Set on a striking and tranquil clifftop overlooking the Aegean Sea, Skinopi Lodge on the Cycladic island of Milos features three immaculate villas with extraordinary views.
Found hidden above a tiny fishing village- and located within a protected archaeological site- the Lodge offers direct access to a private swimming spot, as well as peaceful surroundings- making Skinopi the ultimate destination for those seeking pure escapism, as well as serving as the perfect base for those desiring to explore the alluring island in depth.
Featuring minimalist architecture, which offers guests a chance to reconnect with nature, Skinopi Lodge was created in partnership with prominent Greek architects Kokkinou-Kourkoulas and landscape architect Ellie Pangalou.
Carefully designed to harmoniously blend into the wild landscape and authentic Cycladic culture, the stylish sea-facing villas are primarily made of local stone, which was inspired by the Syrmata (traditional fishermen cottages) of the island. The other main material that takes centre stage is glass- with modern floor-to-ceiling glass windows framing the sea views and other spectacular natural surroundings; including lush olive groves and aromatic plants.
Once you step inside to the light-filled, open and airy spaces, you will find whitewashed walls and traditional cement floors, as well as pristine seafront private land, creating the ultimate retreat with your own private front-row view of the sunset.
The villas also boast outdoor kitchens for al fresco cooking and dining, outdoor showers for bathing in the moonlight, breezy indoor-outdoor spaces with a private sundeck for quiet time with family and friends (all with endless views of the spectacular sea). Each villa also features controlled air-conditioning, a safe, flat-panel TV, portable stereo, and WiFi.
Exciting new hotels are making their debut across Greece this year- from Samos and Santorini to Athens and Thessaloniki- we’ve rounded up the hottest new hotels in Greece that stand out for their dreamy locations, stylish designs, and chilled vibes!
Set on its own private beach, Cali Mykonos is a new luxury boutique resort that will feature 40 whitewashed villas all with their own private pools, alfresco dining area, and views of the Aegean Sea. For those who also like to mingle, there’s a communal infinity pool, state-of-the-art gym and spa, a fine dining restaurant, and a luxury range of yachts and speed boats waiting to sail you take you to nearby Cycladic islands.
Opening: June 2022
Brown Beach, Corinthia
Just 50 minutes drive away from Athens, this design resort in Corinthia boasts 166 design rooms and 110 bungalows. Unwind on your private balcony or relax by the pool, as you take in the splendid Peloponnesian views. Families and those seeking some action can take advantage of the tennis courts, pools, spa, a huge kids park, and lots more luxury experiences.
Located in the heart of Athens, this is the first luxury boutique hotel from the Greek restaurant group Estiatorio Milos. Offering an elegant stay in the heart of the Greek capital, here you can experience the city’s culture, history and gastronomy under one roof. The 43 rooms and suites (some of which boast spectacular Lycabettus Hill and Old Parliament House views) feature a modern feel with warm woods, velvet furnishings, and luxurious marble bathrooms throughout. One of the highlights is the restaurant with head chef Costas Spiliadis serving elevated Mediterranean dishes using local ingredients.
Opening: January 2022
One & Only Aesthesis, Athens Riviera
This new boutique hotel set in the glamorous Glyfada neighbourhood, features 127 private rooms, breathtaking suites, and private villas designed to highlight the beauty of the Athens Riviera. Boasting mid-century design- think high ceilings, woven leather, muted tones, and accent patterns- the two restaurants on-site are also set to be a hit with guests who will be able to enjoy authentic Greek mezes, seafood, meats, and vegan delicacies all sustainably and locally sourced.
Set beachfront in the traditional village of Akrotiri close to Zakynthos Town, the new, five-star property will have 55 suites and 10 villas, plus a relaxing wellness centre- perfect for anyone looking to unwind. Featuring contemporary chic decor and stylish furnishing choices, the modern suites are bright, open and airy- while also offering views of the breathtaking Ionian Sea.
Set in a historic waterfront building, Thessaloniki’s boutique hotel is housed in a historic building since 1926. Situated in the heart of the city- with unobstructed views of Thermaikos bay- the stylish new deco-inspired hotel features 60 lavishly designed rooms and suites; plus the main restaurant “Olympos Naoussa” (with its highly anticipated re-opening) as well as a beautiful inner courtyard, “Tiger Loop” cocktail bar, a fully-equipped gym, and a specially designed mezzanine ideal for business meetings and special events.
Opening: January 2022
Magma Resort, Santorini
Located on the tranquil side of Santorini, this boutique hotel features 59 stylish rooms including 24 suites with verandas, private pools, walk-in showers and cozy living areas. Guests are also welcome to experience the state-of-the-art Wellness Centre, and enjoy fine dining dishes at Magma by Spondi, curated by a two-starred Michelin Chef; otherwise, simply lounge by the infinity pool- overlooking the endless blue of the Aegean sea and nearby Anafi island.
Only a stone’s throw from the island’s Pythagorion village, the 128-room adults-only retreat will feature swim-up suites, countless swimming pools and its own private villa. Inspired by traditional Greek houses or the “Kamares” the hotel also features the seaside “Beach House” restaurant offering panoramic views of the Aegean Sea, a gym, an outdoor yoga shala and a wellness centre complete with spa suites, hammam massages and a nail salon.
With a range of lavish suites, this new upscale resort features a stunning design and modern comforts- allowing guests to feel right at home from the moment they arrive. Boasting private pools and breathtaking views of the magical Aegean, it’s also close to Elia beach. From great all-day dishes and stunning outdoor dining areas to a stunning spa- it’s the perfect spot to unwind after visiting buzzing Mykonos town.
A brand new 5-star hotel in the centre of Thessaloniki, Monasty is part of the exclusive Autograph Collection of Marriott International. This boutique hotel is the perfect spot for leisure or business, as it’s in close proximity to all the city’s main attractions- allowing guests to enjoy Thessaloniki’s rich history and culture.
Real estate prospects in southern European capitals are seen improving in 2022, according to the latest report put together by PwC and Urban Land Institute, though volatility in the sector remains.
Based on a ranking of 31 European cities included in the annual “Emerging Trends in Real Estate – Road to Recovery” report, the outlook in Spain, Italy and Greece improved in the last year. Topping the list is London, followed by Paris and Berlin.
“Madrid has moved up two places to sixth, with a score that now rivals the leading German cities. Interviewees point out that it offers good opportunities across sectors, such as residential and logistics, as well as a strong office market,” says the report.
Rome climbed to position number 21 (from 23rd) and Athens advanced to 23rd place (from 28th place).
On a second-ranking assessing expected changes in rental and capital values in 2022, Athens took first place.
“Relatively few survey participants are active in the Athens market, but they believe the city offers some of the strongest growth prospects anywhere in Europe. This relates not just to the potential recovery of tourism, but also to Greece’s relative political stability compared with Turkey,” says PwC and ULI.
The report goes on to cite one private equity investor who says: “Greece, for the first time in decades, has a stable, pro-business government. This stability is set against a contrasting situation in Turkey.”
In terms of broader property trends in Europe, the annual review points out that there is a clear upturn in confidence but that volatility and uncertainty continue amidst high inflation and supply chain problems.
“The biggest current uncertainty relates to inflation and supply chains, impacting mostly construction prices and delivery schedules, just at a time when the industry wants to resume delayed developments or advance repurposing initiatives,” it says.
“As a consequence, we are seeing strong sentiment swings, as the industry struggles to interpret the potential impact of supply chain disruptions, surging energy costs and labor shortages on real estate, and how long these issues might last,” it adds.
This article was first published here.
For more Real Estate News & Views on Greece and Europe’s South, head to The Greek Guru.
Vouliagmenis Avenue, on the glamorous Athens Riviera is set to become home to Greece’s largest shopping mall!
According to Lamda Development who presented its new project to the public last week, the estimated amount of investment for the new development is between 335 to 410 million euros and is set to be completed by 2025.
The mall that will be constructed on Vouliagmenis Avenue, will span 130,000 sq.m., making it the largest and most modern shopping centre in Greece; offering a multifaceted, round-the-clock experience for its local and international visitors.
Featuring popular and up-and-coming Greek and international brands, as well as eateries, entertainment, and wellness facilities; it will also house exhibitions, concerts, gyms, gaming corners, cinemas, children’s recreation areas, and more.
At the 30,000 sq.m. commercial park, which is set to be developed at the Commercial Hub in collaboration with the Fourlis Group, visitors will find big-box stores of international home and sports equipment brands; and the hub will also feature modern office spaces of 27,500 sq.m. that will house the headquarters of Piraeus Bank.
“In the same area, a state-of-the-art 150 m high mixed-use tower will be developed that will house a hotel, offices, and apartments. The state-of-the-art Business Center to be created at The Hellinikon in the coming years will become the heart of Greece’s commercial and business life, bringing significant benefits for the area and the entire Attica region,” announced Lamda.
“The Ellinikon Commercial Hub is a destination of the future. This will become Greece’s most modern commercial and business hub; a popular attraction for citizens from across the country and, of course, for the one million tourists that will be visiting The Ellinikon every year,” said Lamda Development CEO, Mr. Odisseas Athanasiou, during the fourth online presentation held by the company on the major regeneration project at The Hellinikon.
In the picturesque village of Papigo, set in the protected Vikos Aoos UNESCO Global Geopark, you will find Mikro Papigo 1700 Hotel & Spa, which was named Europe’s Best Sustainable Hotel at the recent Boutique Hotel Awards 2021.
The first and only international awards exclusively dedicated to recognising unique excellence among luxury boutique hotels worldwide, this was the tenth tourism accolade received by Mikro Papigo. “Its a great honour to be awarded as a sustainable and eco role model, including our efforts within our community, our philosophy and our generic presence especially now more than ever,” said management after receiving the award on November 4th, 2021 .
Housed in a heritage 17th century private village complex, this luxury hotel set in the Pindus mountains of northern Greece (1700 refers to its altitude in metres) is set under the Tymfi massif and is the ideal place to explore the nearby Vikos gorge. It is the only property in Zagori region steeped in history and perfect for nature lovers who also seek boutique accomodation.
Featuring 18 rooms and suites built from traditional wood and local granite, the unique design and architecture blends in beautifully with Zagori’s unique landscape. Mikro Papigo offers guests ecological luxury, a rejuvenating spa, charming rooms with magical Vikos gorge and Papigo views; this is mountain life at its finest.
The award-winning eco-spa operates with mountain spring water, and the famous Veranda 1700 restaurant creates award-winning dishes using local produce, such as hare, wild boar and buffalo. From breakfast through to dinner, the best of natures produce is chosen from the resort’s gardens at Organic Zagori Farm. From traditional pies and meat dishes to handmade sweets and local wine- guests are able to taste authentic local flavours.
Apart from the outstanding eco-friendly amenities and services, there is also a wide range of outdoor activities for guests to enjoy. Mikro Papigo offers tours to the Astraka refuge, Drakolimni (a lake on top of a mountain), Voidomatis springs, and Vikos gorge and the Rogovo natural pools to name a few.
Greece is among the top destinations for investment funds and companies active in the hotel industry and in general in the field of hospitality and tourism. In fact, leading representatives of international brands revealed their intention to increase their presence in the Greek market while speaking at the 22nd Prodexpo conference held in Athens.
On the occasion of the Melia group’s recent agreement with the hotels of the Papakaliatis family, the Zeus Hotels group, Maria Zarraluqui, Global development VP, Meliá Hotels International, stated that in Greece not only are opportunities identified, but the right partners, with knowledge and experience in providing high-quality services, are on offer.
According to Zarraluqui, the Meliá Group expects a further recovery of the hotel and tourism industry in Greece, adding that there are plans for expansion in Mykonos, Thessaloniki and Santorini. Greece is among the top markets seen by foreign investors, along with Spain and Portugal. The challenge for the Greek market is the gradual detachment from tour operators and their replacement by new sales methods, with digitization as the main tool.
On his part, Ian Di Tullio, and Chief Commercial Officer Southern Europe Accor, predicted further development of the Greek tourism market, with the hotel industry transforming and passing from the level of overnight to the level of service and upgraded experience. Given these trends and the national strategic framework for growth, Greece 2.0, Di Tulio said that Accor is going to strengthen its footprint in Greece by 50% in the coming years.
The importance of upgraded and quality consulting services to enhance the inflow of foreign investment in the Greek hotel market was referred to by Nikos Hantzos, Consultant, International Hotel Development – Greece & Cyprus Marriott Intl. Taking as an example the recent Marriott agreement in Greece, he presented how crucial it is to converge and transform into a strategic investment the presence of five institutional investors, an international hotel manager, Domus, and an international brand like Marriott. Therefore, for Hantzo, experienced and capable executives of the hotel sector who can play the role of advisor to investors, are a “key” for new and more investments in this sector in Greece.
Thomas Doxiadis Founder doxiadis + Architects shared on the panel his experiences from the importance of designing big brands in Greece. Indicatively, he referred to the Four Seasons, which operates by international standards. However, as he explained, in addition to the standard guidelines, current design trends place great emphasis on the issue of “in-depth” quality of the overall experience offered by a hotel.
*Maria Zarraluqui, Global development VP, Meliá Hotels International: “We plan further expansion in Greece.”
*Ian Di Tullio, Chief Commercial Officer Southern Europe Accor: “We will increase our presence in the Greek market by 50% in the coming years.”
*Nikos Hantzos, PhD, Consultant, International Hotel Development – Greece & Cyprus Marriott Intl: “It is important to find the right consultants and partners for new investments in the hotel sector.”
*Thomas Doxiadis, Founder doxiadis + Architects: “Architecture now enters the design of brands based on quality.”
This article was first published here.
For more Real Estate News & Views on Greece and Europe’s South, head to The Greek Guru.
If you are looking for a peaceful getaway from the city, Opora Country Living, located in Nafplio (only 2 hours from Athens) is the perfect escape.
Set on a sublime agritourism farm this stunning boutique hotel boasts traditionally designed spaces- allowing guests to completely unwind and experience authentic Peloponnesian country living and culture at its finest. The boutique residences are immersed in forty hectares of centuries-old olive groves and surrounded by fragrant orange trees; offering complete relaxation and rural simplicity everywhere you look.
Location
Very close to the village of Pirgiotika, Opora Country Living is located about 7 km from Nafplio town. Syntagma Square is 9 km from the property, while Akronafplia Castle is also 9 km away. This place is ideal for archaeological sightseeing with Mycenae, Tiryns, Epidaurus, and Corinth only a short drive away.
Style & Feel
The charming stone farmhouse stands proudly between mountain ridges and idyllic landscapes. Built with high-quality local materials and using traditional handmade techniques, the unique architecture is influenced by the region’s rich history. Opora features authentic designs and spaces of traditional Peloponnesian farms- the sheltered courtyards, the arches, the cement, and the stone. All this is combined with respect and love for the environment. And here you will be greeted by friendly local hosts who take pride in ensuring their guests’ stay is beyond comfortable- with a real “home away from home” feel.
Residences
Set within the incomparable beauty and tranquility of the countryside, the traditional homes feature amenities that are modern yet refined. The houses are divided into six residences that feature WiFi throughout. Some include an equipped kitchen, fireplace, private garden, as well as views of the mountains and olive groves. Every unit features a private bathroom and shower, air conditioning, a flat-screen TV, and a fridge.
Facilities & Services
Guests are able to enjoy a swim in the tranquil outdoor pool that overlooks the olive groves. Relax in the charming outdoor garden, where you can also indulge in a gourmet breakfast that includes pancakes, eggs, home-baked cakes, fresh juices, fruit handpicked from the garden, eggs from the farm, fresh bread baked in the wood-fired oven, homemade marmalade, and Greek pies. If you are after a touch of pampering, there is also a range of massages available- from full-body, reiki, foot massage, and more.
Activities
Guests can go hiking in Nafplio, or hop on one of the wooden bikes provided by Opora and cycle around while exploring the nearby area. The hotel also runs seminars on beekeeping, olive harvesting, cooking lessons, and wine tastings in the nearby Nemea region (famous for its reds.) There is also a wonderful Private Wine and Tasting Dinner hosted in the vineyard. Dishes are prepared with fresh ingredients from the garden and the best raw materials from local markets. And for those that want to learn a few local recipes, there is a cooking class that takes place at the olive groves. This unique experience includes the preparation and tasting of a complete menu from chef Kostas Papastamatis- all inspired by Peloponnesian cuisine. And if you wish to add some island experiences to your getaway, there are also day-long trips to nearby Spetses and Hydra.
Corfu ranks among the top global destinations for a holiday home, according to a ranking of 50 cities put together by comparethemarket.com
The Greek island takes position number 6, gaining points for its low crime rate and competitive property prices, while Heraklion in Crete was ranked in 16th position and Athens further down in 31st place.
“We’ve analysed locations around the world based on factors such as things to do, affordability, and the local weather,” the site said.
At the top of the list comes Venice, followed by Paphos (Cyprus), Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Funchal (Portugal).
Cyprus’ Larnaca also finished in the top ten, taking ninth place.
According to the data provided, the average cost of living for a family of four in Corfu amounts to $2,910, versus $3,691 in Venice, $2,560 in Paphos, and $2,865 in Abu Dhabi.
Property prices also differ significantly. In Corfu, the average price of property comes in at $1,647, versus $4,930 in Venice, $1,837 in Paphos, and $2,836 in Abu Dhabi.
Naiades Guesthouse is a striking new boutique hotel that has opened its pretty doors in the centre of Ioannina, right at the historical castle district.
Set in a neoclassical building Naiades features a mix of modern and simple lines that are softly combined with local traditional influences. Blending in harmoniously with the aesthetics of the nearby castle- the hotel offers guests a charming and cozy spot to explore Epirus’ capital city.
Location
Located 200 metres from the famous Castle of Ioannina, which was built in the 6th century and is the oldest Byzantine fortress in Greece- Naiades residence is close to The Pavlos Vrellis Museum of Greek History, the Silversmithing Museum of Ioannina, the Cathedral of Agios Athanasios and the Byzantine Museum of Ioannina. Ioannina Airport is only 4 km from the property and it’s also nearby to the Vikos Gorge, Permama Cave, and Lake Pamvotida.
Style & Design
The neoclassical building boasts traditional architecture and spacious areas that have been wonderfully filled with contemporary decor. From bright and bold colours to soft and pretty pastels, each room has its own unique style. Throughout the hotel, there is oakwood flooring and furnishings, velvet curtains, modern chandeliers; plus contemporary artwork, and splashes of metallics and marble.
Rooms
The hotel has eight unique rooms including a Deluxe Room, Superior Room, and Deluxe Suites. On the ground floor and first level, the guest rooms feature colourful selections of decor with custom-made furniture. Ample windows allow plenty of natural light in the rooms and each one includes air conditioning and a flat-screen TV.
Garden Area
The outside of the hotel is just as inviting as the interior spaces. From the ground floor, stairs lead down to a charming stone courtyard at the back of the building where grey metallic chairs and marble tables offer an airy and intimate space for guests to enjoy a buffet or à la carte breakfast. The lush greenery and pretty pots also make it an appealing spot for guests to sit back and relax with a glass of wine.
Dining Area
The main dining area is in the basement of the hotel and features red, green, and yellow furniture. Marble and wooden tables with velvet armchairs fill the open space that also features an open kitchen. Guests are also able to enjoy an intimate reading corner; and there is also a central fireplace- just perfect for those cold, winter days.
Ideal for…
Anyone wishing to experience Ioannina’s rich history, local traditions, classical architecture, breathtaking landscapes, and buzzing cafe scene. With nearby activities include rafting, horseback riding, and hiking, it’s also perfect for those seeking adventures during the day and a quaint place to return to each night.
Ask any Greek about the Astir Palace, and you’ll likely hear stories about the glory days of the 60s and 70s, where legendary names like Frank Sinatra, Jackie Onassis and an endless list of screen icons frequented the Athenian luxury landmark.
Since its much-anticipated rebuild and re-opening in 2019 under the management of the Four Seasons, the Astir Palace Athens offers an elite holiday destination that celebrates its gilded past and presents a heightened sense of luxury and comfort, for the discerning traveller of today.
Location
Located 25km from the center of Athens, the Four Seasons Astir Palace sits on the Vouliagmeni peninsula, with the beaches of Vouliagmeni, Varkiza and Cape Sounio’s Temple of Poseidon all within driving distance. Surrounded by pine trees and with sweeping views of the Aegean, the Four Seasons Astir Palace Vouliagmeni is undoubtedly a jewel in the crown of the Athenian Riviera.
Style and Feel
The grounds of the Four Seasons Athens cover 75 acres and house 2 hotels, 3 beaches, 2 pools, 61 private bungalows, spa, gym, restaurants, eateries and bars. While the grounds are large and impressive, they manage to retain a chic, intimate experience and, upon stepping foot on-site, it’s clear that everything has been designed to maximise the sprawling sea views. The resort has been designed to honour the natural elements around it and manages to seamlessly blend into its rocky, pine-clad surroundings. Most notably, the staff at the Four Seasons Athens are dedicated to offering the impeccable service you’d expect from the hotel group, coupled with the signature warmth of Greek filoxenia.
Suites
With 21 varieties of rooms, suites and bungalows, there are accommodation options for singles, couples, families and groups to enjoy. The Arion – a Luxury Collection Resort and Spa – offers guests an elegant and sophisticated environment. Rooms and suites in the Arion have a sense of warmth to them, with plush furnishings that are made for ultimate comfort. The Nafsika hotel boasts sleek rooms and suites in a grand building, with family-friendly amenities nearby.
The Bungalows are tucked away in the surrounding pine trees for privacy and are a piece of history in their own right, having been home to names like Brigitte Bardot and Aristotle Onassis. The bungalows retain aesthetic nods to their vintage glory days yet boast every modern luxury one could need in a cabana that overlooks the Aegean.
No matter which room or suite you choose, the in-room facilities and service are consistently thoughtful and unobtrusive. It’s the details that remain with you long after leaving the Four Seasons Athens, like smart lighting with settings for morning, afternoon and evening, Four Seasons signature bedding that was seemingly designed for you to have the perfect night’s sleep, and thoughtful touches like afternoon ouzo and olives. With rooms this luxurious and comfortable, it’s worth staying in a little and enjoying the in-room service.
Food and Drinks
With 10 restaurants, eateries and bars on-site, the dining options at the Four Seasons Athens will entertain even the most demanding foodie. Breakfast offers buffet and a la carte dining options, featuring a mix of healthy (think smashed avocado toast with poached eggs and detox juices) and decadent choices (the array of freshly baked cakes and pastries will satisfy any sweet tooth).
Once you’ve worked up a post-swim appetite, the dining options just keep getting better. Taverna 37 is perched upon Arion beach and serves up an elevated take on taverna fare, including the note-worthy salad of compressed watermelon, feta and mint and seafood kritharoto. Poolside restaurant Helios offers Peruvian/Nikkei cuisine with a playful selection of ceviches and raw dishes, as well as tacos, burgers and a cocktail menu that will have you enjoying your afternoons by the pool more than you could have imagined.
The pinnacle of dining options at Four Seasons Athens is undoubtedly Pelagos. With chef Luca Piscazzi at the helm, this forward-looking interpretation of fine dining uses fresh seasonal produce with a focus on fish and seafood. The tasting menu boasts signature dishes like caviar pasta and dry-aged wild sea bass, as well as mind-bending amuse-bouche bites like sea urchin tiramisu.
Activities
The outdoor hotel pool is the centrepiece of the grounds and boasts uninterrupted views of the peninsula. Olive trees are seemingly magically planted around and within the pool, creating a poolside scene out of your grandest Grecian dreams. If the pool gets a little too active for your liking, you can always stroll over to the Arion “quiet pool”, where guests aged 12 and over are welcome to enjoy the facilities.
Often, staying at a hotel means giving up the beach for the pool. Not so at the Four Seasons Athens, which boasts three pristine on-site beaches. If the sea is your Happy Place, you can access the best of the crystal-clear Aegean waters, just steps away from your room.
All beaches and pools at the Four Seasons are staffed by the pool club, with amenities such as watersports lessons, complimentary water and towels, lunch bites, beverages and treats throughout the day like frozen fruit and iced tea shots.
The Four Seasons spa and gym both provide plenty of wellness options, including morning pilates classes and massage therapy that is nothing short of heaven-sent. Parents, worry not, Kids For All Seasons has a range of activities to keep the young ones entertained while you follow your bliss.
Ideal for…
Four Seasons Athens is ideal for those who desire rest and relaxation in luxurious surroundings that honour the natural beauty of the Vouliagmeni peninsula. If comfort, impeccable service, luxury and gastronomy are what you value in a getaway, then the Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens is the sanctuary you’ve been seeking.
Sikelianos Villa, set in the seaside town of Xylokastro, was once home to famous Greek poet Angelos Sikelianos.
Having been declared a historical monument of Greece, by former Minister of Culture Melina Mercouri, the stunning residence recently received an immaculate renovation that blends harmoniously its grandeur with contemporary design. The unique Greek holiday villa now offers guests a secluded stay with 360-degree views of the Corinthian Gulf and the lush pine forest of Pefkias.
Located only an hour and fifteen minutes away from the centre of Athens, this expansive property is one of the most beautiful seafront escapes closest to the Greek capital. Plus the perfect base to explore many ancient historic wonders of Greece- with Mykines village only one hour drive from the villa; it’s just two hours from Ancient Olympia and Delphi.
Sikelianos is the perfect stay for guests in search of a private and bespoke getaway; and here you can enjoy breakfast on your own terrace or inside the nearby resort’s beautiful gardens. Along with the dreamy landscape comes a private beach, a pool, delightful dining choices, a spa and a wellness centre, which are all connected to the villa’s resort.
The idyllic Venetian Villa was built by the famous poet Angelos Sikelianos himself, and his American wife Eva Palmer, on their return to Greece in 1912. It’s hosted countless celebrations dedicated to art and poetry while having welcomed numerous intellects of the 20th century up to the mid-1930s; including famous Greek artists such as Palamas, Kazantzakis and Karyotakis who were very close to the couple.
The construction of the villa began in 1912 and ended in 1916. It was the couple’s first architectural attempt, and the estate combines a variety of designs from different eras, including columns that draw inspiration from Classical Greece, windows from the Byzantine era; while all terraces have strong Venetian influences.
The 50 square metre private property consists of a master bedroom with a king-size bed, ensuite, a very spacious bathroom, a living room and a dining area. Each room has a fireplace carved ornately from stone, as well as large, tall windows overlooking the estate’s lush, fragrant gardens. From its three fully furnished terraces, guests can enjoy the sea view and the evergreen pine forest.
Right at the heart of the villa’s charming gardens guests can enjoy a late lunch or dinner at the delightful restaurant that features authentic Italian cuisine and a fairytale ambience. The outdoor dining experience under the moonlight that blends harmoniously with the timeless elegance of the candle-lit terraced villa- is a perfect way to end your evening here.
About Angelos Sikelianos
Angelos Sikelianos was a Greek lyric poet and playwright. Born in March 1884 on the island of Lefkada where he spent his childhood, in 1900 Angelos registered with the Athens Law School but never graduated. In the course of the following years, he travelled extensively and devoted himself to poetry. Critics claim Sikelianos’ finer lyrics are among the best in Western literature. His poems are inspired by Greek history, religious symbolism as well as universal harmony. From 1946 until 1951, he was nominated for the Nobel Prize for Literature.
If you are looking for an authentic countryside getaway that will allow you to experience true Cretan hospitality and to become a part of a wonderful community during your stay- this destination is for you!
Vamos Fabrica Farm is located in a charming village in Chania and lies between the sea and the mountains, offering wonderful views and traditional architecture that blends in beautifully with nature.
Fabrica provides guests with a chance to become familiar with local agriculture and the rich traditions and culture that make Crete so unique and famous. Here you will also have the opportunity to take part in rural activities, to taste local products, delicacies and traditional cuisine- as you gain an understanding of everyday life on a local village.
Owned by the friendly Frantzeskakis family, who warmly greet each guest- here you will not only get to know the Cretan way of life- you will also become a part of it.
The family’s aim is to showcase a lesser-known side of Greece that can provide guests with an authentic experience that also allows them to appreciate the slower pace of life. Owner Nikos and his wife Lola introduce guests to the beauty, nature, history, and style of cooking that is synonymous with Cretan village life and create an experience any guest will treasure for a lifetime.
The Farm
Featuring an organic olive grove, with fruit trees and vegetables, birds and farm animals, flowers and herbs- here smells and colours come to life. You will also find a small stone-built theatre, where you may meet a philosopher reciting a poem. On another day, you will bake homemade bread with Nikos or help him cook other dishes in the traditional firewood oven; and assist Lola in collecting eggs or picking some fresh vegetables.
You may also accompany Lola and collect some herbs and wild greens from the garden and make a homemade pie or pick some fresh oranges or other fruits to make marmalades or spoon sweets. Guests are also able to feed the farm animals and enjoy tranquility and peacefulness while relaxing by the Romantic Corner or lying on a hammock.
Fabrica Guesthouses
The guesthouses are separated into “Fabrica Houses” and the “Fabrica Farm Houses.” The houses are made of white stone and the smell of thyme and oregano floats in the air welcoming every guest, who feels a sense of coziness and familiarity inside their room. The Farm Houses are built in the olive grove and are inspired by the rich Cretan Flora, with each guesthouse named after an aromatic plant.
Cooking Classes
A cooking lesson day begins with a visit to the local bakery and grocery store. When you get back you will prepare several mezedes (appetisers) and main dishes. You also have the chance to learn about olive oil varieties and the philosophy behind Cretan food. With the help of local and experienced housewives, participants prepare traditional recipes using fresh and local ingredients. Some of the dishes include cuttlefish with fennel, escargots with crushed wheat, stuffed vegetables, dolmadakia (stuffed vine leaves), kalitsounia (sweet cheese pies), tzatziki, a braised rooster with spaghetti, lamb with stamnagathi (pine chicory), pies, and many more.
While food is the main aspect of most of the cooking classes, guests also have the opportunity to chat, listen to live music, drink local wine- as they learn the secrets of Cretan cuisine. When it’s all done, everyone sits together around a large table and they enjoy a feast as well as dancing and singing- the Cretan way!
Wild Greens Lessons
If you plan your trip around the beginning of spring, you will have the chance to visit different places around the farm, collect wild greens and herbs and learn how to cook them, and taste local and traditional recipes that are based on these fresh ingredients.
Soap Making Workshop
Learn how to make handmade soap with pure ingredients. Based on the olive oil- which is produced by the Frantzeskakis’ family in their biological cultivated olive grove- you will also use a variety of essential oils and herbs, to make soaps that you will love.
Grape Harvesting
The grape harvest is held during the first ten days of September. This is done in small or larger groups of people who are interested in living the experience of harvesting, which takes place in the family vineyard located at Kasteli, an area between Kalyves and Almyrida.
Natural Skincare Workshop
Learn how to prepare creams and other skincare products based on natural and pure beeswax. It begins with a walk around the biologically cultivated olive grove and farm where you will collect aromatic plants and learn about their properties and uses. Then, using essential oils, plants, and vegetable oils, and herbs- you can create your own personalised products.
Botanical Farm Tour
Held all year round, this unique experience brings guests in touch with aromatic and medicinal plants of Greek flora. Stroll around the farm and learn about some of the plants and their properties. Here you have the chance to observe them, smell, touch, and collect some of them, while learning about their properties and uses, their connection to Mythology, their importance in people’s daily life, and their involvement in traditional medicine.
