Old Olive House was originally a ruined old stone barn, which we took 2 years to renovate in 2006, re-using all the old stone and keeping the original shepherds' shelves and other touches. The house stands in a working olive grove, we press around 100 litres of organic virgin olive oil per year, which is freely available for our guests to try! The house overlooks the longest sandy bay in the Peloponnese - with amazing views from the terraces in front of the living room. from each bedroom and the pool. At the end of a lane, it is completely peaceful and secluded, yet only minutes away from the bustling market town of Zacharo with wonderful fresh fish, fruit, vegetables and delicious bakeries. Whilst the house is made of traditional stone, it is decorated in a modern fresh way, and has a kitchen equipped for enthusiastic cooks, should you want to eat on the outside dining terrace. With a terrace per bedroom, separate pool terrace with loungers and beanbags, and a full sized ping pong table, you may never even make it down to the beach! The main house sleeps 6 in 3 large bedrooms, there is also a guest house close by which sleeps an additional 4 guests.

We loved this part of Greece the minute we found it. Incredibly naturally beautiful and peaceful, totally secluded and secure - and well away from the tourist crowds. This is real Greece as the locals truly experience it. Our wonderful house-carers, Charles and Ellie, live only 10 minutes away and are on hand to help and give tips on where to go and what to see. We always leave a welcome pack and bottle of wine for all guests, just to make sure the first day goes with a swing!

From the house it takes about 5 minutes to get to the almost deserted longest sandy beach - with only some low level beach bars every now and then in case you fancy a local beer or cold drink. Given the length of the coastline, you can pick a new beach to go to every day of your holiday - all have their own character. Should you be historically inclined, it is about 25 minutes drive to Ancient Olympia, Ancient Messinia, or the incredible Temple of Apollo, and about an hour to the historic Bay of Navarino, Methoni Castle and many more historic sights. Slightly further afield for a day trip is Napflion (ancient capital of Greece), and the world famous amphitheatre at Epidavros. If you are feeling energetic, the Neda Valley waterfalls offer wonderful walks, as does the Arini Gorge very close but spectacular. The green woods and amazingly clear water off a very different side of Greece. Either beach tavernas or rustic country restaurants are all close by and offer good Greek feed at very inexpensive non touristy prices - this is part of the true Greece - where Greeks go on holiday!