Ask most Greeks where Amoni is and chances are they would struggle to place it. That little-known corner of the Peloponnese is where Athens-based artist Alexandros Douras spent his summers.
The family home, built by his father decades ago, still stands nearby. Years later, after establishing his studio Korkodilos in the centre of Athens, Douras returned to create a place that would allow others to experience the landscape that shaped his childhood.
ARRIVAL
There is something undeniably liberating about simply getting into a car and driving away from the humdrum of a busy city like Athens. After winding through pine-covered hills, I arrived in a tiny hamlet where the shimmering waters of the Saronic Gulf glittered with promise.
THE HOUSES
LASPI, the Greek word for “mud” hints at the project’s deep connection to the earth and landscape. Designed as a concrete structure embedded in the hillside, it is split into two adjoining homes: Petres (“Stone”) and Skoni (“Dust”), each measuring 150 sqm. Both share the same layout: a spacious living room, fully equipped kitchen, three sea-facing bedrooms, an outdoor dining terrace, and a small pool.
The project is essentially an extension of Alexandros’ ceramic practice, sharing the same appreciation for texture, materiality and restraint. The tactile sculptural light fixtures and many of the objects inhabiting the houses, such as the handmade dinner plates, are handcrafted in his studio.
What we loved
The floor-to-ceiling windows throughout both the living areas and the bedrooms, which frame uninterrupted views of the sea. Watching the sunrise from our bed was an experience worth waking up for.
AMENITIES
The open-plan kitchens are well stocked with appliances to prepare proper meals, given there is only one tavern in the vicinity and the closest convenience store is a 20-minute drive away. The tavern is a gem in its simplicity, serving fresh seafood from a balcony that hangs above a sheltered bay.
There are bikes and paddle boards free to use at the house, as well as a cosy fireplace for the colder months.
THE EXPERIENCE
A stay at LASPI feels distinctly residential rather than hotel-like. Yet the spaces avoid the clutter and personal traces often found in holiday rentals. Instead, they offer the rare combination of a home’s ease and the calm clarity of thoughtful design.
And then there is that familiar Greek warmth. The property is run by Alexandros’ mother, who lives nearby and welcomed us with freshly baked cookies. Throughout the stay, she remained available should anything be needed.
A short walk from the property leads to a rocky swimming deck where you can dive directly into crystal-clear water. Continue a little further and within ten minutes you’ll find a quiet beach tucked away along the coastline. This is a holiday built around daily rituals: a morning swim, a slow breakfast, stretching by the pool deck, another swim, lunch in the shade, and perhaps one last swim before sunset.
On a clear evening, the sound of the water can be heard all the way up to the house, lulling you to sleep.
Journey
Take a car from Athens, it’s only an hour and a half drive passing the famous strait of Corinth.
What to do here
Less than an hour from LASPI lies Ancient Epidaurus, where one of the country’s most remarkable ancient theatres still hosts performances each summer. Nafplio, the first capital of the modern Greek state, charms with its elegant streets and waterfront, while Mycenae and the Corinth Canal offer fascinating glimpses into the region’s rich past. For a slower-paced excursion, the thermal waters of Loutraki make for a restorative day trip.
IDEAL FOR
LASPI works beautifully for couples seeking a private escape and families looking for an easy seaside base.
Perhaps the ideal scenario, however, is gathering a group of friends and taking over both houses. Together they create a small compound where days can revolve around shared meals and sunset swims, while still allowing everyone their own privacy and space.
Side note: The two houses sit next to one another, and sound can occasionally travel between the outdoor areas, particularly around the pools. For most guests this is unlikely to detract from the experience, but those seeking complete seclusion should bear it in mind.
RATES
Low season: 360 euros plus tax, High Season 450 euros plus tax (13%).
Booking & Contacts
Laspi Houses
Leoforos Artemidos / Limnou
20004 Pefkali, Sofiko
Greece
