Many times, we marvel at the splendid houses and dwellings we encounter on islands and mountains, but we don’t know the fascinating stories behind them. One such example is a stunning residence in Ithaca that underwent a remarkable transformation. It is aptly named Villa Kalos, which means beauty in Greek. The before and after pictures of the house reveal the passion and love that the people who renovated it, who are not even Greek themselves, invested in it.
Kourvoulia: The hidden paradise of Ithaca
Ithaca Island: How a wrecked house became a stone villa
The photos show a small, stone palace that was once a neglected and deserted house. It was hard to believe that such a transformation was possible. The house lies in the village of Lahos in Ithaca and had been forsaken for many years.
But fate had a different plan for the house when South African photographers Gerda Genis and Robbert Koene laid eyes on it and fell in love with it. They decided to transform it completely and make it what it is today.
The new owners rebuilt the house from scratch and kept the stone as the main element in all areas. They added wood to the structure and the furniture to create a harmonious contrast. The decoration is simple but elegant and the rooms look like a stone villa.
The simple and clean design in all areas reflects the calm and peaceful atmosphere of the island of Ithaca.
The house that was once a wreck and a ruin now boasts a swimming pool and offers a unique experience to its guests. The pictures of what it looked like before do not prepare you for what you see now.
A Visit to Ithaca Island
Ithaca is the Ionian island that charms its visitors not only with its beaches of clear waters but also with its high-quality services and its tourism that do not… overwhelm the traveler. Many people prefer to stay on boats and dock at the island’s marina instead of booking accommodation on the island. Holidays on the mythical Ionian island are bound to be memorable for anyone who spends some summer or autumn days there. It is a heavenly island that offers a mix of stunning beaches, preserved villages, and great hospitality.
You will discover beaches with trees that reach the sea and trails where you will enjoy nature. It is no wonder that Ithaca was Odysseus’ destination and anyone who visits the island… always returns!
Travel to Greece – Google News – Follow us
Ionian Islands: Ithaca, Gidaki – The blue beach that looks like paradise
The unknown ancient Greek city with the king who should not have been seen by the sun
Ithaca: On this beach, according to the legend is the place that Odysseus landed
Follow exploringgreece.tv on Instagram and Facebook
Frequently Asked Questions
Villa Kalos is a stunning stone villa located in the village of Lahos on Ithaca Island, Greece. The name means 'beauty' in Greek. It is a renovated residential property that was transformed from a neglected and abandoned house into a luxurious stone palace by South African photographers Gerda Genis and Robbert Koene. The villa features stone architecture, wooden elements, elegant decoration, and modern amenities including a swimming pool.
Villa Kalos was renovated by South African photographers Gerda Genis and Robbert Koene. Despite not being Greek themselves, they fell in love with the abandoned property and invested passion and dedication into completely transforming it from a ruined structure into a beautiful stone villa that now welcomes guests.
The renovation of Villa Kalos maintained stone as the main architectural element throughout the property while incorporating wood in the structure and furniture to create a harmonious contrast. The design philosophy is simple yet elegant, featuring clean lines and minimalist decoration that reflect the calm and peaceful atmosphere of Ithaca Island.
Ithaca is a mythical Ionian island in Greece known for its clear waters, pristine beaches, preserved villages, and excellent hospitality. Unlike many Greek islands, it offers high-quality tourism that doesn't overwhelm visitors. The island is famous as the legendary destination of Odysseus and attracts visitors seeking a mix of stunning natural beauty, nature trails, and authentic Greek experiences.
Yes, Villa Kalos is available for guest stays and offers a unique accommodation experience with its luxurious stone villa design and swimming pool. Beyond Villa Kalos, Ithaca Island offers various accommodation options for visitors. Many travelers also choose alternative lodging options such as staying on boats docked at the island's marina, making Ithaca accessible for different travel preferences and budgets.
