Greece!
The 7 most beautiful design hotels in Greece
White houses nestled against steep cliffs, narrow streets, blue front doors and bright pink blooming bougainvilleas: these images immediately bring Greece to mind. While they are iconic for Hellas, they only represent part of the truth. In addition to the numerous enchanting islands with their postcard motifs, the country also boasts lively cities. Thessaloniki and Athens, for example. What unites both the islands and the mainland is the unmistakable taste for elegant architecture. This is also reflected in the hotel design. Seven addresses that fans of boutique and design hotels in Greece should know:
Mykonos: Rocabella Mykonos Hotel
This small boutique hotel has just 24 rooms. When it comes to privacy, however, the hotel is big. The design hotel also boasts a spa and a gym. Together with world-class yoga instructors, it is easy to get into the flow here. Facials, aromatherapy and massages are further services offered by the Rocabella Mykonos Hotel. Guests can swim laps in the pool surrounded by wood, sisal, stone and reeds. And then look forward to a masterclass in Greek cuisine together with the chef. Dine al fresco with a view of the Aegean Sea, while the hotel's own sommelier introduces guests to the fine wines of the region. www.designhotels.com
Peloponnese: Amanzoe
The legendary Aman Group is known and loved all over the world. For its unmistakable, purist design, among other things. In Kranidi, Greece, near the coastal village of Port Heli, star architect Ed Tuttle has once again done a great job. The American has already been responsible for several Aman resorts, including the only one in Greece. The Amanzoe is reminiscent of a temple and impresses with its spacious rooms. But Tuttle has also done a great job outside. The well thought-out design of the garden means that the resort's ecological footprint is very small. Green roofs, native plants and sophisticated irrigation systems contribute to this. The highlight is "Villa 20", which is located on a two-hectare plot. With nine bedrooms, seven pools and its own spa, it promises absolute luxury for families and groups of friends. www.aman.com
Santorini: Magma Resort
The Magma Resort will welcome its guests for the first time in May 2022. The hotel, part of the Unbound Collection by Hyatt, has 59 rooms, including 24 suites. Most of the accommodations are equipped with a private pool and jacuzzi. From here, guests can enjoy uninterrupted views of the Aegean islands and the island of Anafi. There are also beautiful lava beaches in the immediate vicinity - so nothing stands in the way of private bathing pleasures. The architecture of the hotel is based on the traditional houses of the Cyclades. For example, the façade of the house is made of lava stone. Located in the immediate vicinity of Oia and Firas, the resort offers Magma by Spondi, a restaurant run by a two-star chef. www.magmaresortsantorini.com
Zakynthos: Olea All Suite Hotel
Situated on a hill, this tropical-modern hideaway is the ideal base for exploring the north-eastern coast of the island. Three restaurants and two bars spoil guests with Greek and international delicacies. They can relax in the indoor and outdoor pool as well as in the spa. And that has it all. In addition to a typical hammam and numerous selected treatments, it also offers cryotherapy. The sophisticated design also ensures moments of well-being. Clear, geometric shapes are combined with smooth surfaces and natural materials such as oak, bamboo and rattan. www.oleaallsuitehotel.com
Athens: Semiramis
Completely different and somewhat unusual: this is how the Semiramis in Athens presents itself. Designed by industrial designer Karim Rashid, it welcomes its guests in villas, penthouse studios and suites that surprise with bright pink details, green glass walls and orange and yellow tones. Both colors and materials seem to be wildly mixed. And yet the result is a harmonious overall concept. Just as Athens is a wonderful mix of different influences. The Semiramis has a total of 51 rooms. Guests can relax in the outdoor pool, with a massage or in the sauna. The delicious creations in the Freud Oriental Restaurant provide new energy. www.marriot.com
Paros: Parīlio
The small, enchanting island of Paros has everything you need for a fantastic Greek vacation. For example, a picturesque harbor, a building code that provides for typical white buildings, beaches, excellent food, narrow streets and boutiques. And with the Parīlio, it also has its own design hotel. Only 33 rooms ensure that guests can enjoy almost infinite privacy. With a color palette that focuses on earthy and natural tones, the interior ensures absolute relaxation. Here the mind comes to rest. Designer Stamos Hondodimos used local craftsmen to create a hotel that feels like a sanctuary. This effect is reinforced by the numerous round arches and the use of marble. www.pariliohotelparos.com
Crete: Cretan Malia Park
This design hotel on Crete celebrates holistic well-being. The focus is on slow travel, tranquillity, rest and relaxation. In "The Cute Spa" and the Yoga Pavilion, everything revolves around harmonizing body and mind. Meditation, yoga and treatments are the means of choice. Speaking of the body: it is also pampered in the three restaurants. Ingredients from local farms are served as typical Greek, Italian and Mediterranean delicacies. Always accompanied by wonderful Cretan wines. In the hotel, which places great emphasis on sustainability, traditional materials and textures together with indigenous art create a homely feel. Child-friendly! www.cretanmaliapark.gr
