Experience the enchanting blend of luxury and wilderness at Aristi Mountain Resort & Villas, nestled in the breathtaking Zagori region of Greece
My daughter and I spent a magical weekend at Aristi Mountain Resort & Villas, tucked away in the lush Zagori region of Greece. This splendid retreat, positioned at the edge of Vikos–Aoos National Park, offered a break from the bustling city life and a deep dive into the tranquility and rustic charm of the Greek mountains.
Touchdown in Aristi: First Impressions
Perched at 650 meters, on the slopes of Grabala Hill, the resort looks out over the iconic Towers of Astraka and the charming villages of Papingo and Vikos. It’s not just a resort; it’s the front row to some of the best views northern Greece offers, right where the adventure-friendly Vikos–Aoos National Park begins.
Stone Meets Chic: The Resort’s Build
You can’t help but admire how Aristi plays with its heritage. The resort blends traditional stone architecture with splashes of modern comforts. It’s all about sustainable luxury here—think green roofs, energy-saving designs, and big, beautiful windows that bring the great outdoors right into your plush living room.
Living a Day the Aristi Way
The bliss of waking up at Aristi is something else. Each morning, we were greeted by the dance of colors as the sun washed over the valley, and the symphony of birds singing their morning tunes. Opening the shutters to this natural spectacle infused our start of the day with pure joy.
Breakfast at Salvia—think pies but with a twist, filled with local herbs and crafted with home-ground flour—got our mornings off to a fresh, flavorful start. The resort’s own organic gardens aren’t just for show; they’re the secret behind the burst of freshness in every bite we enjoyed there.
Post-breakfast, we were often glued to our balcony with steaming cups of coffee and good books, occasionally looking up to admire the view that stretched out endlessly before us. The comfort of the suite and the beauty of the landscape made it hard to leave our cozy spot.
When we did tear ourselves away, the paths from the resort stretched out to Aristi village, woven through with cultural tales and the natural beauty of Zagori. Our guide from TREKKING HELLAS, Alina, was a walking encyclopedia, unveiling secret trails by the Voidomatis River that only locals whispered about.
In the afternoon, it was all about the spa. Imagine soothing your hike-weary muscles in a Jacuzzi with a mountain view, or doing laps in a pool that feels part of the landscape thanks to floor-to-ceiling windows.
Come evening, dinner was a quiet affair in Salvia Restaurant, with dishes that echoed the local terrain—thanks to the genius of Executive Chef Yiannis Liokas. Imagine the best of Greek cuisine, but lighter, fresher, and with a modern twist.
Aristi Wrapped Up
Staying at Aristi Mountain Resort & Villas isn’t just about finding a place to sleep; it’s about experiencing a slice of Greek mountain life in style. It’s where every detail sings of luxury tailored thoughtfully with tradition, and where each moment connects you deeper with the land, the culture, and, of course, your travel companions. Can’t wait to go back!