THE FACTS ABOUT SOROS VILLA

Greece

If you were to conjure a dream cottage on a small Greek island, Soros Villa would probably come close. It may be very basic, with none of the design or sophistication of the other villas here (it doesn't even have mains water), but its simplicity and near-perfect location are irresistible. There are secret hiding places and a hammock in the garden, planted decades ago with oleanders and now-towering palm trees, from which a wooden gate leads to the beach. In front, a pergola topped by an old bamboo trellis planted with bougainvillaea provides shade, while inside there is a small living room with a wonky marble floor and a rudimentary but practical kitchen. There are three bedrooms (a double, twin and a single) but just one bathroom (the double has its own loo) in the house, plus a separate double room/studio with a shower in a converted outhouse. There are a few antiques, the odd Indian chest and mirror, family photographs (including one of Soros as it was perhaps 30 years ago), lots of books, complete silence and a light breeze from the sea. SLEEPS 7 COST From £1,250 per week CONTACT Elysian Holidays (01580 766599; fax: 766359; www.elysianholidays.co.uk)