Luxury villa; enchanting views, heated pool

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Entire home

Sunrise view from the living room balcony

Sunset view from the living room balcony

Overview
Amenities
Policies
Location
Host

Exceptional

4 bedrooms3+ bathroomsSleeps 10353.0 sq m

Popular amenities

Parking available

Hot tub

Breakfast available

Washer

Barbecue grill

Pool

Explore the area

Marathon, Attika

Schinias Olympic Rowing and Canoeing Centre
10 min drive
Moraitis Sports Centre
12 min drive
Schinias Beach
21 min drive
Athens (ATH-Eleftherios Venizelos)
68 min drive

Rooms & beds

4 bedrooms (sleeps 10)

Bedroom 1

1 King Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 3

2 Single Beds

Bedroom 4

1 Double Bed

Den

1 Double Sofa Bed

3 bathrooms, 1 half bathroom

Bathroom 1

Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub · Bidet · Toilet · Shower only · Jetted bathtub · Hair dryer

Bathroom 2

Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Toilet · Hair dryer

Bathroom 3

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only

Bathroom 4

Soap · Toilet

Outdoor shower

Bathtub or shower · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio

Porch or lanai

Kitchen

Balcony

Outdoor play area

Garden

Dining Area

About this property

Our villa is EOT certified # 0208K92000280001. Our guests can be assured that the services and accommodations we provide have been verified by the Greek Tourism Organization.

Built on the hilltop of Schinias, overlooking the plain of Marathon Stargazer Villa has the unique advantage of great vistas, seclusion, and beauty.

The villa’s architecture, befitting the history of the place, is a blend of neoclassical and modern, with Doric columns draping the villa. The large open living areas with an atrium, large windows, and balconies allow the guest to enjoy the view from anywhere in the villa.

The numerous private balconies and special nooks provide privacy and peace. Perfect places for a good book, or a drink, or a morning cup of coffee, watching the sunrise.

All bedrooms and baths are built with maximum noise isolation, privacy focus, and top-of-the-line bedding. The master suite is a special apartment with its own sitting room, king-size bed, and luxury bathroom with a Jacuzzi and large shower.

Fully equipped gourmet kitchen with a bar and cooking island, perfect for parties or cooking with lots of company. A nook by the kitchen accommodates up to 4 guests and overlooks both the kitchen and the sunken living room.

The sunken living room and dining room combination has plenty of sitting space for everybody. The dining room table can accommodate up to 12 guests. A smart TV by a gas-powered fireplace is also available with Netflix and many local stations and BBC.

A large washroom and washing machine and drier and private patio for sun drying the clothes is available.. Soap amenities.

Family room equipped with satellite flat panel TV, Wii, and many games and movies for both kids and adults alike. Library with travel books. It can double as an additional bedroom with a queen-size convertible couch.

There is 350 sq m of living space in addition to over 250 sq m of balconies and porticos, large enough for dinners al fresco or dancing with the stars  .

The gas grill BBQ area is perched in the corner of the backyard on the top of the hill, with its fruit trees and rose garden. The BBQ area can easily accommodate 10 guests.

The swimming pool is private and perfect for an early-morning swim or late-night dip. Solar-powered and heated. Parents are totally responsible for the safety of their children. Children should never be left alone in the pool area.

There is plenty of parking in front of the villa.

Amenities include soap and beach towels, and beach chairs.

Our Villa offers clean, healthy drinking water so that our guests do NOT have to use bottled water. We have a top-of-the-line filtration system throughout the villa.

The lower floor is an independent apartment with its own entrance and totally private. It is owner-occupied when in the area. If the owner is not in the area, our property manager will always be at hand.

Chef, catering, photography, private tours, special events, booking hotels, and helping with other travel plans in Greece. Just Ask!

Property manager

Despina

Languages

English, French, Greek, Italian, Russian

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Pool

Hot tub

Kitchen

Washer

Dryer

Free WiFi

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House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM

Minimum age to rent: 26

Check out before 9:30 AM

Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17

Events

No events allowed

Pets

No pets allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Smoking in vernadas and garden

30$ charge per guest per night above 6.

Pool safety is parents responsibility

Service elevator is used for suitcases only.

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy

Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges

Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed

On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited

Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip

Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property

Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit

Property Registration Number 0208Κ92000280001

We should mention

Cash transactions at this property cannot exceed USD 500, due to national regulations; for further details, please contact the property using the information in the booking confirmation

A car is recommended for transport to and from this property

About the area

Marathon

Located in Marathon, this villa is in a rural area and near the beach. Marathon Run Museum and Archaeological Museum of Marathon are cultural highlights, and some of the area's attractions include Moraitis Sports Centre and Fantasy Park. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.

Marathon, Attika

What's nearby

Schinias Olympic Rowing and Canoeing Centre - 10 min drive
Schinias Beach - 21 min drive
Marathon Beach - 25 min drive
Ramnous Archaeological Site - 27 min drive
Rafina Port - 35 min drive

Getting around

Marousi Pentelis Station - 64 min drive
Athens (ATH-Eleftherios Venizelos) - 68 min drive

Restaurants

‪Ο Βράχος - ‬16 min drive
‪Alexandria - ‬14 min drive
‪Santa Cruz Water Sports - ‬12 min drive
‪Ταβερνα "Ο Σωκρατησ - ‬12 min drive
‪Way Out - ‬15 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Does Luxury villa; enchanting views, heated pool have a pool?

Yes, this property has a pool.

Is Luxury villa; enchanting views, heated pool pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Luxury villa; enchanting views, heated pool?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Luxury villa; enchanting views, heated pool?

Checkout is at 9:30 AM.

Where is Luxury villa; enchanting views, heated pool located?

Located in the mountains, this family-friendly villa is within 6 mi (10 km) of Schinias Olympic Rowing and Canoeing Centre, Moraitis Sports Centre, and Schinias Beach. Marathon Run Museum and Marathon Beach are also within 9 miles (15 km).

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.

Learn more

9.4/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

9.6/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

3 Aug 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Exquisite location and property

Had an awesome vacation with our family! Beautiful property, amazing house, yard and pool area with a view! Everything was 5 star plus and we really enjoyed Despina’s and Stavros’s company and care about their guests! Can’t wait to come back! Highly recommended for a luxury experience!

Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Teresa W.

1 July 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful house

We really enjoyed our stay at this property. Despina and her husband were very welcoming. He even came and fixed my daughter's eyeglasses when they broke. Pros: The house is beautiful. The hosts were nice. The view of the ocean is amazing. We hired Stavros and Rosa for the week we were there and honestly, that made the whole trip. Stavros is a neighbor that does tours and private taxi service. I loved his wife! We did 2 day trips with them and they arranged a private sailing trip for us that was the absolute highlight of my year. Everything was so cheap! Compared to the U.S. or other places I have vacationed, the prices were so low for everything. Despina answered all of my emails right away and was very helpful. The local restaurant they recommended was super delicious and didn't mind bringing food to us when we called. Cons: I didn't realize when I booked, but the house owners are on site, living in the same house, just under you. Like a separate living space. That was odd for me, but they weren't there the whole time we were, so it wasn't super intrusive, and again, they were nice. There was some discussion about whether we were allowed to use sunscreen when we swam in the pool. For my family, being in the sun there with no sunscreen is absolutely not an option. The house is kind of far from everything and taxis are hard to come by. There were a couple of times we wanted to go out but couldn't get a ride. The one beach that's nearby is just ok.

Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Helen K., Canada

9 Oct 2021

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Feel Like a Greek God on Mount Olympus- Amazing Views

Let me just say that this property was absolutely amazing ...very large and clean with all amenities available to you. THE VIEWS ARE SPECTACULAR from every balcony on the property. As for Despina and Stavros, we now consider them as family. Very warm and entertaining hosts. Will will be back for sure. THANKYOU DESPINA AND STAVRO for sharing your home with us.

Stayed 14 nights in Sep 2021

10/10 Excellent

Anna K.

8 Aug 2020

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

The view from Stargazer villa is the best ever. We are in love with this Greece and Stavros

Communication was instant and efficiently. Nothing too much trouble. Backgammon in the villa, tours with Stavros booked, dinner on first night delivered.

Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2020

8/10 Good

FRANCOISE B.

25 Aug 2019

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Vue imprenable

Belle villa spacieuse avec une très belle vue sur la mer.

Stayed 14 nights in Aug 2019

10/10 Excellent

Bernhard K.

16 Aug 2019

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A splendid spot of earth!

Very nice and helpful landlords in a huge house with countless balconies. Very good equipment - including strand tools for kids - and a lot of space. And an wonderful and amazing view of the sea! We are very happy to come back again! Thank you very much!

Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2019

10/10 Excellent

Didier O.

31 July 2019

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

QUE DU BONHEUR

La villa est vraiment magnifique, très bien agencée avec des belles chambres et de beaux espaces. Les chambres sont climatisées et la maison assez fraiches si on profite du vent pour la ventiler. Les balcons sont tous très spacieux et on aime y admirer la vue. Le coin barbecue est très sympa avec une fontaine que l'on peut allumer à notre guise. La piscine est super avec la partie chaises longues bien abritée du soleil. La maison est situé sur une colline qui surplombe la région, un peu isole, seul point peut-être négatif, mais au calme, elle est assez facile d'accès, à 5 minutes de la première plage libre et à 10 des plages équipées qui sont toutes très belles. Athènes est facilement accessible. O y a été 3 fois pendant notre séjour. Il y a les "taverna" pour se restaurer on peut même se faire livrer. Nos hôtes nous on beaucoup conseiller, ils nous on accueilli très chaleureusement et avaient préparer quelques petites courses pour notre arrivée, surtout de l'eau fraîche bienvenue. On recommande vivement cette villa qui nous a comblé.

Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2019

10/10 Excellent

Kymberly P., Stuttgart, Germany

22 June 2019

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Greek holiday

Sweeping views and amazing scenery. We were sad to leave and would love to come back one day. The beach is perfect for families, calm and clear water. You won’t be disappointed!

Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2019

10/10 Excellent

paul n.

25 July 2018

Greek hospitality at its best

From the moment we arrived Despina and Stavros were absolutely wonderful. From thoughtful initial supplies to helpful suggestions, great advice to assisting with a small medical emergency, they went the extra mile. Then..... there is the house! Fabulously designed to take advantage of the stunning location with wrap around balconies on both levels to enable views to die for. The kitchen is equipped perfectly. All the huge windows have electric screens and insect netting. The pool, while not Olympic, is large enough to do laps. The garden has a good selection of herbs which you are encouraged to include in your cooking and there are both open and shady areas. Breakfast on the rear terrace was bliss. Close to hand are several typical Greek tavernas which provide very good fresh food at very low cost, while a few kms away are beach clubs and more tavernas. We were just 2 olduns and 2 kids (31 and 35) but the house would be amazing for a larger group. I know it sounds like I am their agent but this really is a place to go to experience Greece, and I haven't even mentioned Stavros the taxi man/ Greek historian who is golden and doesn't charge enough!

Stayed 9 nights in Jul 2018

10/10 Excellent

Christine B., Berkshire

4 June 2018

Wonderful

Very big place with everything you’d want from a holiday and then there’s more.

Stayed 9 nights in May 2018

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Ecaterina S.

21 Aug 2017

Greek Olympian experience

Imagine being on top of the hill, feeling like being on top of the world, with a 360 degrees sea view from many terraces all around the villa watching what is happening down there and having the option to reach within minutes (true by car, as you need a car) most of the spots you can see. Isn't it an Olympian like experience? We have been there as a large multi families, multi generations group and it felt like being a gang of Gods on top of the Olympus mountains. Lot of space, to socialize and to have privacy. All options opened from spending the whole day there - on the terrace, in/by the swimming pool, evening barbeque and late stargazing to exploring the surroundings. The beach - almost 3 km by car - is an amazing send beach neighboring a protected pine forest, with few traditional Greek tavernas with basic and very tasty food. Clean water, child friendly. For good swimmers there is the option to go to a more rocky cost, with beautiful, a bit deeper water (even closer) Organized beach, sports clubs a bit further - 15 min drive. The villa is very comfortable and well organized , with large, beautiful rooms, fully equipped kitchen, terrace or balconies with see view for all bedrooms. All very clean. The owners - fluent English speakers - are very nice and helpful. While around and easy reachable if needed, they are very discrete. You can expect nice welcome gesture such as fresh fruits from the real market place and some Greek sweets. All together a perfect place for a group of friends/large family to enjoy being together without feeling it is a crowded place. When leaving we all said that we think seriously to come back. Last, not least - only 1 hour from the Athens airport/Athens downtown and it does not feel being close to the city. It is quite, not very busy, beautiful & clean sea. Thank you Despina for a great experience!

Stayed 9 nights in Aug 2017

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

5 Aug 2017

Week in Schinias

Had a great stay. Views to die for, Sandy beach nearby, plenty of small tavernas to dine at. House is fully equipped and everything we needed. Tips on places and restaurants were spot on. Loved the new pool and enjoyed our late afternoons relaxing with that view. All furniture and especially the beds are very comfortable. Suggestions are you must have a car, be prepared for plenty of steps, and if coming from US change your money to euros either before you leave or in Athens. Would definitely recommend Stargazer Villa.

Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2017

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Irene W.

24 June 2016

Incredible views and luxurious accommodations

The house lived up to its description. It is spacious and luxurious and the host and hostess made us feel welcome by stocking the refrigerator and cupboards with basic necessities such as coffee, tea, sugar, milk, water, and Greek delights such as yogurt, feta, and fresh fruits and vegetables. There is no public transportation available so it is necessary to rent a car or hire a guide. We did both and couldn't have been happier. Stavros Barbicas, who lives just down the road was the best guide one could have asked for. He is very knowledgeable not only about the sights to see, but about Greece's history, mythology, and also its current situation. Our days with him included not only trips but also enjoyable dinners at delightful tavernas - and usually lasted about 10 hours.

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

24 Jan 2016

No other place like this one

The view alone was worth 5 stars. It's on the top of the hill with a 360 degree view, and it is absolutely breathtaking. The home is beautiful, comfortable and has all of the amenities you would need. The beach down the road is perfect with gently lapping waves and shallow waters (especially great for little kids and senior citizens) and there is a lovely place to get a coffee, hot feta dip, and hand cut french fries right on the beach. And for the more adventurous, there is also a cove nearby where you can dive off of the rocks and go snorkeling. We left Stargazer Villa with great memories that our family will keep with us for a long time. Highly recommended.

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

8D4A6QZnj6soxY1ocAbSL1x/KlcGOU+t/qvwCWNqBfdEsFeKuShgou/pi1q1IKgN 8.

6 Jan 2016

A beautiful home and a wonderful trip

My week at Stargazer Villa and my time in Schinias Beach was thoroughly relaxing and wonderful. The house has everything you need including a well-equipped kitchen. The views are spectacular, and a trip down the hill to the beach for a daily swim is a must. You do need a car. There you can claim your spot at the local taverna and have a delicious meal of local fish, wine, salad, etc. It's easy to get into Athens for the day either by bus or car and tour the sites, getting back to Schinias by dinnertime. All-in-all, just what I needed to unwind. And Despina and Stavros are the best hosts!

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Robyn R.

5 Aug 2014

Beautiful Vacation Spot

Wow. There were 10 women sharing this gorgeous space. It was such a beautiful villa with a lot of room without get in each others way. Despina ensured that all our needs were met and assisted us with supplies and referral to her amazing tour guides - Rosa and Stavros. It was difficult to leave as we had become accustomed to feeling very spoilt. The views were majestic and I highly recommend this accommodation to friend or families.

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

28 June 2014

Dee

I stayed at this property with a group of 10 women for 4 nights. We had an amazing time there and the Villa exceeded our expectations in so many ways. The views were spectacular, and we enjoyed both sunrises and sunsets every day. The bedrooms were luxurious, and all beds were very comfortable. There were many balconies and outside areas, and we all had privacy and space both inside and out. The owner was extremely helpful, and helped us to arrange meals (bringing in a chef for our welcome dinner) and have fresh pastries delivered daily for breakfast. The couple who manage the property became friends in just that short time, and they organised transportation, and also took us for an amazing full day guided tour of Athens, including a show and dinner. I would recommend this property for anyone considering a retreat, but transport is essential, as it is not within walking distance of beaches or restaurants.

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

27 June 2014

Utterly utterly spectacular!

We absolutely LOVED our Stay. The villa was spotless and beautifully beautifully decorated. The views were incredible. The nearby restaurants and taxi services had very friendly staff that made us feel welcome. (Go to 'Plateia' for the chicken gyros!) My favorite moment was jumping off the boulders at the cove down below- the water was deep blue and pristine. Stavros and Despina, the owners, are kind, considerate, and were extremely helpful to us as we planned our trip. The entire experience was MAGICAL. The views! the views! the views! I cannot rate this villa highly enough,

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Despina B.

26 June 2014

Incredible vacation

We arrived exhausted and were very pleased with the home. We had a large family reunion and the home was spacious, with very comfortable beds, beautiful views and well appointed kitchen. It was everything that it was advertised for and then some. Being history buffs we were exited that the house is close to the historic area of the battle of Marathon, Eating places were plenty within 10-20 min of the house but we preferred to stay at the house for dinner so we could enjoy the spectacular sunsets. Owners were well informed and helpful with our requests. I would recommend this house to my friends and family.

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

JoAnne V.

30 Sept 2011

Our amazing holiday!!!

Well, we have been home for about a week and our amazing holiday seems like a blur. We arrived to a smiling Stavros, who ended up being our travel agent, chauffeur, and knowledgable guide for the week, I don't know what we would have done without him. His willingness to help and organize was wonderful and he would make a really great rally car driver :] We enjoyed his company and would highly recommend his services. He organized our trips to Athens, Santorini, ferry island tour and Meteroa all in a week, busy but awesome. When we arrived at the villa other Stavros was helpful and considerate. Helping with our baggage and giving a quick tour of our home for the week. He was readly avaliable if we needed him. The villa was more then we ever dreamed, what a view and all that space and marble was so different from home. Everything was clean and well taken care of. We used the kitchen for a few meals but since it was our "girls" holiday we made very good use of the taverna at the bottom of the mountain. She was wonderful and the food was delicious. We spent many hours talking and drinking wine on the deck and even spent one night with the lights turned off to watch the lightning storm. Beautiful!!!! Thanks for the use of your beautiful home and tell Rosa, Stavros and Stavros how much we enjoyed their company. Sincerely from 6, 50 year old girlfriends from Canada. "Yammis"

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Laura E.

11 Sept 2011

Gorgeous hilltop villa!!

Words cannot adequately describe this breathtaking hilltop villa over looking Aegean Sea and the island of Evia. Magnificent sunrises and sunsets, multiples porches and patios, Abundant windows creates the feeling of a being on a sea vessel as you gaze out at the azure waters.. Inside decor is artistically created with beautiful colors - azure blues, pale yellows, sunburst rust and gold in the fabrics and furnishings. A great vacation home for extended families!! This is our third return to this villa and it is like coming home each time we visit. Beautifully maintained.

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Karen S.

6 Aug 2011

Stargazer Villa added to a trip of a lifetime

When you arrive at the Stargazer Villa you are welcomed by a panoramic view in luxury that most of us will never experience. The joy is amplified when you meet Steve and Despina the owners as they share their life in Greece and in North Carolina and the "build" of a lifetime... the Stargazer Villa. Despina recommended a driver to us and we travelled with ease due to the great relationship they have with Stavros and Rosa. We were introduced to other family and received great recommendations on where to go and what to see. If you are looking for a place that provides a view like no other, privacy for everyone in your group, beautiful rooms to entertain in, a well equipped kitchen and a sense of belonging Stargazer will leave wanting to say longer. Thanks Despina and Steve you made us feel like we were at home in your home. Good to know: Did you know that you cannot rent a car in Greece without an international license. Check with CAA or AAA to find out how to get international license before you arrive.

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

6 Aug 2011

Wonderful Home & Wonderful Hosts!

The Stargazer Villa is a gorgeous villa that is the perfect location for exploring Athens and the surrounding area. Our party ranged from age 2 - 80 and we all thoroughly enjoyed the home and the hospitality of our hosts, Despina and Stravros. We enjoyed Schinias Beach with the toddlers. We roamed ancient Corinth with the history buffs. We screamed during the bungee jumping in the Corinth Canal with the teenagers. There truly was something for everyone! The house is spacious enough to accommodate everyone and has everything necessary for your stay. Also a big shout out to tour guide/driver - the other Stravros! He is a font of information and good fun! Schinias and Stargazer let you enjoy the "rural" Greece of local tavernas on the beach, but also be close enough to Athens culture and sightseeing. If you are considering a trip to Greece, Stargazer is a great choice!

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

John L.

2 July 2011

See you again!

Stavros and Bespina have created a beautiful house in a great area about an hour from the Acropolis, and 45-50 minutes from the airport. We stayed in the smaller villa, and it was more than spacious enough for a family of three. Well-appointed, beautiful furnishings, large and well-stocked kitchen, Wi-Fi and entertainment center, and stunning 180+ degree views of the Aegean Sea. There's even a lift if you need it (we just took the stairs). We spent a week here touring by car. This is a very central location to visit Delphi, Corinth, Athens, and many other places. Stavros (Steve) is a PhD historian who has written many history books. He delighted us with stories of Greek history. The beach area just down the hill is where the battle of Marathon took place around 500BC -- what historians consider one of the most pivotal battles in all of western history. We would definitely return to Star Gazer Villa on our next visit to Greece.

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

22 June 2011

Perfect Vacation

Our family of seven adults stayed at Stargazer Villa in June 2011. The house was perfect and looked just as wonderful in person as it did in the on-line photos. The views from every room are spectacular and there are many balconies for enjoying the view. No detail was overlooked. The spacious rooms and comfy furniture were perfect for gathering together during meals or for chatting, playing games and reviewing photos in the evenings. The huge well-equipped kitchen allowed everyone to be in the kitchen during meal prep times -- even though some were doing more sampling than preparing -- and there was a nice outdoor grilling area. (Be sure to go to the meat counter at Galaxy Grocery Store and buy Menny's (sp?) meatballs to cook on the grill. She is really nice and makes the best meatballs and sausages ever!) The beds were so comfortable and there was plenty of room for everyone to spread out when they needed a little space. The hot tub and outdoor shower were big hits. The location near Schinias Beach was great for relaxing days at the beach clubs and enjoying the calm waters. The young adults went wake-boarding at one of the beach clubs and the adventurous ones jumped off the cliffs into the deep waters near the house. This was one of their favorite parts of our vacation. The house has wireless internet, a local phone and a U.S. phone line, and several televisions, so those of us who are technology junkies could maintain their habits -- my preference was to ignore tv and internet and enjoy being in Greece away from the "real" world. After spending 2 days in Athens, we arrived at Stargazer Villa. We were warmly greeted by Steve and Despina - they rolled out the welcome mat for us and made us feel like their beautiful home was our home. It was great to be away from the city and in the heart of Greece. We did a few day trips to Mykonos, Olympia, and Cape Sounion after getting great advice about things to do from Despina and Steve. They were available to us if we had questions, but we also had our privacy. They are such warm and friendly people and they helped us with planning and ideas for our vacation before we left the States and after we arrived in Greece. Our family gathered together for a big vacation after our son's Navy deployment to the Middle East. This was the first time we had all been together for almost a year and it was the perfect family vacation. Lots for everyone to do in the perfect house with the perfect hosts.

About the host

Hosted by Despina

My husband and I, also love to travel and have done so all our lives. Meeting people from all over the world is the highlight of our lives, other than our 4 grandchildren!

I have found out that people who travel on their own, are adventurous, love change and challenge, and want to learn about other cultures, their history, their cuisine and what makes them happy!

We offer our guests a great opportunity to experience the Greek way of living, our culture, and our cuisine! We offer so many amenities from private tours, to private chefs, to massage therapists, just ask!

We are not always here, unfortunately, since we spend half the year in the USA, and traveling to Canada. When in Greece, we also tend to travel around Europe. BUT, don't worry, we have a great property manager Rosa who can take care of all your special requests. Her husband Stavros owns his own private tour business as well. In addition, they are the greatest neighbors to have.

Over the years, we have made great friends and shared many travel stories.

Why they chose this property

This is a luxury villa for folks who love great views, their comfort and privacy. It took us several years to decide whether we preferred being closer to the water, however the view and serenity of the place are unique. We chose to built on the top of the hill, enjoying the great vistas and still being within 3 minutes from the water. The best of both worlds.

What makes this property unique

We are strategically located with a day's trip to several great archaeological places and the ports of Athens that get you to many islands. The airport is 50 minutes away and the closest city is within 20 minutes.

There are many properties around us that are for rent. They are also great. However, our villa is indeed unique. The location on the top of the hill overlooking the historic bay of Marathon, the elegant architecture that separates the villa from all of the others, gives one the feeling of FENG SHUI with the combination of the mountains in the North and the sea in the South, draped with several islands in the horizon.