This jewel of a property sits in a prime spot; overlooking the splendid Skala valley where verdant hills roll down to the virtually endless sandy beach and bustling seaside town of the same name. On the south west of the headland that juts into the sea is Mounda Beach (1.8km), a unique and protected stretch of unspoilt sandy coastline renowned as a centuries-old nesting site for the endangered loggerhead sea turtle. Situated on the hillside above La Skalita, Paleo Skala is an atmospheric, once deserted village, gradually being reinvigorated by summer visitors seeking a peaceful, laid-back location with all amenities and a splendid coastline close to hand. The surrounding landscape is attractively dotted with fields, olive groves and winding country tracks. Flanked by pretty rose bushes and tiered gardens, La Skalita is a perfect hideaway for a couple seeking a convenient holiday base. Situated on the very edge of the village itself, the house offers all the space and comfort of a much larger property plus some quite exceptional views of the glittering Ionian Sea from the terrace and balcony.

Stone clad walls lend the houseandnbsp;interior an air of cool timelessness and provide an authentic backdrop to a dandeacute;cor that is both tastefully rustic yet classic in style. Of open plan design,andnbsp;the living area has largeandnbsp;patio doors leading onto the pool terrace which seamlessly invite the outside, inside! On the first floor, the double bedroom with en suite shower room boasts wooden rafters, a traditional wrought iron bedstead and a pretty balcony that looks out towards the island of Zante and delights in the sort of sunsets that come straight from a picture postcard.

Being of a size usually found in much larger properties, the private pool is a particular highlight and the adjacent terrace is also spacious with a shaded dining area that is perfect for laid back lunches relaxing to the pastoral chorus of cicadas and distant chime of sheep bells drifting on the breeze.

Considered by many to be the best on the island, Skala Beach, just 1.8km downhill, is fringed by towering pine trees and offers a good choice of watersports and plenty of beachside bars while the town itself hosts an ample selection of restaurants, cafes and all amenities.

Kefalonia is a wonderful combination of history and natural beauty with the Aenos Mountain range covered in quaint hamlets and settlements to explore. Equally tempting and closer to home is the tiny fishing village of Katelios (7km) a gorgeous spot for an intimate fish supper in one of the waterside tavernas. Accommodation: Ground floor: Living/dining area (A/C, TV, DVD, CD, free internet access, PlayStation II) with doors to poolside terrace. Kitchen (dishwasher, microwave, washing machine) First floor: Double bedroom (A/C) with ensuite shower room and large balcony In built barbecue. Covered and open terraces. Private parking. Shared tennis court 3km (bring own equipment). Private pool (8m x 4m) with Roman steps