LOCATION

In Monemvasia, on the south-western tip of the Peloponnese, just south of the historic city of Sparta, a 3.5-hour drive from Athens.

BACKGROUND

The Kinsterna Hotel, once an impressive Byzantine-era rural mansion, has been carefully restored to its former glory with an air of luxury. It owes its name to the Byzantine word for the age-old cistern around which it is built. The owners’ vision was to turn Kinsterna into a totally self-sustainable and independent “community.” To achieve that, they have replanted fruit-bearing trees, fertile vegetable patches and aromatic herb gardens, which are nourished by the endless supply of spring water, and they revived all the activities, such as winemaking and olive oil production, that were for generations the lifeblood of the 7.3 hectare estate.

FEATURES

Kinsterna is an all-year accommodation hotspot offering 41 unique rooms, atmospheric suites and self-contained residences, which marry old-world charm with new-world comforts, such as rich linen, a pillow menu and organic bedding by Coco-Mat, considered one of the world’s finest suppliers in the sector. Why not book one of the impressive vaulted Byzantine suites, which remain true to their original architecture and are part of the mansion’s heritage? Or you can opt for one of two villas that come complete with high-tech amenities, design-led furnishings and semi-private pools.

There are so many things to do in Kinsterna, you won’t want to leave. And if you do, you will definitely want to return. You can enjoy the Byzantine cistern located in the center of the mansion, or the river-like pool with natural spring water and private relaxation areas, or the atmospheric Kinsterna Spa, with the purifying Ottoman hammam and the rejuvenating care of its experienced therapists. You can also try wine tasting, or baking country bread, or for a more hands-on encounter with the southern Mediterranean lifestyle, you can help produce tsipouro (a pomace brandy) or participate in the production of olive oil, depending on the season.

For those who want to combine pleasure with business, there is a meeting room and conference hall, fully equipped and able to accommodate up to 200 people.

FOOD & DRINK

Traditional Greek breakfast made with handpicked ingredients at the All-Day Restaurant, unique gourmet tastes with local products inspired by the Mediterranean diet at the stylish Kinsterna Restaurant, and refreshing cocktails with fresh fruit from the garden at the Belvedere terrace are some of the highlights. In the winter months, cocktails can be enjoyed by the fireplace.