This Little-known Greek Island Has Gorgeous Scenery and Crystal-clear Water — and Just Got a Brand-new Hotel With a Saltwater Infinity Pool
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Loading... - Thema Zakaria
- 10 May 2023
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The island of Kefalonia, situated to the west of mainland Greece, may not have the same level of recognition as other popular Greek destinations such as Santorini or Mykonos. However, it is precisely this obscurity that makes it a destination worth considering. This idyllic island is famed for its picturesque small villages and crystal-clear waters, making it a favorite among local travelers.
On May 5, Eliamos Villas Hotel & Spa opened on the island, offering visitors a luxurious and secluded retreat. The boutique property comprises 12 villas that overlook olive groves and the Ionian Sea. It is designed to blend modern amenities and elegant décor with the island's untouched natural beauty. The hotel features an on-site restaurant, spa, and an infinity saltwater pool for guests to relax in.
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The brainchild behind this property is Maike Gruna, the designer at Maike Gruna Interiors, and her husband, Spyro Korsianos. Gruna explains that she and her husband have been visiting Kefalonia for more than 15 years but always felt that the hotel market was lacking something special. So they took it upon themselves to create something unique on this beautiful green island. Gruna has designed each of the villas with a focus on style and functionality, incorporating small kitchenettes, spacious living rooms, large outdoor dining spaces, and private pools. The villas' uninterrupted views of the mountains and sea ensure guests' privacy through bamboo fencing and pergolas.
Gruna elaborates that the hotel's construction utilizes locally sourced stone and natural materials such as timber, polished plaster, terracottas, glazed wall tiles, and natural stone tiles. This approach creates an earthy feel that blends the hotel into its surroundings. The neutral palette of the villas' interiors also enhances the stunning views and the turquoise waters of the sea, providing a beautiful contrast against the muted color scheme.
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The hotel's eatery offers patrons authentic Kefalonian flavors and recipes, featuring locally sourced produce, meats, and fresh seafood. The restaurant, built of natural stone blocks, is nestled within an olive grove and surrounded by fruit trees such as olive, orange, apple, lemon, and pomegranate. Additionally, large areas of herbs such as lavender, oregano, thyme, sage, and rosemary create an enchanting ambiance that guests will adore. These ingredients are also used in many of the dishes and cocktails served at the hotel's cocktail bar.
The boutique hotel's wellness center is another highlight of the property, featuring a fully equipped gym with breathtaking sea views and a spa with two treatment rooms. Here, guests can indulge in an aromatherapy session or a massage.
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The hotel offers an extensive list of experiences and tours for travelers who'd like to explore Kefalonia or the neighboring islands of Ithaca and Zante. These include stargazing at Mount Aenos National Park, wine tasting, hiking, and boat trips.
All in all, Kefalonia and the new Eliamos Villas Hotel & Spa offer a unique and enchanting experience for travelers looking to explore Greece beyond the usual tourist spots.
