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Wellbeing at its best – the Poseidonion Grand Hotel is a real Hotel Gem

„Slow down, man – you are in Greece“ said the local guy at Piräus harbour when I was asking about the arrival of my ferry to the island of Spetses, just close to Athens. So right, I kept this in mind for the rest of my stay in this beautiful country. After a two-hour ride through the stunning Saronic Gulf I could already see my home for the next few days from afar – the impressive Poseidonion Grand Hotel*****, a beautiful landmark in the style of the „belle époque“ – reminds you of those gorgeous buildings on the Côte d`Azur, such as the famours Negresco Hotel in Nizza.

Expectations clearly exceeded!

All my expectations at the Poseidonion Grand Hotel were exceeded, without any exaggeration. A perfect mix of a building from 1914 with all modern amenities – and full of art. Cool parlors invite you to relax while reading one of the many books and magazines, enjoying a local smoothie (or drink, of course). The rooms reflect the elegant style and offer everything you can expect from a luxury hotel. I particularly liked the retro-style bathtub.

Gastronomic Treats at the Poseidonion Grand Hotel

The restaurant menus include the best food Greece has to offer – and that`s quite a lot. Many ingredients come from the own organic farm „Bostani“ located in the mountains, fantastic sea view included. Enjoy a lunch or dinner there – world-famous actor Ralph Fiennes did the same, by the way. Beware of the chickens though – no kidding! When we entered their territory, they all came close to us. „If you lay down on the ground, they will eat you“ says my friendly guide. Lovely! I just make sure to keep walking ;-) and grab a few fresh herbs, so delicious. They will be part of dinner on the hotel verandah which is THE meeting point for locals and wealthy Athenians – overlooking the sea, the Peloponnese and the island of Hydra. Simply spectacular!

A divine Breakfast

My favorite meal at the Poseidonion Grand Hotel was breakfast. Did you know that „Greek breakfast“ is a registered brand? No wonder if you taste Greek yoghourt, local cheese to die for, delicious bread with honey and fresh fruits, just to name a few items. And can your day have a better start if all these goodies are served by charming staff with a smile on their face – Greek hospitality at its best.

A wonderful Hotel Manager

It all comes from the top. Maria Strati looks like an elegant top model (I could easily see her on the cover of VOGUE) and is the charming and charismatic general manager who cares a lot for both, her clients and her staff. No wonder the Poseidonion Grand Hotel has received quite a few international awards for excellent service. - And stay tuned – I will soon post an interview with Maria where she will give some insights in her interesting job.

Spetses – a hidden Treasure

Spetses is not (yet) well-known outside of Greece. This small island awakes all senses. Abundant nature, lovely boutiques, cafés, restaurants and hardly any cars! No McDonald`s, no Starbucks – just local and authentic stuff. Lonely beaches with crystal clear water – from the Poseidonion Grand Hotel you just walk 15 minutes to Kaiki, a beautiful little beach with a cool beach bar. If you travel in September or October (or in spring), you may have the sea just for yourself – with pleasant temperatures. The Greek Gods must have had a great day when they created this island. Apart from beaches there is so much to do and see. Discover the island of only 25 sqm by squad or – if you are in great shape – by bike and stroll through the old port with charming restaurants and the traditional shipyards. Charter a traditional wooden boat and spend a day on the sea. Do not miss the olive press at the charming Liotrivi restaurant and enjoy a cocktail right above the sea. It cannot get more romantic. And Maria`s tip for a nightcap (or two): the cool Spetsa Bar with its owner Costas (a real character!) and music of the 60s and 70s.

Meet Bouboulina and enjoy a perfect wellness treatment at the Poseidionion Grand Hotel

Visit the little museum of Bouboulina, a national hero and power woman of the 19th century (when Spetses had more inhabitants than Athens...). You will learn a lot about the island`s glorious history. Chill at one of the two pools under palm trees in the garden of the Poseidonion Grand Hotel and get a full-body massage from Abi, the awesome Indian therapist at the Asian spa. After that, you will feel at least 10 years younger. And above all – enjoy the laid-back atmosphere of this precious island and remember – „slow down, you are in Greece!“

Poseidonion Grand Hotel - A few Facts

How to get there:

• Approximately 2.5 hours by ferry from Athens harbour (Piräus) - from the pier on Spetses you can walk to the hotel (transfer from/to Athens airport can be arranged)

Facilities and Services:

• First built in 1914
• Reopening in 2009 after a 5 year restoration programme
• The hotel comprises of two buildings with superior and deluxe rooms and suites, several with private gardens or balconies
• The premier accommodation in the hotel is the spectacular royal suite featuring three double bedrooms, all with en-suite bathrooms and its own 85 square meter terrace with breathtaking views of the sea. Another unique suite is the split-level “La Cupola” that occupies the hotel’s central roof dome
• 45 premium rooms and 7 suites (not including the royal suite)
• Baby sitting (upon request) • Fresh water swimming-pools • Hiking excursions • Mountain Bbking • PADI Diving & Water Sports Centre • Sun bathing deck &terrace • Wellness & Spa sentre with private swimming Pool • gym
• Boat Rental Service • Daily courtesy shuttle bus to the beach • Horse carriage - Private aervice
• Free WLAN

You will find more information on the hotel website. 

For travel packages have a look at www.flymetothemoontravel.com

Looking for more historic hotels in Greece? I can highly recommend the Kinsterna Hotel on the Southern Peloponnese.