No trees were harmed in the making of Lesante Cape though. In fact, all 420 (give or take) still live there after being replanted about the property. It’s a flattering touch to the hotel’s Greco-modern style and its ‘authentic village’ hallmarks – like classic ivory stone and archways that speak to both Greek and Italian influences. The memories of a bygone era don’t stop there either. On-site there’s a folklore museum primed for perusing and a cobbled square that houses a taverna, church and traditional coffee house that brews its grounds over hot sand. Suites and villas are housed in low-rise buildings that show off the 400-year-old terrain at its finest; the three-bed Cape Villa working its magic in both size and privacy when rounding up the relatives. 

Not catering to any demographic in particular, it’s easy to find a way to spend time here. The beach may be more reminiscent of the Italian Riviera (read: petite and pebbly), but that’s no bother. Both entertainment and idleness themselves are satisfied with great snorkelling, muscle-melting deep tissue massages (ask for Eleanor), and cooking lessons in the gardens. The latter particularly appeals to the foodies that flock here. Lured in by Fiore Restaurant's fine dining tasting menu carefully curated by the in-house chef who holds the title of ‘sixth best in Greece’.