Αντάρης Μάνη — Hotel in Municipality of East Mani

We'd spent three stunning weeks in Croatia and Greece, with great views, great food, great weather. Just before our last few days, we almost thought we should have wrapped up earlier, saving our exploration of the Mani area of the Peloponnese for another time. Thank God we didn't do that! ||||The Mani region is special: breathtaking, forlorn, powerful. But it wouldn't have been nearly as memorable to us without basing our stay at Antares. The hotel is the most perfect adaptation of the local architecture we could imagine. The gardens nestled among the buildings were bursting with pomegranates, lavender, tomatoes; the rooms' deep cool stone walls had charming windows tipped open with lovely breeze rippling the linen curtains. The bedding and bath were first-rate, and everything done with great care and attention to beauty. But the most spectacular things about Antares were the breakfasts and our hosts.||||Breakfasts are a four-course affair at Antares! Every day something unique; locally inspired and sourced; beautifully seasoned and presented; and magical. Jammy eggs drizzled with local EVOO; a fresh fennel, orange and thyme salad; and lightly smoked trout from a neighbor? With dark chocolate buttercream and biscuit cake for dessert? C'mon. ||||Our hosts - a threesome we won't forget soon. They're so interested in the region, so committed to sharing its charms. We had a wonderful post-breakfast 'meeting' each morning with Giorgios, determining what we'd explore that day. His vast knowledge of each town, road, beach, and taverna was only matched by his passion for history. One day he sent us to explore a remote monastery, where we untied a rope on the gates to let ourselves in, and wandered through a chapel filled with ancient wall paintings. No signs, no lines, no tickets, just an awe-filled wandering on our own which we'd never have done without his direction. ||||They lent us beach and picnic equipment, checked on our days, and by the end of a short stay, they already seemed like friends we'd have forever. We are so grateful for this place, and we hope to return. Meanwhile, we'll be happy if this note encourages someone else to enjoy the very special experience...

The excellence of this hotel can be traced directly back to the principals, who restored a ruined Mani tower complex for this purpose, and who manage it lovingly to help visitors appreciate the magic of this very special place in the world.  The achievement of the restoration cannot be overstated. Every stone, every surface, every detail, every angle was considered and selected to highlight the aesthetics of Mani architecture without creating the hardships for visitors that the old Maniates would have endured.  It is a delight to behold and a rare pleasure to occupy. The wonder of the physical structure is extended and enhanced by the operation of the hotel. The staff is unfailingly polite, friendly, and helpful. The furnishings and fittings are of very high quality and accentuate the simple beauty of the structure.  The sumptuous breakfasts are as much experiences as meals, featuring traditional Mani foods in creative, if not unique, preparations. But perhaps most impressive about Antares is its dedication to the miracle that is Mani. Guests are given expert advice on the best of the many beaches, ancient sites to explore, the extraordinary churches, hiking and snorkeling opportunities, highlights of the landscape, local wildlife, etc.  They are happy to suggest day-long itineraries, complete with marked-up maps, and cafe and taverna suggestions, backed by local knowledge and informed by affection and respect for the place. If you want to learn what the Mani is all about, this...

This past weekend we got a taste of perfection! The hotel: Beautifully restored stone masonry buildings-craftsmanship paying attention to every last detail; terraces on multiple levels, each with its own character—views to the sea, the mountains, or the garden. Secluded, shady corners to enjoy in peace; a nicely-appointed garden growing local herbs and vegetables. Spacious, bright, quiet, cool, meticulously manicured rooms provide shelter after a day under the hot sun on the beach or exploring the beautiful inland villages. We enjoyed the balcony, especially at night when we could enjoy the starlit sky, listening to the crickets and feeling the light, cool breeze. ||The staff: We can’t say enough about the friendly staff who worked very hard to tend to our every need: they kept the place in an immaculate state, they served us a multi-course, exquisite breakfast, that in all my years of travel I have never experienced before–it took us a couple of relaxed hours to finish it! Needless to say, we did not need to eat much more the rest of the day! Yorgos gave us a detailed account (documented with pictures) of every destination we should visit, out-of-the-way churches, historic villages, beaches, vistas, places worth hiking, places to eat. It was plenty evident that owners and staff love what they do, which translates to a uniquely enjoyable relaxing experience for their guests. We wish them great success in...