It's not often you arrive at a place and it's even better than the photos suggested, but that was the case with Villa Elaion, which exceeded all our expectations. It's hard to fault the place, or the team who run it: housekeeper/gardener Hristos and his wife; Anthoula, who oversaw our booking and replied so promptly to all our pre-trip questions; and the owner, Aude, for sharing her wonderful home. My wife and I brought her 87-year-old mother on holiday, promising her a place of calm and beauty. It couldn't have been better. The split accommodation worked perfectly - there is a second, self-contained en-suite annexe at the back of the main house. The pool is a big selling point and the views from across the bay to distant islands were exceptional - from dawn and dusk. It was always clean too - Hristos comes in quietly every other day at sunrise to clean it. The bbq was great fun to use - we cooked Skopelos sausage (a local speciality) and fresh fish. And the kitchen was spotless and fully equipped. The best thing about Villa Elaion, however, was the overall sense of authenticity. This place feels like a genuine home rather than a purpose-built holiday let and the interiors are incredibly tasteful. No Athena-posters here! From the choice of music CDs (from Salif Keita to Dave Brubeck), to the contemporary art, to the furniture - all very stylish and homely too. A huge thank you to everyone. It was quite high risk bringing my elderly mother-in-law on holiday, but she loved it. And that's because of Villa Elaion and its tranquility and beauty. Greece loves grandmothers too - as a lovely cafe owner in Loutraki said to us, everyone has one! Highly recommended.