The unique feeling of living in a historic building by the sea and enjoying an awesome room with a view at Hydra
A room with a view is pure bliss to the committed traveller. A room with a view combined with privacy is the ultimate vacation scenario. This accurately sums up my experience at the Tower Suite of Mandraki Beach Resort in Hydra.
Let me begin by describing the room. As revealed by its name, the Tower Suite of Mandraki Beach Resort is a recently renovated suite situated on the tower of a 17th-century historic building, hidden in a picturesque cove on the east of Hydra island.
Stonewalled and with super high wooden beam ceilings, it boasts 4 white shuttered windows and a spacious private terrace, all suspended above the sea. Architect and Interior Designer Sofia Apergi, who has curated the interiors has once again done her magic, creating a zen paradise. A soothing neutral color palette and minimal furniture allow the stone walls and the blue of the sea to stand out. The result is a place you just can’t get enough of, even though one of the most beautiful and unique islands of Greece awaits outside.
Arriving at Mandraki Beach Resort
Approaching Mandraki Beach Resort by taxi boat from Hydra port, having a first glimpse of the setting, we were lost for words! We were about to spend 3 days at a place, permeated by an aura linked to the great historical figure, Admiral Andreas Miaoulis. It was at this historical bay where ships were built and launched during the 1800s to protect the Greek seas against the Ottoman fleet.
Entering Mandraki by sea, we also noticed two fortress structures located on either side of the bay as well as the original canons which were later used as berthing points and the dock platform that remains at the centre of the bay.
Later, in the mid-20th century, the idyllic spot was turned into Miramare hotel. Let’s not forget that Hydra was among the most popular destinations during the first golden era of Greek Tourism, discovered in the 50s by the early travellers, many of whom had read about the island in Henry Miller’s “Colossus of Marousi”.
Nowadays, Mandraki Beach Resort aims at reawakening past glamour and breathing new life into history. With the main building and the tower currently available, 14 swim-up cabanas will be ready soon in the remaining part of the old shipyard creating a luxurious haven of laid-back leisure which reinstates the island as a pole of attraction for the savvy traveller.
Staying at an awesome room with a view in Hydra
Once in our room, the initial feeling was switching to serenity mode. The to-do list of our long weekend was all about activities around the room: Enjoying waking up to the magic bed view. Having breakfast on the terrace overlooking the “emerald” beach. Relaxing in the room during the sunset with wine and fresh fruits. Counting stars in the night, occasionally lit up by the moon or the sailing boats.
In the meantime, the hotel team helped us with everything we needed: a taxi boat to Hydra port, sun beds on the beach, and dining on the pier. These two dinners were really among the highlights of our stay. A menu full of excellent options of Greek cuisine with contemporary twists, a cool wine list, and a long-lasting sunset in front of us created an unforgettable experience.
During the whole stay, I was under the illusion that this was my actual home. Mandraki Beach Resort made me feel like I live in my own traditional Hydriot house. A precious and irreplaceable feeling I cannot easily forget.
The man behind Mandraki Beach Resort
Meeting with the man behind the project, Mr Arthur Fitzwilliam made me realize the passion that lurks behind the immaculate services of Mandraki Beach Resort. A Hydra lover himself and a restless visionary, Arthur Fitzwilliam is dedicated to resurrecting the place and offering the ultimate 5-star pampering to the guests, combining the ambience of a historic spot with luxurious hospitality.
After all, Hydra is a destination associated with luxury and sophistication. We could not expect anything less than that. And thanks to Fitzwilliam, the adorable island will soon have its own 5star beachfront resort.
See more photos below:
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.
