Vacation Rentals by Owner

Just as amazing, the second time

Guest: Rick13 (San Francisco, California)
Date of Stay: 04/29/11 Review Submitted: 04/06/12

This was my second extended stay at this beautiful property. My first time was for 3 months. This time I was fortunate enough to spend 5 months, April-August. As my previous post describes, this property is simply perfect in every way. The stunning views, privacy, and overall property itself is simply ideal. If the island beaches, hiking, nightlife or quant villages are not your thing, everything is here at the property. A full vegetable garden to toil in, picking fresh green figs, apricots and pomegranates from trees located directly on the property, a fresh herb garden, outdoor private shower with direct views of the sea, and lastly, strolling through the private olive trees on the property. For singles, or couples this is the place you read about in magazines and travel books........

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Restful relaxation

Guest: Sailor (Long Beach, California, USA)
Date of Stay: 10/19/10 Review Submitted: 10/31/10

My wife and I stayed here at the end of the 2010 season and could not have wished for a better place to ease away the tensions of a life lived at an all-too-hectic pace. We absolutely doted on Kayto, the live-in cat, who is so affectionate that he started to bring "gifts" to us! The gardens have an idyllic lookout over the eastern seas of the Cyclades and the light was different at each moment of our day, affording us the opportunity to see the view in so many delightful ways. The village stores at Exembla, the town of Appollonia with its museum and fascinating history, and the many many walks available to us gave us the chance we needed for much rest and relaxation. The delightful churches, one for each day of the year, the ancient walls and towers, the unspoiled hillsides, the acropoli, the beaches, cafes and restaurants - they all combined to make our stay even more pleasant than we had originally hoped. My wife took the opportunity to prepare some colored pencil art and studied the insects of the island, while I took great delight in photographing at every turn of the walks among the roads and harbors. We were enabled to read, cook for ourselves when we wanted and eat healthy foods when we went out for a meal, rise and sleep at an hour that suited our varying needs (nap-time is SO necessary and welcome!), stroll the lanes and by-ways and still have connectivity when we absolutely had to have it. This was a perfect get-away for us although, being late-season, the ferry service was perhaps a little sketchy yet still available and fast. The stone Thimonia had been restored and so were we - our restoration has been wonderful for us both, individually and together. If you want to relax in restorative surroundings, take as much time as you can here - you will not regret a single day!

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, tourists without a car, romantic getaway.

My two months stay in Sifnos

Guest: Walter (TRIEST, ITALY)
Date of Stay: 09/01/10 Review Submitted: 11/04/10

Last summer I decided to rent some houses in Greece on the Ciclades Islands. I booked four accomodations by internet hoping that they would agree with the pictures and the description I got from the owners. Three of them were a disaster: dust and dirtiness everywhere, careless furniture with broken chairs and no view to the sea. When I came to Sifnos I was very sceptic and it was a real surprise to verify that the house I rented was much more amazing than the sensation I got from the pictures. Everything was perfect and tastefully. I felt like at home and I enjoyed very much the beautiful garden and the amazing view to the sea. The house has a peculiar charm that houses to rent usually don't have. I appreciated also the enchanting situation of the cottage . Cars cannot go along a narrow path which leds to the house and I felt every day of my 2 months stay a pleasant sensation of peace. It is difficult to explain with few words the amazing atmosphere of the place.

Recommended for:Age 55+, sightseeing.

Charming House and Beautiful Island

Guest: Jack & Laura (Toronto, Canada)
Date of Stay: 07/04/10 Review Submitted: 08/01/10

The house and island exceeded expectations. It's prettier than the photos, which cannot really capture the atmosphere of the place. A beautiful stone walkway takes you to a private gate and upon entering a gasp as you realize that you've entered a very charming realm. The house is perched on the side of a hill overlooking terraced fields and the sea. Steps lead down to the stone terrace, olive groves and herb garden (you've already passed the tomato garden). The house itself is lovingly decorated and very comfortable. I especially loved the traditonal stone floors, and whitewashed plaster walls. It even has a good collection of books. We ate at the stone table overlooking the sea almost every evening, and especially enjoyed the outdoor shower with the panoramic view - so refreshing! It is indeed very convenient to walk to the local store in the village, and not much farther to take in the interesting shops and sites of the larger town of Apollonia, which is a delight in itself. The bus stop is a short (5 minute) walk away, and will get you transportation to a couple of beaches, by a 10 minute scenic drive through mountainous terrain with views of ancient terraced fields and the deep blue sea beyond.

Recommended for:Age 55+, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

A Quiet Corner of Paradise

Guest: D&D (Santa Fe, New Mexico, USA)
Date of Stay: 06/01/10 Review Submitted: 12/19/11

We first stayed at Elaine's cottage several years ago, giving ourselves the retirement gift of a long sojourn on a Greek island--one of our cherished dreams. We fumbled around on the Internet, which as we all know usually promises much more than it delivers, and found VRBO listing 55773. Since we lived in the DC area at the time, at Elaine's suggestion we took the bus up to New York City and had a wonderful lunch with her and her very dear son Peter. We all approved of each other and sealed the deal. Some months later, as we rolled our luggage down what Elaine's photo web site describes as "the unimpressive entrance to Exambela Village," our trepidation mounted. What had we done? What we had done was get very very lucky. When we went through the big green gate, we were stunned that this was where we had been led and that this was where we would be living for the next month. It's not often in life that you get better than you expected. I won't repeat all the other reviewers' litany of the charms of the cottage and the island (all true). Suffice it to say that two years later, when we were feeling very down in the midst of a relocation, and in need of a sense of home again, we booked another month's stay in Kayto's house. It is such a beautiful, unique place (and such a deal!). In our hearts, it will always be our Greek home--one of our most beloved former homes, where life was just about as good as it can be. Euxaristoume, Eleni.

Recommended for:Age 55+, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Beyond our expectations in every way

Guest: Pamela & Gary (Inverness, Nova Scotia, Canada)
Date of Stay: 04/02/10 Review Submitted: 04/27/10

I really don't know where to begin except to say that everything is more beautiful than we ever could have imagined...if that is possible The design and decor of Thimonia, the beautiful gardens and terraces...you must be truly an artist extrordinaire. We are also enjoying your music library...seems to complement the environment. Edvokia and her mother Voula are very charming friendly and helpful...we may have Easter dinner at their hotel tomorrow. Kayto came around last night while I was watering the geraniums with my bath water...I tried to coax him to come in but just as I gained his confidence, 2 o3 firecrackers went off in the distance ( Easter celebrations ) and he ran off...we noticed on one of our BR runs during the night that he was in his basket...this morning he was gone again. After having coffee with Edvokia this morning and getting the internet connection going we walked to Apollonia enjoying the poeple, finding the Bakery and grocery. Had lunch on the patio and kept pinching ourselves to be sure that the view was not a dream. In the afternoon we walked across the valley to Kastro then back along a hiking trail towards Faros connecting to the main road bringing us back to Exambela. An outdoor shower followed by a glass of wine while listening to Pavarotti and reading a nice book has filled in time while waiting to have dinner. We could not be more pleased with this little piece of heaven.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, romantic getaway.

Guest: Christine Sinclair-Rowe (Sunnyside, NY)
Date of Stay: 11/08/09 Review Submitted: 11/08/09

What a wonderful time we had in you're lovely house in Sifnos. Everything was perfect, from the house, the beaches, the weather and the sweet and loving Kayto, who we became quite attached to. It was truly a vacation to remember for our 25th wedding anniversary. The house is lovely, rustic and warm, with everything you need. The views are astounding, watching the sun rise in the morning, and the chorus of animals waking will be something we will always remember. We will also always remember the ever entertaining Kayto, who caught a mouse and brought us a bird on our last day there. We miss him, and your very special place.

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Guest: PStravel (Georgetown, Ontario)
Date of Stay: 10/05/09 Review Submitted: 10/05/09

We have just returned home after a month at Thimonia. What an idyllic little piece of heaven! The cottage is very well equipped, the setting very peaceful, and the view spectacular, overlooking Kastro and the sea! The location is perfect. There is very easy access to bus service and it is within easy walking distance to several villages. There are many wonderful trails to hike, several of which begin close to Exembela. We hiked several trails,and, while not all are well marked,the directions available at Thimonia were excellent. After a day out hiking, sightseeing, or at the beach, it was always wonderful to come back "home"and be welcomed by Kayto. The best part of the day was relaxing on the terrace before dinner, Kayto cuddling on one of our laps, and looking out over the hills and the sea. Absolute heaven. We found Elaine extremely helpful. She responded to our questions and her advice was excellent. Evdokia, the manager/caretaker, was very kind and always available to help us if needed. All in all, it was a wonderful experience. Thimonia,Sifnos, and Kayto, are firmly embedded in our hearts. Highly recommended.

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Guest: MONTSE REUS (Barcelona/Catalonia/Spain)
Date of Stay: 08/16/09 Review Submitted: 08/16/09

We have just arrived from our stay for two weeks in the Thimonia and we are already missing it. It was such a lovely and prefect place. This are just some of the items I would liket to highlight: sunrise was astonishing from the house, the lovely veranda, the nicely furnished house, the confortable bedroom (really fresh, not AC needed). Evdokia, the house manager was really nice and helpful. The views to the sea, the olive field, the fields embroidered with dried stones walls. The perfect pedestrian area around the house, but just 5 minutes from the house you can always park the car (even in the middle of august). The conveniently located market in the next village (but just a 10 minutes away with a lovely walk through pedestrian paths). The 15 minute location of Appolonia's city center where all the people in the island go in the evening to have dinner al fresco, to have a drink, etc. The lovely beaches of the island, all of them with pristine waters, great for snorkeling and relaxing, in most of them you can park the car almost in the sand and have a lovely lunch also in the sand, just 2 meters away from the water. And Kayto, I could write a lot about this lovely cat, great companion with really good behaviour. If I had to mention a negative point is that we had quite a lot of very windy days which could be a little annoying but appart from this little thing the rest, and specially the house, was perfect.

Owner response:This young Spanish couple's English is not perfect, but there comments are. EMH

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Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 08/05/09 Review Submitted: 08/05/09

Bravo Elaine and Peter! Your Sifnos Island property,with its stunning Exambela location is truly superb. We are so happy to have been able to call your home "our home", well, for at least the month of July. The listing on VRBO, with its photos and features, no matter how well presented, can never do full justice to your wonderful place. One has to be there to truly experience the serene and calming effect of your magical spot. In forty years of visiting Europe this was our first time in Greece. And our first time, thank God, without needing to rent a car. Your place is so ideally located to easily explore all the island has to offer. The local bus service is frequent, on schedule, and offers breathtaking, panoramic rides through the mountainous countryside to some of the most beautiful beaches : Vathy,,Chrysopiggi,Cheronosis,, and Platys Gialos, , to name a few. And It's easy to see why Sifnos is such a magnet for avid walkers and hikers, with its network of paths and stone paved walkways throughout the island. The locals are very warm and friendly, whether at the markets, shops, tavernas, or the neighborhood in Exambela. And your property manager,Evdokia is a great asset and very helpful. Last, but by no means least, we have to mention Kayto, the resident therapist. Had we not met him, we are sure that we would have still immensely enjoyed your Sifnos home as much as we did. But now having got to know this wonderful creature we cannot imagine the place without him. He was always there waiting to greet us (to be fed ?) when we returned from our day trips. A great companion at all times, always constant, Kayto truly sets the rhythm of your Sifnos home. Again many thanks for giving us this wonderful holiday experience. Cheers and All Our Best! Eryk and Olga Hudson,Quebec Canada

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Guest: Veronica Watkins (Fort Worth, Texas)
Date of Stay: 06/25/09 Review Submitted: 06/25/09

I had the opportunity to stay at this wonderful, cozy, beautiful house in June 2009. The accommodations were amazing and exceeded my expectations beyond belief! You feel like you are entering into another world has you walk down the narrow paths to the house and enter through the front gate. The first thing you see is the garden and side walk path that leads to you the large sitting area. The views take your breath away. You are so secluded. It was my first time to visit Greece and I cannot tell you how happy I am that I chose this house and island to visit. If you are looking for a Greek island experience that feels like it takes you back in time about 50 years, this is the place for you. It is absolutely unforgettable. Elaine and the House Manager were a pleasure to deal will as well. The entire trip was great. I would highly recommend staying at this house. I hope to visit it again in the near future! PS…Kayto is a sweetheart as well!

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Guest: Betty9 (Vancouver, BC CDA)
Date of Stay: 02/06/09 Review Submitted: 02/06/09

My husband and I stayed here for one month - July, 2008. It was truly one of the most memorable and enjoyable places we have every stayed, and we've travelled a great deal during our 30 years of marriage. Our only complaint would be the difficulty of dealing with the local cleaning/maintenance staff ... but that is a very minor complaint given the joy of waking to a glorious sunrise, exploring the gorgeous island of Sifnos, and enjoying the comfort of this beautiful cottage. We cannot recommend it highly enough!

Owner response:My year-round Gardener and his wife, out cleaning lady do not speak English, only Greek. But they are good at their jobs and live right there in Exambela. I am please with Betty's comments. EMH

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Guest: Kees Meijer (Amsterdam, Holland)
Date of Stay: 05/15/08 Review Submitted: 05/15/08

The best accommodation I ever had in almost 40 years of visiting Sifnos, this time in April 2008. Ideal location: secluded and quiet, while close to shops,restaurants and cafés, but no disturbance from the latter, even in high season. Splendid view over fertile valleys and whitewashed villages towards the blue sea and other islands in the distance. Extensive, fully grown garden with trees and flowers. Spacious terrace with views in the back towards mountains and monasteries on top of them.The house has been carefully restaured with authentic materials and provides everything you might possibly need (i.e. much more than the usual outfit in commercial accommodation). This includes a fully equiped kitchen and a cosy bathroom with plenty of hot water from the central heating system that also ads a lot of comfort on chilly evenings f.e. in spring.Sifnos, though in the last decades seeing it's share of (mainly Greek) tourism, still succeeds in keeping it's old ways and pace, especially in places like Exambela, though it's only a ten minutes walk to where it "all" happens, mainly in Apollonia, and only in high season. Beaches (half a dozen of them) can easily be reached by bus, rented car or scooter, but even better on foot, using the old and beautiful donkeypaths through unspoiled landscapes, wading through wild flowers - in spring time that is. A typical walk to one of the beaches will take somewhat over one hour. More ambitious and higher walks may take up to 4 hours. Detailed map with all these itineraries available on the island.Kayto, the luckiest cat on the island, if not in Greece, who lives here permanently, is a very friendly guy and surprisingly civilized for all the freedom he enjoys. He likes human company a lot and will join you where ever you are on the premises, though never obtrusively so. He cannot resist to get next to you on the couch, but never even tried the bed: when we left the bedroom door open, he would spend the night on a chair next to it! When closed, he would sleep in his own comfy basket. Taking care of him involves little more than pouring fresh water into his bowl every now and then, as his dispenser (and his hunting talents!) provide him permanently with ample food. The only drawback of his presencecould be the sadness you feel when you have to leave him at the end of your stay...For all of this I would not hesitate to recommend the Thimonia to anyone looking for quiet and comfort in one of the most attractive and yet l

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Guest: Rick13 (San Francisco, California)
Date of Stay: 11/19/07 Review Submitted: 11/19/07

Words cannot express the amazing experience I had at this house. I spent 3 months at this property and I have nothing but the highest regard for the property and its owner. The house and grounds are amazing. The view of the morning sun rising over the adjacent islands is breathtaking. Peaceful, quite and private. Days were spent reading, relaxing, walking through the olive gardens, and just appreciating the amzing view the property house as it looks out over the entire mediteraneun ocean. Everything is within a 5-10 minute walk including markets, transportation, internet cafe, villages etc. Just an ideal place for a holiday. Private yet ideally located with all modern conveniences. I have found my yearly holiday retreat.

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Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 07/04/06 Review Submitted: 07/04/06

wow! what can we say - the perfect greek cottage, near the perfect greek village, on the perfect greek island - not to mention the perfect greek cat to keep us company! to simply say how magical the cottage is, while true, fails to place it in context - sifnos is a world full of unforgettable people and places and sights, and the cottage is a private and peacefull home from which such joys can easily be discovered. both elaine (the owner) and vasaliki (the caretaker) are delightful people, who both made us feel so very welcome and comfortable - we cannot thank you enough for the wonders this holiday provided - xx

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Guest: Natalie Peters (Middlebury, Vermont USA)
Date of Stay: 04/13/06 Review Submitted: 04/13/06

The house is idyllic in so many ways. Wonderful site on hill overlooking ocean and sky where light changes hourly..fun for my painting activities. House was a well stocked one and so very comfortable to be there. Quiet, yet within walking distance to groceries, etc. I had a very comfortable, delightful visit! Thanks!

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Guest: Cusi Cram (-)
Date of Stay: 10/24/05 Review Submitted: 10/24/05

This house was just wonderful and the setting for one of the most relaxing vacations I've ever had. It is quiet, peaceful and full of small luxuries... from the elegant brass bedside lamps on a dimmer switch to the outdoor shower with sweeping views of the sea and terraced hillsides! The resident cat, Kayto, is an affectionate charmer and I loved walking with him through the olive groves on the land. My husband and I are writers and found the place very inspiring and conducive to work. I highly recommend spending time in this white-washed jewel box. Thank you!

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Guest: Nigel McGilchrist (Orvieto Italy)
Date of Stay: 03/11/05 Review Submitted: 03/11/05

The house, Elaine, is a real corner of Paradise, and we are so very grateful to have been here: it is so quiet, so private and yet with such a lovely wide view of the island and the sea. And you have made it a perfect place to stay - traditional and very Greek in feel, but wonderfully comfortable and practical (unlike so many spartan places we have been to). What unforgettable morning breakfasts and evening aperitifs we have taken at the little table by the door, looking over your olive trees, and in what unforgettable Greek light! We have grown to like Sifnos enormously with its dignified normality and beautiful houses, its fine places to swim and its thankful lack of mass tourism. This, for us, has been the perfect house on a perfect island and at a perfect time of year. Thank you for thinking of every detail of our well-being. May we book again for next year?... and the year after.... and... Nigel McGilchrist " June 2003

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Guest: Terry Hildebrandt (NYC,NY)
Date of Stay: 03/06/05 Review Submitted: 03/06/05

A Great Time was had by all!! The accommodations where everything we wanted and more. We felt like we were a world unto ourselves, in the centre of our own private island.

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