Overlooking the cerulean blue waters that carve the coves of North East Corfu, Kouloura House is a dreamy beachside destination, settled in the rustic and rural landscapes of Greece.
It’s a marvellous thing, when a home manages to encapsulate all of the images you’ve had in your mind about that perfect spot beside the sea. Visions of all of the hues of blue at your fingertips. Where the Mediterranean merges with the Ionian and Adriatic seas, blending its warm currents that ripple over the cobbled beaches and sandy coves of the island. A home where you’ll watch all of the boats go by, from the sublime comfort of the shaded verandahs, overlooking Kouloura Harbour and its flurry of nautical action. Its interiors generously embracing you in its living, cooking, dining and reclining spaces, setting the tranquil tone of the holiday to a pace of perfection. Where the cicadas sing the sun’s position, as the olive, citrus and cypress trees whistle in the breeze. Yes, it’s a glorious moment in discovery, when you walk through the front doors of a beach home, cushioned into the rolling hills above the sea, that delivers on every front. That moment when romance meets reality with a seamless synchronicity.
Kouloura House was built by its owners, who’d traversed the globe for years, in search of that vision in its physical form. The views of the little town of Kalami below, the sea, the surrounding landscape and neighbouring islands from the hideaway are deemed inimitable. The local community of farming, fishing, and footloose and fancy-free residents are all in line with their own tempo – totally laidback and full of vigour simultaneously. It’s a lifestyle that implores you to flirt with every opportunity that comes across your path. Sail around the islands, hike the abounding walking trails and cliff paths, swim in every cove and feast at every taverna. Hire a jeep and let it be topless. Or a scooter so that you can whizz around the island feeling the atmosphere even more intimately. It’s that kind of place that will have you sporting a sarong, a sunhat and sandals around the clock. Occasionally slipping into something a little more sophisticated when you venture out into the local towns.
The roosters will get you up nice and early, ushering you to the verandah for your morning brew. Marvelling at that view. Of course there are black-out blinds for those that need the extra snooze, otherwise it’ll be into the pool at dawn, onto the cliff paths, and perhaps another coffee at the local taverna. Then back for brunch around the table on the verandah. There’s a little gym for those that would prefer to stretch it out indoors instead. Then off to the beach. There are so many to choose from, you and the clan will be exploring something new every day. An afternoon nap is mandatory. Beside the pool, in the TV room, or in one of the three classically quirky bedrooms. Romance and rebellion at the helm of the narrative in each design. Maybe a little sauna session before heading down to the beach for an early evening dip. More feasting at one of the restaurants on the sand. Or home for a calamari salad, all of the Greek essentials, including buckets of tzatziki and baskets of bread. Your days at Kouloura house will certainly pivot around the menu. Loads of feasting amidst all of the sight-seeing, swimming and snoozing. And isn’t that just a marvellous notion of a holiday.
What we love!
- The property is set over three levels, cushioned into the hillside and tiered into the garden with beautiful open living, dining and entertaining spaces – both indoors and out. It’s a wonderful home to entertain in, and disappear to little quiet spots too. For some reading and resting.
- It’s one of those homes that you are inclined to state; the photos simply don’t do it justice. Because of the ambience, the energy and the impact the views have on your breath, that is only felt upon arrival.
- Spending a day lounging by the pool, watching all of the boats go by in their forms and stature. Witnessing the colours of the landscape change throughout the day.
- Your itinerary will inevitably revolve around food. Amazing cultural excursions to explore the profound history of the area, as well as being in the water and tapping into the nature will only be interrupted by where to dine. There are so many wonderful places to choose from. The hosts of the property will ensure you are advised on all of their recommendations.
- Sitting outside, or showering outside, or even bathing outside – yes the home has an outdoor everything – as you watch the swallows and butterflies skim the greens of the trees. The island is actually very green, though with the heat you’d consider not, but the Ionian islands are known for being green.
What you need to know…
- The nearest real village is Kalami (with Kassiopi only a five-minute drive away),Vigla is a small enclave renowned for its beautiful views and peaceful community. You’ll be spoilt for choice on where to dine and do some grocery shopping, stocking up on the Greek essentials. For some designer boutique shopping, you can catch a ferry that travels from Kalami Bay to Corfu town, between 10h00 and 15h00 daily. Or to the town of Kassioppi which also has a lot to show and tell.
Reviewed by Colleen Ogilvie