Greece is among the top five countries in the world attracting luxury travelers who spend — on average — 20 times more than regular tourists, according to one report released by Virtuoso. With the country ranking fifth as a leading summer destination for the world’s richest travelers, there’s no question that Greece has an abundance of luxury accommodation, fine dining experiences, and magnificent things to do. From Mykonos to Santorini — and why you shouldn’t leave out Mani, here are three destinations worth adding to your travel to-do list.
High-quality experiences in Mykonos
When looking for luxury dining experiences, Mykonos has plenty of options. Nero Nero, for instance, offers a romantic dining experience that features a single-table restaurant over the sea. With a menu that encompasses a variety of options — from lobster to scallops, foie gras and even wagyu beef, the restaurant is none other than a luxurious experience. Condé Nast further mentions a Mykonian taverna, called Maereio, located in Chora. Owned by Isidoros and Dimitris Monoyios, the twin brothers’ restaurant serves a variety of dishes, including Asemina’s meatballs — based on their mother’s recipe, as well as local sausage with feta and vegetables and local cold cuts, highlighting a truly Mykonian sampling.
According to Forbes, there are a variety of luxurious accommodations to choose from when in Mykonos. The Belvedere Hotel, for instance, features rooms that include a private Waterfront Villa as well as a Six Senses Spa — not to mention the acclaimed chef, Nobu Masuhisa. Forbes goes on to mention the Bill & Coo Hotel, which offers an infinity pool as well as fine dining options and spectacular architecture, and the Myconian Utopia Hotel, which features a contemporary Greek design in addition to a seawater infinity pool.
The rich coast of Mani
A two-hour drive from Athens, Mani is known for its mountains that overlook the Mediterranean and offers a slow pace of life that’s away from the hustle and bustle of the city, making it the perfect vacation destination for those who simply want to get away from it all. Kat and Yianna Velos, the co-founders of Golden Groves, an Australian lifestyle brand with Greek roots, highlight their favorite parts of visiting the Mani peninsula. Not only is the location the perfect place to visit a variety of different beaches, but it’s ideal for trying out colorful bikinis, local seaside taverns, and the 100 Rizes Seaside Resort — which happens to be a member of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World.
For those who want a truly ‘off the beaten path’ experience with equally luxurious scenery, traveling into what is known as the “Deep Mani” can make for a truly memorable stay. One Guardian article notes that most people don’t get farther than the Diros caves, which are “extensive and spectacular” themselves, though the author, Andy Bostock, notes that “it is well worth carrying on down the coast,” in which you’ll be rewarded with fishing coves, and a countryside that’s home to Byzantine churches. It’s further noted that if you continue traveling south, you’ll find yourself in the village of Gerolimenas, which was once known for its export of quails back in the 1870s — the Guardian notes that the old warehouses have since been converted into the historic hotel known as the Kyramai.
Exploring the luxuries of Santorini
In addition to Mykonos, Santorini is likely one of the most well-known Greek destinations that come to mind, and there is no shortage of luxury there, either. According to the Luxury Lifestyle Magazine, there are a variety of ways that one can spend their time in Santorini while in the height of luxury — booking a sailing tour on a luxury yacht or catamaran is just one option. Not only will a sailing tour allow you to explore the island and sea within the same activity, but it can make for the perfect break from land, with endless opportunities for snorkeling, swimming, sunbathing, and more. While Luxury Lifestyle Magazine notes that chartering a yacht or catamaran will give you an exclusive experience, joining a boat tour is another option that will allow you to meet other people while on your travels, making it a great way to go if you’re a solo traveler looking to socialize (as it’s noted that most local sailing cruises can accommodate up to 50 to 60 people).
With Greece being ranked as one of the most popular destinations for luxury travelers, there’s no question as to why. From Santorini to Mykonos and the Mani peninsula, there’s no shortage of picturesque views and high quality experiences to be had.
Carol
Information sourced by the author for luxuryactivist.com. All content is copyrighted with no reproduction rights available. Images are for illustration purposes only.
