Here is a different kind of Cycladic retreat. Far from the hustle and bustle of the coastal resorts, (English) Jim and (Greek) Eirini's “To the Garden” is hidden in the hills in the southern part of the Paros, about ten minutes’ drive from the sea. In an eight-acre property planted with olive trees, vegetable plots and Mediterranean dryland gardens, a three cottages built from natural materials blend in seamlessly with the landscape. Warm and homely, they comfortably sleep up to three or four guests each and have fully equipped open kitchens, comfortable beds, good bathrooms and ample sitting space, both inside and out. Jim and Eirini are inspiring hosts who love to involve their guests in all sorts of creative activities, ranging from building techniques, gardening and cooking, to woodcarving, metalworking marble sculpturing and jewellery design. It’s all done in a pleasantly informal manner, and don’t worry if you are in a lazy frame of mind. You can decide on the spot what you are in the mood for, and if that is just swimming and relaxing in the shade, that is fine too.