You get such a wonderful feeling when you stay at the delightful Maritsa Oikos. This gorgeous property, just 150 yards from Molyvos Harbour in Mithimna, has a fabulous history. Maritsa Oikos is half of a large home built in 1926 by Ioannes Krallis after his wedding to Maritsa Kalligeris. In the mid-eighties, the house was split to offer half to each of the sons, Stratis and Nikos. Maritsa Oikos is the half owned by the brother Stratis and his wife Nana who spend half of the year at the villa and the rest of the time in Athens. It is clear to see that this splendid villa is much loved and beautifully maintained.
Maritsa Oikos overlooks the emerald Aegean Sea with the popular Molyvos Beach being 450 yards away and some fabulous shops and local restaurants being just 150 yards from the villa. The villa boasts three charming bedrooms, one with a double bed and sofabed, another with two singles and a sofabed and the last being a pretty twin. There are two beautifully fitted, modern bathrooms, one on the ground floor for the downstairs bedroom and the other, a family bathroom, for the two upper bedrooms.
On the lower floor, you will discover an utterly charming living room with a feature fire, comfy sofas and a gorgeous ceiling. The living room leads through to a wonderful kitchen diner, again brimming with charm and love. The modern, fully equipped kitchen will delight, and meals can be taken at the dining table. The lower bedroom is very quiet and elegantly decorated.
Upstairs you will find the warm and inviting master bedroom with its high ceiling and rich wooden furnishings that complement the gorgeous hardwood floor. It offers romance and elegance in equal measure. The twin is equally lovely, with beautiful art on the walls.
Outside, guests can enjoy the superb terrace with its spectacular sea views, the villa’s swimming pool and its pretty garden. You can enjoy your holiday read on the loungers overlooking the harbour and the Aegean Sea. Alfresco dining can be enjoyed on the terrace, shaded by the plants that grow over the pergola. It is a stunning spot with magical scenery all around.
What Oliver loves...
Maritsa Oikos has been in the same family since 1926, being split into two for the family brothers in the eighties. It is clear to see that this is a much loved second home
The stone architecture of Maritsa Oikos is absolutely stunning plus the villa boasts a splendid terrace with incredible, panoramic sea views and a private swimming pool
It takes just two minutes to walk from the villa to the buzzy harbour of Molyvos with its colourful fishing boats, shops and restaurants
What you should know
You should definitely hire a car to enjoy Lesvos. There is so much to see and the island is the third largest of the Greek islands
One of the bedrooms is located on the ground floor
Ouzo will be offered after most of your meals at restaurants on Lesvos. You should visit the museum to learned all about its distillery...and don't be surprised to be offered a glass after breakfast!
The views from the castle are absolutely amazing, and the village is so pretty. It might be a steep climb, but the cobbled streets and panorama is worth it
The pool is usually open on the first week of May because the weather is not stable in April. If one requests the house and wishes to have the pool open we need 2-3 days preparation.
This home is a part of our Great Value and Heritage Collection!
This is a historic home, and as such:
It has probably been standing for over 100 years, which means it's full of historic value and charm but it may also have one or two quirks!
Some of the decor and furnishings may not be brand new, but that should not detract from your holiday experience in this unique setting that allows you to take a step back in time!
Meticulously selected. Rigorously approved. Our experts have reviewed over 100,000 holiday homes; only the very best make it into our collection.
4.7/5 Rated Excellent
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The Local Area
About the surrounding area of Maritsa Oikos
Walk to Village
Walk to Beach
Beach Nearby
You can walk to the buzzy harbour in two minutes and Molyvos’ main beach in roughly ten minutes. You do not need to bother with the car when staying at Maritsa Oikos and wanting to head out for dinner. The ambience of this dreamy tourist resort is amazing. Molyvos is situated on a small mountain topped by the dramatic Castle of Mithymna, built by the Byzantines and renovated by the Gattelusis. There are many ancient ruins scattered around the town. The town is brimming with attractive stone houses, just like Maritsz Oikos, as well as many shops surrounding the castle and following the coast to the scenic harbour.
The Olive Press Hotel used to be the village Olive Oil factory. The pebbly main beach gives way to soft sand, plus there are other small coves and bays close by. The harbour is a working fishing harbour lined with delightful cafes and restaurants. It is a wonderful scene in the mornings when the sardines, mackerel and other fish come in. They are sold in towns and villages as well as the markets of Mytilini. The restaurants of Molyvos are amazing, particularly with all the delicious fresh fish. You will taste some of the best grilled sardines along with meze, delicious ouzo and excellent wine.
Lesvos is the third largest Greek island and boasts sensational scenery, award-winning beaches, ancient, traditional, picturesque villages, a huge array of wildflowers and birdlife, lush pine forests, medieval castles, olive groves, scenic, colourful harbours, plenty of museums, a gourmet dining experience and some of the warmest, friendliest people in all of Greece. With stunning natural attractions including a petrified forest and hot springs, its wonderful landscapes are waiting to be explored on donkey or horseback, by foot, jeep or cycling.
The island hosts numerous festivals which can be enjoyed along with its gorgeous beaches, fascinating archaeology, stunning scenery and a laid-back lifestyle. The island is famous for its ouzo, its monasteries, its castles and its mountains.
The Region
The volcanic island of Lesvos (often spelled as Lesbos) offers visitors pretty villages, impressive nature, fascinating geology and gorgeous beaches as well as a fascinating history and rich island culture.
Seasonally, international flights arrive at the island’s airport around 7km south of the island’s capital city, Mytilene, or sail to Lesvos from various Greek ports including Piraeus, Athens.
Fall in love with the island beaches from the long shores of Vatera Beach with watersports, sun loungers and umbrellas to more remote spots accessible only by boat. Keen snorkellers will love the clear waters of Tsonia Beach or you may prefer to sip cocktails overlooking Paralia Tarti’s crystal-clear sea. If you can find the time, soak up the summer ambience of the lively beach at Molyvos with idyllic sunsets over the Aegean.
The island’s nature is inspiring with ample bird-watching opportunities, especially around the salt pans of Kalloni where migratory birds stop en route from Africa to Europe. In the springtime, look out for rare sightings of birds and beautiful wild flowers as you follow a network of hiking trails across the mountains and wild forests. Cycling is another wonderful way to experience the natural beauty and authentic Greek charm of Lesvos.
With archaeological sites and historic castles, there are many sites where you can learn all about the island’s diverse and often turbulent history. Admire the Roman aqueduct in Moria, the Byzantine castle in Molyvos and the impressive fort in in Mytilene. Visitors will also appreciate the island’s hot springs and spas, many which have been used for centuries, and Lesvos’ rich heritage in olive oil and ouzo production – a visit to The World of Ouzo Museum and distillery is an interesting detour.
Another great highlight of the island is The Petrified Forest, dating back 20 million years -the fossilised tree stumps underwent the process of petrification during the active volcanic period. Learn more about this unique natural site, at the forest’s Natural History museum around 11km from the remote fishing harbour of Sigri.
