One&Only Resorts Launches Its Greek Presence on the Athens Riviera

The Dinogo Perspective

Stretching 38 miles along the coast, the Athens Riviera—just four miles south of the city—is undergoing significant redevelopment by both local and international investors. A prime example is the $8.6 billion Ellinikon project, an urban renewal initiative featuring parks, luxury residences, hotels, an upscale shopping center, sports amenities, and a marina, all rising on the site of the former airport and covering an area twice the size of Central Park.

In the upscale resort suburb of Glyfada, just a few miles south, the luxury hotel brand One&Only Resorts has finally made its long-anticipated Greek entrance. One&Only Aesthesis (meaning “sense” or “feeling” in Greek) enjoys a prime beachfront location adjacent to a vibrant shopping area. However, once you enter the tranquil, low-rise resort, all traces of city life vanish.

In the 1950s and ’60s, this site was a gathering spot for shipping tycoons, celebrities, and everyday sunbathers at the aptly named Asteria (meaning “stars” in Greek), a glamorous beach club reminiscent of Monte Carlo. Those with substantial wealth could relax in one of the 100 cabanas that provided extra privacy.

In the design of these cabanas, architectural firms Audo, A6Architects, and K-Studio collaborated with interior design studio Muza Lab to transform this iconic coastal site into a five-star resort under the One&Only brand. The outcome is a sleek, relaxed, retro-contemporary haven made of sandy-hued, rough-hewn stone and marble. Slatted timber pergolas echo traditional Greek claustras, allowing light and air to flow while maintaining privacy. To the east, the Hymettus mountain range surrounds the resort, where vibrant restaurants, beach bars, and an olive tree-lined communal pool overlook a tranquil bay. The serenity here makes it easy to forget that Glyfada’s trendy dining spots, bars, and designer boutiques are just a short distance away.

Breezy beach bungalows, elegant residences, and grand villas are enveloped by over 200,000 Mediterranean perennials, evergreens, and fragrant herbs such as deep lilac verbena, bright yellow Jerusalem sage, and thyme. Located to the southwest of the 52-acre resort, an ancient cemetery is nestled within a protected pine forest. A luxurious Guerlain Spa, a fitness center, tennis and padel courts, and a kids' club complete the lavish amenities.

Who is it ideal for?

One&Only Aesthesis is an excellent starting point for couples eager to discover Athens's archaeological sites without the hassle of staying in the bustling city center—a particularly appealing option for those wanting to escape the crowds and sweltering midsummer heat. Families are equally welcomed in line with One&Only’s inclusive philosophy. At the Kids Only Club, children can explore a wooden playground, enjoy indoor games, or participate in excavations led by archaeologists. Active guests will appreciate the fitness center, which offers private Pilates, yoga, and functional training sessions along with cutting-edge Technogym equipment. The resort is also perfect for exclusive buyouts, making it an ideal venue for lavish weddings.

The location

The historical treasures of the Greek capital are just a half-hour drive away, easily accessible by taxi or private transfer, while Lake Vouliagmeni’s soothing, mineral-rich thermal springs are only about 10 minutes away. Rent a car to explore the numerous sandy and pebble beaches along the scenic coastal road leading to the sunset-viewing Cape Sounion, where the magnificent fifth-century B.C.E. Temple of Poseidon stands. With the anticipated opening of the resort’s sister property, One&Only Kéa Island, in May 2024, consider combining your city adventure with an island escape. Speedboat transfers will swiftly transport guests to beachfront all-villa accommodations on this Cycladic island, which has become a favored retreat for affluent Athenians building elegant second homes in recent years.

The rooms

The resort features 127 guest rooms that radiate midcentury charm and understated elegance, with a clear focus on comfort. The standout option is undoubtedly the bungalows, a stylish nod to the classic Asteria vibe. Many of these intimate retreats are located by the beach and showcase soothing neutral tones and airy linen curtains. Floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors create a seamless indoor-outdoor experience. The bathrooms boast off-white marble vanities with elegant twin sinks, brass fixtures, and a spacious soaking tub that would impress Maria “La Divina” Callas, a frequent guest of Asteria in its heyday. Luxurious soaps and body creams feature the hotel’s signature scent, Montroi Riviera Nostos, a captivating blend of leather, amber, and birch. Outside, guests can enjoy a wading pool, outdoor shower, sun loungers, and a firepit surrounded by fragrant wildflowers.

Refreshment bars are well-stocked with healthy Greek snacks sourced from local producers. Wrapped in a light linen robe, you'll be tempted to dim the lights, relax, and forget the outside world. In the oval-shaped main building, the entry-level rooms may be smaller, but they maintain a sophisticated touch. At the highest tier is the two-bedroom Villa One, boasting expansive living areas and a rooftop lounge.

The food and drink

Italian-Greek chef Ettore Botrini, renowned for his Michelin-starred restaurant in northern Athens, frequently collaborates with French executive chef Frédéric Le Gac, who transitioned from One&Only Royal Mirage in Dubai. Le Gac emphasizes the seasonal flavors of Greece and partners with the skilled bartenders at the atmospheric indoor bar Alelia to minimize waste wherever possible. Updated interpretations of traditional recipes from Botrini’s native Corfu, such as bourdeto (fish stew), take center stage. The prime seating area features lemon-yellow couches in one of Ora’s stunning backlit booths, where tri-color terrazzo flooring adds flair. It’s easy to imagine Aristotle Onassis hosting Princess Grace and Prince Rainier in a cabana, charming Jacqueline Kennedy over dessert.

Renowned Spanish chef Paco Morales makes a surprise visit to the resort with a pop-up restaurant. At El Bar de Paco Morales, he presents a comfort food twist on the refined Andalusian cuisine from his Michelin-starred restaurant Noor in Córdoba, which recently earned its third star. Anticipate delectable chicken croquettes and a unique take on the traditional potato dish papas aliñás featuring white shrimp and egg-yolk mayonnaise.

The poolside Minima bar and the beachfront Thimisi—perfect for catching the golden hour—are set to be vibrant summer hotspots for the glamorous clientele. However, the most coveted dining experience will surely be the beach club restaurant Manko, scheduled to open in early summer 2024, offering a tantalizing Peruvian menu.

Staff and service

Arriving at One&Only Aesthesis is a relaxed experience. Instead of a formal reception area, guests are welcomed into a lounge decorated with vibrant abstract art and stylish Assouline coffee table books. The service is friendly yet professional, with two dedicated staff members for each room, available via WhatsApp around the clock for any request. Electric buggies quickly transport guests between amenities, but early morning strolls offer the soothing sounds of birdsong. Evening turndown includes fluffed pillows and fresh duvets, with organic mountain tea replacing traditional chocolates. During the summer, the concierge can arrange yacht sailing trips, sandal-making workshops, and private museum tours.

Accessibility

The resort’s relatively flat design makes it quite accessible. A ramp leads to both the main entrance and the spa. Four rooms and two bungalows are specifically adapted for guests with disabilities.

The spa

At the Guerlain Spa, a first for Greece, attentive staff provide tailored facials, body treatments, and massages infused with essential oils reminiscent of Guerlain fragrances, from breezy sea notes to earthy woodsy scents. Consider joining a yoga class before experiencing cryotherapy, which involves a brisk three-minute session in -122ºF temperatures—reportedly feeling more like -4ºF—to boost circulation and energy. For a natural nail care experience, schedule a hard-to-find Bastian Gonzalez manicure or pedicure that is kind to cuticles.