9. Athenian
Riviera
Not many people know about the
Athens Riviera. Nobody knows about
the glistening waters reflecting an
array of gem shades from the fairest
greens to royal blues, or the Nobuaffiliated restaurant and upscale
bars filling the beachfront or the
lemon-tree filled cobblestone streets
of exclusive residences winding their
way into surrounding mountains.
Located South of Athens, just half
an hour’s drive from Athens airport
or from the city, the Athenian
Riviera, self-coined, is a collection of
upscale coastal towns encircled by
glorious bays, beauty and adventure.
But, as yet, it remains mostly the
insider escape of Athenians. You’ll
be amazed to wander cobblestone
mountainous towns, clad in beachfront coffee-shops and lined by
sandy beaches, with not a tourist
in sight. In summer, boats, mopeds
and topless cars fill this stretch, as
local children and couples snorkel
372
through the shallow waters, sail,
waterski and sunbathe.
Vouliagmeni is the most prestigious
address. Tasteful and peaceful,
it’s an oasis for a break or holiday
home. Stay at the plush legendary
Westin Astir Palace, for private bays,
beaches and infinity pool overlooking the entire coastal stretch.
The Japanese restaurant Nobu
Matsuhisa, at the hotel, is a feast
for the taste buds. For something
more decidedly boutique in feel,
The Margi hotel is a refined affair in
a pretty setting and is a throwback
to Greece’s classical past. Dining
doesn’t come finer than the strict
seafood restaurant Ithaki, where
seafood is cooked in the lightest
most minimal manner and served
on a sumptuous sun terrace overlooking Vouliagmeni harbour.
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