Where to Eat and Drink in Hydra

A small island in the Saronic Gulf (just 2 hours away from Athens), Hydra is a stunning and aristocratic destination that is one of the only islands in Greece without vehicles, making it a tranquil and laid-back spot to sit back, relax and unwind. 

Perched among thousands of steps and little alleyways, Hydra island offers an easy-going atmosphere, romantic sunsets, and some breathtaking places where you can enjoy fabulous food and drinks. 

When it comes to where to eat and drink in Hydra, our list has it all: from early evening cocktails with light pre-dinner bites to the finest and freshest seafood dishes on offer – you won’t waste a meal, and you certainly won’t leave hungry.

So, if you’re heading to Hydra…here’s where you should eat and drink! 

Techne Restaurant & Social

This seaside eatery is set in a renovated historic building, which, in fact, was an 1870s former boat factory. Located above Avlaki beach, a 10-minute walk from Hydra harbour, they serve great Mediterranean dishes on a stunning terrace that has great views out to the Aegean Sea (perfect place to enjoy a cocktail as you watch the sunset). 

  • Insights Greece - Where to Eat and Drink in Hydra
  • Insights Greece - Where to Eat and Drink in Hydra
Omilos Restaurant

Boasting an old-world charm, it’s also set right by the water, making it an ideal place for a late lunch or dinner. This chic, all-white waterside restaurant serves modern dishes and local cuisine using fresh ingredients and seasonal produce. 

  • Insights Greece - Where to Eat and Drink in Hydra
  • Insights Greece - Where to Eat and Drink in Hydra
To Piato

This is a traditional restaurant with a big collection of plates, decorated by guests who eat here. Located in a prime spot, you can see the port while enjoying fabulous dishes. It’s actually located under the shade of the Clocktower of Hydra, right next to the Byzantine Museum and is famous for its great Greek food, relaxing vibe, and warm service.

  • Insights Greece - Where to Eat and Drink in Hydra
  • Insights Greece - Where to Eat and Drink in Hydra
Caprice

Is an Italian trattoria, only 150m from the port and is decorated with old photos, tools, and equipment used by sponge divers. Serving traditional Italian recipes made using fresh Greek ingredients, it’s located at a hidden spot behind Hydra’s port. 

  • Insights Greece - Where to Eat and Drink in Hydra
  • Insights Greece - Where to Eat and Drink in Hydra
Il Casta

Another authentic Italian restaurant found in the alleyways of Hydra’s town, here they serve food from Napoli and the South of Italy. Located just off the port, it features a nice indoor dining space as well as a charming private courtyard. We recommend you try the handmade pasta with fresh seafood and top Italian wines. 

  • Insights Greece - Where to Eat and Drink in Hydra
  • Insights Greece - Where to Eat and Drink in Hydra
Ostria Tavern 

This is the place to go to for locally caught calamari and other fresh shellfish. Located on the corner of the port, next to the side entrance of Hydra’s Cathedral Temple, it’s the perfect spot for a casual meal. 

  • Insights Greece - Where to Eat and Drink in Hydra
  • Insights Greece - Where to Eat and Drink in Hydra
Hydronetta

Hydra’s most famous café-bar is carved into the rustic coastline near Hydra’s harbour. Embraced by rocks and enwrapped by the sea, it offers a picturesque spot for swimming, diving, as well as a good place to spend the afternoon alternating between a drink and a dip. With a great cocktail menu- make sure you are here in time for the sunset.

  • Insights Greece - Where to Eat and Drink in Hydra
  • Insights Greece - Where to Eat and Drink in Hydra
Amalour 

Cocktail lovers should head to Amalour and Isalos Café- they are by far the best spots for an aperitivo, wine or any drink of choice! Tip: Isalos is famous for its Caffe del Doge, a specialty coffee from Venice. 

Insights Greece - Where to Eat and Drink in Hydra

Pirate Bar

Another spot for pre-dinner drinks. Located on the corner of the harbour, it’s open all day and is a great place for people-watching or for those wanting to mingle with locals.

  • Insights Greece - Where to Eat and Drink in Hydra
  • Insights Greece - Where to Eat and Drink in Hydra

Main Images: Techne Restaurant and Social 

Kos, Greece’s Bicycle Island

With numerous bicycle lanes in the main town and wonderful cycling routes around the island, there’s no better way to explore Kos’ cultural and historical sites than hopping on a bike! 

From Hippocrates’ tree where the famous Father of Medicine practiced his therapies to Therma (hot springs) on the east coast of Kos or beautiful Zia where you can enjoy a fabulous meal and the stunning sunset- the adventurous cycling routes in Kos are endless!

Insights Greece - Kos, Greece’s Bicycle Island
Cycling around Kos’ port

Located in the Dodecanese, the flat terrain of the island makes cycling an easy and popular means of transport for both locals and international visitors. Here you will find locals on their bikes heading to work, school, or to the shops; and will be sharing the lanes with visitors who are exploring Kos’ main town, beaches, and historical sites along the way. It’s also the perfect way to admire the historic buildings until you reach a café, restaurant, or bar of your choice so you can sit down for a relaxing drink and some food- before you start riding again.

Just this month, Greece’s Transport and Infrastructure Minister Michalis Papadopoulos announced that Kos is emerging as a prime biking destination, and during the event, Papapopoulos highlighted Greece’s efforts to establish a National EuroVelo Coordination Center that would promote cycling tourism in Greece. 

“Currently there are 6.5 thousand bikes available for rent on Kos island– a huge advantage for the development of bike tourism,” Papadopoulos said.

Insights Greece - Kos, Greece’s Bicycle Island
A variety of routes around town

Exploring Kos’ main town by bike is a great experience and highly recommended. Featuring a 13km cycle lane stretching right along the waterfront, the bicycle path of Kos begins from Faros beach all the way through to the end of the beach at Psalidi, with a distance of about 13 km. With many side roads, some of which lead into the city of Kos, cyclists can choose which path they would like to discover first.

For those who are more confident cyclists, there are routes through mountains and dirt roads, overlooking the stunning nature on one side and the panoramic view of the island of Kos on the other. There are many paved roads, with limited traffic that will lead to charming villages and beaches beyond the centre of town, including some of the island’s most popular beaches- Tigaki and Marmari.

On the island, visitors can find many bicycle rental shops, with bikes suitable for all ages, levels of experience, and tastes. Ranging from road bikes to mountain bikes up to tandem bikes (for two riders); others prefer to take part in organised cycling tours, which can be booked while on the island or in advance.    

Our Insiders’ Guide to ‘Hippocrates’ Island’ of Kos

Greece Sets its Sights on More Sustainable Tourism in Santorini and Mykonos

Following a strong summer in both Santorini and Mykonos, the Greek Tourism Ministry has announced that moving forward it will focus on achieving more sustainable tourism practices at Greece’s most popular summer destinations.

According to Greek Tourism Minister Vassilis Kikilias, the government plans on conducting a special study that will help transform the country into a sustainable tourism destination.

During an interview with the Greek newspaper VIMA, Kikilias said, “This study is designed to capture the current situation on the two islands, regarding the incoming tourist flows, the offered tourism product, and their infrastructure. The aim is to transform them from ‘overcrowded peak season islands’ to ‘models of sustainable development.”

In mid-October this year, Kikilias spoke with Santorini’s Mayor Antonis Sigalas, where the two focused on sustainable tourism development and crowd management. They also discussed spatial planning, infrastructure development and integration, digital switchover, cruise management, as well as proposals in order to address the issue of parking and sustainable resource management.

Sigalas stressed his concerns of peak season in Santorini, as the island recorded 1.27 million arrivals from January to September this year, again being one of the top performers despite the pandemic. 

During the meeting, they also brought up the possibility of alternative forms of tourism, cultural heritage protection, and the development of the primary sector.

“The fact that this is such a popular destination can and should act as a milestone of our strategic decision to make Greece a model of sustainable tourism development worldwide,” Minister Kikilias pointed out.

According to the Minister, the tourism ministry will be ready to present its short and long-term plan over the next few weeks.

Corfu Ranked One of the Best Destinations Worldwide for a Holiday Home

Corfu ranks among the top global destinations for a holiday home, according to a ranking of 50 cities put together by comparethemarket.com

The Greek island takes position number 6, gaining points for its low crime rate and competitive property prices, while Heraklion in Crete was ranked in 16th position and Athens further down in 31st place.

“We’ve analysed locations around the world based on factors such as things to do, affordability, and the local weather,” the site said.

At the top of the list comes Venice, followed by Paphos (Cyprus), Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Funchal (Portugal).

Cyprus’ Larnaca also finished in the top ten, taking ninth place.

According to the data provided, the average cost of living for a family of four in Corfu amounts to $2,910, versus $3,691 in Venice, $2,560 in Paphos, and $2,865 in Abu Dhabi.

Property prices also differ significantly. In Corfu, the average price of property comes in at $1,647, versus $4,930 in Venice, $1,837 in Paphos, and $2,836 in Abu Dhabi.

More at comparethemarket.com.au

This article was first published here. 

For more Real Estate News & Views on Greece and Europe’s South, head to The Greek Guru.

*Image courtesy of Sotheby’s

Exploring Samothrace’s Natural Pools

Samothrace is a beautiful island of the Northern Aegean, filled with evergreen forests, splendid waterfalls and dreamy natural pools named Vathres.

The island captures visitors with its unspoilt natural beauty as it boasts waterfalls, rivers, springs, natural pools, hiking trails, gorges, and tall rocks. There are more than 100 natural pools located all around the island; found amongst lush vegetation, tall plane trees, waterfalls, and streams. 

Insights Greece - Exploring Samothrace’s Natural Pools
Swim in the waterfalls | Image @marie._tsol

If you enjoy hiking, you will love the imposing Mount Saos that reaches a height of 1,600 meters. From here trails will lead to the well-known Vathres of the island. Starting from the village of Therma known for its thermal, sulfur springs, there are two trails that lead to Gria Vathra. 

The largest stream of the island comes from Fonias and one of its waterfalls, Klidosi reaches an impressive height of 35 meters. The waterfalls of Kakia Plaka, of Karia, those of Xiropotamos, Arapi, Karagiannakis, and the other rivers of Samothrace are also worth a visit, as you are able to stay close to nature and make the most of the lush foliage surrounding the water.

You may also want to visit Vdelolimni, one of the island’s most important wetlands, located at the start of the Fonias water stream.

Also make sure you visit Kremastos, the largest waterfall in the Mediterranean Sea,  whose waters fall directly into the sea from a height of 100 meters. Generally, the southern part of the island is full of waterfalls that fall into the crystal sea water of remote beaches you can reach only by boat. 

Insights Greece - Exploring Samothrace’s Natural Pools
Stunning waters year-round

If you are seeking more adventure you can also explore the wild mountains and the beautiful nature, after the waterfalls, you can also try climbing. Feggari is the highest peak of the island, while Sfentami is a hot spring in a mountain plateau, where you will be able to enjoy the theapeutic benefits of a natural spa.

Getting there

The best way to get from mainland Greece to Samothrace is via the port of Alexandroupoli in Northern Greece, which takes around 2 hours and is available year-round. During the peak summer season, from Athens, you can catch a ferry from the port of Lavrion.

Greece to Open All Year Round for Tourists

After being named Europe’s top destination for 2021 at the World Travel Awards, Greece has announced it will not only focus on the peak summer season but will also be ready and willing to welcome international visitors all year round. 

Greek Tourism Minister Vassilis Kikilias made the announcement in a recent interview with CNN, during his time at the international tourism trade fair at the World Travel Market (WTM), in London.

According to the Minister, Greece’s tourism board is working hard to “win over” every traveller, offering a new tourist experience, and at the same time promoting new destinations including more untouched islands, both small and large, the mainland, and city breaks.

Insights Greece - Greece to Open All Year Round for Tourists
Greece proves it’s more than just a summer destination

Minister Kikilias said, “Tourism is the locomotive of the Greek economy, something that proves again this year, in the midst of a pandemic, and brings new jobs that we aspire to be of better quality and better paid, enable through the 320 million euros of the RRF of the Ministry of Tourism for infrastructure, ports, marinas, upgrading of hotel units, for digitization, green development, and a sustainable system of the sustainable tourism product.”

The Minister stressed there is more to Greece than just a few popular islands. “It doesn’t always have to be to the two or three branded places that people discovered in the 50s and the 60s,” he said, adding that Greece has many beautiful destinations that he believes will appeal to tourists from the UK, the US, France and beyond.

Concerning infrastructure in specific popular destinations including Santorini, Mykonos, and Rhodes to name a few, Kikilias said that Greece has 320 million euros from the Recovery and Resiliance Fund (RRF) to improve its infrastructure and build new infrastructure where it’s needed.

During his time at WTM London Minister Kikilas also met with a range of international tour operators, travel agents, and airline companies from Great Britain, the USA, and France and signed a number of new deals for 2022.  

And although the country will be open to tourists all year round, the official tourist season in Greece will commence in early spring (March-April). And with high volumes of bookings already taking place, 2022 is expected to be a very successful year for Greece’s tourism industry.

Top 5 Greek Islands to Visit in Autumn

While Greece is world-renowned as one of the best places to spend summer, there is something quaint about visiting the Greek islands in the autumn months.  

The crowds begin to subside by the end of October without ever really clearing completely as many locals live on the islands year-round. Temperatures drop to a balmy 15 degrees and the air begins to feel crisp, but hints of sunshine still touch the skin and occasionally temperatures rise to 25 degrees- making a swim in the beautiful Aegean Sea possible.  

There are many Greek islands that “shut down” after peak summer to rest and rejuvenate before they do it all again the following year. However, the places we’ve listed below are destinations we’ve visited in the cooler months- with locals who keep their beautiful islands alive all year round and warmly welcome visitors to experience island life without the crowds. 

Crete

Greece’s largest island boasts world-famous archaeological sites, breathtaking beaches, charming villages, world-famous hikes, and amazing wineries. The temperatures in Crete are never too cold, and the autumn days feel endless, with plenty of sunny afternoons allowing locals to head to the beach for a swim until the end of November. Make sure you check out the archaeological and historical sites including Knossos, Arkadi Monastery, and Preveli Monastery and it’s also an ideal time to stay at one of the many eco-lodges. A highlight by far is hiking at the famous Samaria Gorge and the delightful Cretan cuisine– make sure you try as many of the local dishes as possible and if you are brave enough have a few shots of Raki, which will definitely warm you up!  

  • Insights Greece - Top 5 Greek Islands to Visit in Autumn
    Port of Chania
  • Insights Greece - Top 5 Greek Islands to Visit in Autumn
    Samara Gorge
  • Insights Greece - Top 5 Greek Islands to Visit in Autumn
    Rethymno

Rhodes

The largest island of the Dodecanese, Rhodes boasts the Colossus of Rhodes, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, and the medieval Old Town of the City of Rhodes, which has been declared a World Heritage Site. The medieval Old Town with its impressive castle and fortifications and cobbled streets is one of the most beautiful historic sites in Greece, and one that is best enjoyed out of peak season. Stunning Lindos has one of the best microclimates in the Mediterranean, so you are pretty much guaranteed a swim here in October and November. Make sure you also visit Petaloúdes (Butterfly Valley) one of Rhodes’ most popular attractions; the nature reserve combines stunning rivers and waterfalls with colourful butterflies. The cooler months are when Rhodes’ beautiful villages also come to life and it’s a great time to visit a few of them. Make sure you sit at one of the traditional cafes or tavernas with the locals and enjoy the island’s delightful cuisine.

  • Insights Greece - Top 5 Greek Islands to Visit in Autumn
    Medieval Town of Rhodes
  • Insights Greece - Top 5 Greek Islands to Visit in Autumn
    Lindos

Corfu

Corfu’s lovely capital is fast becoming one of Europe’s popular winter destinations. Its charming Venetian Old Town, a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, is ideal in the wintertime- perfect for exploring the museums and markets. This is also a great chance to explore Liston, the “French” part of town- a pretty promenade whose arcade is lined with chic cafés, restaurants, and boutiques. Also, hit the hiking trails that wind through mountain villages- there are hundreds of paths and routes to try. And although Corfu is busiest during Easter and summer- Corfu Town is also a popular destination during the Christmas and New Year period, so there’s a great range of tavernas to discover as well as many events, art exhibitions, and festivals that take place at the end of the year. 

  • Insights Greece - Top 5 Greek Islands to Visit in Autumn
    Liston
  • Insights Greece - Top 5 Greek Islands to Visit in Autumn
    Quaint village
  • Insights Greece - Top 5 Greek Islands to Visit in Autumn
    Traditional cafe

Andros

An ideal Greek island year-round as it’s located just two hours from Athens, Andros is filled with lush vegetation, abundant water, and stunning beaches. The beautiful Cycladic isle owes its lush greenery to its rich underground and surface water resources. Autumn in Andros is perfect for those who want to experience the island’s rich culture and culinary experiences; as here you can taste traditional dishes and modern cuisine. Visit one of the many historic monasteries and churches, the amazing museums (Museum of Contemporary Art, Archaeological Museum, Nautical Museum, Cyclades Olive Museum, Goulandris Museum) and enjoy the endless nature and its hiking trails. Also make sure you head to the wonderful natural environment and the healing properties of the Sariza spring water.

  • Insights Greece - Top 5 Greek Islands to Visit in Autumn
    Bisti Mansion in Andros
  • Insights Greece - Top 5 Greek Islands to Visit in Autumn
    Goulandris Museum

Naxos 

The Cyclades’ largest island offers a great range of outdoor activities in Autumn, including hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. Numerous hiking trails and bicycle routes take visitors through some of the island’s and Cyclades’ most impressive archaeological and spiritual monuments including Mount Zas, the Cyclades’ tallest mountain peak; one of Greece’s largest collections of Byzantine monuments; the Temple of Demeter and more. Foodies are also in for a treat as you can check out the island’s vibrant farming and agricultural industry including potato picking, cheese making, citron liqueur distillation, and more. 

  • Insights Greece - Top 5 Greek Islands to Visit in Autumn
    Village in Naxos
  • Insights Greece - Top 5 Greek Islands to Visit in Autumn
    Chora Town
  • Insights Greece - Top 5 Greek Islands to Visit in Autumn
    Temple of Demeter

Featured image: Naxos 

Seaplanes Ready for Greece Summer 2022 Take Off

Hellenic Seaplanes is getting ready to take off from the marina of Alimos, southern Athens, in time for Greece’s 2022 tourism season.

Plans for the creation of waterways where aircraft can land or take off have been caught up in red tape procedures for years in Greece but seem to have finally made progress after recent legislation speeding up the process was recently approved.

According to Hellenic Seaplanes chairman and CEO, Nicholas Charalampous, the aircraft taking off and landing in water will initially connect Athens with the islands of Tinos and Patmos, with more destinations being rolled out at a later date.

Insights Greece - Seaplanes Ready for Greece Summer 2022 Take Off
Hellenic Seaplanes ready to take off in 2022

“Via our reservations system, passengers will be able to find out the available dates and times for seaplane trips from Alimos to Patmos and Tinos at a first phase as more destinations will then be added, while passengers will also be able to show interest via a form for chartered air transport to the desired destination, choosing between renting an airplane, helicopter or seaplane,” Charalampous told Imerisia.gr

The cost of a 45-minute trip offered by Hellenic Seaplanes will be up to 90 euros, while the company is in talks with airlines to create a single ticket allowing passengers that land at the Athens International Airport to keep travelling from Alimos by seaplane, added Charalampous.

Alimos hotspot

The launch of travel by seaplane from the marina of Alimos, one of the country’s largest, is likely to provide a boost to an already strong demand for property along the southern Athens coast. There is no train station within the immediate vicinity of the marina, though the area is serviced by the Athens tram; and Alimos is located some 12 kilometers away from the port of Piraeus.

After connecting with Tinos and Patmos, Hellenic Seaplanes expects the creation of waterways to then be approved in Volos, the Sporades islands, Evia, and parts of the Peloponnese.

In May, Greece signed a 57.5-million-euro concession agreement to use and exploit the marina of Alimos, with Aktor Concessions, awarding the company the use of the marina for 40 years.

The total value of the deal is placed at around 177 million euros, including an up-front fee, an annual concession fee, and a revenue-sharing agreement that will include a percentage of the marina’s annual turnover.

This article was first published here. 

For more Real Estate News & Views on Greece and Europe’s South, head to The Greek Guru.

*Images courtesy of Hellenic Seaplanes 

Zia’s Award-Winning Taverna With Breathtaking Views of Kos

Perched high in the mountains and offering the best views of Kos and its breathtaking sunsets; international award-winning Oromedon Taverna serves up traditional Greek island cuisine using seasonal produce from its own farm and nearby producers.

If you are lucky enough to lock in a table on the vine-laced and bougainvillea-filled rooftop, you will be able to enjoy uninterrupted views of the Aegean Sea from one side and lush mountains on the other. This is all while trying to decide what to choose from their impressive menu that’s filled with secret family recipes- as well as other authentic Greek dishes that are made with the freshest local ingredients.

  • Insights Greece - Zia’s Award-Winning Taverna With Breathtaking Views of Kos
  • Insights Greece - Zia’s Award-Winning Taverna With Breathtaking Views of Kos

The famous family-run taverna first opened its doors in 1997, and since then Nikos and his wife Soula Papakonstantinou (along with their parents and children) have been welcoming locals and international visitors (including celebrities) to their restaurant.

“For nearly 25 years, we have been driven by a passion to preserve the traditional cooking style that we were taught by our ancestors- this is in a constant effort to keep the flavours pure. We feel there is a need to maintain the originality of the recipes and traditional cooking styles delivered from generation to generation. This is why we cook and bake mainly in the wood oven using only fresh ingredients,” Nikos tells IN+SIGHTS GREECE.

  • Insights Greece - Zia’s Award-Winning Taverna With Breathtaking Views of Kos
  • Insights Greece - Zia’s Award-Winning Taverna With Breathtaking Views of Kos

Sprawled over three levels, there is something special about each part of the restaurant, which includes its own wine cellar. Here you will find over 200 selected wines from Kos and other parts of Greece. And the large kitchen is run by Nikos, Soula, and their talented team who use handpicked ingredients from the family’s own fields and olive oil produced from their own olive trees each year.

For entrée we recommend you try the Possa- Kos’ traditional goat cheese; a Beetroot Salad with orange pistachio from Aegina and yogurt sauce; or the Green Salad with fig, orange, pumpkin seeds, and balsamic sauce.

  • Insights Greece - Zia’s Award-Winning Taverna With Breathtaking Views of Kos
  • Insights Greece - Zia’s Award-Winning Taverna With Breathtaking Views of Kos
  • Insights Greece - Zia’s Award-Winning Taverna With Breathtaking Views of Kos

For appetizers, we couldn’t go past the Xortopita (spinach pie), Dolmadakia (fresh stuffed vine leaves), Kolokithokeftedes (courgette fritters), Revithokeftedes (chickpea fritters); and a very traditional dish from Kos named Pligouri- pork with cracked wheat. 

Mains include Fillet of Cod cooked in the oven with chickpeas in a lemon sauce; Oromedon Pork Tenderloins baked in the oven with fresh mushrooms, and potatoes; and  Giouvetsi- Greek orzo with vegetables.

The specialty of this taverna by far is anything made in the wood oven, which is operated with the traditional mud sealing technique. Standouts are the Roasted Pork slow-cooked with avgolemono (lemon egg sauce,) Wild Boar, Roasted Lamb, and the Baby Goat, which are all cooked for 12 hours. 

  • Insights Greece - Zia’s Award-Winning Taverna With Breathtaking Views of Kos
  • Insights Greece - Zia’s Award-Winning Taverna With Breathtaking Views of Kos

As well as a great range of local wines from all over Greece, the barmen can also mix up a good cocktail such as a Three Grace Greek Gin Tonic with rosemary, black pepper, and flavoured cucumber; or a Mastihito Strawberry with Mastiha, strawberries, basil, and sugar.

And yes, of course, leave room for dessert, which includes an Apple Pie with fresh apples and cinnamon; Ravani (sponge syrup cake); Galaktoboureko (custard pie); or a Pecan pie with fresh nuts straight from Zia village.

A: Epar. Od. Zipariou-Asfendiou, Lagoudi, Zia

All images by IN+SIGHTS GREECE © (Copyright) 

Santorini’s Selene Named Best Greek Hotel Restaurant

Selene, with its 36 years of history, has been acknowledged as a gastronomic and cultural landmark of Santorini for defining and constantly reinventing contemporary Greek and Cycladic cuisine.

And this week, they were once against recognised as leaders in the food industry, receiving the Gold Award as the “Best Greek Hotel Restaurant” at the Greek Hospitality Awards 2021. 

Having first opened its doors in 1985, Selene reopened on June 1, this year with a unique scenario inspired by the restaurant’s authenticity; locating back to Fira (where it all began) it’s now set at a special spot in the centre of town.

  • Insights Greece - Santorini's Selene Named Best Greek Hotel Restaurant
  • Insights Greece - Santorini's Selene Named Best Greek Hotel Restaurant

The restaurant is now part of the beautiful Katikies Garden Luxury Hotel, located at a converted Catholic monastery. Inviting guests for an authentic island experience that pays homage to tradition, history and heritage, it is currently led by Michelin-star chef Ettore Botrini. Selene’s aim is to offer diners “an authentic gastronomic experience which seamlessly combines tradition and creativity; simplicity and ingenuity; earth and sea; and nostalgia and innovation.”

Influenced by the imposing aesthetics of the old Monastery, the colours of the island, the abundance of the Aegean Sea and the perseverance of the rare local ingredients that flourish fearlessly among volcanic rocks; Botrini has now introduced his culinary philosophy while honouring the legacy of Selene.

  • Insights Greece - Santorini's Selene Named Best Greek Hotel Restaurant
  • Insights Greece - Santorini's Selene Named Best Greek Hotel Restaurant

The impressive menu includes Sea Urchin, Lemon & ’Nduja Spaghetti; Swordfish Carpaccio; Red Mullet with Wild Fennel Pesto and Santorini Pistachios; Milk-fed Lamb with Aubergine, Cherry Tomatoes and Yoghurt; and desserts such as Caramelized Apple Tartvinsanto and Santorini Pistacchio Pallete. 

There are also two delightful degustation menus, which are a novel celebration of authenticity, inspired by the local culinary heritage of this famous Cycladic island. Allowing guests a chance to try a refined, contemporary spin on traditional recipes and flavours featuring 10 or 13 acts;  plus a vegetarian tasting menu (available upon request.) 

  • Insights Greece - Santorini's Selene Named Best Greek Hotel Restaurant
  • Insights Greece - Santorini's Selene Named Best Greek Hotel Restaurant

Wine has also been an essential part of Selene’s journey contributing to a spherical gastronomical experience. The list features some of the most sought-after wines of the world with a particular highlight to the wines of Santorini. This is all carefully curated by Master of Wine, Yiannis Karakasis.

A: Katikies Garden, Fira Town, Santorini 

Thermae Sylla, One of the World’s Top 10 Spas

Thermae Sylla Spa and Wellness Hotel is one of the world’s leading thermal spa facilities. Located at Aidipsos, a coastal town on Greece’s second-largest island, Evia, it’s a 2.5-hour drive from Athens, or a short ferry ride away. 

Famous for its healing properties since the 4th Century, the coastal spa town boasts more than 80 natural thermal springs with water flowing from natural wells. Thermae Sylla, voted one of the top 10 spas in the world, is built over these natural thermal springs with outstanding healing properties.

History of Aidipsos 

Since antiquity, Aidipsos is well-known for its thermal springs that help heal, relax and rejuvenate the body, mind, and soul. Ancient Greek philosophers Hippocrates (father of medicine) and Aristotle visited the springs and wrote about the huge benefits and the rare microclimate they create. Since then, Aidipsos has drawn people from all around the world, who come here to experience this wellbeing retreat. 

  • Insights Greece - Thermae Sylla, One of the World’s Top 10 Spas
  • Insights Greece - Thermae Sylla, One of the World’s Top 10 Spas

The hotel 

Beautifully designed by Erricos Tobazis, Thermae Sylla features neoclassical architecture with hints of Art Nouveau. The grand building, which opened its doors in 1896, is constructed of local stone from Evia and during the construction process, ruins of a Roman spa were discovered. Over the years, the hotel has welcomed famous guests including Greta Garbo, Omar Sharif, Winston Churchill, Aristotle Onassis and Maria Callas. 

Therapeutic waters of Aidipsos

Thermae Sylla has one of the most therapeutic spa waters in the world, with thermal springs which flow from a depth of 3,000 metres at a temperature of 75º C to 85º C. The water under the property is particularly rich with different metals and elements; including traces of Radon. The waters also contain calcium, magnesium, sodium, potassium and sulfate, as well as manganese, iron, and strontium. These therapeutic elements in the waters are said to help those with muscular, bone and skin conditions. 

  • Insights Greece - Thermae Sylla, One of the World’s Top 10 Spas
  • Insights Greece - Thermae Sylla, One of the World’s Top 10 Spas

Thermal spa 

Thermal waters from the sea wall crash against the hotel, forming natural terraced pools of scalding therapeutic water. The pools mix with seawater, becoming the perfect temperature, as they reach the open sea. Guest are able to see the steam rising from the pools, making it a memorable experience. 

Thermal facilities

Two large pools (outdoor and indoor) fed by hot mineral springs have a range of massage and wave features, and there’s a spa centre where treatments, using the hotel’s own products, include tailored wellness and medical therapies. There’s also a Farmer’s Steambath, which is filled with eucalyptus and local mountain herbs. 

Therapeutic treatments 

Therapeutic and medical treatments such as massage, mud therapy, physiotherapy, and natural nutrition therapies are on offer, as well as body peeling, Ozonotherapy with thermal water, local seaweed massage and reflexology. 

  • Insights Greece - Thermae Sylla, One of the World’s Top 10 Spas
  • Insights Greece - Thermae Sylla, One of the World’s Top 10 Spas

Rooms

Every room or suite at Thermae Sylla, along with its bathroom, is spacious and inviting. It includes room service and minibar to afternoon turn-down service and wifi internet. Each room at Thermae Sylla has individually controlled air conditioning so that you can set the temperature that’s right for you. 

Food & Drinks 

The cuisine served across the property is based on fresh, local ingredients, many of which come from Thermae Sylla’s private farm. The hotel also produces its own extra virgin olive oil for exclusive use in its dishes. With four restaurants and two bars, there is a great range of dishes available for breakfast through to dinner. 

A: Posidonos St, Loutra Edipsou, Evia

Stylish New Restaurant Opens in Lindos, Rhodes 

A new restaurant has just opened its doors in Lindos- serving high-quality cuisine in a laid-back yet stylish space that fuses old-world charm with sophisticated modern design.

With a refined-yet-traditional-feel Akres is located in a striking stone building boasting raw materials, earthy colours and warm lighting that blends in harmoniously with its natural surroundings. Pops of wood, marble, and metal elements are found throughout the restaurant, which features a small bar, open kitchen, and a staircase that leads guests to the stunning rooftop dining area- providing uninterrupted views to the imposing Acropolis of Lindos. 

  • Insights Greece - Stylish New Restaurant Opens in Lindos, Rhodes 
  • Insights Greece - Stylish New Restaurant Opens in Lindos, Rhodes 

The menu, described as “postmodern cuisine” presents guests with an eclectic range of dishes that incorporate the values of local tradition and flavours. And for those who love seafood, there is plenty of fresh fish and other dishes inspired by the Mediterranean Sea to choose from. 

Some of the stand-out entree dishes and sides include a Greek salad with cherry tomatoes, black-eyed peas, cucumber, raspberry vinegar, soft cheese ‘galotyri’ sorbet, olives, and Rhodian caper ‘katimeri’; Marinato with scallops, lemon, beluga lentils, coriander, chili pepper, tomato-celery water; Pougkes with crispy filo, pot herbs in their broth, crispy soy milk, chervil, ‘mizithra goat cheese;  Soupiorizo– cuttlefish risotto, squid ink, mussel’s cream and orange jell; Giouvetsi– orzo, wild saffron from Astypalaia, smoked baby scampi, ‘petsia’ pork belly; and a seafood Pastichio with pasta, prawns, mussels, scallops in a basil-seasoned seafood broth and spinach. 

  • Insights Greece - Stylish New Restaurant Opens in Lindos, Rhodes 
  • Insights Greece - Stylish New Restaurant Opens in Lindos, Rhodes 

For mains, you can choose from Red Sea bream with ‘Sivrasi, ’souma’ broth, pot herbs, fennel, beetroot, lemon sage, oven-baked potato with eggplant, sweet potato, quince, hazelnut and mint; Kiapapi– lamb picanha, sauce ‘perikafti’, oven-baked mashed potato, grilled bell peppers; and a Mousaka made of oxtail, eggplant, zucchini, mushrooms and cream. 

With outdoor seating also available at the front of the restaurant and at the bar area, you can also check out the tasting menu, which comes with wine pairings- a perfect way to really get a taste of all that is on offer. This includes a small but delicious selection of desserts such as the Mantinades– galaktoboureko cream, mastic, dried nuts paste, yogurt chips and Greek coffee, or Melekouni– almond cream, orange, hibiscus, and pollen ice cream. 

  • Insights Greece - Stylish New Restaurant Opens in Lindos, Rhodes 
  • Insights Greece - Stylish New Restaurant Opens in Lindos, Rhodes 
  • Insights Greece - Stylish New Restaurant Opens in Lindos, Rhodes 

Wine lovers will appreciate the rich premium Greek and international wine selection on offer, with a knowledgable sommelier suggesting the ideal drop to enhance the flavours of each dish. And the cocktails are also a highlight, such as the Templar Knights, which is an Aged Greek tsipouro mixed with rakomelo, lime, local honey, bitters and fee foam. 

Open: Monday to Friday from 6 pm – 1 am

A: Rhodes, Lindos 851 07