A selection of comments from our guest book. Read other reviews in full below
The best villa we have stayed in yet!
5 stars out of 5.
Gilly's Place was the best villa we have stayed at yet after 9 years of holidaying in Kefalonia. It has fantastic views of the sea and hillside and was equipped with everything you would need. Our children enjoyed the lovely pool every day and we enjoyed the peaceful surrounding gardens and bbq area for evening meals. Lakithra has a fabulous cake shop and bakery for fresh bread and a couple of tavernas within easy walking distance. We would love to return one day! Thank you Gilly!
Fantastic Villa in Lakithra, Scenic Views & More!
5 stars out of 5.
We had a superb two week stay at Gilly's Place at the end of June / early July 2015, and already my wife and two teenage boys are asking to return on future trips to Kefalonia. From the moment we first contacted her and throughout the planning stages for our trip, and finally during our stay and departure, Gilly was helpful, informative, and immediately responsive to all of our questions and needs.The villa itself is located on a hillside overlooking the southwestern part of the island in the lovely village of Lakithra, with spectacular views during the day, and refreshing breezes in the evening. We particularly enjoyed the fact that we had the best of both worlds in that the village with all its charm and amenities is a quick walk away, yet Gilly's Place itself is set back, with the only sounds of birds and the local goat and sheep herds with their delightful clanking bells greeting us each morning . The villa's multi-story layout is both aesthetically pleasing and functional, with a lower level "family room" which opens out to the poolside terrace, a main level living room and kitchen, and two bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms on the top floor. In addition, there is a full bedroom with en-suite bathroom on the lower level, separate from the family room. This layout is ideal for families with children, as our two teenage boys could hang out at night and watch TV and play fussball on the lower level while we dined and relaxed on the outside covered terrace. All the appliances are modern and well maintained, and the few nights we needed to run the air conditioning the units ran well. The two outdoor terraces are lit at night and afford choices for nighttime dining, with the small balcony terrace off the living room providing a perfect spot for morning coffee while enjoying the views of the sea and Zakynthos in the distance. The village of Lakithra is picturesque, with several tavernas within walking distance, along with a nice family run mini-mart and one of the best Greek pastry shops you will ever find. Major supermarkets, beaches, and other tavernas and restaurants are a quick drive away, as is the airport and the island's capital city, Argostoli. All in all, Gilly's Place is a delightful, ideally located holiday home, providing spectacular views and privacy, yet close to the action when wanted, with all the amenities one seeks for families or friends who want to relax in comfort while on Kefalonia.
5 stars out of 5.
We had a superb two week stay at Gilly's Place at the end of June / early July 2015, and already my wife and two teenage boys are asking to return on future trips to Kefalonia. From the moment we first contacted her and throughout the planning stages for our trip, and finally during our stay and departure, Gilly was helpful, informative, and immediately responsive to all of our questions and needs.The villa itself is located on a hillside overlooking the southwestern part of the island in the lovely village of Lakithra, with spectacular views during the day, and refreshing breezes in the evening. We particularly enjoyed the fact that we had the best of both worlds in that the village with all its charm and amenities is a quick walk away, yet Gilly's Place itself is set back, with the only sounds of birds and the local goat and sheep herds with their delightful clanking bells greeting us each morning . The villa's multi-story layout is both aesthetically pleasing and functional, with a lower level "family room" which opens out to the poolside terrace, a main level living room and kitchen, and two bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms on the top floor. In addition, there is a full bedroom with en-suite bathroom on the lower level, separate from the family room. This layout is ideal for families with children, as our two teenage boys could hang out at night and watch TV and play fussball on the lower level while we dined and relaxed on the outside covered terrace. All the appliances are modern and well maintained, and the few nights we needed to run the air conditioning the units ran well. The two outdoor terraces are lit at night and afford choices for nighttime dining, with the small balcony terrace off the living room providing a perfect spot for morning coffee while enjoying the views of the sea and Zakynthos in the distance. The village of Lakithra is picturesque, with several tavernas within walking distance, along with a nice family run mini-mart and one of the best Greek pastry shops you will ever find. Major supermarkets, beaches, and other tavernas and restaurants are a quick drive away, as is the airport and the island's capital city, Argostoli. All in all, Gilly's Place is a delightful, ideally located holiday home, providing spectacular views and privacy, yet close to the action when wanted, with all the amenities one seeks for families or friends who want to relax in comfort while on Kefalonia.
Home from Home
5 stars out of 5.
My first thought was 'what a stunning view'! And that was just from the outside. Inside did not disappoint. As soon as I walked through the door I felt at home..... in fact, better than my home!! The kitchen was fully stocked with everything you would need to cook. The comfy chairs were just what was needed after a long hard day on the beach. And the juke box......no arguments about type of music - the box had it all. We did not want for anything while we were there. Would I go back? Definitely.
5 stars out of 5.
My first thought was 'what a stunning view'! And that was just from the outside. Inside did not disappoint. As soon as I walked through the door I felt at home..... in fact, better than my home!! The kitchen was fully stocked with everything you would need to cook. The comfy chairs were just what was needed after a long hard day on the beach. And the juke box......no arguments about type of music - the box had it all. We did not want for anything while we were there. Would I go back? Definitely.
A week in Paradise
5 stars out of 5.
What a beautiful place. The villa has every luxury you could hope for, the view is spectacular. To wake up every morning with the sun glinting off the sea, to watch the Honey Buzzards soaring above the peaceful garden and to cool off in the gorgeous pool certainly made this a holiday to remember.The surrounding area was great to explore with some spectacular beaches and amazing restaurants.
Gilly's Place is a destination I will certainly return to again and again, a little slice of Paradise.
5 stars out of 5.
What a beautiful place. The villa has every luxury you could hope for, the view is spectacular. To wake up every morning with the sun glinting off the sea, to watch the Honey Buzzards soaring above the peaceful garden and to cool off in the gorgeous pool certainly made this a holiday to remember.The surrounding area was great to explore with some spectacular beaches and amazing restaurants.
Gilly's Place is a destination I will certainly return to again and again, a little slice of Paradise.
The perfect place in the sun.....
5 stars out of 5.
We stayed at Gilly’s Place in July 2014. The villa is modern, very well equipped and clearly a home from home. It is perfectly located – for the airport, restaurants, shops and attractions but not least for its setting on a hill with superb views of the island of Zakinthos. The villa is an idyllic place to enjoy quality time with the family. Most of the time was spent outdoors, with no less than three outdoor eating areas to choose from …….. my personal favourite was the covered terrace which is an extension of the lounge that provides gorgeous views of the sunset in a cool breeze on a hot summer night. Gilly, the owner, was extremely helpful and eager to please and all transactions were timely and professional. Angie, the Manager, was also very friendly, providing useful information and was prompt to resolve a small issue during our stay. Last but not least, I would advise you to treat yourself to a home cooked meal of your choice by Viva the mobile Chef – delicious and reasonably priced! But if you prefer to eat out – Elianos was outstanding – location, food and service! We have been fortunate enough to stay in some beautiful villas around the world …..and this is one of the best, although the fabulous location of the villa does mean that it is accessible by over 30 steps so may not suit everyone. I would be very happy to recommend Gilly and her place in the sun – we hope to return in the not too distant future.
5 stars out of 5.
We stayed at Gilly’s Place in July 2014. The villa is modern, very well equipped and clearly a home from home. It is perfectly located – for the airport, restaurants, shops and attractions but not least for its setting on a hill with superb views of the island of Zakinthos. The villa is an idyllic place to enjoy quality time with the family. Most of the time was spent outdoors, with no less than three outdoor eating areas to choose from …….. my personal favourite was the covered terrace which is an extension of the lounge that provides gorgeous views of the sunset in a cool breeze on a hot summer night. Gilly, the owner, was extremely helpful and eager to please and all transactions were timely and professional. Angie, the Manager, was also very friendly, providing useful information and was prompt to resolve a small issue during our stay. Last but not least, I would advise you to treat yourself to a home cooked meal of your choice by Viva the mobile Chef – delicious and reasonably priced! But if you prefer to eat out – Elianos was outstanding – location, food and service! We have been fortunate enough to stay in some beautiful villas around the world …..and this is one of the best, although the fabulous location of the villa does mean that it is accessible by over 30 steps so may not suit everyone. I would be very happy to recommend Gilly and her place in the sun – we hope to return in the not too distant future.
Idyllic villa on an idyllic island
5 stars out of 5.
It's unimaginable that anyone who has had the opportunity to stay at this remarkably beautiful and comfortable villa would not want to return. We cannot overstate how much we enjoyed our stay and how, as we departed for the return journey home, we were wishing we could have stayed longer and resolved to book again for next year.
Thank you for making your ‘home away from home’ available to us. You have put such a lot of care and attention to detail in the design of your property and everything and every facility one could need was there.Kefalonia is a stunning island with the warmest of welcomes and the location of the villa is perfect. It’s so convenient for the airport and Argostoli and being able to watch the cruise ships go past on the way into and out of Argostoli is exciting, especially as we love cruising too.
Lakithra and the surrounding villages are very pretty and offer everything one might need by way of restaurants, shops/supermarkets and bars. Avithos beach is simply gorgeous made even more inviting by the excellent food available at Avithos Preview restaurant. This is our favourite restaurant, although there are so many others which are really good, and Panos who runs this family restaurant is the perfect host and ensures everything is just right for you. Hiring a car gives you the freedom to explore Kefalonia (and the neighbouring island of Ithaka) and the location is perfect. Everywhere is very accessible by car from the villa and even Assos and Fiskardo which are the furthest away can be reached in around an hour.
Kefalonia is an island to be explored as it has so much to offer, but if pure relaxation is all that you are looking for, then there is no better place to stay than in its sumptuous rooms, and attractive gardens and swimming pool.
Thank you so much and see you next year!
Wonderful villa with spectacular views
5 stars out of 5
Just returned from a wonderful week . Gorgeous views and all the amenities you could ever need or think of. Ange who looks after the house and its occupants was extremely helpful even with printing our boarding passes after the airline changed the times saving us a lot of time and money. Had most of our meals at Makis place . Simple Greek food wonderfully cooked. Tell him what you would like and he will have ready the next day good value for money. As was Viva the personal chef who cooked for us one night and even does the washing up. We are already missing the quiet tranquil surroundings, that allowed us to de- stress from our busy lives, we have already booked for next year.
5 stars out of 5
Just returned from a wonderful week . Gorgeous views and all the amenities you could ever need or think of. Ange who looks after the house and its occupants was extremely helpful even with printing our boarding passes after the airline changed the times saving us a lot of time and money. Had most of our meals at Makis place . Simple Greek food wonderfully cooked. Tell him what you would like and he will have ready the next day good value for money. As was Viva the personal chef who cooked for us one night and even does the washing up. We are already missing the quiet tranquil surroundings, that allowed us to de- stress from our busy lives, we have already booked for next year.
Total Paradise
5 stars out of 5
I really enjoyed my stay with my friends in June. The villa is amazing and by far the best place I have stayed in on any of the Greek islands I have visited. Nothing has been forgotten in the set up, I honestly could not find one fault. The bedrooms are fantastic (I stayed in the master bedroom with the king size bed) and the view from the balcony is breathtaking. Every detail has been finished to perfection from the brilliant sound system and TV downstairs (you can play i-pods etc from the docking station and listen to music by the pool), to the contents of the kitchen cupboards (I was very pleased to find egg poachers - inspired!) they really have thought of everything and it made our stay all that more special.
The pool area is lovely and the sunbeds (and hammock!) are really comfortable.
As for Lakithra, what a charming little place with traditional tavernas and bars and even a bakery with tasty fresh bread and cakes! I'm glad we hired a car because some of the trips we went on (to Melissani Lake and the Drogarati Caves) were mindblowing. The beaches were also lovely, Costa Costa in Lassi and Avithos were two we went to. The views on Kefalonia are really something else!
Lidl isn't far for all the kitchen essentials if you do some cooking, which I would recommend as the kitchen has everything you need. The BBQ area is also great for lazy evenings having tea and looking out at the view, which we did a few nights.
5 stars out of 5
I really enjoyed my stay with my friends in June. The villa is amazing and by far the best place I have stayed in on any of the Greek islands I have visited. Nothing has been forgotten in the set up, I honestly could not find one fault. The bedrooms are fantastic (I stayed in the master bedroom with the king size bed) and the view from the balcony is breathtaking. Every detail has been finished to perfection from the brilliant sound system and TV downstairs (you can play i-pods etc from the docking station and listen to music by the pool), to the contents of the kitchen cupboards (I was very pleased to find egg poachers - inspired!) they really have thought of everything and it made our stay all that more special.
The pool area is lovely and the sunbeds (and hammock!) are really comfortable.
As for Lakithra, what a charming little place with traditional tavernas and bars and even a bakery with tasty fresh bread and cakes! I'm glad we hired a car because some of the trips we went on (to Melissani Lake and the Drogarati Caves) were mindblowing. The beaches were also lovely, Costa Costa in Lassi and Avithos were two we went to. The views on Kefalonia are really something else!
Lidl isn't far for all the kitchen essentials if you do some cooking, which I would recommend as the kitchen has everything you need. The BBQ area is also great for lazy evenings having tea and looking out at the view, which we did a few nights.
Welcome to Paradise
5 stars out of 5
What a wonderful villa.
During our stay, we were consistently taken aback by the care and attention that has been paid in creating this wonderful villa. Every aspect, no matter how small has been carefully considered and wonderfully executed, from the music available throughout the villa, to the egg poachers in the kitchen drawer, the moment you step inside the villa, nothing is left to chance, and you are guaranteed a most wonderful stay. It's a home away from home, with the warm, welcoming feeling that is felt from the very moment you open the door.
The surrounding area's amenities complement the house well, with a wonderful bakery full of delicious treats, to a small, welcoming local bar, which serves a range of drinks, and with George behind the bar - you certainly could not ask for more welcoming locals. Other local amenities include a small store, and some wonderful Greek restaurants.
Beyond walking distance, there are many further things to see, explore and experience, from day trips to Argostoli to beautiful beeches in Avithos and beyond. There is plenty to occupy even the most avid of explorers.
All in all, we couldn't have asked for a more wonderful venue for a holiday.
5 stars out of 5
What a wonderful villa.
During our stay, we were consistently taken aback by the care and attention that has been paid in creating this wonderful villa. Every aspect, no matter how small has been carefully considered and wonderfully executed, from the music available throughout the villa, to the egg poachers in the kitchen drawer, the moment you step inside the villa, nothing is left to chance, and you are guaranteed a most wonderful stay. It's a home away from home, with the warm, welcoming feeling that is felt from the very moment you open the door.
The surrounding area's amenities complement the house well, with a wonderful bakery full of delicious treats, to a small, welcoming local bar, which serves a range of drinks, and with George behind the bar - you certainly could not ask for more welcoming locals. Other local amenities include a small store, and some wonderful Greek restaurants.
Beyond walking distance, there are many further things to see, explore and experience, from day trips to Argostoli to beautiful beeches in Avithos and beyond. There is plenty to occupy even the most avid of explorers.
All in all, we couldn't have asked for a more wonderful venue for a holiday.
Absolute Bliss !
5 stars out of 5
Just got back from a fantastic girls holiday , it was the most perfect place for a relaxing break and we enjoyed every minute of our stay there.
The villa is amazing and has everything you could possibly need. The layout is superb and even when five girls were getting ready for a night out we were never arguing over who got to use the shower first as there are so many!
The pool area is ideal for sunbathing, but there are also plenty of shaded areas for those who want to get out of the sun for a while.
A highlight of the week was having Rory the chef come to the villa to cook a meal for us. The clean plates afterwards showed how much we enjoyed the food! He was incredibly friendly and I would definitely recommend him to anyone staying.
On the nights we ate out our favourite place was Elianos, the staff were very friendly and welcoming and we enjoyed the food so much we decided to go back on the last night of our holiday.
Although there are many places to eat out, the villa is so well equipped we enjoyed a few nights in sat on the balcony with a glass (or two) of wine just admiring the gorgeous scenery.
It was an amazing holiday and although the tans are fading, we will be talking about our week in Kefalonia for many months to come! If you are looking for somewhere to stay that can only be described as paradise, then this is without a doubt the only choice!
5 stars out of 5
Just got back from a fantastic girls holiday , it was the most perfect place for a relaxing break and we enjoyed every minute of our stay there.
The villa is amazing and has everything you could possibly need. The layout is superb and even when five girls were getting ready for a night out we were never arguing over who got to use the shower first as there are so many!
The pool area is ideal for sunbathing, but there are also plenty of shaded areas for those who want to get out of the sun for a while.
A highlight of the week was having Rory the chef come to the villa to cook a meal for us. The clean plates afterwards showed how much we enjoyed the food! He was incredibly friendly and I would definitely recommend him to anyone staying.
On the nights we ate out our favourite place was Elianos, the staff were very friendly and welcoming and we enjoyed the food so much we decided to go back on the last night of our holiday.
Although there are many places to eat out, the villa is so well equipped we enjoyed a few nights in sat on the balcony with a glass (or two) of wine just admiring the gorgeous scenery.
It was an amazing holiday and although the tans are fading, we will be talking about our week in Kefalonia for many months to come! If you are looking for somewhere to stay that can only be described as paradise, then this is without a doubt the only choice!
The perfect idyllic getaway holiday
5 stars out of 5
After waiting for what seem liked an age since booking the holiday, we arrived in Lakithra to 30 degree heat and clear views across the Mediterranean sea and landscape. The short journey to the villa didn’t quite prepare us for the splendour which was waiting; after driving down the small slope to the parking area, we were greeted with views of the crystal blue waters, Zakinthos in the distance and most importantly, the stunning magnificence of the villa. The detail is superb and the whole house is fully equipped with everything one could need for a summer holiday. The photos simply do not do the space justice; every little whim has been catered for and the abundant seating and relaxing areas allow you to pick the perfect spot in the sun or the shade – which in June, was still plenty hot enough.
The luxury of having a private pool for the week was not wasted; both my partner and I were eager to use it for early morning swims, midday swims, afternoon swims and early evening swims. This villa is so well equipped, that one could spend the entire week sat around the pool staring at the beauty and simplicity of Kefalonian life.
On the days we did venture out, we found plenty of places to visit, and more importantly, eat. Avithos beach is a few minutes’ drive away and you are unlikely to ever find a beach like it ; calm, serene and peaceful. The food in all of the restaurants – locally sourced and always freshly prepared – was absolutely incredible. A special mention must go to Preview and to Elianos – two stunning tavernas that give a warm welcome to all guests.
A day trip up to Assos and Fiskardo is well worth the time and effort – it may be an hour or so drive, but the landscapes are breath-taking and the destination points even more so.
This is something special: A luxury villa in the most sublime surroundings. Whether one is looking for a relaxing holiday by the pool, an adventure holiday with kayaking, caving and boating, or a holiday with plenty of opportunity to drink cocktails in Argostoli, this really is the perfect location and villa.
It’s fair to say that the people I work with have been very jealous – and they’ve all been eager to find out the details of the villa and when it’s available! The only downside is that once everyone starts to book, it’s going to be difficult finding a week when we can go back to enjoy Kefalonia!
5 stars out of 5
After waiting for what seem liked an age since booking the holiday, we arrived in Lakithra to 30 degree heat and clear views across the Mediterranean sea and landscape. The short journey to the villa didn’t quite prepare us for the splendour which was waiting; after driving down the small slope to the parking area, we were greeted with views of the crystal blue waters, Zakinthos in the distance and most importantly, the stunning magnificence of the villa. The detail is superb and the whole house is fully equipped with everything one could need for a summer holiday. The photos simply do not do the space justice; every little whim has been catered for and the abundant seating and relaxing areas allow you to pick the perfect spot in the sun or the shade – which in June, was still plenty hot enough.
The luxury of having a private pool for the week was not wasted; both my partner and I were eager to use it for early morning swims, midday swims, afternoon swims and early evening swims. This villa is so well equipped, that one could spend the entire week sat around the pool staring at the beauty and simplicity of Kefalonian life.
On the days we did venture out, we found plenty of places to visit, and more importantly, eat. Avithos beach is a few minutes’ drive away and you are unlikely to ever find a beach like it ; calm, serene and peaceful. The food in all of the restaurants – locally sourced and always freshly prepared – was absolutely incredible. A special mention must go to Preview and to Elianos – two stunning tavernas that give a warm welcome to all guests.
A day trip up to Assos and Fiskardo is well worth the time and effort – it may be an hour or so drive, but the landscapes are breath-taking and the destination points even more so.
This is something special: A luxury villa in the most sublime surroundings. Whether one is looking for a relaxing holiday by the pool, an adventure holiday with kayaking, caving and boating, or a holiday with plenty of opportunity to drink cocktails in Argostoli, this really is the perfect location and villa.
It’s fair to say that the people I work with have been very jealous – and they’ve all been eager to find out the details of the villa and when it’s available! The only downside is that once everyone starts to book, it’s going to be difficult finding a week when we can go back to enjoy Kefalonia!