Perched high on a hillside with views to tiny Micro Nisi island below and the coast of Kefalonia in the distance, Villa Yasmi is both stylish and timeless, combining local materials with contemporary comforts to make an elegant base for a couple or smaller family.

Exposed wooden beams lend character to the double height living space, with a cute twin tucked under the eaves and a romantic and light-filled master bedroom on the ground floor.

Both the master and the living area open onto furnished terraces, with lots of space to read in peace or eat with the family as the mood takes you. The grounds are attractively landscaped with oleander, bougainvillea, rosemary and of course jasmine, planted all around to create a sweetly-scented cocoon of Mediterranean fragrance and colour.

Villa Yasmi’s centrepiece is a shimmering pool, carefully positioned to maximise both your privacy and the sweeping sea views. There’s space and comfort enough to encourage you to stay all day here, but the peacock iridescence of the Ionian sea below is hard to resist, with Climati and Kremidi beaches reachable in 2 or 8 minutes respectively by car. These intimate pebble coves are perfect for snorkelling, sunbathing or perhaps an evening dip after a day exploring Zakynthos, but if you prefer a sandy beach with convenient resort-style facilities, Alykes beach is a good family choice around a 25-minute drive away. Considerably closer is Agios Nikolaos harbour, with its traditional waterside tavernas, boat trips and essentials mini-market. For more sophisticated dining, there are several appealingly upmarket options along the coast road between Yasmi and the port.

Yasmi is one of three detached villas, each well separated from the others, with individual entrances and swimming pools offset to maximise privacy. The Athens-based owner designed the villas for her children, and therefore included some common areas, including a large additional sun terrace and a boules alley, which all guests are welcome to use.

For a larger group, Levandi, Yasmi and Meli booked together would be a fantastic combination to mark a special occasion.