Imagine for a moment that you are soaking in the warm rays of the Greek sun in your own private swimming pool overlooking the sea. It feels nourishing and healing- as all your aches and pains just fade away. Welcome to Meli Suites in Skala Potamia, a little piece of paradise!
We visited the Meli Suites Isle before and loved every single bit of our stay. Having chatted with the staff it sounded like we shouldn’t leave the island without taking a look at the Meli Suites, the original hotel of the Meli Suites hotel collection.
Meli Suites is mainly comprised of stylish suites embracing a mixture of Scandinavian and Aegean architecture with private swimming pools and sea views. Inside the suites, the luxury brief is taken seriously with eye-popping decor and details that recall the famous, white-washed Cycladic islands.
Lavish interiors aside, Meli Suites is located in Skala Potamias centre, right next to the busy seafront with a number of bars and restaurants, making it the perfect launchpad for exploring the village on foot. It didn’t take much to persuade my husband that we had to extend our stay on the island. Thankfully, the idea was equally appealing to him, too.
We stayed at the Superior Suite and our time here can only be described as indelible!
With a private balcony that featured our very own swimming pool, big, comfy sunbeds and spectacular sea views, we didn’t see any need to leave the hotel and travel further afield. In the morning, we would indulge in our homemade breakfast by the main swimming pool, then sunbathe on our private balcony and would only leave to take a quick dip in the sea before lunch. At night, we would drop into one of the seafront bars and enjoy a cocktail while gazing at the sea.
But enough with the words, let the pictures speak for themselves!
If you are thinking of visiting the verdant green island of Thassos, then Skala Potamia is a good place to start. From here you can embark on daily trips to the nearby villages of Panagia and Limenaria, and explore beaches like the Giola Lagoon with its crystal emerald waters. Beyond this, Meli Suites is the most luxurious and stylish hotel in the area so book your stay in one of their luxurious suites and let the positive vibes of this unique hotel work wonders for your mind and body.
If you are after a chic-but-private, honeymoon-style sanctuary amid the Thassos island bustle, Meli Suites Isle, the latest hotel of the Meli Suites collection in Skala Potamia, offers an elegant stay with style, relaxation and culinary delights- all achieved in one place.
The striking architecture of Meli Suites Isle is the first thing you notice when walking through its stone-built entry. Picture scattered olive trees, beige sandstone walls, rattan hanging chairs and outdoors raffia roofing all intertwined with one big swimming pool – the focal point of the entire place.
But it’s not just a swimming pool! Just as ‘meli‘ (honey in Greek) is the ingredient that makes any Greek breakfast special, respectively, this swimming pool is the ‘meli‘ that makes this place so unique- as it connects the rooms giving access to the water directly from each suite.
This concept is not only one I’ve never seen before but it also contributes to the harmony of the entire place.
“It takes an architectural genius to build a place like this,” is what another guest told me while we had our breakfast by the pool one morning.
Then, you get to know that the owner, Stelios Nikoloudis, is a London-based civil engineer with a keen eye for textures and materials.
The isle in the middle of the swimming pool with a growing olive tree, the brilliant marriage of all the textures and natural materials, plus the painstaking attention to detail, and then it all makes sense.
There are three rooms and eight suites all individually styled and named after their unique features. We stayed in the Arch Room and every morning it felt like waking up in paradise with views of the swimming pool and the swim-up private deck with direct access to the water right by our bed.
Having breakfast by the pool was another unique experience. The owner, Yianna, is the epitome of Greek hospitality, serving you a homemade breakfast and being there to facilitate you in any way she can, let that be making recommendations for places to visit on the island or sharing local secrets, including how to find the most gorgeous beaches.
We tried the floating breakfast on our last day in the hotel and it was the ultimate luxury! Presented on a large tray complete with homemade Greek pastries, freshly squeezed juices and eggs- it was the best start to our day and something to remember.
There are plenty of spaces to stay in Skala Potamias but Meli Suites Isle is most certainly our favourite place to book. Not only will you fall in love with the impeccable design and architecture of the place but you will also adore their hospitality. Book your stay at the Deluxe Suite with a bathtub now and you can thank me later.
It is easy to see why Marbella Elix is popular with discerning families who look for fun and convenience. Calm, modern design rooms peer over dense olive groves and azure waters- a place to stow away and let off steam. This is most certainly Epirus’ best-kept secret!
Shy of the beautiful town of Parga, Marbella Elix is a luxury hotel where relaxation and tranquillity acquire a whole new meaning, where all-inclusive does not confuse abundance with quality and where food is seasonally sourced and cooked. It is no surprise after all that Marbella Elix was included in Condé Nast Traveller’s 2022 Hot List!
Style & Feel
Amphitheatrically built and perched on a hill by Karavostasi beach, Marbella Elix visitors are amazed by the big glass walls and sea views once entering the lobby. “Blue as far as the eye can see” is what everyone kept saying to each other whilst the concierge took care of our luggage.
The lobby lounge has a laid-back feeling that makes you want to spend your evening gazing into the deep blue water. It works overtime as a cafe and bar and does a pretty good job of calming you down especially if you have travelled all day long. The interior decor is a well-matched mix of local traditional elements and Moroccan features- think of big armchairs, wooden tables, metal lanterns with an antiqued bronze finish and soothing neutral beach colours, it sold me!
Rooms
I’ve expressed my love for the Marbella Collection 5-star hotels many times in the past. I had the pleasure of staying at the Marbella Corfu and I have also visited the Nido Suites but this was the first time I stayed at the Marbella Elix and from the first glance I could tell that the same quality and attention to detail applied here, too.
Tall handmade headboard? Check. Contemporary details mixed with classic features? Check. Impeccable interior decoration? Check. Big rainfall shower? Check. Coupled with a big balcony, comfy sunloungers and a big glass deck railing to make the most of the breathtaking sea views and views to the islands of Corfu, Paxos, and Antipaxos, it was difficult not to fall in love with the place.
I loved every detail, from the cushions in the living room to the natural variations in the grain and colour of the wooden wardrobe!
There are multiple rooms- some have their private swimming pools others are closer to the beach. Our room was next to the swimming pool and Indigo bar, as soon as we checked in we took a stroll around before ending up in the baby swimming pool with our little M practising her swimming moves.
Food
I have already waxed lyrical about the food at Marbella Elix; it is freshly cooked with locally sourced ingredients and caters for all tastes and preferences. There is a little fine dining corner for those who seek luxury and then there’s Greek food, seafood and special dietary requirements food catering to vegans and people with intolerances. And by vegan food, I mean spinach risotto and vegetable moussaka, not just fries and boiled veggies.
Those with a sweet tooth wouldn’t be left unsatisfied either. Marbella Elix has a magnificent selection of desserts you must save room for; from perfectly baked Greek sweet pies to white chocolate mousse and mocha pots de creme, it was nearly impossible not to try at least two different puddings at a time.
Decadent, rich, full of flavours, a proper feast for the eyes!
To top the dining experience off, the hotel offers a culinary series called Greek Chefs Abroad where, as the name suggests, Greek Chefs from abroad cook for the hotel’s guests giving them the chance to taste menus they wouldn’t have the opportunity to do so otherwise.
Facilities
The beautiful beach of Karavostasi unfolding below the hotel is easily reached by the funicular railway, making access to the sea easier if you have mobility issues or if you are carrying a baby stroller around like myself. But if you are more of a swimming pool type, the infinity pool at the Indigo bar will no doubt have you smitten with its striped bean bag sunloungers, sea views and calming scenery.
Into sports and outdoor activities? Then, go trekking in the pine forest hills surrounding the hotel or go kayaking in the colling waters of the Ionian Sea. Into relaxation and mindfulness? Visit the spa, join one of the yoga classes at the gym or, even better, follow one of the Digi Detox Activities! Looking for kids’ activities? Let your kids join “The Grasshoppers” Kids Club & Creche. Supervised and cared for by multilingual childcare professionals this club offers activities for those between four months and 12 years, letting the parents the time to soak up the sun by the pool and enjoy the serenity of their private balcony.
Marbella Elix is truly a place that caters to everyone’s liking!
Until now, I had the softest spot for Marbella Corfu, but I think I’ve found a Marbella Collection hotel that’s taken over the top spot! We had the most wonderful time at Marbella Elix and I cannot wait to return back soon.
The post-lockdown Greek tourism explosion is real so if any of you reading this are thinking of a last-minute holiday in Greece, this is the time to do it or book your trip for next summer – any excuse to start planning your next adventure, right?
Platitudes and every travel cliché in the book have been used to describe holidaying in Pelion – sun, sea, lush greenery – but the thing that you have to keep in mind when it comes to it is that in Pelion there is an array of traditional accommodation stays that allow you to fully immerse yourself in an authentic Greek cultural experience. Here’s one such accommodation we recently stayed at – Victoria’s Country Apartments in Zagora!
Decades from now, my daughter will ask in awe ‘Did we really go on holiday in Pelion when I was 7 months old?’, to which the only response is ‘Yes, we drove several hours until we reached the beautiful village of Zagora in East Pelion and received the most heartwarming welcome from our hostess Victoria who made our trip unforgettable in so many ways!’. Then, I will proceed by showing her some pictures of our room.
There are eight spacious, two-bedroom apartments, all of them designed uniquely with treehouse beds and traditional stone-built walls by Victoria herself. We stayed at the Peacock – a large room on the first floor with a big wooden bed that was surrounded by colourful hand-painted peacocks on the walls. We had a wooden Greek-style kitchenette (where I prepared my daughter’s breakfast every morning), a sitting area, a Moroccan-style bathroom with in-build shower and spectacular tiles, and a balcony with a stunning view overlooking the Aegean!
Every morning Victoria would wake up early to prepare and serve us a feast for the eyes kind of breakfast with no two breakfasts alike regardless of how many days we stayed in her traditional accommodation.
Our options would vary from traditional Greek phyllo pies with fillings from Victoria’s organic vegetable patch, omelettes, fruit salads, pancakes, Greek yogurt with plums and cherries and freshly squeezed orange juice accompanied by the standard tea and coffee. We would sit on the balcony and have small sips of the coffee while devouring the omelettes and nibbling on the pies and pancakes. All while taking in the sea and mountain views with the sound of birds chirping in the background.
But what makes Victoria’s room so special is not just that, foregoing the beautiful, clean rooms and delicious food, and taking part in the local activities will make for an altogether richer and more rewarding holiday in Zagora.
Luckily, Victoria’s daughter, Kiki, is happy to show you around the most well-sought places to explore, connect you with the local travel guides and tell you about the history of the place.
From here, you can embark on the square of Zagora for a coffee or souvlaki, have a little shopping trip around Sindetiras jewellery store, Istos Pelion for traditionally woven scarves and cushions from the loom of the owner Kaiti, Gi Anatolis for souvenirs and higgledy-piggledy gifts, and the Women’s Agrotourist Cooperative of Zagora store with the delicious jams and liqueurs.Into history? Then visit the Museum of Zagora, situated a short car ride away on your way to Horefto beach. There is a parking space and the famous school where Rigas Feraios studied is just opposite the museum. Then, there’s also the Public Library of Zagora with an impressive collection of original manuscripts but you better make sure it is open before you visit.
Whatever you decide to do, I am sure you will have fun!
Greece was honoured with three top accolades at the prestigious Historic Hotels of Europe Awards 2022, winning a gold, silver, and bronze medal in three different categories.
Historic Hotels of Europe Awards returned for the eighth time and once more, a large number of culture seekers, history lovers and travel enthusiasts were invited to vote for their favourite nominated properties in the continent.
With ten categories in total, this year guests had the opportunity to also vote for their favourite new historic hotel as well as the property making the strongest efforts to reduce its carbon footprint, which is a growing priority of Historic Hotels of Europe.
For Greece, Esperas Santorini, in Oia won the golden award in the category of “Historic Romantic Hideaway Hotel.” Perched high on the rocky cliffs of Oia, each traditional island house in the Collection is carved into the rock and preserved to accentuate the unique characteristics of island architecture and décor. According to the Historic Hotels of Europe, some of the highlights of this hotel include, “A unique swimming pool carved into the rock and surrounded by a stylish terrace, showcasing the spectacular panorama of island colours and change of scenery, making this a perfect setting for relaxation, exclusive dining, and an ideal spot for intimate celebrations.”
Kyrimai, in Mani, was awarded silver in the “Historic Natural Setting Hotel” category, with the Historic Hotels of Europe highlighting the properties “marvellous example of period architecture that was restored with the same dedication that the restaurant team approaches their own craft,” as well as the “award-winning cuisine of the Kyrimai, which is served at the Kyrimai’s unique terrace by the water and the renovated warehouse; The menu inspired by Mani’s ingredients, flavours and aromas is a sophisticated approach to the modern foodie traveller.”
Lastly, the Allegory Boutique Hotel in Rhodes was honoured with a bronze medal in the new category “Historic Hotel Sustainability,” thanks to its “beautiful balance between heritage and modern design. Six suites with a brilliantly conceived ergonomic space preserve the impressive wooden beams of the original architecture.”
A stylish new smart hotel- the Port Square Hotel- ideally located at Athens’ busy port of Piraeus, is set to open in 2022.
Surrounded by a wide range of shops and eateries the modern hotel will provide a cozy stay for business travellers- and all local and international visitors seeking comfortable accommodation close to Piraeus port.
Centrally located in the Greek capital, it is only 20 meters away from Piraeus’ train and metro station- making it a convenient place to stay before sailing off to the Greek islands.
This luxury hotel will offer 55 modern rooms and suites (some come with a balcony and others also have city views) boasting minimal aesthetics and the latest technology in hotel services- which is displayed in every corner of the hotel- from the rooms to the conference hall and the rooftop area.
The property will also feature Bacaro restaurant and bar, where guests are welcomed to explore diverse and contemporary cuisine; and the hotel also offers a buffet breakfast, concierge service and luggage storage space, a 24-hour front desk, room service and organising tours.
The project has been developed by Trésor Hospitality and a team of architects and designers who transformed an old building of offices in front of the marina into the first smart hotel in the Piraeus area.
The first Mandarin Oriental resort will open its doors in Greece at Navarino Bay, an integrated resort area at Costa Navarino, in the region of Messinia, southwest Peloponnese, amidst a breathtaking 140-hectare natural landscape, overlooking the historic Bay of Navarino.
Greece’s first Mandarin Oriental to open at Navarino Bay
Set to open in 2023, the beachfront luxury resort will feature 99 guest rooms, including 48 spacious earth-sheltered pool villas, all with outdoor terraces and stunning sea views, along with five restaurants and bars. Crafted by renowned Greek architects, Tombazis & Associates Architects and K-Studio, the unique design is aligned with Costa Navarino’s sustainable principles, featuring planted roofs blending into the natural topography of the land and the use of local materials.
Additionally, this ultra-premium resort is set to feature a 1,500 m2 spa and fitness centre with a stunning 25 m indoor-outdoor pool and sweeping sea views, complemented by state-of-the-art heat experiences and Mandarin Oriental’s signature wellness therapies in specially designed indoor treatment rooms and outdoor pavilions.
The project is owned and developed by TEMES, a leading developer and operator of high-end tourism and real estate destinations in Greece.
“We are delighted to be opening our first property in Greece in Costa Navarino and look forward to sharing this striking combination of unspoiled landscape, olive groves, pristine beaches, and authentic Greek culture in the region with our guests,” said James Riley, Group Chief Executive of Mandarin Oriental. “We are pleased to partner with TEMES, the group that has been responsible for the creation of Costa Navarino as a bourgeoning tourism destination.”
Located in the heart of Messinia
“Mandarin Oriental is renowned for delivering exemplary service and exclusive experiences in some of the most noted properties around the world,” said Achilles V. Constantakopoulos, Chairman of TEMES. “We are proud to have the Group bring their hospitality expertise for the first time to Greece, signifying the further growth of Costa Navarino, which is becoming a top international destination to visit and to live”.
Guests of Mandarin Oriental, Costa Navarino will also benefit from the destination’s other resort areas, and experience a vast range of outdoor activities, from biking and hiking to rock-climbing, tennis, and water sports, as well as three more signature golf courses. Additionally, a variety of dining venues and leisure activities are available across Navarino Dunes and Navarino Waterfront.
Moreover, Mandarin Oriental, Costa Navarino will be adjacent to Navarino Agora, an open marketplace with retail, artisanal street food, open-air cinema, and authentic local experiences by day and night.
The new W Escape Costa Navarino resort featuring 246 stylish rooms, suites and villas, as well as private pools, restaurants, a sunset bar and a beach club is set to open on the Navarino Waterfront in Messinia, this summer 2022.
Marriott International, Inc. on Thursday announced it has signed an agreement with TEMES S.A., a leading developer and operator in high-end tourism and real estate, to debut the W Hotels Worldwide brand in Greece with the opening of W Costa Navarino. Expected to open in summer 2022, W Costa Navarino is anticipated to mark the latest addition to the expanding W Escapes portfolio in Europe following locations in Spain, Switzerland and Portugal.
The new W Escape in Greece will be located on the Navarino Waterfront, the newest integrated resort of Costa Navarino. The 13-hectare beachfront destination is designed by renowned Greek architects, Tombazis and Associates Architects. W Costa Navarino’s design is inspired by the region’s traditional residential areas and is set to use local, natural materials such as stone, wood and reed. The distinctive interiors will be led by London-based MKV Design.
The Escape is expected to feature 246 stylish rooms, suites, and villas, many with private pools staged in the Bay of Navarino with stunning Ionian Sea views.
‘‘We are thrilled to build on our fantastic relationship with TEMES S.A. to open W Costa Navarino, strengthening MarriottInternational’s presence in this Mediterranean paradise,” said Candice D’Cruz, Vice President Luxury Brands, Europe, Middle East & Africa, Marriott International. “Joining our portfolio of coveted W Escapes around the world, W Costa Navarino will add a distinct take on modern luxury to Navarino Waterfront. We look forward to welcoming free-spirited travelers to this new luxury playground.”
The new resort will also feature five dining venues including a destination beach club overlooking a long sandy shore, designed by Athens-based K-Studio. The ‘Culinary Square’ is the hotel’s playful take on a deli food market- with individual outlets offering guests all-day dining options. Other planned amenities include a sunset bar and the signature W Living Room. Guests will also be able to enjoy experiences and dining at neighbouring venues in Costa Navarino; including the new Navarino Agora, an open marketplace with retail, street food, open-air cinema and exciting events throughout the day and night.
Tennis courts and a water sports hub are part of the vision for guests to enjoy at W Costa Navarino, along with access to the destination’s four signature golf courses and an array of outdoor programming including biking, hiking, rock-climbing and sailing.
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.
Athens’ historic Hilton, which first opened its doors in 1963, as Greece’s first major international hotel is set to receive a 130 million euro redesign to become a new luxury hotel with premium private residences.
Hilton and Ionian Hotel Enterprises have announced an agreement for the new development, which marks the introduction of Hilton’s luxury brands — Conrad Hotels & Resorts, Conrad Residences, and Waldorf Astoria Residences to Greece.
Hilton Athens first opened its doors in 1963
As of 2024, the Hilton will be renamed Conrad and will include 280 modern rooms and suites, as well as about 50 private residences. In addition to the luxury hotel, the property will also include a members-only club, a range of eateries, bars, boutiques, entertainment venues, as well as leisure and wellness experiences.
“For more than half a century Hilton Athens has played a pivotal role in the city’s emergence as a global destination, welcoming international guests, royalty, and captains of industry. We’re incredibly proud to continue that legacy with the introduction of Conrad Hotels & Resorts alongside Waldorf Astoria and Conrad branded residences. With contemporary luxury interiors, seamless service, and stunning views overlooking the ancient citadel of the Acropolis, this is set to be an incredible addition to the portfolio,” said Simon Vincent, executive vice president and president, EMEA, Hilton.
According to Hilton, the new destination aims to introduce a well-curated blend of global and local brands that will inspire the capital’s residents, as well as a wide and inclusive audience, to experience the true spirit of modern Athens.
Dino Michael, senior vice president and global category head, of Hilton Luxury Brands said, “Athens is a city that perfectly responds to the needs of today’s luxury traveller. Steeped in history, with a thriving cultural and entertainment offering, it’s a fitting location in which to introduce our Conrad Hotels & Resorts brand. Increasingly, we’re also seeing significant demand for branded residences that offer our signature luxury hospitality, so we are particularly pleased to be expanding our partnership with IHE to introduce this exciting concept to Athens for the first time.”
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.
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