These are houses that my Father built, literally!
Leonidas Lymberis farmer, self taught builder and accidental tourist host extrordinaire! Alongside my Mum Fotini, his beloved wife of 60 years and partner in crime.
I know you will find it hard to imagine but this land not so long ago was farmland. Grandfather got this land as he didn't have the money to buy better, further away from the beach. Poor quality soil, salty air, all made for poor quality crops. Talk about how things change!!
First house to be built was a tiny house at the top of the hill to provide shelter from rain and hot sun during Summer.
Next was a kitchenette and toilet.
Hey, why don't we move here for Summer instead of commuting daily from a village a few kilometers away? Our rudimentary Beach House was born! Early June we moved to Zaga Beach for the season. In the mid 70's the first ever foreigners arrived for me to meet.
A German couple turned up and asked to camp on our property. Of course! The extended family immediately adopted them, "No we do insist that you eat with us!"
Next thing an Italian family appeared down the goat track, probably lost, and an unexpected request in broken English was brought onto the table as well as greek coffee and grapes, "would you be interested in renting this house to us next Summer? Done deal! Act now, think later!
Where would we stay next Summer? My Father had a whole Winter to think it through!
Maybe it's time to build a new house!
This house has been a constant companion for all my life, childhood bliss, teenage years angst, summer flings, sould searching and hours of quiet contemplation has been played out with these houses as the background scenery.
Take a deep breath in, feel the hot sand on your feet, dive into the cool water. Go to sleep and wake up to the sound of the waves and let this place weave its magic on you.
Welcome to my slice of paradise!