Poseidonion Grand Hotel

Contemporary luxury meets old-world glamour at this grand hotel on the historic island of Spetses, only two hours from Athens

For almost a century the Poseidonion has been a harbour-front landmark on Spetses, one of the closest island resorts to Athens. Built in the style of the French Riviera’s grand hotels, it soon became a favourite of Athenian high society. Now lovingly restored over a five-year period to combine full Belle Epoque splendour with 21st century luxuries, it reopened in 2009 under the new ownership of the Vordonis shipping family; a year later, it made a big splash when it hosted the wedding party of Prince Nikolaos of Greece and Tatiana Blatnik.

Grand but certainly not stuffy, its 45 rooms and 7 impressive suites seamlessly blend original features, contemporary furniture and state-of the art facilities, while a palm-filled garden surrounds the Hockney-blue swimming pool. The stylish lounge – complete with comfy sofas, a grand piano and a vintage jukebox – and two restaurants spill onto the sweeping terrace overlooking the startlingly blue Aegean – perfect for watching the horse-drawn carriages go past on this car-free island.

Home to some of the most expensive real estate in Greece, Spetses has pretty beaches, translucent water, pine-clad hills and a jumping summer nightlife. Come in July-August to join the jet set - or in spring or autumn to escape it!

Highs

• We loved the leisurely buffet breakfast on the sea-facing terrace, and there's nouvelle Greek cuisine and sushi on offer too
• Inside, the mix of original features and contemporary décor is stylish and gracious
• Many rooms have stunning views from fer forgé balconies across the sea to the pine-fringed Peloponnese
• Treatments at the serene spa come warmly recommended
• Great for mixed ages: youngsters can enjoy Dapia's cafe- and club culture while parents visit beaches and museums
• A glorious car-free option: arrive by water taxi straight to the hotel (or helicopter if you prefer!); then clop round town on a horse-drawn carriage

Lows

• The noisy motorbikes roaring around town got on our nerves (though the square around the hotel is mercifully moped-free)
• The beaches closest to the hotel are the most developed and crowded
• You’ll need to book in advance for weekends and all of July and August
• Outside of weekends and in the low season, Spetses can be very quiet