Skopelos island, Skopelos town, Cottages

Aletri Cottage

• Facilities
• Description
• Policies

INTERIOR
Aletri Cottage was originally used as living quarters for the monks and caretakers of the Monastery which today is uninhabited.
This house is over 100 years old and its original use makes it an unusual and historical property. It has three separate entrances on the ground level formed by an L-shaped two-storey structure. One door enters into the kitchen which is simply furnished with traditional décor and includes a washing machine. A small hall off the kitchen leads to a separated shower room and W/C with hand basin. Another outside door leads to a sleeping room furnished with two single beds and is air-conditioned. With its low wood ceilings, wooden floors and traditional decor, the room feels cosy and comfortable. The third outside door which is the front door entrance leads into the formal living room with original Skopelitian furniture, fireplace and walls covered with old photographs. This entire first floor, including the kitchen, single bedded bedroom and living room, can be closed by dividing doors to allow for privacy (each having their own separate entrance) but, as all rooms are connected, it can also be used as one large living space.

By climbing a stairway next to the front entrance, you reach the second level where there are two bedrooms, both of which are air-conditioned; one with a double bed and the other with a wonderful antique king-sized four poster bed. Again, this level is lovingly furnished and decorated with family heirlooms. It boasts not only polished wood floors and open beamed ceilings but also its finest features which are the numerous French doors leading to balconies on both sides of the house. Whilst the front balcony looks out on the lush green hillside and to the sea in the distance, the back balcony looks up towards the splendid monastery and bell tower of Agios Riginos. At the far end of this back balcony lies a very large furnished terrace which has panoramic views: the monastery to one side, your private swimming pool below and, opposite, fantastic hillsides covered with olive trees leading down to the sea. Next to the terrace and just outside of the master bedroom is a newly built w/c shower room which is reached via the balcony.

EXTERIOR
Aletri Cottage is surrounded by the lush green of a mature garden, with an array of plants and flowers.
The name Aletri comes from the word 'plough' and, to one side of the house, is the site of the original wheat mill where you will find some of the tools that were once used by the monks. To the other side, again under the gaze of the monastery, is the barbeque and pool area. Walking under the amazing pergola with a large old kiwi plant, you enter the outdoor dining area, perched just above your private pool with views down the valley toward the bay of Skopelos. At the far end of the pool is a fresh water spring, bubbling softly and continuously, even in the height of summer. The peace and tranquility of this spot, with the monastery looming above is seldom found.

SURROUNDINGS
Aletri Cottage is situated approximately 3 kilometres from town, which makes it an easy drive for those who want the seclusion of a countryside setting with the convenience and amenities of the town within a short 5 minute drive. Other than the Monastery itself, Aletri sits alone, high on the hill overlooking the entire valley to the sea below.
Aletri is also ideal for walkers and hikers as the walk to town takes only about 30 minutes. Walking in the opposite direction across the hills to the other side of the island is one of the popular walks undertaken by visitors to the island. Heading up and over the pine covered hilltops and down the other side brings you to the sandy beach of Limnonari and further on to the exquisite little fishing village of Agnondas. Here is a waterfront lined with fish tavernas, a small beach and crystal clear water for swimming. This walk takes approximately 1 hour 15 minutes with easy bus connection for the return to town if necessary.

SUITABILITY
Aletri Cottage is perfect for couples, large parties and families.
The flexibility of its use offers a perfect setting for several couples or families. On the other hand, as the living areas can be divided, it is also very comfortable for two people without feeling lost in a large house.
Due to the steepness of the inside stairway, the upstairs is not suitable for unaccompanied small children or people with walking difficulties.
However, the grounds are perfect for children of all ages, with plenty of space to play and explore.