by A tribute to the resorts and luxury hotels that will open their doors for the first time this year in Greece, before the tourist season, is carried out by Bloomberg.
As the publication notes: “Last summer, everyone from Elon Musk to footballer Mo Salah was in Mykonos, enjoying the sun, the Aegean Sea and the island’s famous nightlife.” Then, he adds that the Greek tourist industry, which represents 25% of the country’s GDP, is booming, with a peak period that has gradually doubled or even tripled in duration.
Citing the Minister of Tourism’s words that holidays in Greece are no longer just about the three summer months – a trend that began with the coronavirus pandemic recovery strategy – Bloomberg lists six new luxury hotels and resorts which are slated to open this year, noting that they cater to all types of visitors, from those seeking a hidden island getaway to those seeking beachfront retreats a short drive from the historic center of ‘Athens.
Noruz Kassandra domes, Halkidiki
It opened on April 28
Looking for all night entertainment? This beach club with 182 adult-only rooms can become your base for exploring the vibrant nightlife of this northern coastal region of Greece. Noruz has a fire-lined pool that stays open late into the night for midnight swimming.
A canteen on the beach specializes in pita sandwiches, where bakers (“psistes”, reports Bloomberg) prepare gyros, souvlaki and other favorites. After partying until the wee hours, you can head to the hotel’s outdoor gym, which offers sunrise yoga sessions. Rooms from 182 euros.
Eliamos Villa Hotel & Spa, Kefalonia
Opening May 1
On the southern shore of Kefalonia, an island known for its turquoise waters, Eliamos is a family retreat with 12 villas and maisonettes, all overlooking the sparkling sea or a nearby olive grove.
Wellness offerings include professional yoga, Pilates sessions in an outdoor gym, and nutritious meals prepared with locally sourced ingredients.
A secluded beach is a short walk from the property, while Argostoli, the island’s capital, is a 20-minute drive away, with its seaside shops and restaurants.
It is also worth visiting the Ainos National Park, to gaze at the stars in the crystal clear sky. Divers can spot the famous Loggerhead Sea Turtles in their natural habitat, while a stop at the famous Melissani Cave is a must.
If you’re not in the mood for adventure, the hotel’s saltwater infinity pool is perfect for relaxing on a sunny day. Rooms from 430 euros.
Cali Mykonos, Mykonos
Opening May 10
In one of the most isolated parts of the island, 13 kilometers from the old port, the Cali Mykonos resort is located on its own private beach. There is also a 110m infinity pool on the edge of the cliff with stunning views.
Getting to the party side of Mykonos – or neighboring islands such as Tinos and Paros – is easy, thanks to a private fleet of boats and yachts available for charter.
Some of the hotel’s unique features are things you don’t often see: a self-contained water supply system that doesn’t burden the island’s local water supply and an array of solar panels that make your stay more respectful of the environment. Rooms from 900 euros.
Mandarin Oriental Costa Navarino, Messinia
Opening on August 15
The long-awaited Greek debut of the Mandarin Oriental will provide wild coastal scenery in a less populated part of the country. The Costa Navarino resort will have 99 rooms, including 48 pool villas, some with two or three bedrooms, ideal for families.
Built on hilly terrain, the villas offer a sense of seclusion. All rooms have outdoor terraces and sea views, as well as decor reminiscent of nearby historical monuments in the Peloponnese.
Five restaurants and bars, an indoor-outdoor pool overlooking the bay, access to four golf courses, and a world-class spa round out the amenities. Within walking distance of the resort is a village with a food market and outdoor cinema. Room rates will be announced.
Hotel Santo Mine Oia Suites, Santorini
Opening summer 2023
This adults-only retreat in Santorini has 37 self-contained suites, each with its own private pool or Jacuzzi, where you can soak up the island’s famous sunsets. The hotel is carved into the rock, just an 11-minute walk from the heart of the picturesque town of Oia.
Minimalist interiors evoke the rugged landscapes of the Cyclades, with warm tones and rough stone sourced from local suppliers — the hotel takes its name from the former mine in which it sits. Rooms from $895.
One & Only Aesthesis, Athens
It opens in early fall
Luxury brand One&Only opens its first accommodation in Greece on the chic Athens Riviera, just a 30-minute drive from the Acropolis. With equal access to the sea and the city, guests can start their day with a dip in the Aegean Sea or the natural springs of nearby Lake Vouliagmeni, then head to the Ancient Agora before lunch.
The resort is built on approximately 1.5 kilometers of private beach – one of the two beaches is exclusively for adults. There will also be a bar and a beach club with poolside cabanas for relaxing overlooking the Saronic Sea. Rooms from 1,800 euros.
