Your neoclassical mansion
Our building is one of the oldest in the town of Hermoupolis, classified as a preservable monument and work of art of early 19th Century neoclassicism of Syros. It is located in the old aristocratic district of Vaporia (that translates as ‘ferries’ because of the perfect view of ferries arriving and departing the island) and feels almost suspended above the world-famous blue sea of the Cyclades. Villa Selena was an elite private manor of its time, and the recent renovation of 2021 was meticulous in conserving the elegance and vigor of its authentic architectural style.
The villa stands tall over the Aegean Sea, next to the impressive orthodox church of St Nicholas, and just a few steps from the Apollo Theatre and Miaouli Square. It overlooks the old mansions of the area, and from our balconies and terraces that provide unique 360 views of the town, you can gaze at the very first lighthouse of the Aegean Sea, and the Church of Resurrection that sits at the peak of the grand hill. A few steps below Villa Selena, under the neoclassical mansions that are hanging from the cliffs, you will find the beach of Asteria and its 1950’s swimming pier, as well as two of the town’s most beautiful restaurants and cafes, right on the clear blue waters that are safe for swimming year-round.
Your stay at Villa Selena will provide you with an exquisite familiarity and personal relationship with the space, and it is our wish that all our guests feel at home. When you choose to stay in Villa Selena, the Aegean sea is your pool. Put on your bathing suit, grab a beach towel and walk the steps that lead to the water. You will enjoy the unique experience of swimming in crystal clear waters beneath the old neoclassical mansions that hang above the water.
The building consists of old marbles and wooden floors, wall murals and 17-ft tall wooden ceilings. The owners have personally overseen all of the careful restorations of 19th century furniture, combined with modern designs and works of contemporary Greek artists, bringing you the delightful aesthetics of all that the island of Syros and Greece has to offer.
Common spaces
Villa Selena retains the authentic layout of its time as a stately home full of imaginative architectural elements, and provides multiple communal spaces for your enjoyment. You may use the grande living room with the balcony that overlooks the sea to relax, the indoor-outdoor veranda that hangs high up next to the impressive church of St. Nicholas. You may lay back in the private courtyard for a bohemian feel in the shade, or you may sunbathe with a cold beverage and stargaze with a glass of wine on our rooftop terrace with its 360 views.
We also offer a beautiful comprehensive library of books available to borrow during your stay, aiming to provide something of interest in as many languages and genres as possible. There are multiple areas for those who wish to dedicate some time to work or reading. Our endeavor is that Villa Selena will provide you with a taste of its unique aristocratic history, while ensuring a welcoming and carefree aura of relaxation.
The Rooms
Villa Selena consists of six spacious guest rooms, affording you privacy and calm during your stay. Enjoy our suite with the jacuzzi, our marble-fitted bathrooms, our fine wooden floors, and our crystal chandeliers, all alongside a personally-curated interior design that combines luxury with simplicity. Depending on the room you choose, you will enjoy views of the Aegean sea, or you will marvel at the architecture of the sprawling hill, or find quiet and serenity within our private artistic courtyard. Each room consists of a work-space, clothing armoires, a mini-fridge, a cafetière, bath robes and linens, luxury toiletries by our environmentally-conscious local partners, and traditional treats to welcome you on your holiday. We provide daily house-keeping, and free WiFi. We also invite you to use our fully-equipped communal kitchen.