Xenia Poros Image Hotel

Poros is definitely one of Greece’s lesser-known islands, basking away in the Saronic Gulf and providing a peaceful backdrop with all the charm of traditional Greece. Poros town is an ancient throw-back to the country’s rich and lengthy past, showcasing historic buildings and rustic, neoclassical streets. Overlooking it all is an old, early-19th century clock which sits on a hill over Poros town’s picturesque harbour.

Elsewhere on the island there is lots to see, too. In the north, there are the ancient ruins of the Poseidon temple which, according to local archaeologists, once formed the centre of Amphictyony and Calabria. As well as age-old narratives, there are plenty of beautiful sights to take in, from wide, dazzling beaches to hillside villages and swathes of olive groves. The Xenia Poros Image Hotel sits on Neorio beach, just moments from Poros town. From its elevated position, the stylish hotel looks out over the hodgepodge silhouette of the town and out across the glistening sea.

Inside, the hotel draws inspiration from the calming blues of the Greek Islands and the sleek whites of the hilltop towns. Though it is close to the ancient bustle of Poros town, the Xenia Poros Image is a modern affair, with a simplistic design and delicate touches. Recently, the hotel has been re-classified as a 5-star accommodation, and it is easy to see why as soon as I stepped through the sliding doors. The atmosphere is fresh and calm, the interior an homage to the sophisticated style of contemporary Greece. From my room I have postcard-perfect views out across the sea, and I feel like I have travelled to the furthest, quietest corner of the world – even though the island is just two hours from Athens.

When I’m not lounging on the balcony, soaking up the endless calm of the surroundings, I recline on the hidden beach. Set in a quiet cove along a secluded patch of shoreline, the intimate charm of this stretch of sand is second to none. Digging my toes into the empty sand, I am a million miles from the tourist crowds of the better-known Greek Islands.

The Xenia Poros Image Hotel creates an individual experience for each and every guest, welcoming them into the heart of Greece and plying them with the famous, friendly Greek hospitality. In the two hotel restaurants, delicious Greek cuisine is served up with a smile, promising tastes of the Mediterranean and age-old recipes, whilst the hearty breakfasts sets everyone up for a day of sunbathing, swimming, and dreaming. On the beach, a bar provides the best backdrop for an evening cocktail, where I watch the summer sun dip low beyond the horizon.

I had known for a while that every Greek Island is like its own private world, and Poros easily met my expectations and more. Cradled amidst lush greenery, clear blue waters, and seemingly endless shorelines, the island’s history and traditional roots took me back in time, whilst the modern luxury of the Xenia Poros Image Hotel allowed me to experience the contemporary charm of Poros and melt into the welcoming arms of Greece.