Exiting my taxi at 11pm on a Friday, the soothing hum of mellow beats wraps around me like the balmy Mediterranean breeze, luring me towards the glass doors of the freshly inaugurated Ace Hotel in Glyfada. A familiar rush of excitement hits me as the sleek, unmistakable essence of Seventies nostalgia, characteristic of its sister hotel in Palm Springs, is vividly apparent from a mere first glance. This inherent echo of the Californian ethos serves as a testament to the hotel’s acute awareness of its distinctive identity.
My heart rate slows down as I step into my room, awash with blends of earthy tones and scattered Greek vinyls waiting to be spun on a gleaming turntable. The sheets redefine luxury, offering a degree of comfort few would dare to compete with. The balcony – a balcony with a dimmed view of the pool and a whisper of the sea across the street – beckons invitingly. I descend to the starlit terrace of Sebastian, the hotel’s premier dining space. A late-night supper of sea bream crudo adorned with crispy capers and the best homemade tapenade I’ve sampled, complemented by an innovative take on the classic Margarita, christened ‘Fly Me To Tulum’, sets me up for a serene retreat to my room and a soothing read with a view of the enigmatic horizon.
The Ace Hotel Athens is an embodiment of a labor of love, presenting an homage to the golden era of the Greek Riviera. The locale masterfully balances an air of exclusivity with an inviting, intimate ambiance, unquestionably a feat few can claim. The team’s dedication results in a collaborative creation that feels like a home away from home for art and design enthusiasts.
Drawing inspiration from its Californian counterpart’s effortless blend of Seventies aesthetics, the hotel’s undercurrent of elegance subtly springs forth, a result of its design concepts utilizing repurposed materials and vintage elements. The interiors designed by the eminent architecture and design studio Ciguë, act as a canvas, emphasizing the broad spectrum of Athenian art that adorns the hotel, such as a mural by Panos Profitis and a hand-woven tapestry by the Callas brothers. The hotel also features exclusive prints created in collaboration with the renowned Greek folk artist Alekos Fassianos.
The rooms offer an oasis of tranquillity, with soft cream walls complementing the matching bed blankets and woven straw carpets. The design astutely incorporates subtle elements such as coffee table books resting neatly on circular tables, marshmallow-like pillows nestling a record player and finally, award-winning harpy lamps. The crowning glory being the balcony, offering an irresistible lure to enjoy the sunset views in the hotel’s signature terry cloth robes.
Sebastian, the hotel’s contemporary French-American restaurant, gracefully straddles elegance and casual beach attire, successfully capturing the Athens Riviera’s spirit from half a century ago. The menu crafted by executive chef Elvi Dimitris Zyba boasts an array of delectable options that echo familiar Greek tones, such as the chargrilled lamb burger laced with feta, parsley and cumin mayo, presenting a dish that leaves a lasting impression.
Beyond its dining offering, the serene lobby space and poolside locale provide an ideal relaxation oasis to enjoy the numerous cocktails or curated wine selections. Meanwhile, the hotel’s coffee shop, Good Chemistry serves a delightful mix of refreshing beverages and light bites to start your day.
Located in the picturesque suburb of Glyfada, Ace Hotel provides easy access to Athens’ city center and some of Greece’s most breathtaking islands, both within a two-hour ferry ride. Essential local experiences include a refreshing dip at the beach, indulging in delectable local cuisines from the renowned LaLinda Bakery or immersing oneself in Athens’ vibrant culture at the Varvakios central market.
The true standout feature of the hotel is its impeccable customer service. The staff’s familiarity and strong connection with local suppliers and each other fosters a welcoming environment that only enhances the overall experience. Their eco-friendly initiatives represent another commendable focus, incorporating vintage furniture, opting for locally sourced products, and reducing single-use plastics.
Lastly, the alluring cabanas, sun loungers, and daybeds surrounding the pool make up the hotel’s Swim Club. Looking forward to 2025, it is set to unveil a rooftop pool and spa, taking the experience from excellent to exceptional, bringing new meaning to always leaving room for more.
