The Best Room At... Four Seasons Astir Palace
Our column "The Best Room At" offers a glimpse inside some of the most charming, luxurious, and iconic properties around the world.
The hottest place in Athens right now is about thirty minutes south of the center in an area known as the Athens Riviera. It's all because of the opening of the Four Seasons Astir Palace, the brand's first property in Greece. This elegant 75 acre hotel is on its way to another glory era. (Back in the 1960s and 1970s-forget Mykonos-Astir Palace was the place to see and be seen.) All the glamorous Greeks are descending to eat, relax, and play in the flawless modern revival of a classic Greek icon, not an easy feat to pull off. Sam Ioannidis, the hotel's general manager, talked to to Town & Country about his vision for the property, his favorite room, and how to spend an ideal day at the reborn Astir Palace.
What do you consider the "best room" at the Four Seasons Astir Palace?
We have eight signature suites within the property, where any of our guest would definitely find the one based on their needs. However, I would say the sea-view Bungalow suite with a private infinity pool overlooking the Aegean, even if it is not the most expensive one, is definitely my favorite! A modern hideaway, nestled among centuries-old pine trees, with separate living area and bedroom. The first part of the Astir Palace estate was built in 1961, and the Bungalows retain the same glamorous allure today as they did then. These are the accommodations of choice for those who want to live the secluded seaside lifestyle of the golden age of the Athens Riviera, but brought into a new era.
What does it cost per night?
Starts at €2,920 per night in low season
Astir Palace has a deep place in the hearts of many Greeks. Can you tell us a little bit about what it means to people in Greece and why its revitalization is such a big deal?
If you ask any Athenian about Astir Palace, they will tell you of some connection or childhood memory they have of the place. Everyone has a story to tell about the property. It was-and still is-a landmark of international stature and symbol of Greek hospitality. Greeks felt proud of all the famous people hosted and were so excited about the re-opening of the property. Our aim is to be considered the living room of Athens. Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens was developed to showcase the beauty of Greece’s people, customs and products, and we cannot think of anyone that would enjoy this more, other than Greeks themselves!
How would you describe the vibe of the hotel?
The Nafsika Hotel building, built in 1979, is a very active and dynamic property. It has azure sea views from every room and suite. With three restaurants – Italian trattoria Mercato, buzzy lounge and bar Avra, and poolside grill Helios, Nafsika is the energetic hub of the hotel. The Arion building was built in 1967. This hotel has a more intimate feel than Nafsika and combines modern elegance with relaxed resort style--this is where guests will find our Hippocrates-inspired spa with a soothing hydrotherapy zone.
Tell us a little bit about the area where you are located along the Athens Riviera.
The Athens Riviera is a pristine coastline, boasting hidden coves, golden beaches and breath-taking views. We are located on the Vouliagmeni pine-clad peninsula, a location that is irrefutably one of the most prominent and special locations in Greece and the Mediterranean as well.
What makes the Four Seasons Astir Palace unique and different among the many top-notch hospitality offerings in Greece?
The experience of Four Seasons Astir Palace is made up of the best aspects of a visit to Greece: fascinating nature, amazing beaches, unique hospitality and gastronomy, and access to high-end services. We are 30 minutes from the center of Athens, have three private beaches, two outdoor pools, 10 spa treatment rooms, a a hydrotherapy zone, including an adults-only indoor lap pool, aroma steam grotto, hammam, vitality pool, chill showers and relaxation lounge with sea views, and a basketball and tennis academy. Not to mention eight restaurants-from Pelagos, a stylish Greek seafood restaurant, to Mercato, an Italian trattoria. This is a once-in-a-lifetime experiences of Greece that you will not find anywhere else.
How would you spend a perfect day at the hotel?
A perfect day would start with an amazing Four Seasons breakfast, preferably in bed. Then, head off to the beach for a swim and soaking in some sun--there is nothing like the Aegean waters and the Greek sun. At lunchtime, head to Taverna 37 for a quintessentially Greek seaside lunch or to Helios for refreshing cocktails and Latin-American fare. Before going back to your room's private pool or the beach, take two hours to visit the Spa for a signature treatment and some pampering in the Hydrotherapy zone. Watch the sunset while sipping creative cocktails at Astron or Avra. Finish the day with dinner at Mercato or Pelagos.
('You Might Also Like',)
