Let’s explore Manna Arcadia, a captivating retreat in Peloponnese, Greece, that blends historic charm with contemporary luxury.
A Step into Another World
Right from the get-go, my excitement was sky-high for my visit to Manna, thanks to a much-anticipated invite from Nespresso. Hearing whispers about this new gem in the Design Hotels collection, I was eager to see if it lived up to the hype. Spoiler alert: it did.
The moment I arrived, it felt like stepping into a fascinating parallel universe. Set in the heart of Arcadia in Peloponnese, Manna’s ambiance is captivating—think of fog-draped forests and majestic mountains framing an imposing building that whispers tales of its past as a sanatorium. The staff, dressed as they stepped out of a vintage photograph with their grey capes and old-school caps, added to an amazing welcome experience. It was like walking into a movie set (Wes-Andersonesque touches included), but better because it was real.
A Blend of the Past and Present
As I explored further, my joy only grew. The renovation of this historic 1920s building is a masterclass in balancing the old with the new. Inspired by the building’s history and its secluded location, the renowned architects and interior designers at K-Studio worked with MONOGON Office for Architecture, who oversaw the technical design, collaborated with the archaeological authorities, reviewed archival material to trace the original architects’ intentions, and simultaneously conceived a modern future for the property.
The result is an abundance of preserved grey limestone, wood, and mosaic flooring paired with newly added, locally sourced stone and terrazzo, as well as widely used chestnut panels. Add to all these stunning flower arrangements that mirror the natural beauty of Arcadia. And the art! Every corner seemed to hold a new surprise.
The rooms? Simply divine. Some come with charming wood cabin balconies and attic ceilings, offering views of the fir forest and the small pond that’ll make your heart skip a beat. The outdoor yoga spaces, the serene wellness hub, and every piece of furniture show how much thought has gone into making Manna a haven of relaxation and style.
Let’s talk about the spa, the restaurant, and the little details that make a big difference. The music, the design touches, the breakfast—everything was in perfect sync, creating an ambiance that was both luxurious and homely.
Eco-Friendly Living at its Best
At Manna, sustainability isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a way of life. This place walks the talk when it comes to being kind to our planet. From using a geothermal pump for heating to saying a firm ‘no’ to single-use plastics, Manna’s all about doing the right thing for Mother Earth. They’ve even got a cool recycling program in the kitchen and use wood instead of plastic wherever they can, like for those awesome gym equipment and keycards. It’s like they’ve thought of everything to make sure they’re not just another hotel but a leader in being eco-friendly. You can feel the difference, knowing that your stay is as green as it gets.
Not to mention that in Manna, the eco-friendly ethos extends right down to the slippers. These cozy grey felt slippers, nestled in a round case, are more than just foot comfort; they’re a sustainable choice. Ingeniously crafted from materials recycled from six discarded items, they symbolize Manna’s commitment to the environment. Designed for both comfort during your stay and as a sustainable souvenir for your home, they embody responsible luxury. And once they’ve reached the end of their journey, Manna encourages guests to recycle them, continuing the cycle of mindful living.
In Conclusion: A Dreamy Escape
In short, Manna isn’t just a place you stay at; it’s an experience that stays with you. It’s where history and modernity dance in perfect harmony, surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of Arcadia. My time here was more than just a stay; it was an awakening. It’s rare to find a place that not only meets but exceeds your expectations, and Manna does just that. It’s a retreat that offers not just a bed for the night but a journey through history, luxury, and the untouched beauty of nature.
ALL THE REASONS TO FALL IN LOVE WITH MANNA ON A LIST
Architecture and Design: Stepping into Manna feels like entering a time capsule, but with a twist. Its 1920s sanatorium roots give it an old-world charm, while the modern makeover by K-Studio and MONOGON Office for Architecture adds a dash of contemporary cool. It’s not your typical Greek building; think more Central European vibes with a cool, minimal edge.
Accommodation: The rooms at Manna are more than just places to sleep; they’re like little sanctuaries. With their tall ceilings and stylish decor, each room tells its own story. And the details—oh, the details! From the balconies to the luxurious amenities and the custom-made furniture, every bit feels special and tailored just for you.
Art: Manna is adorned with works of art by Greek painter Nikos Kanoglou, British painter Joanna Burtenshaw, and French sculptor Diane Alexandre, adding a sophisticated cultural touch. I was extremely impressed by “Arcadia Dreaming”, crafted by Nikos Kanoglou, which blends myth and art through a trilogy of two Arcadian myths and a composition of six seal stones. This project integrates artworks into the historical context of the region, featuring figures like the Kerynitian Hind and Dionysian complex of Pan and Arkas. The artist uses materials like 24K gold and organic colors, inspired by Byzantine art and natural elements, to create a space that reflects the transcendent nature of gods and humans.
The lighting design: Curated by Eleftheria Deko, who also illuminated the Acropolis, further enhances the natural ambiance.
Gastronomy: The farm-to-table cuisine is crafted by award-winning chef Athinagoras Kostakos, and blends Greek flavors with international flair, offering a gastronomic journey that’s both authentic and innovative.
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The apothecary-style bar: It offers a diverse selection of malt whiskies and spirits, including choices from international and Greek producers, perfect for connoisseurs and casual drinkers alike.
Accessibility: Located under two hours from Athens, Manna is easily reachable from both Athens International Airport and Kalamata Airport, making it a convenient escape into nature.
Wellness: The wellness hub boasts unbeatable forest views and includes two treatment rooms, a sauna, steam room, jacuzzi, a gym with wooden equipment, and an indoor cave pool, offering a holistic approach to relaxation.
Sustainability: Manna utilizes a geothermal heat pump for its heating and cooling needs and has a strict policy against single-use plastics. Wooden keycards and gym equipment reflect a commitment to sustainability and environmental consciousness.
The experiences in the surrounding nature: Surrounded by forests, lakes and rivers with crystal water, the hotel offers experiences of absolute well-being all year round. Guests can indulge in local activities like mushroom hunting and horseback riding, or explore historical sites.
Public spaces: Especially the hotel’s lobby-lounge, with its plush carpets and fireplace, create a warm, living-room-like environment, welcoming guests into a space that feels like home
TheHotelTrotter.com is curated by greek journalist and fanatic hotel lover Eleni Stasinopoulou. With the eye of a fashion and lifestyle editor, Eleni hopes to inspire all connoisseurs of traveling, focusing on stylish hotel moments around the globe.
