4 Seasons Lodge Astir Palace (Athens, Greece)

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At the moment: 4 Seasons Lodge Astir Palace (Greece)

On the delicate Athens Riviera, on the tip of a pine-clad peninsula, 4 Seasons Lodge Astir Palace presents one of the best of each worlds: a laid-back seaside escape simply half-hour from the historic metropolis heart. Company can uncover the wonders of historic civilization on the Acropolis, then return to 4 Seasons to unwind and loosen up. Astir Palace got here to life within the Sixties, as the realm gained tempo as a seaside resort, drawing a crowd that spanned from Greek royalty, to Hollywood glitterati and elite jetsetters, and reopened as a 4 Seasons property in 2019 following a $700 million USD renovation. Consisting of two completely different buildings, the fabulous property options 8 eating places and bars, three swimming pools, a spa heart with 10 therapy rooms, a health heart and an expansive shoreline comprising three personal seashores. Astir Palace ranks among the many finest luxurious lodge I’ve ever stayed at.

Have you ever ever stayed at 4 Seasons Lodge Astir Palace in Athens? If that’s the case, what was your expertise? Depart a remark.

4 Seasons Lodge Astir Palace options in my prime 10 lists of the finest luxurious accommodations in Greece and the finest 4 Seasons Accommodations & Resorts on the earth.

On this evaluate (extra data and images beneath my YouTube video):

PROS & THINGS I LIKE

4 Seasons Lodge Astir Palace is ready on an impressive, lush peninsula within the coronary heart of the Athenian Riviera, one of the crucial coveted areas in Greece. Due its chic location, the lodge is a superb selection for vacationers who need to expertise one of the best of historic and fashionable Greece, weekenders from Athens or the area, households in search of a vacation that may be each fun-filled and academic, and {couples} who’re honeymooning or renewing their lives collectively in one of many world’s most romantic locations. Along with the five-star lodge, the peninsula, stretched throughout 30 hectares (75 acres) of pine-dotted and scenic landscaped gardens, additionally contains upscale retail & eating choices, in addition to high-end seafront residences. The lodge is conveniently situated 25 km (16 mi) south of Athens and 24 km (15 mi) from Athens Worldwide Airport.

Earlier than 4 Seasons took over administration of the property, Astir Palace had already been certainly one of Greece’s most iconic accommodations for greater than 50 years. As an entity, Astir was first created within the late Nineteen Fifties, gracing the magnificent pine lined peninsula of Laimos in Vouliagmeni. Two years later, in 1961, the cabanas of Astir began internet hosting visitors, whereas within the golden decade of the Sixties a waterskiing college – a novelty on the time for Athens – was opened. On the identical time Astir Seashore of Vouliagmeni – maybe one of the best swimming spot in Athens – grew to become established as a preferred assembly level. In 1967 the lodge Arion was created adopted by Nafsika in 1979. 4 a long time later, the landmark resort on the Athens Riviera grew to become a 4 Seasons property after an in depth $700 million USD overhaul which concerned a top-to-bottom renovation of the lodge’s amenities.

Drawing inspiration from the unique property’s historic glamor, the ultra-luxe lodge encompasses a magnificent design. Following its multi-year renovation, the property’s light-filled areas exhibit a contemporary, up to date look that stylishly spills outside, with considerable use of pure supplies all through. Ok-Studio dealt with the architectural points of the renovation, whereas Meyer Davis and Martin Brudnizki Design Studio labored alongside it on the inside design. One of many parts that makes 4 Seasons Astir Palace distinctive from a design perspective is the distribution of the lodge amenities over two separate buildings, known as Arion and Nafiska (which operated as two impartial accommodations previous to the renovation). Each lodge wings function a definite design that defines them: Arion’s look is extra refined and geared toward {couples} and singles, whereas Nafiska’s decor feels extra relaxed and household oriented.

The Arion constructing – with its modernist structure and retro-chic design – presents a laid again vibe and distinctly refined ambiance. Upon arrival, visitors are welcomed by the foyer’s minimal aesthetic, stunning flower preparations, and a delicate coloration palette of sandy hues. The foyer’s elegant lounge bar has large floor-to-ceiling home windows which open to an expansive terrace with a number of lounge areas, providing stunning sea views. In comparison with the Nafsika constructing, the Arion wing has a extra intimate really feel, combining fashionable class with relaxed resort model. Arion is residence to 101 uber-luxurious rooms and suites, two of the lodge’s eating places -including the signature Michelin starred venue – together with the spa and indoor pool (extra on that beneath).

At quick strolling distance from Arion is the Nafiska lodge wing, whose arrival courtyard is situated on the constructing’s prime ground, offering magnificent views over the Mediterranean Sea. On arrival, visitors are welcomed by a lit water function and an Antony Gormley sculpture with a backdrop that resembles a forest of illuminated pillars. Nafsika’s full of life foyer encompasses a darker coloration palette in comparison with Arion, creating a fantastic distinction with the deep blue of the Mediterranean Sea. At Nafsika, the lodge amenities cascade down from the foyer on the highest ground to the immense swimming pool space beneath. Azure sea views dominate each single one of many constructing’s 133 rooms and suites – a few of that are outfitted with a non-public pool. Nafsika can be residence to the social hub Avra Lounge and Terrace, two eating places, the health heart and a number of other luxurious boutiques.

4 Seasons Lodge Astir Palace presents a variety of uber-luxurious lodging, that are situated in three distinct resort areas: 101 rooms and suites within the Arion constructing, 133 rooms and suite within the Nafsika constructing, and 61 hillside bungalows that are set in their very own tranquil, pine-clad enclave overlooking Astir seashore on the peninsula’s northern tip. Initially constructed within the early Sixties, the spacious sea- and garden-view are good for visitors looking for more room and privateness, and maybe a bit of nostalgia for the reason that bungalows retain the identical glamorous attract at this time as they did. That includes a contemporary look and up-to-date facilities for at this time’s vacationers, all bungalows have a non-public villa really feel and include swimming pools or furnished terraces. The realm the place the bungalows are situated options its personal idyllic shoreline with seashore, and is only a 5 min stroll from the Arion constructing (24/7 buggy service is supplied).

Throughout my keep at 4 Seasons Lodge Astir Palace, I used to be upgraded to the exceptional Arion Royal Suite, one of the crucial unbelievable suites I’ve ever stayed at throughout all my years of touring around the globe. Positioned within the Arion constructing on the ground-level, proper subsequent to the foyer, the 310 m2 (3,336 sq.ft.) Arion Royal Suite is the lodge’s second largest suite. The regal suite featured a big residing & eating room, open kitchen, TV room, workplace space, walk-in closet, two spacious bedrooms with kingsize beds, and two ensuite marble loos, every with twin vainness sinks, deep soaking tub and separate bathe. The huge suite embraced the outside with floor-to-ceiling home windows, an expansive furnished terrace and a non-public pool overlooking the Aegean Sea. The Arion Royal Suite is likely one of the lodge’s so known as signature suites, whose visitors profit from unique companies and facilities, together with meet-and-greet airport service and a devoted private assistant.

Helmed by Govt Chef Bertrand Valegeas who brings greater than 1 / 4 century’s expertise in kitchens all around the world, 4 Seasons Lodge Astir Palace’s culinary providing is as numerous as Greek tradition. The sprawling property options 4 eating places and three lounges & bars:
- Awarded one Michelin star, Pelagos is called after the Greek phrase for ocean and set throughout the Arion constructing (on the foyer stage). The restaurant presents a forward-looking interpretation of high-quality eating utilizing contemporary seasonal produce of the Mediterranean Sea. Signature dishes embrace langoustine tartare with caviar sauce and Dover sole meunière with saffron hollandaise and Kalamata olives.
- Set beneath the Arion constructing and open seasonally, is Taverna 37, a enjoyable and vibrant seafront taverna which showcases native Greek specialties. It’s an ideal and informal spot to share mezzes and salads, grilled lamb, hen souvlaki and fried calamari.
- Providing a full of life Latin American vibe, Helios is a poolside restaurant situated beneath the Nafiska biulding. The menu consists of zesty ceviches and tiraditos, piquant tacos, guacamole, grilled meat cuts and refreshing margaritas.
- Positioned throughout the Nafiska biulding, Mercato Restaurant brings to life the vibrance of an upscale Italian trattoria. Every morning, the venue presents a buffet breakfast (complemented by à la carte dishes) whereas at evening, it serves genuine Italian dishes in a chic indoor area and beneficiant terrace overlooking the Athenian Riviera.
- Positioned subsequent to Mercato, Avra is a real vacation spot bar with hanging sea-view venue, providing seasonal cocktails, high-quality ingesting, elevated bar snacks and dwell DJs.
- Astron is a light-filled lounge bar within the foyer of the Arion constructing. An excellent spot for mingling with associates, Astron presents fashionable drinks, a wide range of desserts, scrumptious bar snacks and an in depth champagne listing.
- With golden-age glamour, the lodge’s unique cigar lounge – situated subsequent to the foyer within the Arion wing – pairs the world’s most interesting cigars with uncommon cognacs, whiskeys and a craft cocktail listing.
- Apart from its personal culinary ideas, the lodge additionally presents easy accessibility to different marquee eating places on the Astir Peninsula together with Nobu’s Matsuhisa Athens and the steach restuarant Beefbar Athens

Considered one of 4 Seasons Lodge Astir Palace’s finest promoting factors is its monumental personal shoreline, which appears to be like out over the shimmering blue waters of huge, well-sheltered Vouliagmeni Bay. Two personal golden sand seashores are strung collectively by a 300 m (1000 ft) seafront boardwalk, which connects the Arion and Nafiska buildings. On prime of that’s the space with the bungalows, which options its personal personal seashore (subsequent to the general public Astir seashore) in addition to a number of quiet coves, lapped by the calm waters of the bay. All seashores in addition to the boardwalk and the coves function dozens of comfy solar loungers, greater than sufficient to accommodate all visitors even throughout occasions of excessive occupancy. Alongside the boardwalk, beneath the Arion constructing is is a watersport heart which presents a myriad of watersports from windsurfing to sea kayaking plus a sundown sail each night.

Dotted alongside 4 Seasons Lodge Astir Palace’s boardwalk are three swmming swimming pools, two of that are situated outside. The biggest, Olympic-size swimming pool is present in entrance of the Nafiska constructing. Seemingly floating on the tranquil waters of Vouliagmeni Bay, the large pool is surrounded by loads of stylish sunbeds and umbrellas. Open to visitors of all ages, the Nafiska swimming pool is particulary standard amongst households with youthful kids and youngsters. A second out of doors swimming pool is discovered on the spa stage of the Arion constructing. This adults-only, infinity pool isn’t as giant because the Nafiska however is presents a extra tranquil and serene ambiance in addition to gorgeous sea views because of its elevated place. Complimentary sunscreen is obtainable at each swimming pools in addition to facilities all through the day (e.g. ice pops, frozen fruits, and ice tea photographs). The third, indoor lap pool is situated throughout the spa complicated (extra on that beneath).

Taking to coronary heart the sage phrases of Hippocrates – “Treatment generally, deal with typically, consolation all the time” – The Spa at 4 Seasons Astir Palace Lodge Athens presents a complete menu of remedies and companies attuned to fashionable life. Impressed by historic Greek traditions, the Fountain Home is the spa’s hydrotherapy adults-only zone and options state-of-the-art amenities that embrace an aroma steam grotto, hammam, vitality pool and chill showers. An arcade-like hall, which is illuminated by daylight filtered by wood ceiling slats, leads visitors to the therapy rooms. Signature remedies created particularly for the spa embrace the two-hour Iremia Stillness Restoration Ritual (“a blissful, nurturing therapy for bodily or emotionally exhausted souls,” recommends Lefebvre); the 90-minute Epanorthosi Inexperienced Caviar Restore that addresses problems with ageing and environmental harm to the pores and skin; and the Frodida Physique Ritual (60, 90 or 120 minutes), which is fastidiously tailor-made to particular person desires and wishes by the Spa’s caring therapists.

Again within the Sixties and Nineteen Seventies – neglect Mykonos – Astir Palace was the place to see and be seen (and that’s nonetheless the case). The final well-known visitor of Astir Palace earlier than it transitioned to a 4 Seasons Lodge was USA President Barack Obama. However the listing of the world-renowned figures which have graced its suites & cabanas, eating places & bars, and seashores & gardens is lengthy: Margaret Thatcher, Jimmy Carter, John F. Kennedy, Francois Mitterrand, Boris Yeltsin, Mikhail Gorbachev, Giscard d’Estaing, Helmut Kohl, Frank Sinatra, Jacqueline Bisset, Brigitte Bardot, Telly Savalas, Paul Newman, John Wayne, The Beatles, Charles Aznavour, Isabella Rossellini and Pierce Brosnan are simply a few of them. It’s stated that at Astir Palace, the King of Saudi Arabia Ibn Saud would hand out gold watches as suggestions when he would e book a whole ground on the lodge for himself and his royal entourage. Aristotle Onassis, Ioannis Latsis and Constantinos Karamanlis, in addition to virtually the whole thing of the Greek elite together with the celebrities of the Greek movie business had been as soon as amongst its common clientele.

Astir Palace is managed by 4 Seasons, most likely one of the best identified luxurious lodge model on the earth. The Toronto-based firm has reworked the hospitality business in a story of continuous innovation, outstanding growth and a single-minded dedication to the best of requirements. 4 Seasons was based in 1960 by the younger architect Isadore Sharp, however the true breakthrough of the model got here within the seventies with the opening of the 4 Seasons London. Though the corporate went public in 1986, the Sharp household – together with a gaggle of like-minded buyers resembling Invoice Gates and Saudi Prince Al-Waleed bin Talal – took the corporate personal once more in 2007 to guard the integrity of the model properly into the longer term. 4 Seasons at the moment manages greater than 120 accommodations and resorts worldwide. The corporate additionally presents personal jet journey onboard its personal Airbus A321 (with all Enterprise Class structure), and can quickly launch personal ultra-luxe yacht itineraries.

CONS & THINGS TO KNOW

Though Astir Palace is a well known iconic lodge inside Greece, it doesn’t have the identical worldwide repute because the accommodations on the favored Greek Islands. That’s as a result of most worldwide vacationers to Greece will skip the Athens Riviera and head to the Greek islands for his or her trip. Nevertheless, the Athens Riviera is a glamorous space and the 4 Seasons Lodge Astir Palace is a spectacular property that’s far superior to any lodge discovered on the Greek Islands. It’s a vacation spot in itself, providing an unbelievable array of eating places, bars, swimming pools, and seashores. Additionally, it’s a real seashore resort and never only a place to remain in a single day in Athens: the capital’s vacationer sights are close by however many visitors hardly depart the ultra-luxe 4 Seasons property after getting into its unbelievable and spectacular resort grounds.

Though the grounds of 4 Seasons Lodge Astrid Palace have palatial dimensions, the lodge is not a palace, opposite to what its title might counsel (and I’m not positive the place the title comes from). As already talked about, the lodge is comprised of two giant lodge buildings, partly hidden within the pine timber alongside the shoreline. The 2 buildings should not notably enticing from the skin and their condo-alike exteriors don’t evoke the ideas of a palace (though the interiors function a stunningly glossy and fashionable design).

MY VERDICT

Location: 10/10
Design: 9/10
Pool: 10/10
Rooms: 10/10
Meals: 10/10
Breakfast: 10/10
Spa: 10/10
Service: 10/10
Wow issue: 9/10
Worth for cash: 9/10
Total expertise: 9,7 (distinctive lodge!)

TIPS FOR FUTURE GUESTS & SAVE MONEY

Lower your expenses: get complimentary VIP perks at 4 Seasons Lodge Astir Palace when reserving by way of Virtuoso (e.g. room improve, every day breakfast, early check-in, late check-out, and $100 USD resort credit score).

Lower your expenses: learn right here my suggestions for getting one of the best deal at a luxurious lodge like 4 Seasons Astir Palace Lodge (and/or obtain many free perks).

Lower your expenses: get complimentary VIP perks at 4 Seasons Lodge Astir Palace when reserving by way of Virtuoso (e.g. room improve, every day breakfast, early check-in, late check-out, and $100 USD resort credit score).

Room tip: {couples} and singles will want the serenity of the Arion constructing, whereas households will really feel extra at residence at Nafsika.

Learn my suggestions for getting ready your journey in time.

BEST TIME TO VISIT

The perfect occasions to go to Athens are spring (March to Might) and autumn (September to November), when the climate is sweet, gentle and sunny. As well as, crowds are thinner at these occasions and lodge and airfare offers are simpler to come back by than in summer time. Although chilly, Athens’ winters are comparatively gentle and dry, thanks partly to Greece’s Mediterranean location, and can be a pleasant time for a metropolis journey. Summer time is from June by August, and brings insupportable warmth, hordes of vacationers, and excessive room charges to the Greek capital, so exploring city is each uncomfortable and costly throughout this time.

HOW TO GET THERE

Athens’ Eleftherios Venizelos Worldwide Airport (ATH) is a 30-min drive from 4 Seasons Lodge Astir Palace. Click on right here for an inventory of airways that supply direct flights to the Greek capital.

PHOTOS

Beneath is a number of my images of 4 Seasons Lodge Astir Palace. To view extra images (together with dinner at Michelin-starred restaurant Pelagos), click on right here.