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.” 

Historical Hotel at the Tip of Mani Peninsula

Housed in a fully restored 19th-century building complex, just off the southernmost tip of Mani’s charming countryside, Kyrimai Hotel combines traditional architecture with contemporary comforts. 

With views of Mani’s crystal-blue sea as well as its breathtaking landscape, staying here allows guests to appreciate the pleasures of living a slow and simple life. 

Location

Kyrimai Hotel in Gerolimenas is about a two-hour drive from Kalamata, the second-largest city of the Peloponnese. This picturesque fishing village is filled with οld stоnе buildings set by the blue sea. While staying at Kyrimai, you can also visit some of the beautiful nearby destinations including Sparta, Mystras, Monemvasia, Kardamyli, and Limeni.  

  • Insights Greece - Historical Hotel at the Tip of Mani Peninsula
  • Insights Greece - Historical Hotel at the Tip of Mani Peninsula

Style & Feel

Dating back to 1870, this beautifully restored property offers a historic feel, with its elegant country chic decor that’s showcased throughout the rooms. The interiors boast traditional Maniot stone-and-wood period architecture, with majestic stairways, arches and pretty gardens situated in an enviable position, on the edge of the sea- offering a breathtaking view of Gerolimena’s Bay. Throughout the property guests will come across antique furniture, numerous exhibits, hundreds of old books and other antique pieces that highlight Greece of the late 19th century.

  • Insights Greece - Historical Hotel at the Tip of Mani Peninsula
  • Insights Greece - Historical Hotel at the Tip of Mani Peninsula

Rooms 

As the charming rooms and suites have been built so close to the sea, Kyrimai offers its guests a unique experience- as they wake up to the sounds of gentle waves crashing onto the property. The quaint rooms combine traditional materials such as wood and stone, with modern, elegant furnishing; and also wonderful vistas of the surroundings.

Food & Drinks

Combining traditional tastes with a sense of creativity, the hotel’s award-winning restaurant serves delightful dishes that have become loved by locals and visitors who can’t get enough of this Maniot eatery. There is no set menu as the talented team prefers using recipes depending on the fisherman’s catch of the day and other fresh ingredients they can get their hands on. There is also a great wine list and in the winter months, guests gather around the bar in the lobby for cocktails and Greek wines.

  • Insights Greece - Historical Hotel at the Tip of Mani Peninsula
  • Insights Greece - Historical Hotel at the Tip of Mani Peninsula
  • Insights Greece - Historical Hotel at the Tip of Mani Peninsula

Amenities

The outdoor pool is unheated and family-friendly. It’s nestled on the water’s edge, with comfortable sun loungers and plenty of umbrellas, which also run down the stone jetty that leads out to a private beach. Kyrimai also offers on-site parking, free WiFi throughout, plug adaptors, and beach bags for its guests. 

  • Insights Greece - Historical Hotel at the Tip of Mani Peninsula
  • Insights Greece - Historical Hotel at the Tip of Mani Peninsula

Ideal for…

Couples, families, foodies, and anyone who wants to explore the beautiful Mani area. The hotel can also help organise water sports activities such as diving guided tours, hiking trails, boat trips, sea kayak trips, and electric bike trips- making it a great getaway for those looking for some adventure along the way.  

Facilities & Services

  • Private beach 
  • Pool
  • Restaurant and bar
  • Wifi
  • Free toiletries
  • Free Parking
  • Room Service
  • Breakfast included

A: Gerolimenas, Mani, Peloponnese