The Secret Garden - Courtyard & Private Pool Villa

Summary:

A rare find in the heart of Kalamata’s historic Old City, nestled right under the Medieval Castle, this fully renovated 19th-century villa offers a secluded luxurious oasis, just steps from the vibrant Open Market and the Old City of Kalamata. Hidden behind high walls and surrounded by lush greenery, the property features a spacious private garden, a big serene courtyard with a swimming pool , and two independent living spaces, perfect for those seeking both comfort and privacy.



The Space:

This bespoke property is a uniquely situated retreat nestled in Kalamata’s most iconic area, directly beneath the medieval Venetian Castle in the heart of the Old City. Originally built in the late 1800s and recently restored with care and craftsmanship, the villa preserves its timeless charm while offering all the comforts of modern living.



At the entrance, a lush private garden welcomes you with the scent of fragrant orange trees and the inviting shade of greenery. The centrepiece is a large outdoor dining table—perfect for meals under the citrus canopy—which also cleverly transforms into a full ping-pong table for fun-filled afternoons. A traditional wood-fired oven, BBQ grill, and a fully equipped outdoor kitchen make it easy to enjoy al fresco cooking and dining, Mediterranean-style.



The inner courtyard is a serene, sun-soaked gem. Here you’ll find a private swimming pool with a waterfall feature and counter swim jet system, allowing you to swim in place against the current—ideal for exercise, physiotherapy, or simply relaxing as it also functions as a hydromassage. The courtyard also includes a refreshing outdoor shower, a shaded lounge area, a stylish cocktail bar, and a second breakfast table for slow mornings or relaxed afternoons.



Inside the main house, the open-plan layout includes a fully equipped kitchen, a large dining area, and a cosy living space with a home cinema setup and a striking built-in wine rack, with a sofa that turns into an extra king size bed. The elegant master bedroom with a king size bed and a beautifully designed full bathroom complete this wing of the home.



Across the courtyard, the independent guesthouse offers both charm and privacy. It features two single beds that can be connected into a king-size bed, an en-suite bathroom, and its own full kitchen—ideal for friends, teenagers, or guests who appreciate their own space. The two single beds can be transformed into one large King size bed in case it is preferable.

All rooms are air-conditioned, equipped with large TVs, and stocked with all essential amenities. Despite its central location, the villa is remarkably quiet and secluded—a rare sanctuary that blends authentic character with refined comfort in one of Kalamata’s liveliest districts.



Just steps away is the the Park of the Olive Tree and the new Open-Air Theatre, where many of the city’s cultural events take place, while the Old City as well as the Central Market with bars, restaurants, and original seafood taverns is located right in front of the property. And if you're visiting between November and January, you're in for a rare treat: you can witness first-hand the traditional process of extra virgin olive oil production at the neighbouring olive mill—a unique, seasonal highlight.



Extra tip: Twice a week (Wednesdays and Saturdays), the large local farmer’s market takes place right in front of the house—don’t miss it! It’s a vibrant, authentic experience full of fresh local produce and flavours.



Guest Access:

Guests have exclusive access to the entire villa, guesthouse, garden, courtyard, swimming pool, and both indoor and outdoor living areas!

- Please note that the pool is closed from November 1st through April 28th.



The Area:

Kalamata, nestled in the southern Peloponnese, is a vibrant city that perfectly combines its historical legacy, cultural richness, and natural beauty. The 13th-century Kalamata Castle(500m), perched on a hilltop, offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city, the surrounding countryside, and the Messinian Gulf. Below the castle, the Church of the Holy Apostles is an iconic 11th century Byzantine monument, steeped in history and a symbol of the city’s heritage. Extra tip: Twice a week (Wednesdays and Saturdays), the large local farmer’s market takes place right in front of the house—don’t miss it! It’s a vibrant, authentic experience full of fresh local produce and flavours. Among its many attractions, the Open Railway Museum(2km) stands out as a unique destination. This charming outdoor museum showcases a collection of vintage locomotives and railway artefacts, offering a fascinating glimpse into the region’s transport history. Set within a lush park, it is also an ideal spot for leisurely walks. In the heart of the city, Kalamata’s historic centre is a treasure trove of history and architecture. A stroll through the old town reveals narrow streets lined with neoclassical buildings, boutique shops, and traditional cafes, each adding to the city’s charm. For beach lovers, Kalamata’s expansive sandy coastline (3km) is a major draw. The crystal-clear waters of the Messinian Gulf provide the perfect setting for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports, while the vibrant promenade is lined with restaurants, cafes, and bars that come alive in the evenings. Whether you prefer a relaxing meal of freshly caught fish at a seaside taverna or a cocktail at a stylish beach bar, the waterfront offers plenty of options to unwind. Culture enthusiasts will find much to explore in Kalamata. The Archaeological Museum of Messenia(600m) displays a fascinating collection of artefacts from the region’s rich past, while the Municipal Art Gallery(600m) showcases works by prominent local and national artists. Kalamata is also celebrated worldwide for its olives and olive oil, making a visit to a local olive grove or a tasting session at a speciality shop an essential experience. You can learn about the traditional methods of olive oil production and savour the distinctive flavours that make Kalamata olives famous. Venturing a little further out, discover the beaches of Verga (4km), Mikra Mantineia (6km) and Bouka (16km) for a change of scenery. Whatever your reason for visiting, Kalamata has something for every taste bud!



Getting Around:

You may reach the property by car, taxi or the 02 bus (the stop is just a 2 min walk from the property).The distance from the airport is 10 km (approximately a 10-minute drive) while the KTEL central bus station is just a 5 min walk!



Other Things to Note:

Free public parking is available right in front of the property. Twice a week there is a vibrant farmer’s market right in front of the house

For larger groups or special arrangements, we’re happy to help organise your stay to best suit your needs.



Interaction with Guests:

Holihouse deals exclusively with online advertising, promotion and online administration on all international rental platforms.

Holihouse's goal is to serve guests and host online for a pleasant stay!