It starts with a feeling. That gentle flutter in my chest when I think of Greece. The chaos and the culture. The historical marvels that make you wonder about times past. A whisper of sea breeze. The scent of wild thyme. The sea so blue it almost hurts your eyes.
Greece got under my skin a long time ago. I’ve lived there. Got married there. I’ve been visiting for more than 30 years and I go back every year for my own holidays.
I’ve walked the whitewashed streets, watched the sun sink behind Cycladic rooftops and felt the grounding sense that this is what life should feel like. It’s personal. It’s welcoming. It’s full of energy.
So any invitation to return, experience new properties, revisit old favourites and meet Greek people again always gets me excited.
This is my Greek Odyssey with Heavens Portfolio Australia, The Empira Group, Eclectic and Kalesma – a reminder of the diversity of boutique stays, the exceptional gastronomy and the genuinely wonderful humans that made this such a fabulous trip.
We started in Vouliagmeni, the Athenian Riviera – a wonderful reminder that Athens has so much to offer. The food scene is incredible and our welcome lunch at The Roc Club showcased everything tantalising about Greek food.
A personal highlight was visiting Cape Sounio and the Temple of Poseidon, something that had been on my list for a long time. I loved Cape Sounio for its tranquillity and setting amongst the pine trees.
Our first island stop was Mykonos. Kalesma has changed my perception of the island completely.
The property is divine, the service exemplary, the food authentic and beautifully executed. Kalesma reminds me of the Mykonos of old – the hospitality and the connection to the island. A special boat trip to Delos and Rhenia for the first swim of the summer was a day to remember.
Next was Santorini, where we stayed at Vedema in the village of Megalohori. Perfectly located away from the crowds, it offered an authentic side of the island. A standout was the wine tasting in the hotel’s wine cave, alongside visits to Pyrgos, Oia and Fira.
Our last stop was Paros and Parilio, a personal favourite in the Empira Collection.
The relaxing atmosphere, beautiful gardens, exceptional dining and genuinely warm hospitality made it unforgettable. An evening at Cosme completed the experience perfectly.
I’m writing this after returning from another summer visit, where I stayed at Erema in Milos, the newest addition to the Empira Group.
The word that comes to mind is generosity – of space, design, quality and hospitality. Every detail has been considered and I left wanting to linger longer.
My Greek Odyssey was full of the very best of Greek hospitality – shared meals, slow days and real connection.
We ate like the gods, drank like Onassis and experienced Greece like a local.
Main image: Tess Slot (far left)
