Discovering Tainaron Blue Retreat * Peloponnese

Tainaron Blue is a true retreat, the ideal destination for anyone who seeks time, rest and privacy, all at a magical setting.

As a constant hotel trotter, I always love to spot a hospitality gem but what really fascinates me is the discussion I have with the man who envisioned it. One of the most exciting hotel stories of this summer were told to me by Mr. Kostas Zouvelos and it was about Tainaron Blue Retreat, a three room hotel, housed in a tall traditional Maniot stoned tower, perched on a steep slope, near Vathia (the famous abandoned village of Mani). Kostas Zouvelos and Κassiani Theodorakou the architects-owners of Tainaron Blue must feel really satisfied with themselves, having accomplished such an architectural resurrection. In their hands, an early 19th-century castle-like building was transformed to an expertly renovated hotel, full of intriguing design details. It takes a lot of courage to start such an operation, but Zouvelos and Theodorakou saw the sale sign outside the ruined tower as well as its breathtaking view and immediately realised that this would definitely be a life project for them. It took them 5 years to create an amazing hotel which in its 3 first years has already been in the lists of all top architectural and travel magazines and of course in the plans or dreams of many connoisseurs of good life.

Living in a tower like this – in my bucket list definitely!

Tainaron Blue Retreat is a unique case at this part of Peloponnese. It is the only one in Mani, an area with a wild landscape and a defensive castle-like architecture, that succeeds in incorporating modern aesthetics and contemporary hospitality trends in an absolutely traditional building.

Thick stone walls, tiny windows, small wooden staircases and hidden trapdoors is what you should expect finding in the rooms. You may not have space but you are surely compensated by the finesse of the interiors and the luxurious facilities, not to mention a unique warm and cozy atmosphere that offers a fascinating journey into the past. There are also plenty of relaxing and view-gazing spots outdoors; patios and terraces with sunbeds, dining and lounging areas, plus an infinity pool where guests really enjoy precious privacy any time of the day.

Gazing

There are only three rooms in Tainaron Blue Retreat which means that the hotel can accommodate up to nine people. I was impressed to find out that there is an extensive menu list so that guests can enjoy an authentic Maniot culinary experience during their stay. “Whether I accommodate 9 or 59, it is all the same to me. I have to offer my guests the best services” said to me Mr. Zouvelos. In a miniscule but perfectly functional kitchen, the chefs of Tainaron Blue use local ingredients to create innovative dishes of Greek cuisine.

Mani is a charming area itself with lots to discover. Tainaron Blue Retreat can serve as a perfect starting point for several excursions either to Areopolis and Vathia or Cape Tainaron, the southest point of Peloponnese, not to mention the beaches with crystal blue waters and the numerous picturesque villages that are scattered in the region. If you don’t want to move at all from your alluring hotel, it’s fine too. Tainaron Blue is a true retreat, the ideal destination for anyone who seeks time, rest and space, all at a magical setting.

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