Four Seasons Astir Palace Athens – A Cosmopolitan Classic Meets Modern Luxury

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. 

Facilities and Services

  • Airport / Port Transfer Service
  • Wi-Fi
  • Bars 
  • Restaurant
  • In-room service
  • Towels for pool area
  • Spa
  • Gym
  • Tennis Academy
  • Basketball Court
  • Boat Trips
  • Concierge
  • Garden
  • Laundry & Ironing Service
  • Lobby Lounge
  • Gift store
  • Clothing boutique
  • Event Spaces

A: Apollonos 40, Vouliagmeni 

All Images Taken by Blue Mandarin Exclusively for IN+SIGHTS GREECE © (Copyright) 

10 Amazing Restaurants in Athens Riviera

Heading south from the Greek capital you will come across a stunning coastline known as the Athenian Riviera. Here you will discover some fine restaurants serving fresh seafood and creative dishes made from seasonal and locally sourced produce.

With so many great options to choose from, we’ve rounded up 10 of our favourites for you! 

Krabo

Set in Vouliagmeni, here you can enjoy a Mediterranean-inspired menu with seasonal and fresh dishes. The executive chef uses solely organic and local ingredients to prepare succulent summer dishes.

A: Thespidos, Vouliagmeni 

Matsuhisa

Serving Nobu’s signature sushi, Matsuhisu has brought a touch of Japanese flavour and culture and the charm of fusion philosophy to the gastronomic map of Athens. Beautifully nestled in one of the city’s most stylish locations, the Astir Palace, Matsuhisa Athens offers an unforgettable gastronomic experience.

A: Apollonos 40, Vouliagmeni

Mercato 

For great Italian check out Mercato- an upscale Italian trattoria that’s also located at famous Astir Palace. Savour authentic Italian dishes and cocktails from the Spritzeria, which can be enjoyed in the warm indoor space in winter and on the alfresco terrace overlooking the Athenian Riviera in summer.

A: Apollonos 40, Vouliagmeni

Island 

If you like to rub shoulders with the rich and famous, head to Island where you will surely spot international designers, artists and athletes. The restaurant serves Mediterranean flavours and the modern dishes are all created by the award-winning chef, Nikos Skliras. 

A: 27km South of Leof. Athinon Souniou

Insights Greece - 10 Amazing Restaurants in Athens Riviera

Helios

For one of the best views and great Latin American food, make your way to Helios. Relax poolside, while savouring zesty ceviches and tiraditos, piquant tacos, guacamole and grilled meat cuts, along with a range of signature cocktails.

A: Apollonos 40, Vouliagmeni

Insights Greece - 10 Amazing Restaurants in Athens Riviera

Ithaki

One of the areas most loved places, which frequently serves some of the world’s leading A-listers on their visits to Athens is Ithaki, in Vouliagmeni’s Laimos. Here you can taste the freshest fish and a range of local seafood, as you enjoy the magical sunset. 

A: Apollonos 28, Vouliagmeni 

Moorings

If you are searching for a spot to enjoy a late lunch or evening dinner with a magnificent view, head to Moorings, where you will be treated to panoramic views of Vouliagmenis’ natural landscape, as well as a delightful menu. 

A: Marina Vouliagmenis, Vouliagmeni 

Ark

With renowned chef Yannis Baxevanis behind the menu, Ark offers signature dishes that are inspired by the Aegean sea. Along with the masterly crafted menu, you can also choose from an exceptional range of wines, beers and distillates from Greek producers.

A: Grigoriou Lambraki 2, Glyfada 

Varoulko Seaside 

This leading seafood restaurant located in Piraeus is a fine dining experience, where guests can taste quality seafood cuisine prepared by the famous chef Lefteris Lazarou while enjoying the picturesque views of the Mikrolimano Marina. 

A: Akti Koumoundourou 54, Piraeus

Agora Riviera

Inspired by the Cycladic islands, Agora offers guests a simple and relaxed vibe, while serving a great and fresh range of dishes that are perfect for lunch or dinner by the sea.

A: Iliou 8, Vouliagmeni  

20 Best Things to Do on the Athens Riviera

Heading south from the Greek capital you will come across a stunning coastline known as the Athenian Riviera. Here you will discover fabulous bars, fine restaurants and luxurious resorts, not to mention some of the city’s best beaches, tailor-made tours and designer shopping.

With neighbourhoods such as Cape Sounio, Faliro, Alimos, Glyfada, Vouliagmeni, Voula, Kavouri, Varkiza, and Lagonissi side by side, this is the ideal spot to enjoy a luxurious getaway.

Explore Pireaus

A gateway to Greece for those arriving or departing by cruise ship to the islands, many people merely transit Piraeus, the starting point of Athens Riviera. You should make time to explore the cafés at Zea Port offering views across the Saronic Gulf and luxury yachts moored; it’s the perfect place to unwind and sip on your Frappe or Freddo. Here you can dine at the Michelin star seafood restaurant Varoulko, also make sure to check out the Hellenic Maritime Museum; Kastela and Mikrolimano have a great range of traditional Greek dishes too. 

Insights Greece - 20 Best Things to Do on the Athens Riviera

Visit Lavrio Town

On the other side of the Riviera peninsular, you will find Lavrio, a smaller and prettier port town, filled with luxurious yachts and lots of locals and international visitors walking across the busy harbour. For a cultural experience, head to the small Archeological Museum and the Mineralogical Museum that showcases the area’s once famed mining district; several mines can be found in the surrounding villages. 

Swim at one of the Beach Inlets

Athens Riviera is the most popular place for swimming in the Greek capital. You will find the beach inlet of Limanakia along the coast road to Vouliagmeni; explore the small coves and deep blue waters reached by walking down rocky paths.  The second inlet in this area features Lefteris’ Canteen, an authentic spot to have a coffee and treat. Windsurfers head to Anavyssos beach where there is also a playground, beach volleyball court and a stretch of sun loungers and umbrellas.

Spend an Entire Day at a Beach Bar

The beach bars on the Athens Riviera are super glamorous and you can arrive here from the early morning and stay for sunset and sunrise! Some of the most popular are Balux Seaside Cafe in Glyfada. Yabanaki in Varkiza is great for water sports (from SUP and windsurfing to wakeboarding and banana boat rides for kids). The House Project is great for families; you can rest assured kids will be entertained for hours on end here.  

Insights Greece - 20 Best Things to Do on the Athens Riviera

Check out the Famous Astir Palace 

For the most upmarket experience, lounge at the newly renovated and reopened Astir Palace in Vouliagmeni, where the luxurious services are second to none. The Astir Beach Club is one of the most exclusive organised beaches of the Riviera. Set along 900 feet of coastline, it offers beach beds and cabanas, massage therapists, sports such as paddleboarding and yoga classes, designer Greek shopping boutiques, and attentive food and drinks service at your beach bedside. There’s also a selection of fine dining restaurants, including Italian, a modern Greek tavern, Latin American Grill House, a seafood restaurant, as well as a golden-age glamour, exclusive cigar lounge. 

Insights Greece - 20 Best Things to Do on the Athens Riviera

Take a Dip at Lake Vouliagmeni 

For an unforgettable swimming experience, head to Lake Vouliagmeni. It’s a natural spa lake with fresh spring and seawater where the water is warm in summer and winter, making it a popular spot year long. Here you can also have a natural pedicure as it’s full of garru rufa fish—also known as the Dr Fish that nibble off dead skin. 

Insights Greece - 20 Best Things to Do on the Athens Riviera

Visit Cape Sounio and the Temple of Apollo 

A visit to Sounion is a must when you are on this side of the world. Here lies the Temple of Poseidon, at the top of the cliff; one of the most significant monuments of Ancient Greece and a cornerstone of history. Here you’ll see the ruins of the 6th century B.C. Temple of Apollo. Built in 444 B.C. atop the headland to honor the sea god. Locals and overseas guests visit Cape Sounion and the Temple at sunset to catch one of the most spectacular images.

Insights Greece - 20 Best Things to Do on the Athens Riviera

Savour Farm to Table Dishes

For something completely different, Margi Farm, in the countryside of the Riviera at Kalivia, 13 miles from Vouliagmeni beach, showcases fresh vegetables and herbs, grown to provide produce that is used by the chefs to create fresh and organic dishes. Surrounded by vineyards and olive trees it’s available for private or group bookings and giving people the chance to experience authentic farm life and organic Greek dining in a beautiful natural rural environment. Each menu is carefully selected and based on the vegetables in season, from farm to fork.

Cruise the Athens Riviera in a Vintage Car 

For an unforgettable experience, drive a classic car on the coastal road of the Athens Riviera and take in the magical scenery. Offering transfers and tours to popular destinations along the Athenian Riviera, there is a unique collection of classic cars to choose from at Odeego’s fleet, which consists of classic cars of the 1960s and 70s, which have been fully restored and available for tours. 

Insights Greece - 20 Best Things to Do on the Athens Riviera

Eat Your Way Around Athens Riviera

There are so many great options and some of the standouts are Krabo in Vouliagmeni; while Matsuhisa Athens serves Nobu’s signature sushi and for great Italian check out Mercato. If you like to rub shoulders with the rich and famous, head to Island- here you will surely spot international designers, artists and athletes. For one of the best views and great food, make your way to Helios. One of the area’s most loved spots, which frequently serves some of the world’s leading A-listers on their visits to Athens is Ithaki in Vouliagmeni’s Laimos. While Moorings, in the same location, is another must. We also recommend Kastelorizo in Varkiza, Ark, Sardelaki and Mezze in Glyfada and if you are in the mood for something sweet don’t miss the waffles and ice cream at the famous Waffle House.

Shop Till You Drop 

The southern district is well-known for its chic shopping strip in Glyfada, where you’ll find a wide range of boutiques and concept stores such as SOHO-SOHO, Ensayar,  with a range of jewellery, sandals, high-end fashion; as well as international stores such as Tommy Hilfiger, Zara, H&M and Pull&Bear. 

Explore Athens Riviera with an Archaeologist

Bespoke travel specialists such as Alternative Athens can take you to Cape Sounion in a chauffeured limo for a sunset date with Poseidon’s mighty temple, or to another historical site nearby, accompanied by an archaeologist who will reveal the rich history of the area. 

Insights Greece - 20 Best Things to Do on the Athens Riviera

Sail the Athens Riviera

Admire the Athens coastline from the deck of a luxury catamaran on a private half-day or full-day cruise with Sailing Athens, while you swim or snorkel the day away in clear blue waters along the way.

Eat Freshly Caught Fish by the Sea

Milos at Sea—a new venture from the world-famous seafood restaurant—will take you on a culinary odyssey aboard a 113-foot yacht. Dine on freshly caught fish, enjoy a cooking lesson and wine and cheese tastings, and work off all the delicious meals paddle boarding or kayaking.

Insights Greece - 20 Best Things to Do on the Athens Riviera

Take a Helicopter Ride Over Athens Riviera 

Get a different perspective on the Athens Riviera on a helicopter tour with Athens Heli Tours. The epic landmarks and glittering beaches look even more spectacular from the sky. 

Spend a Day at Stavros Niarchos Cultural Centre

In Kallithea, you will find the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Centre, a new state of art facilities and a landmark of cultural exhibitions within Athens. It includes the brand new facilities of the National Library, the National Opera and the Park that hosts various performances and events- a great spot for families. 

Walk Along Flisvos Marina

Either you just want to walk around or enjoy a coffee and sweet at one of the many cafés along Flisvos. It’s particularly pretty at night and here you will come across a wonderful open-air cinema- make sure to catch a movie here if time permits. 

Make the most of Alimos

Alimos is a great place to spend a day. Here you can enjoy a swim at one of the organized beaches and have coffee or drink at the popular Nalu café or Bolivar beach bar. If you are lucky you may even get to see a free concert as both beach bars are known to host a range of local and international artists. 

Insights Greece - 20 Best Things to Do on the Athens Riviera

Watch the Sunset at Balux The House Project 

One of the most beautiful and popular places in Athens Riviera is Balux, which received a makeover a few years back and has now become a spot where you can spend endless hours relaxing, eating and drinking with friends. It’s also perfect for families as there are so many kid-friendly options here. 

Dive off the Rocks at Vouliagmeni

Choose your favourite spot and dive off the rocks at Limanakia, located at the base of the coastal road of Vouliagmeni in the direction of Varkiza!