Villa Mangana, Kalami, Corfu

Nestled just outside the small, picturesque beach village of Kalami, Villa Mangana is a peaceful hideaway in the centre of the stunning northeast coast of Corfu. Sat high on a woodland-dense hillside between two stunning beaches, Yaliskari and Kalami, the far-reaching scenery is postcard worthy. Admire sublime panoramas of the glistening azure Ionian Sea and Kalami Bay, all backed by a soaring mountainscape. Add in the tranquil rural setting alongside a glistening stretch of coast, and Villa Mangana is a little slice of Greek paradise. You’re just a stroll away from the quaint streets of Kalami village, with a handful of waterfront restaurants and bars serving up a variety of menus, from traditional home cooked Greek favourites to gourmet delicacies. Kalami is the ideal place to rent a small self-drive boat and explore the coastline or just try your hand at some of the exciting water sports available in this bay - but equally you can just idle your time away on a sunbed being waited on from the nearby beach bar!

Our favourite feature at Villa Mangana has to be the glorious gardens, with an expansive lawn, lined with cypress groves, palm trees and fragrant citrus trees. The outdoors is flooded with hues of green and blue from the mesmerising landscape. There are multiple seating spots on-hand for sitting back and admiring the endless panoramas, with a roof terrace for breakfast with a view or poolside loungers to soak up the sun and scenery. Days spent relaxing at Villa Mangana are pure bliss with the unique thirteen-metre pool which overlooks the gleaming seascape, with enough space to make a splash with the kids. The evenings are something special, with two shaded verandas that create an intimate dinner spot, twined with lavender, vines and bougainvillaea that flourish above the wooden tables. There’s even a rustic stone barbecue if you fancy whipping up a mixed grill!. How about a family game night with a sea breeze? You can battle it out on the outdoor table tennis set.

Traditionally an olive press in days gone by, Villa Mangana has been lovingly renovated whilst still preserving its original traditional charm and character. The exteriors are a beautiful example of Corfiot architecture, with pretty pink walls and white ornamental ironwork contrasting with vibrant green shutters and rustic stone facades. The interiors mirror its old-style charm, with high beamed ceilings, fresh white walls and rich wooden furnishings. We’re in awe of the living room, long and spacious with generous sofas, which are overlooked by the authentic olive press machinery. When you’ve had your fill of swimming or tanning, six quaint bedrooms await, with two twins and one double on the ground floor, and a spiral staircase leading you to another three bedrooms on the upper level.