We had never booked before with Owners' Direct, and being naturally inclined to pessimism, I arrived at Villa Meliti armed with bin-liners, detox wipes, spare towels and a readiness to possibly be disappointed. We had, after all, head some gruesome scare stories about booking directly with owners. That said, our dealings with Ioanna, the charming and efficient owner, has been excellent, so perhaps I needn't worry...
Arriving at Villa Meliti, every anxiety I had, melted away. Ioanna and her nephew Akis welcomed us like old friends, collecting us from the port and being patient and kind as we wearily blinked under the un-used-to sunshine. Meliti is a home-away-from-home, decoarated with style and flair (and certainly appealing to more artistic temperaments) and posessing much that sterile holiday lets do not: an ecclectic CD library; multi-lingual book collection and decorated with original art and 'objets' which make it feel so special. The space is generous - the outside space alone houses a day-bed, perfect plunge pool, hammock, various sitting areas and outdoor kitchen, all lushly planted and situated amongst the olive trees. Maid service is frequent, discreet and thoughtful, and even a welcome pack awaited us on arrival.
The house is a two-minute walk from the oldest - and in our opinion, the best - taverna on Paxos, plus a bakery, market and walks across the island along ancient footpaths in shaded olive paths leading away from the house in every direction. This is also a nature-lovers' paradise and the garden alone teems with flowers, butterflies, bees and bird-life.
The situation, house, garden, host, location and ambience were perfect for us, and we have determined to return. In fact, we should probably have suggested that the Villa is dreadful. That way, we could keep this hidden gem of a property all to ourselves...
