AMANZOE RESORT
ARGOLIDA | GREECE
WHAT TO KNOW
PROPERTY SIZE: 50 rooms
ROOM STYLE: Contermporary
VIBE: Zen
WHAT TO LOVE
Seclusion and Privacy
Five Star Service
Luxury Villa Options
Article by Katerina Katopsis (Instagram: @ketrinakatopsis)
Written by Jhanvi Shah
Built around a picturesque natural harbor in the prefecture of Argolida, Peloponnese, Porto Heli is one of the most famous and luxurious locations in Greece. Surrounded by protected coves and bays on the crystal-clear waters of the Aegean, the region is renowned for drawing in crowds eager to experience the “Southamptons of Greece” (Vanity Fair). Furthermore, the Greater Porto Heli area is known for its understated elegance, wealthy second homes, pine-fringed protected turquoise bays, and the nearby traffic-free islands of Spetses and Hydra.
The ideal way to reach the town of Porto Heli, located on the “Greek Riviera” on the north-eastern Peloponnese coast is through a two and a half-hour high speed catamaran from Athens, or by car from Athens international airport, or via helicopter from Athens. For ideal weather conditions, the months between April to October are considered the most favorable to travel to Porto Heli. Furthermore, due to the town's relatively exclusive reputation, the most common mode of transportation used is boats and water taxis.
One of the primary charms of this exclusive and high-end area is its excellent swimming beaches with white pebbles and sand, and presence of ample arts nearby . Apart from being dubbed as the abode of all that is luxury, the modern Porto Heli has strong ties with its historical past. On the southern part of the bay, one can still find the sunken remnants of the ancient city of Halieis which can be seen from the air on a calm, clear day. Moreover, the nearby Franchthi Cave is a historical marvel owing to its reputation as a cave that has been recorded with the longest continuous inhabitation. According to the findings, it is believed that this cave witnessed human inhabitation through every phase of the Stone Age, making it one of the most studied stone age sites in Europe.
Due to the significant lack in the commercialization of the location, Porto Heli is truly a hidden gem as due to the exclusivity not many tourists or backpackers visit the town. Another important factor contributing to Porto Heli’s popularity is the presence of Amanzoe, the best hotel in Greece and one of the best in Europe. Built on the highest hill of the area Amanzoe is nestled amongst centuries-old olive groves and commands stunning 360 views. The property enjoys a light daily breeze and has the most mesmerizing sunsets. Also, the service is impeccably tailor-made for all guests. Furthermore, the architecture of the hotel designed by the legendary Ed Tuttle resembles the ancient Greek Agora. The grandiose structure comprises several pavilions that feature soaring ceilings, giant pillars, majestic colonnades, and marble-clad hallways. Moreover, the white of the marble ends in spectacularly with the natural landscape providing an intensely aesthetic view of the expansive property perched on a hilltop.
Porto Heli, situated in the rich agricultural region of Argolida, is a paradise for anyone with a taste for locally grown produce. As such, much of the wine, cheese, fish, honey, olives, and olive oil comes from the surrounding region. With famous restaurants like Hippocampus and Salt & Pepper, Amanzoe also specializes in servicing mouthwatering food of the highest quality. Equipped with restaurants offering a Greek Taverna menu and wood-fired pizzas, as well as Greek BBQs, Amanzoe accommodates all dietary options by serving excellent vegan and gluten-free foods.
Furthermore, the hotel also offers several activities and excursions for people to enjoy these include visiting historical landmarks (like the Unesco Wolrd Heritage sites of Epidavros and Mycenae), to activities for thrill-seekers such as sailing, exploring caves and nearby islands, trekking, horseback riding, bee hiving, water skiing, tennis, scuba diving, paddle boarding, cycling, and much more. Moreover, a vibrant nightlife with plenty for night owls to explore is available in abundance on the pretty island of Spetses accessible by a water taxi. Spetses island is also the place where several popular delicacies such as amygdalota, kilada shrimp, and the decadent yellow sheep's cheeses are enjoyed.
In its entirety, Porto Heli can be described as a self-contained world of lavish luxury and immense cultural significance. The activities and excursions available are dynamic in nature, thus allowing solo as well as group travelers to choose from a variety of experiences. Deemed an intensely relaxing destination with multiple places to visit and things to do, only one trip to this heavenly abode on earth does not suffice.
HOTEL FEATURES
24-hour Security
Air Conditioning
Children's Programs
Complimentary Parking
Connecting Rooms
Internet Access
Lounge/Bar
Meal Plans Available
Multi-lingual Staff
Restaurant
Shopping
RECREATION
Bicycle Rental
Fitness Center
Horseback Riding
Pool
Spa
Water Sports
SERVICES
Babysitting Services
Car Rental Desk
Complimentary Airport Transfers
Concierge Desk
Currency Exchange
House Safe
Laundry/Dry Cleaning/Pressing
Room Service
Room Service 24-hours
Turndown Service
Valet Parking
Wakeup Calls
Wedding Services
IN YOUR ROOM
Bathrobes
Complimentary Coffee/Tea
Complimentary Newspaper
Hair Dryer
Iron/Ironing Board
Mini Bar