Fodor's Expert Review San Stefano Archontiko

To stay in this family house is to experience the lifestyle of Corfu's Venetian aristocracy. Built by the owner's ancestors in 1782, it has been passed down through members of the Manesis dynasty ever since. Replete with antique portraits, furniture, decorative items, and books, all belonging to generations of the family, it imparts a veritable history lesson, and the beautifully coordinated color schemes are a delight to the eye. Odd domestic details scattered throughout the house reveal that, when not occupied by guests, the residence reverts to its parallel role as a family home. The strawberry-hued mansion, generally regarded as an architectural gem, is set on a rock overlooking the sea, at the center of its demesne; it is not a surprise to discover that the house has performed as a fashion shoot venue, and provided the setting for an episode of popular TV series The Durrells of Corfu. The accommodation, with its five bedrooms, spacious and elegant salons, and enormous kitchen with many original features, has been upgraded to cater for visitors in comfort, whilst retaining its traditional layout and character.