The Art of Slow Travel: Private Escape at the Edge of the World
I first spotted this place on the cover of Lonely Planet's Best Destinations list in 2016. Ever since, it's been at the top of my travel wishlist. I still remember the caption I wrote for a photo I shared on Instagram: "From time to time, go and visit the places you saved on your Pinterest board." It was really a dream come true.
Nestled within a 200-year-old stone tower (originally a watch tower built to defend the land), this intimate hotel, crafted by architect owners, offers a tranquil escape with only three rooms. Located 150 meters above sea level on cliffs and embraced by historical villages, untamed landscapes, and serene beaches, it radiates a serene and romantic atmosphere.
The trip began with a scenic drive along the winding roads of the Mani Peninsula. The scenery unfolded, transitioning from lush greenery to rugged cliffs. The remoteness of this location amplifies the retreat's allure, offering a retreat from the daily grind.
Nestled in the southern expanse of Greece's Peloponnese region, the Mani Peninsula enchants with its cinematic landscapes and storied past. Celebrated for its untamed topography and iconic stone tower houses, Mani exudes an ancient charm.
Tainaron Blue is more than just a retreat; it's a sanctuary of privacy and a tribute to the art of embracing the slow life. While basking in the renowned summer heat of Greece, I refreshed myself in the swimming pool seemingly suspended in the air on a rocky perch, offering panoramic views of the bay. The attentive staff at Tainaron Blue went the extra mile to keep me well-hydrated with their superb selection of drinks (non-alcoholic, tailored just for me!) and freddos (distinct from frappes, mind you!).
One of the highlights of my stay was the gastronomic journey orchestrated by a personal chef. Every meal was a symphony of flavors that celebrated the region's culinary heritage. From locally sourced seafood to freshly harvested olives, each dish reflected the essence of the Mediterranean.
For the spirited adventurer within, the hotel offers a gateway to explore the untamed beauty of the Mani Peninsula. I couldn't resist renaming the landscapes; they reminded me of the famous Age of Empires, and I felt like I was in the middle of the iconic computer game. Wherever you looked, the only thing you saw was nature, with a random stone tower appearing here and there.
The area - recommended places:
Vathia, village: 2km (stunning place, highly recommended!)
Marmari sandy beach: 2km
Diros caves: 35km
Limeni, village: 40km
Tainaron Blue Retreat stands as a testament to the harmony that can be found between adventure and luxury. Whether indulging in a private feast, relishing the seclusion of this remote location, or embarking on hiking adventures, your stay won't be forgotten.
How to get there:
✈︎ Kalamata Airport (KLX): 125km (2h 30 mins by car)
✈︎ Athens Airport (ATH): 340km (3h 45 mins by car)
