Cape Sounio Grecotel Boutique Resort ★★★★★

Just 70km southeast of Athens, this conveniently located gem offers private bungalows and villas spread out among the olive trees on the hills that rise up from the sea. The focus is on privacy, exclusivity, and luxury! Waking up to breath-taking views over the bay followed by a copious breakfast, is the best start to the day. And the ruins of the Temple of Poseidon, perched atop the Cape Sounion and surrounded by the sea on three sides make for a postcard picture backdrop. The monument is a reminder of the rich history and legends of Greece. This is where King Aegeus of Athens, leapt off the cliff to his death, and so gave name to the Aegean Sea. Nowadays however, the area is better known for its exceptionally beautiful nature park and crystal clear waters.

The villas themselves blend into the landscape, while not compromising on elegance and style. Custom furniture and handpicked designer textiles make these spaces inviting and comfortable. The original art and décor give a personalized and homey touch to each villa. Our bungalow included a spacious master bedroom with king-size bed, a twin room for the children and a separate, open-plan lounge with dining and living areas, ideal for families. Luxury comes as standard here, and the bungalows are equipped with everything you could need.

A perfect holiday should always involve trying some the local cuisine, and the hotel’s five restaurants cater for all tastes and appetites, even the fussiest of pallets! The spa offers a wide range of cures, including the unusual hot chocolate and caviar treatments! Tennis courts, a football pitch and beach volleyball courts are also available; or for something different, trek to the Sounion National Park. For fellow water lovers, a day snorkelling in the turquoise Mediterranean water is a real treat. Finally, shopaholics may head to the boutiques in Glyfada, just an hour away, or spend a day in cosmopolitan Athens. Meanwhile, two private beaches meant that the kids had plenty of room to play, with no unsightly sun lounger battles or flying sand!

So what made the Cape Sounio truly exceptional for us? Well it depends who you ask: for the kids it was the fun activities and making friends; for my wife it was the luxury spa; and for me it was the tranquillity of our bungalow perched on the hill. But the real question is, what will it be for you?