The peaceful village of Megalochori makes a much sought after and appreciated alternative to the bustling and jostling of the busy city of Fira. Mansion Sophia, a rare find, is a just short stroll from the central village square with its pretty churches and picturesque Venetian bell towers. The village, with its winding cobbled pathways, is free of traffic. The imposing large wooden entrance gates of Mansion Sophia conceal a secluded and pretty private courtyard, complete with the recent addition of a swimming pool.

Double doors lead directly from the courtyard into a spacious lounge and dining area with its superb high vaulted ceilings and original polished wooden floors. The two double bedrooms, one master and one smaller second bedroom, lead off from either side of the central living room. One bathroom, with modern amenities, services both bedrooms. The well equipped kitchen has an original stone arch which now serves as a washing up and preparation area. The coup-de-grace is the lovely kitchen garden, perfect for enjoying alfresco meals under blue skies whilst absorbing the village atmosphere.

Mansion Sophia was built around the mid 19th century and inhabited by one of the feudal landlords of the island at that time. These merchants and land barons became wealthy exporting the unique Vinsanto wine the island still produces. Trade brought wealth and wealth brought the Mansion Houses. Megalochori had a particularly strong link with the town of Odessa in Russia. Many of the church bells which still toll in the village today are from Russia and have a very distinct clarity.

Up until ten years ago the house was still occupied by one of the descendants of the Akila Family, after which the villa is named. She refused to allow modern technology to enter the house, and lived happily with no electricity collecting her water in the sterna, or well, after each winter rain. Mansion Sophia now has the luxury of all modern conveniences including electricity and running w