Disappear to a secluded Greek villa - private enough to bare all

GIC The Villa Collection offers an impressive selection of over 100 properties, most with private pool, in unspoilt and authentic parts of many Greek islands – and on the mainland, too. For a holiday with that get-away-from-it-all feeling, many properties offer total seclusion and privacy, so much so that you could happily walk around naked, claims the villa specialist…

From cosy hideaways for couples to spacious countryside properties for large groups, GIC offers an idyllic property for a remote escape away from the stresses of everyday life. Choose from an array of destinations, safe in the knowledge that all GIC’s handpicked properties are located in areas unblemished by mass tourism, whether you’d prefer tiny Antipaxos, with only 30 inhabitants and no shops – a friendly boat delivery service operates for groceries – or the sprawling landscapes of Crete with its mountains, valleys and miles of dramatic coastline.

Here’s GIC’s pick of villas best-suited to baring all:

Villa Ouranos, Skopelos
At the end of a road which snakes up a hillside from Skopelos Town, Villa Ouranos (sleeps two to six) is tucked away at the end of a quiet track, and stands within large grounds flanked by apricot and plum trees. There’s no chance of being overlooked whilst enjoying a drink on the expansive terrace, which has panoramic views over a valley and out to the sea. The sophisticated shops, bars and restaurants of Skopelos Town are a ten-minute drive away. A seven-night stay costs from £740 pp (six sharing) including flights (Gatwick) and car hire.*

Villa Yakovos, Paxos
Heading away from the cobbled streets of Gaios – Paxos’ main village – a narrow winding road snakes up a hill to the quiet hamlet of Ozias. From here, a track leads to the isolated location of Villa Yakovos (sleeps two to four). Surrounded by olive groves and without another house in sight, the only thing disturbing the peace is the gentle hum of cicadas. The views from the terraces and swimming pool are spectacular, taking in the sparkling sea and the neighbouring island of Antipaxos. A seven-night stay costs from £704 pp (four sharing) including flights (Gatwick) and car hire.*

Hilltop House, Ithaca
The fifteen-minute walk from the postcard-perfect Kioni waterfront up to Hilltop House (sleeps two to five) may be steep in places, but is certainly worth the effort for the total peace and isolation to be found. The house is traditional and charming, with a private pool and a sizable verandah, concealed from any passers-by courtesy of lemon, olive and pine trees, and half-shaded by grapevines. A seven-night stay costs from £660 pp (five sharing) including flights (Gatwick) and transfers.*

Villa Cypress, Kefalonia
Fulfil dreams of island escapism at Villa Cypress (sleeps two to six), concealed within gardens of citrus trees and colourful plants in the tiny hamlet of Konidarata, where the only sound to break the silence is the occasional clang of a goat bell. The large and private pool terrace has uninterrupted views to the islands of Ithaca, Meganissi and Lefkas, and there is an al fresco dining area for enjoying a tranquil evening meal. A seven-night stay costs from £620 pp (six sharing) including flights (Gatwick) and car hire.*

Villa Chloe, Crete
Set in expansive grounds amongst the rolling hills of northern Crete, Villa Chloe (sleeps two to six) is an idyllic countryside retreat, with no immediate neighbours, and a delightful sense of solitude. Despite the get-away-from-it-all atmosphere of the property, the closest village – with tavernas and a few shops – is only a few minutes’ drive, and a sandy beach is just a ten-minute drive. A seven-night stay costs from £629 pp (six sharing) including flights (Gatwick) and car hire.*

Celebrating a special occasion, or just want to enhance your holiday even further? GIC The Villa Collection’s concierge service can help with activities and ideas to make your trip even more memorable. Add a touch of luxury with a personal chef, gourmet picnic or beauty treatments, or simply make life easier by booking a restaurant or childcare in advance. Give GIC a call to discuss your personal requirements, and an expert will be happy to help.

*All GIC properties enjoy a complimentary welcome pack on arrival, plus maid service and linen change twice weekly. Flights are on pristine Germania aircraft, which received a hugely positive reaction from clients when introduced last year, and include full catering and a 20kg baggage allowance.

For more information, visit gicthevillacollection.com.