Amanzoe

Aman has a hotel in Greece — while that’s not quite all we think you need to know, we’ll understand if a few of you are already entering your dates. Anyway, if you’re at all familiar with what the Aman group does, and you’ve ever laid eyes on a photograph of the Aegean coast, then you already know where we're going with this.

Inspired by the (what else?) classical Greek architecture and surrounded by olive groves, Amanzoe is set high over the clear turquoise sea. It’s just a short drive uphill from Porto Heli, but it’s a carefully designed world in itself, featuring a spectacular reflecting pool and a series of expansive terraces, charming walled gardens and a striking cocktail bar, a library, the Aman spa and a yoga pavilion, and just to top it all off, an exquisite poolside fireplace. Though the exterior is inspired by ancient tradition, the interior is sleek and cool, with polished stone and smooth marble, floor-to-ceiling windows that open and close according to the weather, clean lines amid the classic columns. All of this, of course, faces a magnificent Aegean backdrop.

So what we’re talking about — the reason Amanzoe is a can’t-miss — is the natural perfection of the Peloponnese, further enhanced by Aman’s precision and elegance. Guest rooms aren't just rooms, but freestanding pavilions. Each is a grand mini-monument to modern luxury, with high ceilings, marble walls, and pergola-shaded terraces with private swimming pools and unobstructed views of the sea. Even more opulent are the villas, should you require additional privacy, up to nine bedrooms, and a swimming pool lined in sumptuous emerald-hued marble.

Thanks to Amanzoe’s thoughtful layout, you’ll be looking at the water from nearly every vantage point, not least the Beach Cabanas, each with a private pool and terrace garden. It’s enough to make you want to hop on a bicycle and cruise downhill to the resort’s private Beach Club. The staff, anticipating your needs, already knows you’ll want a ride back up. (They probably know you’re reading this right now.)

How to get there: Amanzoe is about a 2½-hour drive from Athens, or a 2-hour ride via hydrofoil from the Athenian port of Piraeus. Helicopter charters are available as well; from Athens Airport (ATH), it’s a 25-minute helicopter flight.