Nestled among lush hills with panoramic views, Villa Nidri is an octagonal themed architectural masterpiece. Enter through the twisted black iron gates and take in the yellow and terracotta villa that defines this exclusive retreat.

Filled to the brim with rare crafts and exotic antiques such colourful pottery and carvings, this villa is an art lover's dream. These treasures have been sourced by interior designers from as far as India, Egypt and China. Red and soft turquoise is a motif through the villa, from the living room to the four stunning bedrooms.

Outside, the unique azure pool has ten sides and plenty of umbrellas for shade, as well as a stonework fireplace for cosy poolside evenings. Take a refreshing dip in the pool after a long day exploring Lefkas and cool off from the Mediterranean sunshine, then unwind on the sunbeds. One of the most exciting parts of the villa is the jacuzzi garden, separate from the pool area and enjoying dazzling views.

Sweeping soft lemon coloured archways lead through to the open plan living space. Here, there is a quirky marble and stone fireplace and plenty of comfortable marled sofas with sage green cushions, and a bookcase stocked with plenty of books and films. The spacious octagon kitchen is simply stunning, with a focal island and statement black stools.

Next to the fully equipped kitchen is a sitting area with a pair of armchairs, an Afghan rug and a coffee table, while the dining room has a gorgeoushand-painted Greek motif table where guests can enjoy a home-cooked meal and look out at the lush greenery of the valley below and watch boats sailing between the distant islands.

The bedrooms have a range of four-poster double and twin beds, with crisp white linen and pops of colour in the bedding. Swirly patterned headboards add intrigue, while guests can wake up to wonderful mountain views through the huge windows. Richly patterned rugs adorn the floors, while classical paintings hang on the walls. Luxurious ensuite bathrooms are crafted from Bulgarian marble with spacious shower areas. The main en-suite bathroom offers a bathtub for a relaxing soak, with vintage style candle holders adding drama and mystique.

There are many sumptuous relaxation spaces around the property, such as the unique Hammock Tower, where a cool breeze may be enjoyed during siesta time, or swing in a hammock under Moroccan lanterns gazing out at the starry night sky and enjoy the sounds and scents of the garden.

The villa is perfectly placed in Nidri, close to a charming harbour on the mesmerising island of Lefkada. With superb views of the nearby islands of Meganisi and Skorpios, lush pine trees and olive groves, Lefkada is the ideal Mediterranean island destination. Nidri town is just five minutes away, with its charming harbour. Sailboats and local fishing boats bob alongside luxury yachts here, while visitors can take sailing lessons here.

Yachting is a popular attraction for international tourists and locals - check out sophisticated Lefkada Marina. Boat trips to various beaches around Lefkada and neighbouring islands depart from Nidri daily throughout the high season and can be arranged in low season.

Lefkada is easily and conveniently reached from the mainland via a causeway, while the airport is just 25km away in Aktion. It is a rare Greek island you can access by car, and absolutely ideal for a family holiday - there are stunning beaches, luscious green valleys and soaring mountains here. Add friendly locals and a laid back atmosphere and you've got everything you need for a great holiday.

Nydri waterfall is a great excursion that guests can undertake independently. The starting point is close to the villa, and the waterfall is reached by a scenic hike through olive and citrus groves and over rocks. The incredible wall of water descends into a pool where you can swim in the cool water canyon. Local stalls sell honey from around the region.

Lefkada town is just a short drive away, a traditional Greek town full of narrow streets and cute alleyways. There is a main square that has plenty of atmospheric cafes and bars. Lefkada town has lots of tiny boutiques and gift shops for finding souvenirs and great local produce to take home as a reminder of the island.

Famous for its incredible beaches, Lefkada has postcard-perfect beaches on the east side and rugged, wild landscapes on the west. You're truly spoilt for choice, but here are a couple of our favourites. Porto Katsiki, a beach with soaring, white cliffs topped with greenery above soft white sand and impossibly blue water is likely the beach you've seen in marketing campaigns. - it's plain to see why it's the most famous beach in the area.

Another great choice for a beach day is Pefkoulia with beautiful blue shallow waters and a calm tide. The golden sand and pebbles provide the best of both worlds, while pine trees cascade down the hillside. Around the island, watersports are very popular including paragliding, windsurfing and kitesurfing.

Take a trip to the Monastery of Panagia Faneromeni and soak up some culture of the island. Surounded by wonderful gardens and resting high on a hill, this monastery dates back to the 17th century. Inside, you'll find a museum inside with chalices, icons and manuscripts, and even a small zoo!

The food on Lefkada is similar to mainland Greece and the rest of the Mediterranean area - with the addition of scenic mountain views from many of the restaurants. One dish to try in a local taverna is a delicious moussaka, made up of mincemeat layers and tomato sauce with aubergine and bechamel sauce, baked lasagne style. Another dish to try is souvlaki, which is skewered meat and sometimes vegetables, often on a barbecue. A local speciality is crusty bread topped with zingy tzatziki.

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