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Most Stunning Hotels in Greece for Autumn

From the Peloponnese to Crete- discover the most beautiful hotels to visit in Greece during autumn with our guide to stays.

Greece is full of remarkable hotels that feel especially alluring in autumn, from historic estates and mountain retreats to sleek, seaside escapes. Across the country, landscapes take on a golden glow, ancient streets are quieter, and the season’s softer light makes every setting feel cinematic. These carefully chosen hotels offer the perfect backdrop for autumn, where design, comfort, and a connection to the surrounding environment come together effortlessly.

From the food and interiors to the location and stories behind each property, we’ve rounded up the places we love to check in to when the air turns cooler. Imagine evenings by the fire with a glass of local wine, long lunches that stretch into afternoon aperitifs, and strolls that take you from village streets to sweeping coastlines without the summer crowds. These are the stays that capture Greece at its most timeless- elegant, atmospheric, and unforgettable in autumn.

Insights Greece - Most Stunning Hotels in Greece for Autumn

Manna Arcadia

Set within the fir forests of Mount Mainalo, Manna Arcadia transforms a 1929 sanatorium into a striking mountain retreat. Its neoclassical architecture is paired with interiors of chestnut wood, rattan, and linen, creating a warm, timeless atmosphere that feels perfectly attuned to autumn. The impressive restaurant serves soulful dishes that elevate local produce into modern Greek comfort food, while the sleek bar offers an exclusive collection of whiskies and artisanal spirits. Days here might be spent hiking through the surrounding forest, visiting nearby stone villages, or simply unwinding in the sauna before drinks on the deck overlooking the ponds. It’s a sanctuary of design, nature, and gastronomy- one that captures the essence of Greece’s mainland in the cooler months.

A: Korfoxylia, Magouliana

Kinsterna Hotel

Near the medieval citadel of Monemvasia, Kinsterna is a restored 13th-century Byzantine mansion surrounded by olive groves, vineyards, and citrus trees, which take on a golden glow in autumn. Its fifty-one rooms blend historic details- think stone fireplaces and timber ceilings- with modern comforts and sweeping views over the Aegean, ideal for crisp-season morning and sunsets. The spring-fed pool and serene spa offer a restorative escape, while hands-on experiences such as olive harvesting, bread-making, and beekeeping immerse guests in the seasonal rhythms of the land. Dining celebrates autumnal abundance, with Restaurant Mouries highlighting local produce and traditional recipes, while Taverna Linos serves rustic wood-fired fare beside the old olive press. With its rich sense of history, atmospheric setting, and seasonal connection to the surrounding landscape, Kinsterna is an unforgettable Peloponnesian retreat for autumn.

A: Agios Stefanos, Monemvasia

The Bold Type Hotel

Set within a 19th-century mansion, The Bold Type marries historic charm with contemporary luxury at the heart of the city. Its design plays with colour across three floors- brick-red nods to the ancient theatre, cobalt references the original house, and green compliments the lush courtyard, while fine walnut, restored marble, and artisanal furnishings create a sophisticated atmosphere. The hotel’s Mediterranean garden and soaring public spaces make it easy to unwind while staying connected to the city’s cultural pulse. Dining here is a sensory experience, with inventive Greek and Mediterranean dishes served al fresco, from squid-ink calamari to beef carpaccio tartare, perfectly paired with contemporary cocktails. Beyond the hotel, historic landmarks of Patras, such as the Medieval Castle and the Roman Odeon are just steps away, while curated events and exhibitions enrich every stay. In autumn, the softened city light and quieter streets make exploring these ancient streets especially rewarding, with the hotel offering a serene base in the midst of history.

A: Paleon Patron Germanou 10, Patras

The Tanneries

Set on a secluded waterfront, The Tanneries is a minimalist boutique retreat that artfully preserves its industrial past as a tannery while offering modern luxury. Its 20 suites are flooded with natural light, many framing sweeping sea views, and interiors blend concrete, marble, glass, and wood for a clean, contemporary aesthetic. Dining at Periplous Seaside Restaurant celebrates Cretan tradition with a modern twist, from brunch cocktails to sunset aperitivos by the water. The hotel’s spa and wellness facilities feature a heated indoor pool, multisensory treatments, and a custom-designed gym, inviting both indulgence and rejuvenation. Beyond the hotel, Chania’s mountains, national parks, and charming villages make for memorable day trips, with autumn offering crisp air, quieter trails, and golden light over the coastline. Whether relaxing by the jacuzzi, strolling the shore, or exploring historic sites, The Tanneries combines design, gastronomy, and nature in perfect harmony.

A: Vivilaki 19, Chania

Stoes Boutique Hotel

Nestled just steps from the Byzantine Castle, Stoes Boutique Hotel blends historic charm with contemporary design. Housed in a late-19th-century mansion, its exposed stone walls, checkerboard floors, and high ceilings honour the past, while velvet seating, chic chandeliers, and modern bathrooms bring a fresh, stylish edge. Rooms range from cloister-like retreats with minimalist touches to expansive suites featuring Chesterfield sofas, decorative-tiled bathrooms, and private balconies with city views. Guests can start the day on the sunlit terrace before exploring Ioannina’s atmospheric streets, or enjoy local flavours at the hotel’s all-day restaurant and bar. Autumn colours add a soft touch to the castle and surrounding streets, making city strolls particularly enchanting. With its balance of old-world architecture, contemporary comforts, and prime location, Stoes offers a refined base for discovering this historic corner of Greece.

A: Christou Efthimiou 11, Ioannina

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Why Phāea Blue is the Greek Island Escape to Book in 2025

A refined retreat where thoughtful design, local flavours, and meaningful connections offer a deeper way to experience Crete.

There are places that offer a welcome escape; others draw you into a world of their own. Phāea Blue, a quietly luxurious hotel on Crete’s northeast coast, gracefully balances both. Nestled between ancient olive groves and the cobalt waters of the Mirabello Gulf, this private estate sits perfectly between the fishing village of Plaka and the refined harbour town of Elounda, gazing across to Spinalonga Island, which has recently been nominated for UNESCO World Heritage status, a poignant reminder of the island’s rich, layered history.

With its soft-toned suites, considered architecture, and olivewood tables set with handmade ceramics, Phāea Blue captures a quiet, refined elegance that feels both natural and intentional. A driftwood walkway leads down to a private white-pebble beach, where secluded sun decks framed by native plants invite moments of quiet reflection. It’s a rare place where time slows, the salt air mingles with the subtle scents of wild herbs, and evenings dissolve into the gentle rhythm of waves lapping against the shore.

Insights Greece - Why Phāea Blue is the Greek Island Escape to Book in 2025

Inside, the design is a conversation between contemporary Mediterranean freshness and Cretan tradition. Soft linens, natural stone, and handcrafted textures coexist with sculptural furnishings by Greek artisans such as ceramicists Melina Xenaki and Kallia Panopoulou, marble atelier Onentropy, and porcelain craftsman Thomais Kontou. The owners’ grandmother’s handwoven textiles add a thread of family heritage, while original art pieces by Philippos Theodorides enrich the spaces.

The lobby, curated in collaboration with the Benaki Museum, one of Greece’s most esteemed cultural institutions, embodies this ethos of heritage and modernity. Its collections offer a subtle cultural narrative, allowing guests to feel not just welcomed but connected to a broader Greek story. Here, every detail is intentional, inviting guests to experience Crete through layers of history and craftsmanship.

Phāea Blue’s suites open onto gardens featuring indigenous herbs and lush greenery, each room a private sanctuary filled with natural light and gentle sea breezes. For those seeking privacy and space, the villa offers a heated pool and interiors that blend custom Greek design with a lived-in warmth, more home than hotel.

Central to the Phāea experience is a deep respect for place and community, embodied most vividly in its culinary offerings. The acclaimed Anthós restaurant offers a fresh and contemporary take on Greek cuisine, driven by the rhythms of the land and sea. The menu celebrates local, seasonal ingredients, such as wild greens, heirloom tomatoes, and traditional specialties such as the signature Gamopilafo- rice cooked with goat broth and Anthotyros cheese.

The Phāea Farmers Feast, led by Executive Chef Giannis Kalivretakis, is held in the estate’s organic garden, and it’s more than dinner- it is a ritual. Guests handpick the day’s ingredients alongside local farmers and the chef, then gather around a communal table to share food prepared through an ancient Cretan earth-cooking tradition. This elemental method infuses dishes with the soil’s essence, deepening the connection between land, food, and people.

Phāea Blue sources its produce with care: bio extra virgin olive oil pressed by the Phāea Farmers; free-range eggs from Elia Village farm in Heraklion; artisanal cheeses, traditional Staka butter and sheep’s yogurt from Lassithi; cured meats from nearby villages- the kitchen tells stories of the island’s heritage through every ingredient.

The hotel’s commitment to conscious hospitality extends beyond the table. The Phāea Plan Bee initiative nurtures pollinator-friendly gardens, creating a sanctuary for bees essential to the island’s biodiversity.

Wine tastings beneath the shade of a centuries-old carob tree offer another sensory layer- native Greek varietals paired with local cheeses and mezze, savoured slowly, with the sea breeze as accompaniment.

Then there’s the caique. The estate’s beautifully restored wooden boat is available for private sunset cruises- a nod to the slow-travel traditions of Greece’s seafaring past. With an aperitivo in hand and Spinalonga in silhouette, it’s easy to forget what day it is.

It’s this unhurried rhythm, this sense of being both grounded and gently transported that defines Phāea Blue’s unique hospitality. Rooted in philoxenia, the Greek art of wholehearted welcome, it feels less like a stay and more like being embraced by a home shaped by tradition, care, and soul. Barefoot mornings by the garden, the olive tree scent carried on a breeze, and warm local smiles make it feel both personal and authentic.

Founded by sisters Agapi and Costantza Sbokou, second-generation hoteliers with a vision to redefine Greek hospitality, Phāea Blue is a place where light itself seems to paint every moment. It is a sanctuary that invites guests to slow down, connect with the island’s soul, and discover a timeless Crete.

Though perfectly suited for the vibrancy of summer, Phāea Blue equally welcomes visitors in the warm, peaceful months, when the weather is still perfect, crowds thin and days soften.

No matter the season, Phāea Blue is more than an escape, it’s a chance to restore your sense of how travel should feel.

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Hotel Review: Manifest Boutique Hotel

Nestled in the dramatic landscape of Mani and overlooking Limeni Bay, Manifest Boutique Hotel is a true reflection of the region’s untamed beauty and deep-rooted history.

From its panoramic sea views to its refined take on local architecture, Manifest is a place where nature and design exist in perfect harmony. Here, Greek hospitality takes centre stage- warm, generous, and deeply connected to Mani’s rich culinary and cultural traditions.

Lowdown

Returning to Manifest Boutique Hotel for the second time, it’s no surprise why this has become a family favourite. The infinity pool, overlooking the captivating views of Limeni, provides the perfect place to unwind, while the hotel’s impeccable hospitality creates a welcoming, effortless atmosphere, ensuring every moment is elevated for both adults and little ones alike.

Designed in earthy tones and natural textures, the property sits in quiet harmony with its wild Mani surroundings, where craggy terrain gives way to the boundless blues of the Mediterranean.

Whether you’re captivated by Mani’s dramatic landscapes, intrigued by its rich history, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, Manifest Boutique Hotel offers an unforgettable experience- one that stays with you long after you leave, all while calling you back for more.

Insights Greece - Hotel Review: Manifest Boutique Hotel

Details

Featuring locally sourced stone and wood, the hotel feels like a natural extension of its surroundings, seamlessly integrated into Oitylo’s rugged landscape. The design pays homage to the region’s heritage with warm wooden floorboards, exposed stone walls, and shaded terraces- creating a setting that feels both timeless and refined. Inside, the lobby and lounge areas exude a sense of calm, with artisan-crafted furnishings, natural textures, and earthy tones that enhance the hotel’s warm and authentic ambiance.

One of Manifest’s most enchanting touches is its signature scent. As you walk through the premises, the air is filled with the soothing aroma of lavender and local herbs, a sensory reminder of the unspoiled nature that surrounds you. Whether you’re relaxing on a light-filled terrace or unwinding in one of the thoughtfully designed spaces, Manifest embodies effortless elegance with a deep respect for tradition.

Rooms

Built from Mani stone, each room feels wonderfully connected to its setting while offering a refined, boutique experience. Our spacious suite featured wooden beams, rattan décor, and locally inspired artwork, creating a stay that was both stylish and serene. The plush beds, dressed in high-quality linens, ensured ultimate comfort, while large windows and a private terrace framed unobstructed views of Limeni Bay.

Designed with both aesthetics and comfort in mind, the bathrooms feature natural stone tiles, rainfall showers, and luxurious Greek-made toiletries. Each of the hotel’s 18 suites includes modern amenities and some rooms even offer fireplaces, adding an extra layer of warmth to the experience.

Food + Drinks

Traditional Maniot flavours and Mediterranean cuisine can be enjoyed with breathtaking views. Mornings begin with a delightful buffet breakfast, featuring an array of fresh fruits, yogurt, homemade jams, local honey, and freshly baked bread. Regional specialties like bougatsa, portokalopita (orange pie), and savoury pies are complimented by made-to-order eggs- whether fried, in an omelet, or as Kagianas (scrambled with tomatoes, smoked pork, feta, and oregano).

By the poolside, guests can enjoy Sfakian pie, club sandwiches, pizza, or a vibrant green salad with dried figs, grilled halloumi, and thyme honey dressing. You can also pair your cheese platter with a selection of fine local wines, a craft beer, or a Negroni.

And as the sun sets, the hotel’s restaurant transforms into an intimate dining spot, serving dishes crafted from locally sourced olive oil, seafood, meats, vegetables and herbs.

Extra touches

The stunning infinity pool at Manifest Boutique Hotel is a true highlight, offering a tranquil escape with breathtaking views over Limeni Bay. With sun loungers thoughtfully placed along the pool deck, it’s the perfect spot to unwind, soak up the sunshine, and feel as if the sea stretches endlessly before you. For those looking to stay active, the hotel offers a fitness centre, while the beautifully landscaped garden adds to the peaceful ambiance. Guests can also indulge in onsite massages for ultimate relaxation or join a yoga session, embracing the hotel’s serene surroundings.

What’s close by

Manifest is perfectly positioned for exploring Mani’s dramatic landscapes and rich history. Just 1.4 km away, Oitylo beach offers crystal-clear waters for a refreshing swim, while the picturesque village of Limeni is a 4-minute drive away, known for its stunning waters and seafront tavernas. The Caves of Diros, with its amazing stalactites and stalagmites, is 19 km from the hotel, while the charming streets of Areopoli are only a 15-minute drive away, inviting you to wander and soak in their timeless allure.

Highlight of stay

There’s an effortless sense of calm that settles over you at Manifest Boutique Hotel, making it easy to slip into a slower rhythm. With views that quietly captivate, this is the kind of place where doing nothing feels like more than enough. Here, time seems to stretch, inviting you to pause, exhale, and truly sink into the stillness of this remarkable region.

Perfect for…

Those looking to experience the authentic charm of Mani in a peaceful setting, couples seeking a romantic escape, solo travellers in search of some R&R, or a family eager to explore the wonders of the Peloponnese. Manifest provides a stay that truly captures the essence of this stunning location.

Accommodation type: Boutique hotel

Location: Karavostasi, Mani

→ BOOK HERE: BOOKING.COM

→ BOOK HERE: EXPEDIA

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Staying at Chara Houses in Mani

Staying at Chara Houses in Mani, promises a unique and enriching experience, combining stunning natural beauty with rich history and traditional charm.

If you are looking for a memorable getaway in the Peloponnese that’s filled with relaxation, adventure and cultural experiences, these authentic seaside homes are the perfect choice for a beautiful escape – from June through to late October, as the weather in this charming part of mainland Greece remains hot and sea temperatures stay warm through to autumn.

Insights Greece - Staying at Chara Houses in Mani

Located on a stunning stretch of coastline, Chara Houses, only steps away from the beach, is a private and gated property that features five spacious homes that can accommodate up to seven guests, making it perfect for family holidays, friend group trips- or yoga, artist and writers retreats.

Featuring traditional Maniot architecture that blends in perfectly with modern comforts, the exterior is characterised by colourful facades, stone walls, wooden beams, and terracotta roofing, while the cozy interior is a haven of warmth and relaxation. Boasting three bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a fully equipped kitchen – Chara Houses is ideal for longer stays.

You will also find plantation shutter windows, Juliet balconies, and covered terraces that offer panoramic views of the nearby lush gardens with hammocks and plenty of space for play, and most importantly the nearby sea, reminding guests they are mere moments away from the quiet and sandy Kalamakia beach, where they are also given their own umbrella and sunbeds – allowing for endless hours of swimming and sunbathing every day.

What makes family-run Chara Houses so special is the serenity, and fresh, invigorating air filled with the scent of the sea and wild local herbs; not to mention its attentive host Lazarus, who ensures guests are comfortable, and always happy to share where to savour fresh local cuisine, including some traditional seaside fish taverns that are within walking distance. As well as revealing other nearby places to discover, such as Areopoli and Gytheion town, and the picture-perfect Limeni fishing village, or the famous Diros caves, which are only 25 minutes away.

Once a week, Lazarus also hosts BBQ nights for his guests, where they can experience an authentic village-style gathering filled with local homemade dishes using fresh vegetables and herbs from the property’s pristine garden.

And if that’s not enough, what will make this stay most memorable is waking up each day to the peaceful and gentle sound of waves lapping against the sandy shore and the golden rays of the sun illuminating the azure waters of the Mediterranean, which is guaranteed through to September and October, making it the ideal time to enjoy more outdoor activities such as kayaking and cycling in Skoutari Bay, horse riding at Charia village, and strolling around Vatheia village – also perfect for those who want to avoid the peak summer crowds.

Each house comes with…

Private parking
Wi-Fi
Airconditioning
Washing machine
TV
Housekeeping every 3 days
Linen & towels

A: Skoutari, Mani, Laconia

W: chara-skoutari.gr

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Hottest New Hotel Openings in Greece in 2024

Exciting new hotels are making their debut across Greece again this year!

From Mykonos and Santorini to Folegandros and Kea – we’ve rounded up the hottest new hotels in Greece that stand out for their prime locations, stunning designs, and relaxed vibes!

One&Only Kéa Island

Set on a 65-hectare beachfront site on the west side of Kéa island, and just an hour’s ferry ride from Athens – this stunning hideaway offers guests opulent villas and residences hewn from local marble and stone. The stylish design includes private gardens, pools and windows framing Aegean vistas, soaring atriums, open archways and lofty ceilings that create a relaxed grandeur. The luxurious property also includes a restaurant serving fresh dishes using organic local produce, a beach club, a lobby lounge, a wine bar, and a pool bar.

Opening: Spring 2024

Gundari, Folegandros

This luxury resort is wrapped in 80 acres of raw nature on the secluded island of Folegandros. Set high on rugged, soaring cliffs overlooking the Aegean Sea, this oasis is designed to inspire and invigorate, with wellness, gastronomy and sustainability at its core. Featuring 25 suites and three villas, all with private infinity pools – guests can relax by the cliff-edge pool with a swim-up cocktail bar, taste fresh dishes from the farm-to-table restaurant, sip on local wine from the wine bar, or be pampered at the cliffside spa drawing on traditions of the Ancient Greeks.

Opening: May 2024

NUMO Mykonos

The architecture of this new hotel in Mykonos seamlessly blends into the island’s iconic aesthetic inspired by Cycladic whitewashed houses, whereas the contemporary design features elements from the 60s and the 70s – creating a unique, retro vibe. Think smooth curves, simple and uncluttered lines, materials such as stone and colourful textiles – including yellow and white striped fabrics – that add a touch of playfulness to the property. Featuring a wide selection of rooms and suites, the resort also offers a Mediterranean inspired restaurant, a pool bar, a boutique spa and fitness centre.

Opening: May 2024

Avant Mar, Paros

Only a short stroll from both the gorgeous Piperi Beach and pretty Naoussa town, this new hotel, which had a soft opening in 2023 (but will enjoy its first full summer this year), is the perfect spot to take in all of Paros’ beauty. Boasting a a 55-metre-long swimming pool overlooking the Aegean Sea, guests can also delight in renowned Nobu-style cuisine at Matsuhisa Paros, delve into the delightful all-day menu at Thymes and relish the Greek flavours of the pastry shop, Figs. And when it’s time to wind down, there is a range of massages and treatments designed to recharge the mind, body and soul.

Opening: April 2024

Domes Novos Santorini

Set between timeless volcanic landscapes and iconic whitewashed houses, this new hotel combines luxury accommodation, gastronomy and wellness. Adorned with Cycladic murals, each of the 50 suites and two villas (all with pools) offer breathtaking views of the sea and the famous Santorini sunset. Boasting natural materials including volcanic stone and blonde oak, the resort also includes a rooftop restaurant, Topos, that serves farm-to-table neo-Greek cuisine and Domes’ signature SOMA Spa, along with an indoor pool and state-of-the-art gym.

Opening: April 2024

Odera, Tinos

The first luxury boutique hotel of its kind on the island of Tinos, this new property with a modern yet timeless design offers both a selection of curated culinary delights and a range of wellness options for those who are in need of some R&R. With 77 guest rooms and pool suites, an expansive spa, secluded private beach and beach club, guests are also invited to hire the hotel’s boat and spend the day exploring the island.

Opening: May 2024

Santo Mine Oia Suites, Santorini

Opening towards the end of next month, this new hotel is perched above Ammoudi Bay, on the site of an old stone mine that’s just a short walk from the centre of Oia. An adults-only retreat, it features 37 suites with jacuzzis or private pools, as well as a restaurant and all-day bar, a wine cellar showcasing local as well as international wines, a spa and an outdoor gym.

Opening: April 2024

Featured Image Courtesy of One&Only Kea Island

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Stylish Escape at Meli Suites

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.

Insights Greece - Stylish Escape at Meli Suites

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.

Images by: Alexandros Iconomidis ©

Architecture design: BMMB Architects

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Staying at Meli Suites Isle in Thassos

If you are after a chic yet private, honeymoon-style sanctuary in Thassos, Meli Suites Isle, the latest hotel of the Meli Suites collection in Skala Potamia, offers an elegant, relaxing and stylish stay for loved-up couples.

The striking architecture of Meli Suites Isle is the first thing you notice when walking through the stone-built entry. Picture scattered olive trees, beige sandstone walls, rattan hanging chairs and outdoor raffia roofing all intertwined with one big swimming pool – the focal point of the entire space.

Insights Greece - Staying at Meli Suites Isle in Thassos

But it’s not just a swimming pool! Just as ‘meli‘ (honey) is the ingredient that makes any Greek breakfast special, respectively, this swimming pool is the ‘meli‘ that makes this place so distinctive- as it effortlessly connects the rooms – with each suite having its own access to the water.

The concept is not only unique but it also contributes to the harmony of Meli Suite’s design.

“It takes an architectural genius to build a place like this,” is what another guest said while we enjoyed our breakfast by the pool one morning.

Then, you get to know that the owner, Stelios Nikoloudis, who is a London-based civil engineer with a keen eye for textures and materials.

The isle in the middle of the swimming pool with its growing olive tree, the brilliant marriage between all the textures and natural materials – plus the painstaking attention to detail is what makes Meli Suites so special.

With three rooms and eight suites all individually styled and named after their unique features – we stayed in the Arch Room, where every morning felt like we were waking up in paradise. Featuring views of the serene pool, the swim-up private deck allows guests direct access to the water right by the bedroom suite.

Having breakfast by the pool was another unique experience, with owner, Yianna being the epitome of Greek hospitality. Not only does she serve a homemade breakfast, she also makes recommendations for places to visit on the island, and shares 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. Not only will you fall in love with the impeccable design and architecture – but you will also be blown away by their warm hospitality. Book your stay at the Deluxe Suite with a bathtub now and you can thank me later.

Architecture design: BMMB Architects

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Marbella Elix, a Stunning New Luxury Resort

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!

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Traditional Accommodation in Zagora

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.

Insights Greece - Traditional Accommodation in Zagora

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!

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Greece Takes Home 3 Accolades at the Historic Hotels of Europe Awards 2022

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.”

Allegory Boutique Hotel Esperas Santorini Greece hotels Greek hotels Historic Hotels of Europe Awards 2022 Kyrimai Hotel

A Stylish New Hotel Set to Open at the Port of Piraeus

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.

Insights Greece - A Stylish New Hotel Set to Open at the Port of Piraeus

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.

A: 6 Lidovikou, Pireaus

W: Port Square Hotel

Athens Greece hotels new hotels Athens Piraeus Piraeus hotels Piraeus Port Port Square Hotel Tresor Hospitality

Mandarin Oriental to Open at Costa Navarino

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.

Insights Greece - Mandarin Oriental to Open at Costa 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.”

“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.

Mandarin Oriental, Costa Navarino

Costa Navarino Greece Greece hotels Greece resorts Greece travel Greece vacation Greek holiday Greek hotels Greek resorts luxury resorts Greece Mandarin Oriental Mandarin Oriental Costa Navarino Messinia Navarino Bay new hotels Greece Peloponnese

From the Peloponnese to Crete- discover the most beautiful hotels to visit in Greece during autumn with our guide to stays.

A refined retreat where thoughtful design, local flavours, and meaningful connections offer a deeper way to experience Crete.

Nestled in the dramatic landscape of Mani and overlooking Limeni Bay, Manifest Boutique Hotel is a true reflection of the region’s untamed beauty and deep-rooted history.

Staying at Chara Houses in Mani, promises a unique and enriching experience, combining stunning natural beauty with rich history and traditional charm.

Exciting new hotels are making their debut across Greece again this year!

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!

If you are after a chic yet private, honeymoon-style sanctuary in Thassos, Meli Suites Isle, the latest hotel of the Meli Suites collection in Skala Potamia, offers an elegant, relaxing and stylish stay for loved-up couples.

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!

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.

A stylish new smart hotel- the Port Square Hotel- ideally located at Athens’ busy port of Piraeus, is set to open in 2022.

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.

The Athens Guide