Ducato Wine Village, Villa Io Schoolhouse & Pool
Once Megalochori's village school, this restored Cycladic residence now welcomes up to six guests behind its historic walls. Original vaulted ceilings, arched passageways and whitewashed interiors preserve the character of the old schoolhouse, while three bedrooms and a welcoming living area make room for family and friends. Outside, a private pool sits within a colourful cobbled courtyard. The village square is just a short walk away, with local tavernas, cafés and everyday island life.
About the Home
Long before welcoming travellers, this building was the village school of Megalochori, where local children once gathered for their lessons. Today, its rooms have been carefully restored as a private residence, retaining the architectural character of the original schoolhouse and its place in the village's history. The building's curved whitewashed walls, vaulted ceilings and arched passageways reflect a traditional Santorinian method of construction, shaped into the soft volcanic earth. These substantial walls helped maintain a naturally cool interior during the island's hot summers, a practical feature of the old school that remains part of the villa's character today. Antique furnishings and handcrafted lighting add warmth without obscuring the building's origins. The residence accommodates up to six guests across three bedrooms, two with double beds and one with a semi-double bed, along with a bathroom with a shower. An inviting living area offers space to gather after a day exploring Santorini, making the layout particularly suitable for families and friends travelling together. Outside, the mood changes from the calm white interiors to a colourful private courtyard. Terracotta-red plaster walls, traditional cobblestone paving and a swimming pool create an enclosed setting for long afternoons in the sun. Furnished outdoor areas and loungers invite guests to spend time together or find a quiet corner to themselves. A winding pedestrian lane leads from the villa to Megalochori's village square in approximately two minutes. As part of Ducato Wine Village, guests can also request wine tastings, winery visits, Greek cooking classes, private dining, sailing cruises and personalised island excursions. Group stays, weddings and special celebrations can be explored through the wider collection upon request.
Good to know
Whether you're visiting with family or friends, for a special occasion or a wedding celebration, Ducato's concierge team can assist with personalised arrangements throughout your stay. Laundry service can also be arranged upon request.
The Neighborhood
Megalochori has long been connected to Santorini's wine trade. Old cellars, whitewashed houses, vaulted passageways and stone courtyards remain part of the village, with narrow lanes leading to its central square. The square is a short walk away, with tavernas, cafés and local shops. Raki Restaurant serves Greek and Santorinian dishes, while local wineries and vineyards reflect the area's traditions. Wooden doors, enclosed courtyards and former wine stores are still visible among the older houses. Santorini's volcanic coastline is easy to explore from here. Thermis Beach, approximately 1 km away, is a secluded pebble beach beneath the caldera cliffs, while Caldera Beach, around 3 km away, offers dark sand and volcano views. Vlychada Beach, about 5 km away, is known for its sculpted cliffs. Perivolos, around 6 km away, offers black sand and seaside dining, while Perissa, about 7 km away, is popular for swimming and water sports. Red Beach, roughly 7 km away, stands out for its red volcanic cliffs. Further inland, Pyrgos, approximately 2 km away, has winding streets and views across the island. At Akrotiri, around 5 km away, you can visit a prehistoric settlement preserved beneath volcanic deposits. Fira, approximately 6 km away, offers museums, galleries, restaurants and caldera viewpoints. Further afield, Oia, Emporio and Imerovigli offer different views of island life. Wine remains part of daily life around Megalochori. Ducato's concierge can help arrange tastings, winery visits, Greek cooking classes and private dining. Caldera cruises offer a chance to see Santorini from the water, while horse riding, guided hikes and e-bike excursions offer ways to explore on land. The team can also assist with personalised outings and enquiries about weddings or special celebrations across the wider Ducato collection, subject to availability. Back in Megalochori, an evening meal in the square or a walk through the village streets brings you back to the local rhythm.
Guest Access
Guests have exclusive access to the entire residence, including its private swimming pool and courtyard. Ducato's concierge team can also assist with airport transfers, dining reservations, private excursions and personalised experiences upon request.
What this place offers
Booking and price
- Book on
- the host's own site (holihouse.guestybookings.com). CielStay links you there and charges no fee.
- Nightly rate
- Close to the typical rate for the 13 homes we list in Megalochori
More homes nearby
Property sourced from Guesty • Listing stale? Update it!