foot and in the car. The friendliest of the locals we found to be in the small shop & bakery in Glossa and in Skippers bar opposite the port.
A truly wonderful place if all you want is relaxation -
September 2017
The cherries on the cake
If you are reading this, I guess you are thinking of visiting Skopelos and staying at Ysyhia, take my advice- book it right now!! I promise you won't be disappointed! We have just returned from a wonderful week at Ysyhia and can vouch that all the reviews I read before going are completely true and accurate! The views from the cottage are even better in reality than the photos and the cottage really does have everything you may need for your holiday. The island has plenty to see and do if you wish, however the tranquillity of Ysyhia lulled us back most afternoons just to enjoy the total relaxation. The "cherries" on the cake really are Matt and Sarah, again everything you read about them is true! Lovely people who are so helpful before and during your stay, but also ensuring you have total privacy at the cottage. I can honestly say I don't think we will surpass this week, and have now found our perfect Greek retreat, we will definitely be back and look forward to spending more time at Ysyhia and with Matt and Sarah and hearing of their adventures! So, do read all the reviews and make your own minds up, but booking our week really was a great decision. Ps- pack light! We managed on a small rucksack each and still took too much!
September 2017
Stunning
Absolutely stunning cottage. Adored our time there - we were only able to stay for a week sadly as we would have stayed for another two if we could! Matt and Sarah are amazing hosts. Respectful of your privacy but always on hand if you need them. The location is completely secluded - perfect for a relaxed romantic break away. We spent many wonderful hours bobbing about on the lie-low while enjoying that incredible view. Cottage is kitted out with everything you would need and the bed is very comfortable. We would go back again within a heart beat - paradise!
August 2017
Wonderful Cottage for Two in Idyllic Surroundings
This was our third visit to our favourite cottage in this wonderful island destination and since we have already booked our fourth visit for next year, no doubt that says it all! (see my previous review) We love this place! The cottage, which is very carefully maintained & spotlessly clean, is just perfect for two, with its beautiful setting & view of the sea, its total privacy, the loving & thoughtful attention to aesthetics & detail inside which ensures you have everything you need & that being inside is also a pleasure, the lovely little pool which is just right for cooling off while watching the boats go by.... We often buy wonderfully fresh fish or excellent meat to barbeque if we want a day "in", though there are many excellent tavernas in picturesque places not far off. One of the things we like best is that if you simply want to "chill" and do nothing but relax in the sun (or pool!) & read a book, this is the ideal location for it, but if you want to explore, there are plenty of interesting & beautiful places to see. Matt & Sarah, the charming owners who live on the property, get the balance exactly right between always being available to help if needed (a phonecall away on the mobile they kindly provide), and ensuring you have complete privacy. They couldn't be more friendly & helpful and have a depth of knowledge about the island which they are always happy to share. We have spent 8 weeks there all in all & can't think of a better place for a holiday! It's just as gorgeous as it looks in the photos!
August 2017
Thoughtful touches
We stayed at Ysyhia in July 2017 and we really loved everything about it - the house, the terraces, the pool and the amazing views. We would definitely recommend this property for anyone seeking a quiet, secluded location on a beautiful island. The cottage is very comfortable and stylish and met all our needs for an enjoyable holiday – even thoughtful touches like beach chairs and towels and a cool bag. The owners, Sarah and Matt, are very helpful and thoughtful, but not at all intrusive and they have definitely created an idyllic haven for their guests.
July 2017
Beautiful tranquility
Just returned home from our second stay at the most amazing Ysyhia cottage. (Read my review from May 2016) Don't know what else I can add----- Perfect, beautiful, tranquil, private. Sarah and Matt are superb hosts and have done everything to make one's stay the best it can be. They give you complete privacy but are just a phone call away (mobile provided by them) if you should need anything or want to ask a question. Helpful, thoughtful and great fun too!! If you want your own Greek paradise away from the hustle and bustle of life----then look no further---book it quickly as it is very popular with returning guests--just don't book our slot please!!
June 2017
A Perfect Piece of Paradise
Ysyhia is a very special place to stay thanks to Matt and Sarah whose vision created a perfect piece of paradise on the island of Skopelos. This private location offers up peaceful tranquility with a magnificent view of olive groves and the sea with islands in the distance. Sitting on the terrace one is surrounded by the gentle sights and sounds of nature as well as the intoxicating aromas of herbs, plants and flowers. The cottage itself is thoughtfully well equipped from kitchen to bath to beach and pool necessities. The interior is light filled with an open, comfortable design which is simple, efficient and appealing. There is also an outdoor BBQ which we frequently used. A car is definitely recommended in order to see this spectacular island. If you like to walk/hike there are paths nearby which wind through olive groves with beautiful vistas. We did both of these but always looked forward to returning to Ysyhia and the terrace, the pool and the view. Matt and Sarah are wonderful hosts who are readily available for suggestions and information while at the same time, they are impeccably respectful of their guest's privacy. We were fortunate enough to arrive during "harvest time" for their garden and were treated to Sarah's famous tomato sauce and some delicious fresh veg. Choosing Ysyhia is perfect if you appreciate tranquility, beautiful views and delightful hosts. It is perfect for couples or single individuals.
September 2016
Absolutely beautiful and idyllic getaway
We have just returned after a two week stay at Ysyhia Cottage and I would thoroughly recommend this place. I even got emotional!!! when we arrived as it is so so beautiful. From booking until departure the owners Matt and Sarah were so caring and such lovely people. The cottage is spotlessly clean and has a large lounge, kitchen and dining area which is decorated beautifully. The cottage is equipped with everything you need and more!! even chairs to take to the beach, beach bags, cool bag and so many other things too many to mention. It again shows how caring and considerate the owners are to the needs of their guests. When you lie on the bed you have the most amazing view of the sea. The bedroom also had a nice quiet air conditioning unit. The bathroom is decorated very tastefully and again is immaculate. The Wifi is excellent and very fast. The outside has a large patio area where we sat all of the time to eat our meals as it has a view to die for. The pool is again spotless and well maintained. There is a lot of wildlife to see, we experienced the Eleanora Falcon, Hoopoe!!, Hedgehog, Bats, beautiful Moths and Butterflies on the gorgeous flowers, climbers and other plants that surround the cottage. Don't forget your binoculars if you love nature watching. The cottage is not overlooked at all, it has total privacy and such a romantic getaway you will not be disappointed. A car is a must if you wish to explore the island of Skopelos. We did eventually tear ourselves away from the cottage to explore all the beaches and we did find that the best, private, and quiet beaches were the ones that are close to the cottage. The only thing you will see are the boats on the sea, amazing scenery, wildlife, and the stars that are amazingly clear at night. Totally recommend Ysyhia Cottage and credit to the owners Matt and Sarah for making this a truly unforgettable place. Thank you both so much
August 2016
Perfect paradise and tranquility!
What more can we say to add to the glowing reports on Ysyhia and Matt and Sarah? The welcome at the quayside in Loutraki was so warm, friendly and reassuring. Our hire car was waiting for us as well. Following a quick trip to do the necessary paperwork, we then followed Sarah in her car to the supermarket and bakery to get some basic supplies. The drive to Ysyhia the first time, is a very interesting experience, especially the race up their drive in 1st gear!! The coastal road drive both to the cottage and around the island, is truly stunning! The cottage itself and the views are just stupendous. The photos are very good but you simply have to see it all first hand to fully appreciate both the beauty of the setting and the quality, love and detail that has gone into the cottage and the surrounding terraces and pool. Everything has been thought of and, if by chance a visitor can think of a little addition, then Sarah and Matt make it happen. They love getting feedback and suggestions. Sarah's eye for interior design and her needle craft skills means that each room is beautifully crafted, with a lovely homely feel. The cottage gives utter privacy, even though Matt and Sarah's property is just up the hill (out of sight) they respect the visitors privacy utterly and never intrude. They always phone to see if it is okay to tend the pool etc. Little touches like supplying the guests with a mobile phone with their numbers programmed in, along with restaurants, activities, doctors etc. etc. The mobile phone went everywhere with us when we went out sightseeing--just in case, although we never needed it, it gave us confidence. Matt and Sarah (and Homer!) are such lovely, caring and fun people. We couldn't have asked for nicer hosts. Having travelled many places throughout the world and stayed in superb hotels and villas and gites, we can honestly say that Ysyhia is truly THE BEST!! So much so that we have done something we have never done before and booked for two weeks next year, as one week was simply not enough. My only fear in giving such a glowing review is that ' our secret hideaway ' may not stay that way and we selfishly don't want to share it!!
May 2016
Perfect Peace
This was our third visit to Skopelos and whilst we know the island is very tranquil, we were amazed at how peaceful the location of Ysyhia actually is. Although the property is only a short drive from Glossa, or lovely walk if you're up to it, it is a perfect location for those wanting to get away from it all. It is very private and secluded and not overlooked in any way.
Sarah and Matt have thought of everything when equipping the property and it is very tastefully furnished, very clean and very well maintained.
Sarah met us at Loutraki (port of Glossa) with our hire car and we followed her to Ysyhia via the local supermarket to stock up on a few essentials. Then Matt & Sarah showed us around and explained how everything worked. They even provided us with a mobile phone so we could contact them if we had any queries.
We spent a large amount of time relaxing, reading and dipping in the lovely pool with the occasional walk through the olive groves. The views really are spectacular and breathtaking - an ever changing scene.
We thoroughly enjoyed our stay and left feeling very envious of Sarah & Matt and what they have lovingly created. We would very much like to return in the future.
September 2015
Simply Heavenly
What can we say that hasn't been said before! We have just spent two wonderful relaxing weeks holiday staying at Ysyhia Cottage in the most stunning and secluded location in the heart of the Glossa countryside amongst the Olives, Lemon and Walnut trees and the most spectacular view across to Skiathos. I can honestly say that it was so relaxing that we struggled to leave and explore the island. Sarah and Matt have created a little piece of heaven on earth! They have, as said before thought of absolutely everything to make your stay so enjoyable and some extra special touches like Sarah's home-made pasta sauce enjoyed during a stormy evening! They respected our privacy and would always call prior to visiting to change the linen or clean the Pool, during which we loved listening to their tales of life on the island and building of Ysyhia. A thirty minute walk away is Glossa village, built in to the hillside with narrow cobble street and quaint little houses where you will find some great Tavernas, Bakery and supermarkets. We will most definitely be returning !!!
September 2015
Lovely island cottage with spectacular view
We just returned from a fantastic 3 week vacation at Ysyhia cottage and can confirm that the rave reviews are NOT exaggerated. Ysyhia cottage deserves every one of its 5 stars & more. We wanted a restful, peaceful holiday in beautiful surroundings in a lovely, private cottage with a view of the sea, with lots of sunshine, and this cottage for 2 was exactly what we hoped to find. It was our first visit to Skopelos and we are planning to go straight back next year. We were delighted to find a place where we were able just to sit back, relax & enjoy the beautiful, peaceful view of the Aegean sea and explore the surrounding area at our leisure, or just stay put, as enjoying the cottage surroundings was such a pleasure. If you have binoculars, this is a great place to use them, especially for identifying passing ships & ferries. Sometimes before the moon was full, the night-time stars were spectacular and to compensate, when the moon was brighter, the light on the sea was lovely! The cottage is charming & comfortable with wonderful attention to detail, decorated with care, & full of thoughtful touches. The outside area is spacious, the chairs are comfortable & the pool is just right for cooling off while still enjoying the magnificent view. There are plenty of good places to eat not far off. We also enjoyed buying excellent meat from the butcher & barbecuing at the cottage once in a while. There are some good bakeries where you can pick up Skopelos cheese pies etc. to warm up for easy meals. Having the use of the cottage cell phone was also an excellent idea, as we were completely comfortable knowing that we could easily contact Matt & Sarah if needed. Matt & Sarah are wonderful hosts, as others have mentioned, finding the perfect balance between being very welcoming & available to help & give information whenever needed, while giving you complete privacy. Being met at the ferry with a rental car by Sarah, then accepting her kind offer of stopping at a small village supermarket on the way to the cottage, made the start to our holiday so smooth & easy. It would be difficult to find the cottage on your own for the first time, as the last few minutes of the drive are along a very bumpy gravel road, with amazing views, which is all part of the adventure! This is one of those spots which you hesitate about reviewing, because you think maybe you should keep it to yourself, but since we have already booked for next year, and Matt & Sarah completely deserve the superb reviews, we wanted to highly recommend this cottage, as it really is just as good as it looks, if not better!
August 2015
Ysyhia - Quiet - Quite amazing
Matt and Sarah Bloxham are the genuinely delightful, polite and helpful owners of this wonderful paradise cottage. As previous reviews have commented, they remain unobtrusive but are only a free phone call away should you require any assistance or advice. Upon arrival from the short ferry journey from Skiathos we were met by Sarah who assisted us with the collection of our hire car and escorted us to the cottage via the local supermarket and bakery to collect provisions on the way up; thereby alleviating the usual orienteering exercise. I particularly appreciated the way they made sure there was some tea, coffee, oils, seasonings etc. for us to take advantage of until we had chance to fully populate the store cupboard.
Accommodation - The cottage itself is tastefully designed in an environmentally friendly manner and is well appointed. The views from the patio/pool are stunning. Towels including beach towels are provided and laundered by Sarah. They also provide a couple of home-made booklets full of helpful and interesting facts to help you ‘settle in’. If quiet seclusion with a romantic view is what you are looking for, Ysyhia is the perfect place.
Surroundings – Ysyhia is situated in the north of the island, above Glossa with views towards Skiathos, Tsougria and a number of other small islands. My advice would be to take a pair of binoculars as there are ships and boats aplenty and also visiting schools of dolphins to be seen from the patio. The tracks, trails and even roads in the area are quiet and largely traffic free, even in the peak season we were there. The metalled road from Glossa leading to the stony track approach to the cottage was a pleasant, tranquil 5k walk. The many fruit trees along the route provide delicious fragrances as you pass by.
Provisions – Glossa, although largely uncommercial provides a variety of supermarkets, shops, bakeries and tavernas. The gyros at To Louki (or Frank Lampard’s as its known by the ex pats) is excellent and very popular with the locals – always a good sign.
General – Skopelos is a beautiful island with many tracks, trails, beaches and bays. Skopelos Town is quaint and well worth spending time exploring, photographing and of course, shopping.
July 2015
Two weeks of perfect peace and tranquility
After spending a week at Ysyhia in 2014 I couldn't wait to get back this summer and booked two weeks in July this year. It was the perfect tonic - the ideal way to de-stress. Long walks along the virtually traffic free country roads and frequent trips to the lovely town of Glossa via a delightful woodland walk. Lazy afternoons and evenings by the pool enjoying the breathtaking view from the cottage - the perfect way to end the day. Sarah and Matt are there to give helpful tips on where to go and what to do and are just great company. It doesn't take long to feel at home on this lovely island where the local Greek population are gracious, welcoming and friendly despite all the hardships they've suffered. I can thoroughly recommend Ysyhia to anyone looking for something a bit different.
June 2015
Tranquility and Relaxation
If you are looking for a relaxing holiday that gets you away from it all, then look no further. Ysyhia cottage is exactly as it says on the tin, complete tranquility! The views are wonderful, and as you sit and relax staring at the yachts and fishing boats out at sea you become aware that you are surrounded by only the sound of the birds and the breeze gently blowing through the pine, olive and walnut trees, which encircle the cottage.
If you want to feel like you are completely alone in paradise then Ysyhia also offers this. The cottage is secluded and out of view of any other properties. Your privacy is of utmost importance to Matt and Sarah and they will only appear if they have pre warned you. However they are always available if you need to contact them or have a question. A lovely touch is the mobile phone that they have set up for you to use with handy numbers and €10 credit.
The cottage itself has everything you need, the kitchen is well equipped and the appliances are easy to use. There is a good selection of books and DVD’s all with an underlying ‘Greek’ or getting away from it all themes. Sarah and Matt seem to have thought of everything even down to providing beach bags for you to use!
Although you could easily spend your holiday at the cottage, there are lots of places to discover around the island. A car is a must to do this. We hired a Fiat Panda and it managed most of the roads and tracks. Sarah arranged the car hire for us and together with Matt gave us lots of tips of where to go.
We enjoyed our stay so much that we have booked again for next year, however for our next trip we will not be taking as many clothes. Top tip is travel light, hand luggage if you can. We spent most evenings at the cottage but when we did go to the restaurants, dress was very casual.
All in all the ideal holiday location for which we hope to visit for many years to come.
June 2015
Tranquility
Owners Sarah & Matt are very helpful & very discreet, never visiting the very private Ysyhia without a prior alert. Accept their offer to facilitate car-hire - I've never had that service before. Apparently the builder named the cottage - Greek for tranquility. You will need an owner-preferred high clearance car for the steep access & the 15 minute drive to Glossa for supplies. There is no direct beach access. Isolated but still only 40 minutes drive to the bottom of the island via lunch at Fish Tavern Agnondas. But the privacy, the pool, the self-catering, the start-up provisions supplied, the full kitchen with excellent fridge, the tranquility. The cottage & bathroom & deck are spacious. The double bed & bedroom is cosy but well ventilated with air conditioning if required. The bath sheets are lightweight, but there are pool & beach towels too. The tranquility. Highly recommended. I'd go back in a flash, well loaded with gin vodka tonic wine & books. And go to Agnanti in Glossa for a fine meal or more.
May 2015
A delight
Intimate, timeless and peaceful. After a busy few days visiting the sights in Athens, Ysyhia offered us a complete contrast: a place to read, walk, take photographs and relax on the terrace watching the comings and goings of the boats knowing we could just stay put until sunset. Even in October we found it warm enough to try out the pool and I loved waking up to see the sea beyond my toes.
October 2014
Peaceful and beautiful
Ysyhia is just a beautiful cottage in a beautiful location. The cottage has been perfectly finished with every detail considered. We didn't need for anything. The location is incredibly private - you can't see any other dwelling from the house... just the sea! You'll need a car to see the sights of the island, but you can easily spend your time just chilling by the pool and exploring locally.
September 2014
Beautiful, romantic and secluded
We loved our week at Ysyhia cottage. There were so many lovely things about it, it's difficult to know where to start! I'll give it a go... Firstly, the setting. The cottage is, as advertised, very secluded (very rural setting, beautiful, undisturbed view of the sea, no people or cars to be seen!). This was perfect for us as we just wanted to be really chilled and have a quiet week with just the two of us. However, it is still a (fairly long but perfectly doable) walk away from Glossa village (which is very charming and traditional). To access the rest of the island (and when we were too lazy to walk) - we used a quad bike which we had hired for the week. So much fun and a brilliant way of exploring the island - highly recommended! Secondly, the cottage itself. We simply couldn't find a fault with this perfect, beautifully maintained, pretty little house. Inside, it is very charming and very well looked after. Outside, it is also something pretty special. Lovely little pool and our favourite bit was the terrace overlooking the sea. We sat out here most evenings for drinks etc. This is also the place my partner chose to propose while we were away... so I guess that says everything about the romantic setting! Lastly, the kind and accommodating owners of the cottage - Matt and Sarah. They live up the hillside above Ysyhia cottage and were always on hand to help out or respond to any queries. We really found that they managed to find a perfect balance between being incredibly helpful, warm and hospitable whilst giving us our privacy and never being intrusive; a lovely couple. So, in summary - if you are looking for a peaceful, relaxing, beautiful and happy holiday - Ysyhia is the place for you...We couldn't recommend it more!
July 2014
Getting Away From It All
I spent a week at Ysyhia Cottage and can confirm that it more than lives up to its name - serenity. The lovely view from the cottage, sitting on the hillside and surrounded by the greenery of the beautiful pine forests is fantastic making it very tempting to spend the day lazing by the pool looking across the water to the islands out on the horizon. But Ysyhia has the advantage of also being within walking distance of the lovely town of Glossa, a fascinating jigsaw puzzle of picturesque little streets with a surprising variety of shops and cafes. The port of Loutraki below is also well worth a visit - there's a lovely walk from the port up to the next village with the reward of stunning views when you reach the church at the top of the path. By car it's possible to enjoy all the other wonderful walks beyond the immediate surroundings of the cottage, to swim at one of the beautiful beaches or visit the main town of Skopelos - a lively mix of the traditional and stylishly modern. Sarah and Matt are the perfect hosts - with their detailed local knowledge of everything the island has to offer you can't go wrong. It was very reassuring to know that any difficulties would be dealt with promptly. I really enjoyed their company and loved being next to a the Greek version of a Highland croft! Can't wait to go back next summer.
July 2014
An Adventure
This cottage is a perfect getaway for those that like a little adventure. Our hosts were helpful, kind, and considerate. We were met at the ferry by Sarah who had our car ready. She lead us to the cottage which was exactly as she described. Rural, quiet, and peaceful with an incredible view. The cottage has been beautifully built with a special attention to detail. We slept with the windows open, swam in the lovely pool, and ate meals overlooking the Aegean. Sarah and Matt helped us with which sights to see and which beaches we should definitely visit. We met them at a taverna one evening and even enjoyed a trip in their boat. We drove all over the island on two lane roads easily. We snorkelled in crystal clear water, laid on white sandy beaches, and soaked up the sun. We will definitely return!!! Thanks Matt and Sarah for an amazing trip and a beautiful cottage to enjoy.
May 2014
An unforgettable island holiday
We stayed on Skopelos Island for a week, but it wasn't enough!
The cottage is in a tranquil, undisturbed location, amongst wooded slopes, with a beautiful view opening out over the Aegean Sea and towards the other Sporades islands. There was a lovely, spacious patio with a swimming pool. The interior had been simply but beautifully designed using local materials and colours, especially the stone floor and marble worktops. The bathroom was an elegant combination of reclaimed beach stones and green marble. The oven and hob were top of the range and very clean. All the kitchen equipment was new and good quality. The double bed was very comfortable and ideal for long lie-ins with a view of the sea. Overall we were very impressed by the cottage.
We found that Matt and Sarah were very thoughtful and attentive hosts. We had a lot of privacy in the cottage, but it was easy to contact them if ever we had a question or needed anything. One especially nice touch was that they provided a local mobile phone with all the necessary numbers and €10 credit on it. Another nice gesture was them contacting us in advance to ask us what ingredients we wanted stocked up in the cupboards. Overall, we felt very comfortable and at home, with the perfect balance of seclusion and friendly hosting when we needed it.
It is essential to hire a car when you stay on the island, both for practical reasons, and for the chance to take in all of the fantastic views and sites. The island is almost totally covered by woodland. We discovered many areas of natural beauty, including those made famous by the film Mamma Mia (which entirely lived up to expectations). There are not too many cars on the roads, but due to the island topography there are many steep gradients and tight turns, therefore it will help to have a confident driver with you.
One activity we can highly recommend is sea kayaking. We had a wonderful day, paddling through the shallows, sliding silently through the waves, and traversing sunlit stretches of open water. We even saw dolphins! The seabed is contoured by limestone rocks and crags, and the water is superbly clear, creating the stunning blues, turquoises and cyans that the islands are renowned for. We really enjoyed swimming through the crystal waters of the beaches, but it was also great fun to kayak out and experience more of the seascape. Our guide was great at tailoring our trip to our interests and level of ability.
Overall, this was an unforgettable island holiday.
February 2014
Gorgeous cottage, peaceful location, amazing views
What an amazing place! We felt so relaxed after just a few days of being in the cottage, and after a couple of weeks, deeply rejuvenated from our time there. The view of the sea is incredible and feels like it's just for you! It feels wonderfully secluded, surrounded by the olive groves and sea, the stars at night, with just the sounds of the nature around to break the quiet.
The cottage is spacious and light, designed with attention to detail, vibrant colours and elegance; it's also equipped with everything you could think of!
The outside space is large and open too, with a pool that it was not the time of the year for us to try but looked a good size for the summer.
February 2014
Stop looking - just book it!!
This cottage truly lives up to its name and web description in every way. The location and views are sublime and the cottage spotlessly clean and well appointed. We felt relaxed from the moment we stepped onto the spacious outdoor area and looked across the sea to Evvia. The sense of peace and tranquility is tangible and a real balm to the soul. You could easily spend all day here, swimming in the pool, enjoying the view, reading and relaxing (and taking copious photos) but if you want to venture out you have the beautiful village of Glossa nearby and the atmospheric port of Loutraki below (not to mention the other charms of Skopelos a little further away). Matt and Sarah are wonderful hosts, on hand when needed (being locals they can provide heaps of useful "insider" information about the island and its attractions), but they are also sensitive to the needs of their guests when privacy and seclusion are the order of the day! This very special place deserves revisiting again and again. Thank you Matt and Sarah for sharing your piece of heaven with these Antipodeans.
We made the walk into Glossa village many times, and enjoyed wandering through it's charming and colourful streets. It felt good to be in a real Greek village rather than a place just for tourists, and the locals were very friendly. There were plenty of cafés and eateries to keep us happy, and again, the views of the Aegean and it's islands from Glossa were spectacular.
Over-all the combination of the privacy and seclusion of the cottage with the ease of getting into the village, which had everything we needed, was perfect.
August 2013
