Imaret
Kavala, Greece
A 19th-century seminary revamped as an elegant 21st-century hotel, with fabulous views and an utterly serene ambiance
The Imaret was originally built by Muhammad Ali Pasha of Egypt in
1817, as a theological college for Imams. It then fell into disuse,
and years later was bought by the Missirian family (tobacco traders
from Kavala), who carried out the most perfect restoration. Many of
the rooms (and their plumbing!) are original, but they
have created a wonderful, modern hotel with the ambiance of an
early 19th-century seminary. The mosque still exists - now as a
recreation room - and in keeping with its tradition, no alcohol or
smoking is allowed therein.
It is located up a steep road fronting onto the sea, and the views
over the curved bay and twinkling lights of Kavala are reminiscent
of Menton overlooking Monte Carlo. Fountains play and a small
swimming pool graces an inner courtyard.
Why would one go to Kavala? Partly as a stopping off point en route
to points further East (it is infinitely preferable to
Thessaloniki). But more importantly as a starting point for
visiting the site of Philippi or the mausoleum of Vergina, tomb of
Alexander the Great's father and one of the best monuments in
ancient Greece.
Reviewed by Geoffrey Herdman
Last updated 16 December 2011
Highs
- A unique restoration of a Muslim seminary, encompassing the charm of an early 19th-century building with the comfort of the 21st century
- An oasis of peace and calm in a modern bustling city
- The detail of the furnishings in the bedrooms; exquisite
- Fabulous views, especially from the dining room terrace at night
- We loved the traditional hammam with its excellent massages
Lows
- The food is bland and waiting staff extremely slow
- Could do with a really experienced, well-trained hotel manager (recent reports on the service are mixed)
- In keeping with the character of the rooms, the lights are dim and it is not easy to read in bed
- The plumbing seems early 19th-century in places and basins don't drain easily
- Very expensive for Greece, but a unique experience and most agree it is well worth it
