Athens / Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens

A win-win for both sun-seekers and get-up-and-goers, Athens Riviera feels a world away from the city and holds within it ancient history, a glamorous past and this modern beach enclave.

A city sojourn or an island-hopping adventure might be Greece’s usual spoils for choice; but with a secluded headland and the oh-so-sweet smell of pine, even the locals are calling the riviera the best of both worlds. On the one hand, with a location like the red carpet itself, this Athenian ‘it girl’ that welcomed the likes of Frank Sinatra and Bridgette Bardot in the sixties, now boasts its sparkling revival. Expect all the glitz-and-glam with modern amenities, for a fresh-Hollywood-feel that doesn’t compromise the need for the occasional vibe-switch. With three different spots all hosting distinct atmospheres, Nafsika does well for the lively-type with its main pool and kids club, while Arion suits a stripped-back moment in the adults-only pool and spa inspired by the healings of Hippocrates. Or, if you want to truly dip in-and-out, independence is found in nearby bungalows (most with their own pool) for a little bit of privacy that’s never too far from the buzz of it all.

Hidden alcoves, beach clubs and well-equipped cabanas mean plenty of spots to nestle into, while the bay is simply begging to whisk-away its adrenaline-junkies on a range of water sports. By night it’s no different, with a host of restaurants tickling all sorts of tastebuds; our pick being the Michelin-star Pelagos, shaped like a yacht on the oceanfront to an incredible view. And, while the sun-seekers find there’s no creature comfort uncared for, on the flipside get-up-and-goers make the most of the easy-peasy access to life beyond Astir. Swap resort buggies for discoveries further inland to a hubbub of Greek hospitality and a step-back-in-time to the wonder of Athens and all its ancient glory; all just a 30-minute drive away.

Travel notes:

• 200 rooms and 42 suites in Arion and Nafsika; 61 bungalows
• Access to three private beaches and decks along the coastline
• Eight restaurants, lounges and bars; neighbours with Greece’s first Nobu; and further options a short five-to-ten-minute drive away
• Water sports in the bay area including jet skis, banana rides and canoes; sailing and island hopping available from Astir Marina
• Distractions for younger travellers include Kids for all Seasons club, tennis academy and kayaking
• Just 30 minutes to the centre of Athens to visit the Acropolis, Parthenon and other ancient sites; also worth visiting the neighbourhood of Plaka for its nightlife