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Tainaron Blue Retreat
Mani, Greece
Tainaron Blue Retreat
Mani, Greece
A Dramatic Sentinel
The drama and mystery of this imposing tower matches the astonishing views of the southern cape of Greece, evoking the mythological tales and legends of the region. We love the spare, rustic quality and subtle modern restoration that leaves the historical character undisturbed.
Inhabiting the southernmost point of not just mainland Greece but Europe, this 19th-century stone tower is among hundreds of sentinels erected along the Peloponnesian cape starting in the Middle Ages. Located in the 18th-century Kastri settlement along the Mani Peninsula and overlooking the Mediterranean, this ancient watchtower was discovered by architects and owners Kostas Zouvelos and Kassiani Theodorakakou and painstakingly restored over a five-year period. Designed to defend and expand territory, the towering silhouette is unique to the region and sits in an idyllic spot with stunning panoramic views of the Taygetos mountains and the sea.
Restoring the interiors was a meticulous task using original local materials of stone, wood and marble that retain the classic and authentic feel of the period. The towering vertical layout was adapted into four unique guest rooms with modern updates. The ensuite master bedroom encompasses the top two levels of the tower with a loft conversion accessed via wooden ladder and the three additional suites occupy the lower floors each with a rugged modernism, hotel-style comforts and amazing views.
Designed to adhere to the austere functionality of the original structure, the decor and furnishings are kept to a minimum with works of art created by sculptor Nikos Karalis and vintage finishes. The on-site restaurant is more of a private kitchen that serves hotel guests traditional Maniot cuisine (created by consultant chef George Samoilis) poolside or on the veranda, each with magnificent views. A unique and unexpected experience awaits you here, with dramatic natural beauty, historic character and warm hospitality.
ADDITIONAL FEATURES
Personal concierge services available. Breakfast served daily with room service upon request. Daily maid and turn-down services. Wifi throughout with satellite TV, iPod audio docking system and land line telephone. COCO-MAT mattresses, linens, bathrobes, slippers and eco-friendly amenities. Mini bar and safe. Car rental services upon request, with free on-site parking.
AROUND
Located along Cape Tainaron on the west coast of the Laconic Peninsula, the region is the southernmost geographical point of mainland Greece and Europe and overlooks the Mediterranean. For thousands of years, the peninsula has been a unique region full of legends, myths and mystery as well as epic natural beauty. You are just a few miles from the mystical 16th-century village of Vathia with multiple tower dwellings. The most popular trail in the area is from Kokkinogia village, where the road to Cape Tainaron lighthouse stops. The Vlychada caves in Diros Bay are a 30-minute ride north and at the very tip of the cape is where Poseidon's Temple stands and legend has it, the extensive cave network where Hades, the god of the underworld resides.
LOCATION
Mani, Greece. Nearest airports: Kalamata International (KLX, 125km) and Athens International (ATH, 340km)
BEST TIME TO VISIT: June to October
