Peloponnese Archives - Page 2 of 4

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

1920’s Industrial Winery Converted Into a Seaside Retreat

Set on the Peloponnesian peninsula, right on Koutoura beach, Dexamenes is an architecturally award-winning hotel that has been transformed from a former 1920s industrial winery into a standout seaside retreat.

Boasting stunning surroundings filled with sunflowers, watermelon fields, olive groves, vineyards, and citrus trees, this tranquil spot is the ideal place to unwind, in between visits to nearby archaeological sites, wineries, and historical sites.

Dexamenes is about an hour from Patras city, right next to the town of Amaliada, allowing easy access to the Unesco World Heritage-listed Ancient Olympia – the birthplace of the Olympic Games, as well as the nearby forested mountains of Elis.

Insights Greece - 1920’s Industrial Winery Converted Into a Seaside Retreat

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Sparta’s Museum of Olive and Olive Oil

This beautifully designed museum located in Sparta invites visitors to discover the rich culture and history surrounding Greece’s famed olive and olive oil production – from prehistoric times to the early 20th century.

Housed in a two-storey, industrial stone building the Museum of Olive and Olive Oil is a place where you will also learn about olive oil’s many uses as this area is one of the main olive-producing locations of Greece.

Insights Greece - Sparta’s Museum of Olive and Olive Oil — Learn all about Greece’s famous olive

For each historical period, guests are able to learn about the contribution olives and olive oil have made to Greece’s economy and the way in which Greeks use it in their everyday life- from its health and beauty benefits to its influence on Greek mythology, religion, art, and technology.

On the lower floor, you will find post-byzantine technology of the olive mills and a section about domestic and industrial soap-making. In the open-air exhibition, visitors can get up close to the three different oil press machines, one prehistoric, one Hellenistic, and one from the Byzantine era.

The upper floor highlights the first testimonials of the olive as well as its contribution to Greece’s economy and shows written testimonies dating back to the 14th century, on Linear B inscribed tablets, while there are also exhibits of rare fossilized olive leaves approximately 50.000-60.000 years old, that were found in Santorini.

Throughout the space, you will also see an impressive wooden double press with a winch from the neighbouring village of Xirokambi, and an olive press from the island of Lefkada, which documents the survival of animal power in the 20th century, as well as models representing the functioning of engine-powered olive presses. And at the end of the visit, you will be given details of archaeological sites to olive oil production in the Peloponnese if you wish to continue your journey of olive and olive oil discovery.

Information

Hours: 10 am to 6 pm (March 1st – October 15th)

10 am to 5 pm (October 16th – February 28th)

Admission Fee: 2€

Address: Othonos-Amalias 129, 23100 Sparta

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New W Escape to Open at Costa Navarino this Summer

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.

Insights Greece - New W Escape to Open at Costa Navarino this Summer

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.

W Escape Costa Navarino

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Visiting Areopoli, One of Greece’s Prettiest Towns

Areopoli in the Peloponnese is one of the prettiest towns in Greece. Boasting a small historical centre, charming stone houses, cobblestone alleyways and prominent tower houses- it’s worth adding to your list if you are searching for a destination filled with authenticity, history and culture.

Centrally located in the heart of Mani, it has now become an attractive destination year-round thanks to its friendly locals who keep their traditional taverns, cafes, shops and hotels open summer and winter.

History of the Town

Insights Greece - Visiting Areopoli, One of Greece’s Prettiest Towns — A pretty town in Laconia | Image by Valantis M

Aeropoli played a huge role in the Greek War of Independence and took its name from the Greek God of War “Ares”. In fact, the people of Aeropoli were the first to raise the banner of the Revolution in Mani. This symbolic white decorated flag (with the Revolution’s symbols) is now exhibited in the Historical Museum of Athens.

Areopoli’s Architecture

The traditional architecture of Mani is highlighted throughout the town via its traditional stone, a raw material found in the cobbled streets, the churches, the houses and the towers of Aeropoli; it’s displayed everywhere you look in the “fortified settlement”. Stone was used not only as it was a material found in abundance throughout Mani but also because it provided the necessary protection for locals who were “hidden” by the eyes of the pirates.

Things to See in Areopoli

–Church of Taxiarches- the beautiful metropolitan church of Taxiarches was built by the family of Mavromichalis. Located in the centre of the city, at the historical square of the 17th of March 1821- it was right here where locals declared the revolution against the Ottoman Empire. Built with well-processed stones, it stands out with its impressive five-storied bell tower. The church’s dome features ten sides and the five-sided arch of the altar area is decorated with small marble columns and marble arches.

–Pikoulakis Tower- has three storeys, with a strong, two- storey tower-house. Here you will also discover the impressive Byzantine Museum of Mani and the Church of Agios Ioannis, built by the Mavromichalis family (check out the lovely wall paintings that date back to 1746.)

–Mavromichalis Tower is a four-storey tower surrounded by a large building complex and a tall enclosure, rendering it a real fortress; for many years it served as a school.

–The Pirgos (Tower) of Biroulakaou and Pikoulaki.

-At the central square of the village “Platia Athanaton” you will come across the statue of Petrompeis Mavromichalis, the famous chieftain and offspring of the Mavromichalis family.

Things to Do in Areopoli

-Stroll around its stone-built alleys that are filled with beautiful bougainvillea and charming homes that reveal so much about the town’s rich history. Hidden between the picturesque streets of Areopoli are many churches large and small, dating from the 17th to the 19th century. Many of them still retain part of their murals and icons. Make sure you sit at a kafenion that’s filled with locals chatting away and enjoy a traditional Greek coffee and a delicious dessert.

– Visit the Caves of Diros, which are among the most important natural sites in Greece and with great archaeological significance. The caves hidden among rugged rocks have revealed Palaeolithic finds- recent excavations at Apidima brought to light a human skeleton from 300,000 years ago, known as Tainaros Man. Access to these caves can be gained over the rocks by the sea to the left of Limeni. Driving south from Areopoli, it is 8 km to the village of Pirgos Dirou, where the road forks off to the underground caves.

-Not far from Areopolis, you will find Limeni, a seaside village where natural beauty, coastal vistas, and history combine. At Limeni, there are plenty of gorgeous places where you can swim, eat and stay at.

-If you are in Aeropoli on a Saturday, check out the open-air market in the main square with a lot of locals selling their organic produce and traditional delicacies.

-Only 1.5km away you will find the village Sotiras also known as Kouskouni. It is an amphitheatrically built village with a beautiful view of Areopoli.

Dishes to try in Areopoli

In Areopoli and in the wider area of Laconia you will find many traditional restaurants serving dishes and specialties of the Mani district. The main ingredient is pork- mainly roasted suckling pig, sausages, and salt pork, which you will find on most menus. The local specialty Sigklino is salt-cured pork, which is smoked and later boiled with olive oil and oranges. Also, try the Pasto (another cured pork meat that is smoked) and Hilopites– homemade pasta accompanied by local cheese. the local Xorta (wild greens) are also amazing. Mani is also known for Kagianas, which are fried eggs with tomato and cheese and Lalagia- fried dough strips. Around the central square, there are a lot of traditional restaurants and cafes where you can taste these dishes and more delightful delicacies.

Getting there

Around a three-and-a-half-hour drive from Athens, and an hour and 15-minute drive from Kalamata. Ktel Laconia runs three daily buses from Athens to Areopoli (a 4.5-hour trip) via Sparta and Gythio.

Main image courtesy of Web Greece

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Authentic Country Style Living in Nafplio

If you are looking for a peaceful getaway from the city, Opora Country Living, located in Nafplio (only 2 hours from Athens) is the perfect escape.

Set on a sublime agritourism farm this stunning boutique hotel boasts traditionally designed spaces- allowing guests to completely unwind and experience authentic Peloponnesian country living and culture at its finest. The boutique residences are immersed in forty hectares of centuries-old olive groves and surrounded by fragrant orange trees; offering complete relaxation and rural simplicity everywhere you look.

Location

Very close to the village of Pirgiotika, Opora Country Living is located about 7 km from Nafplio town. Syntagma Square is 9 km from the property, while Akronafplia Castle is also 9 km away. This place is ideal for archaeological sightseeing with Mycenae, Tiryns, Epidaurus, and Corinth only a short drive away.

Insights Greece - Authentic Country Style Living in Nafplio

Style & Feel

The charming stone farmhouse stands proudly between mountain ridges and idyllic landscapes. Built with high-quality local materials and using traditional handmade techniques, the unique architecture is influenced by the region’s rich history. Opora features authentic designs and spaces of traditional Peloponnesian farms- the sheltered courtyards, the arches, the cement, and the stone. All this is combined with respect and love for the environment. And here you will be greeted by friendly local hosts who take pride in ensuring their guests’ stay is beyond comfortable- with a real “home away from home” feel.

Residences

Set within the incomparable beauty and tranquility of the countryside, the traditional homes feature amenities that are modern yet refined. The houses are divided into six residences that feature WiFi throughout. Some include an equipped kitchen, fireplace, private garden, as well as views of the mountains and olive groves. Every unit features a private bathroom and shower, air conditioning, a flat-screen TV, and a fridge.

Facilities & Services

Guests are able to enjoy a swim in the tranquil outdoor pool that overlooks the olive groves. Relax in the charming outdoor garden, where you can also indulge in a gourmet breakfast that includes pancakes, eggs, home-baked cakes, fresh juices, fruit handpicked from the garden, eggs from the farm, fresh bread baked in the wood-fired oven, homemade marmalade, and Greek pies. If you are after a touch of pampering, there is also a range of massages available- from full-body, reiki, foot massage, and more.

Activities

Guests can go hiking in Nafplio, or hop on one of the wooden bikes provided by Opora and cycle around while exploring the nearby area. The hotel also runs seminars on beekeeping, olive harvesting, cooking lessons, and wine tastings in the nearby Nemea region (famous for its reds.) There is also a wonderful Private Wine and Tasting Dinner hosted in the vineyard. Dishes are prepared with fresh ingredients from the garden and the best raw materials from local markets. And for those that want to learn a few local recipes, there is a cooking class that takes place at the olive groves. This unique experience includes the preparation and tasting of a complete menu from chef Kostas Papastamatis- all inspired by Peloponnesian cuisine. And if you wish to add some island experiences to your getaway, there are also day-long trips to nearby Spetses and Hydra.

A: Pyrgiotika, Nafplio

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Immaculately Restored Villa of Famous Greek Poet Sikelianos

Sikelianos Villa, set in the seaside town of Xylokastro, was once home to famous Greek poet Angelos Sikelianos.

Having been declared a historical monument of Greece, by former Minister of Culture Melina Mercouri, the stunning residence recently received an immaculate renovation that blends harmoniously its grandeur with contemporary design. The unique Greek holiday villa now offers guests a secluded stay with 360-degree views of the Corinthian Gulf and the lush pine forest of Pefkias.

Located only an hour and fifteen minutes away from the centre of Athens, this expansive property is one of the most beautiful seafront escapes closest to the Greek capital. Plus the perfect base to explore many ancient historic wonders of Greece- with Mykines village only one hour drive from the villa; it’s just two hours from Ancient Olympia and Delphi.

Insights Greece - Immaculately Restored Villa of Famous Greek Poet Sikelianos

Sikelianos is the perfect stay for guests in search of a private and bespoke getaway; and here you can enjoy breakfast on your own terrace or inside the nearby resort’s beautiful gardens. Along with the dreamy landscape comes a private beach, a pool, delightful dining choices, a spa and a wellness centre, which are all connected to the villa’s resort.

The idyllic Venetian Villa was built by the famous poet Angelos Sikelianos himself, and his American wife Eva Palmer, on their return to Greece in 1912. It’s hosted countless celebrations dedicated to art and poetry while having welcomed numerous intellects of the 20th century up to the mid-1930s; including famous Greek artists such as Palamas, Kazantzakis and Karyotakis who were very close to the couple.

The construction of the villa began in 1912 and ended in 1916. It was the couple’s first architectural attempt, and the estate combines a variety of designs from different eras, including columns that draw inspiration from Classical Greece, windows from the Byzantine era; while all terraces have strong Venetian influences.

The 50 square metre private property consists of a master bedroom with a king-size bed, ensuite, a very spacious bathroom, a living room and a dining area. Each room has a fireplace carved ornately from stone, as well as large, tall windows overlooking the estate’s lush, fragrant gardens. From its three fully furnished terraces, guests can enjoy the sea view and the evergreen pine forest.

Right at the heart of the villa’s charming gardens guests can enjoy a late lunch or dinner at the delightful restaurant that features authentic Italian cuisine and a fairytale ambience. The outdoor dining experience under the moonlight that blends harmoniously with the timeless elegance of the candle-lit terraced villa- is a perfect way to end your evening here.

About Angelos Sikelianos

Angelos Sikelianos was a Greek lyric poet and playwright. Born in March 1884 on the island of Lefkada where he spent his childhood, in 1900 Angelos registered with the Athens Law School but never graduated. In the course of the following years, he travelled extensively and devoted himself to poetry. Critics claim Sikelianos’ finer lyrics are among the best in Western literature. His poems are inspired by Greek history, religious symbolism as well as universal harmony. From 1946 until 1951, he was nominated for the Nobel Prize for Literature.

A: Sikelianou, Sikia, Xylokastro

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Luxury Seaside Hotel Set in Mani

Nestled in a historic olive grove and boasting breathtaking sea views and private gardens; 100 Rizes Luxury Seaside Resort offers guests an eco-chic natural hideaway.

Inspired by the region’s striking stone buildings, this luxury hotel blends modern comfort with the feel of a traditional Greek village. Enjoy views of the majestic Laconic Gulf with a glass of wine from your private suite. Stroll among the 100 scented olive groves that lead you to the freshwater pool. Or make your way to the boutique hotel’s sandy beach, which is only a few footsteps away.

Location

Just three hours drive from Athens, only 1.5 hours from Tripoli and one hour from Sparta, 100 Rizes gives guests the opportunity to travel around Mani and visit the breathtaking sightseeing in south Peloponnese. It’s located 20 minutes from Gytheio, the main town, overlooking a private cove next to Kamares beach; only 3km away from the historical village of Skourari and 20 km from Areopolis town the capital of Mani.

Insights Greece - Luxury Seaside Hotel Set in Mani

Style & Feel

Consisting of four luxury designed buildings and 30 rooms in total, extended in a typical area of Mani’s wild landscape, this traditionally built hotel is the perfect mix of old world meets new. Honouring Mani’s distinct architecture, the elegantly designed interior spaces with modern aesthetics gives the visitor the impression of a traditional village, with stone buildings, upscale luxury facilities and all modern comforts.

Rooms

The 30 rooms continue the hotel’s nod to its natural surroundings. Exposed brick walls give each one a cosy, rustic-chic feel and frame glimpses of water, trees and sky. With earthy tones and soft materials, the rooms are warm and inviting.

Food & Drinks

The Lupino Restaurant blends traditional and contemporary Mediterranean dishes prepared with the best local products and exquisite ingredients. Here the chef invites guests to a gustatory experience through the heritage and flavours of the Mani peninsula. You can enjoy cocktails, classic aperitifs and a customized selection of snack menus offering tempting delectable light meals and freshly prepared salads. Dishes served during lunch are bright, fresh, stunning and complete, ensuring to satisfy any craving; and wine lovers can discover the best wines from the exclusive list.

Ideal for…

Couples, business trips and anyone who wants to explore the beautiful Mani area. Not only is the hotel in prime position for relaxation, but it’s also only a short drive to some of the peninsula’s most alluring sites. Discover the spectacular flooded Caves of Diros. Walk along the seafront before savouring just-caught octopus in a taverna in Gythio. Swim in sapphire waters in Limeni. If you’re after on-the-doorstep seclusion, head to nearby Skoutari. It is the ideal getaway for guests seeking peace, seclusion, privacy, quality service and strict hygiene.

Facilities & Services

Outdoor pool
Indoor heated pool
Private beach area with Sunbeds & Umbrellas
Spa treatment rooms
Sauna
Restaurant
Bar
Lounge
Gym facilities
Manicure & Pedicure room
24-hour front desk
Free parking
Free Wi-Fi
Bar
Sun terrace
Garden
Luggage storage
24-hour business centre
Heating
laundry services

A: Anatoliki East Mani, Peloponnese

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Exclusive Culinary Experience at Amanzoe

As summer comes to an end, Greece’s countryside comes to life, with olive groves and vineyards appearing in full flourish.

And for those wishing to experience the beautiful Autumn season first-hand through a unique culinary journey, Amanzoe, Greece’s most luxurious resort, has introduced a new pop-up restaurant series with acclaimed guest chefs serving exclusive menus based on the heritage of Greek cuisine created with fresh produce from Argolida and the Peloponnese.

Hosting acclaimed guest chefs, who have shaped Greek gastronomy; Amanzoe’s next event will take place on Saturday, October 16th, 2021, with leading chef Dimitrios Dimitriadis taking over in the kitchen and presenting his guests with a progressive, creative and unique menu based on the heritage of Greek cuisine.

Dimitrios and his team will mix traditional and modern techniques, discussing the conception of each dish with their guests for an interactive experience.

One of the most renowned chefs in Greece, Dimitrios was born and raised in Larissa, where his career choice and passion for food were heavily influenced by his grandparents who were farmers. After finishing school, he began training at the Hotel Management & Culinary School of Rhodes and has since worked as Head Chef in numerous Michelin-starred restaurants across the globe.

Insights Greece - Exclusive Culinary Experience at Amanzoe — Renowned chef Dimitrios Dimitriadis

Dimitris now works as Head Chef at Artisanal in Athens, a modern garden restaurant characterised by its distinct Mediterranean style with clear references to modern Greek cuisine. Bringing his expertise to Amanzoe, the evening’s menu will showcase techniques from across the continent with a stylish and contemporary feel.

Guests can choose to accompany each dish with Greek wine while enjoying the elegant atmosphere of the library setting.

About Amanzoe

Set in a land of classical ruins, azure seas and olive groves on the coast of the Peloponnese, Amanzoe, one of Greece’s most luxurious resorts embraces the architecture and soul of ancient Greece and is ideally placed for exploring the region’s rich culture, cuisine, and natural attractions. The aromatic scent of lavender and rosemary unfolds with the heat of the day and spectacular views stretch across a vast expanse of Aegean.

For more details head to aman

A: Kranidi 213 00, Greece

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48 Hours in Nafplio

Nafplio, just two hours from Athens, is one of Greece’s prettiest towns and one of the most popular spots in the country for year-round weekend getaways. Whether you’re interested in historical sites, eating, shopping, or just relaxing- add Nafplio to your list!

From taking a short boat ride over to Bourtzi to explore, renting a bicycle to wander, tasting freshly-made gelato, eating at one of the charming restaurants in the back streets, or enjoying a drink as you catch the beautiful sunset- you can’t help but fall in love with this romantic destination.

Insights Greece - 48 Hours in Nafplio — Syntagma Square

What makes Nafplio so special?

Nafplio is packed with a rich history as it was the first-ever modern-day capital of Greece. It is home to Bourtzi, a historical castle in the middle of the harbour, and Palamidi a wonderful fortress.

What should I not miss?

Nafplio is also well known for its history with the komboloi, which are the famous Greek worry beads. Learn more about them at the Komboloi Museum, which is the only one of its kind in the world and is housed in an 18th-century home. Make sure you also step inside the Archaeological Museum housed in a Venetian building on Syntagma Square. The permanent exhibition features statues, jewellery, costumes, sculptures, ceramics and rare artefacts from the Neolithic Period.

Where are some good places to eat in Nafplio?

Nafplio has many traditional taverns that are ideal for those who love indulging in classic Greek dishes and some of our favourite eateries include: Karamalis, To Omorfo Tavernaki, Kavalaris Corner Mezedopoleoi, and Pidalio. Also make sure to check out: Taverna Old House, Zournal, and Taverna O Vasilis. For casual dining try Trendy Grill or Menta, Arapakos for seafood, and Scuola for pizza and pasta.

For something sweet?

If you are in search of some good desserts around town, we recommend Pergamonto, which serves traditional Loukoumades (Greek honey puff donuts). For gelato check out Antica Gelateria di Roma and Gelarto. And for a variety of Greek sweets head to Central Boulangerie Bakery.

Where do I go for a drink?

There’s a range of all-day cafes and bars where you can grab a great coffee or a luscious cocktail. When you’re in the mood for a drink, make your way to Kontogiorgos Café, Xenon Café, Arti, Teori Oldtown Bar, BluBlanc Beach Bar, 3 Sixty, Alkioni Wine Bar, Mediterraneo Wine & Deli, Sokaki Café, Teory, and Yacht.

If I want to spoil myself?

Book yourself in to have an Ancient Greek massage at Panta Rei – or if drinking is your way of relaxing- head to Karonis Distillery Exhibition and Shop. Established in 1869, the spirit producing company is one of the oldest in Greece. The current owner makes ouzo, tsipouro, liqueurs, and brandy with the same passion as his forefathers.

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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

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.

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.

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.

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

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Inside One of Greece’s Most Beautiful Homes

Designed and built in the 1960s and set in Kardamyli, a charming seaside town in the Peloponnese, the Patrick and Joan Leigh Fermor House is considered one of Greece’s most beautiful properties.

Sir Patrick Leigh Fermor, was born in London in 1915 and passed away in 2011; he was a well-known author, scholar, and war hero, who is also celebrated as one of the finest travel writers of his generation. As a member of the British Military Mission to Greece, he played a prominent role in the Cretan resistance during the Second World War. A true Philehellene; Sir Fermor was a great admirer and lover of Greece and spent a long time looking for the perfect spot along the Aegean Sea to build his dream home.

Insights Greece - Inside One of Greece’s Most Beautiful Homes

In the 1960s Leigh Fermor and his wife Joan chose to spend the rest of their lives in the Peloponnese. It was here in the olive-tree-filled countryside that Fermor ended up building a charming stone house with the assistance of his architect friend, Nikos Hatzimichalis.

Design and Layout

Boasting an authentic charm, the villa features traditional white-washed walls, exposed stone, and pebbled floors. Outside you will find a massive Mediterranean garden of cypress and olive trees, as well as wildflowers. The property also features a pool and a private stretch of beach.

The Main House comes with three suites, the writer’s studio right next to it, which is formed into the Traditional House, as well as the Guest House, adjacent to the Main House.

Staying at the Patrick and Joan Leigh Fermor House

This historical house can be rented as a whole villa, encompassing the Main House, Traditional House, and Guest House, to accommodate parties of up to ten people. It can also be rented as individual self-contained suites, the Traditional House and Guest House, each sleeping up to two people, and the Main House, sleeping up to six people.

Donated to the Benaki Museum

In 1996, the couple donated their house to the Benaki Museum, with the Museum’s mission being the couple’s expressed desire that the house will remain open to the public and host writers and researchers. The restoration works at the building and the landscape surroundings were completed so that the original character of the property is meticulously preserved. Aria Hotels, in collaboration with the Benaki Museum, have undertaken operation of the property during the three-month rental period with particular sensitivity to its unique legacy, offering guests a rare residential experience of authentic Greek hospitality.

What’s nearby

While staying here, guests can visit the Tower of Mourtzinos, in the historic village of Old Kardamyli. Close by are charming cafes, the church of Agios Spiridon, which dates from Byzantium, and the historical Museum of Greek Culture. There are also plenty of beaches to choose from including Ritsa, Chalikias, Salio, Dolphins, Kalamitsi, Foneas, and Neo Proastio.

For more details about visiting, head to ariahotels.

Greece Greece property Greece villas Greek property holiday homes Greece Kardamyli Patrick and Joan Leigh Fermor House Peloponnese Sir Patrick Leigh Fermor