Harking back to an age of celebrity mystique, Sinatra and classic cinema – when only hues of silver illuminated the silver screen – One&Only returns a celebrated mis-en-scène to its former glory, captured in full colour for a vibrant new era.
The exclusive allure of the former Asteria lies in its effortless curation of a mid-century modern oasis. Hidden among verdant shades of olive, pine and rosemary, this haven of glitz and glad rags follows the blueprint of its star-studded past: a low-rise landscape paving the way for a renaissance of the riviera.
Once again rivalling the likes of the Amalfi Coast and Cote D’Azur, the scene is set for a blend of city break and beach retreat. Private sands see yachts glide gracefully over gentle waters, while a mere 30 minutes away, the Acropolis stands tall over the ancient streets of Athens.
This is sophisticated seclusion, with no compromise on cultural charm.
Framed by shallow waters so calm their ebb and flow goes almost unnoticed, an Eden for adults awaits by the shoreline. Set apart from the splashes and spades of travellers in training, quiet moments linger on soft sands, echoed only by the indulgent atmosphere of the Guerlain spa.
Adding a touch of French fancy to the art of wellness, Guerlain’s first foray to these fabled lands prioritises personalisation. And while bespoke sessions are reserved to soothe the senses of the over 16s, little ones aren’t left out of the lap of luxury. Using natural ingredients designed to be kind to every little prince or princess, the Mademoiselle Guerlain treatment lets them be 'as beautiful as mum’.
Feasts of locally sourced fare wouldn’t quite be Mediterranean without warm hospitality at their heart. It’s the art of bringing people together that matters at Aesthesis, so you’ll be hard pressed to find a spot here that doesn’t welcome guests as old friends. Small plates steal the show at El Bar de Paco Morales, their Andalusian flavours paired with the flair of Flamenco. Continuing the Mediterranean theme over at Ora, chef Ettore Botrini reveals the beauty in the simplicity of seasonal ingredients, culminating in classic Greek-Italian dishes reminiscent of his own traditional family recipes. In essence, its memories that gather guests around the table – those from Bortini himself setting the table for memorable moments to be shared around it.
Timelessly chic, the reputation preceding Glyfada is certainly one for the stylish. Just a stone’s throw beyond the resort lies the heart of this fashion-focused district, where expansive streets are lined with luxurious high-end boutiques. Finding (or designing) an addition to your holiday wardrobe may lie further afield, however. A summer staple synonymous with Greece, create and customise your own pair of Sandals in an authentic Athenian workshop. Staying in Athens, debut your craftsmanship on a walking fashion tour of the city, or perhaps on a private tour of the Benaki Museum, dedicated to the 6,000-year history of jewellery.
Inspiring intrigue in mini minds, an educational aspect runs through the family fun of Aesthesis. Leaning into the esteemed nature, history and culture of the Athenian Riviera, there’s no shortage of experiences to enrapture across generations, as well as a big emphasis on enjoying the great outdoors.
Aspiring Attenbouroughs may wish to explore the insectarium, go foraging for a private forest dining experience, or wait until dusk falls to gaze up at the stars with an expert astronomer. Meanwhile, the historians and classicists of the future are encouraged to uncover the wonders of the ancient Acropolis, travelling back in time to visit world-renowned heritage sites, and even live like a young Athenian.
Though the sun may set on Glyfada, casting its glow across the Aegean, to guests of Aesthesis it’s a suitably dramatic backdrop to nights that are only just beginning. At Manko beach bar, contemporary Peruvian cocktails flow, where mixology means more than just shaken or stirred. Setting the rhythm of the night, resident DJs decide the soundtrack to dancing across cool sands, while Cirque-de-Soleil-style entertainment suspends reality. Perhaps the excitement of the 90s left a little legacy on Aesthesis after all.
Imagine the scenes of bohemian Greece spruced up with the luxurious refinement only a world-renowned brand can master, and the scene conjured is probably that of Kèa Island.
Fine dining experts Estiatorio Milos have long welcomed guests to have a seat at their table; now, their ‘iconic simplicity’ goes beyond Mediterranean cuisine, inviting you to stay the night at the heart of one of history’s oldest civilisations.
A win-win for both sun-seekers and get-up-and-goers, Athens Riviera feels a world away from the city and holds within it ancient history, a glamorous past and this modern beach enclave.
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