Grand by name and by nature, the 5-star Grand Resort Lagonissi is nestled on the so-called Athenian Riviera, a private and exclusive 72-acre peninsula south of Greece's capital.Offering the utmost of luxury in beautiful suites with sea views, 24-hour butler service, various award-winning restaurants to choose from and a helipad for absolute ease in arrival and exit, it's no wonder Cristiano Ronaldo opted for this legendary peninsular for some downtime with his model girlfriend Irina Shayk after the 2014 World Cup.
Other previous guests include superstar Jennifer Lopez and former husband Mark Anthony, pop princess Kylie Minogue, Mel Gibson, Leonardo Di Caprio, Greek shipping heiress Athina Onassis, as well as several royals from Europe and the Middle East.The entire Mamma Mia cast – including Pierce Brosnan, Meryl Streep, Colin Firth and Amanda Seyfried – also chose this precious enclave as one of their bases while they were filming on the tiny Greek island of Skopelos back in 2008.
Luxurious bungalows, divine suites and wonderful bedrooms are strategically positioned throughout this superb resort to take full advantage of the sparkling Aegean Sea vistas – step out onto a private beach, walk down a staircase to a hidden sandy cove or relax on the beach where restaurants and bar service are close at hand.
Ten excellent, award-winning restaurants mean you needn't venture beyond the lush peninsula – though you may wish to as the tempting Greek capital of Athens lies just an hour away – each with an individual style and flavours inspired by the hotel's seaside views.
Keep it authentic with Greek favourite, Ouzeri Aegeon, which serves local specialities such as mouthwatering zucchini croquettes and crispy-crusted feta cheese with honey, fresh seafood including octupus, mussels and lobster, all in a picturesque setting completed by views of sandy coves and azure waters.
Guests can also mix it up at Captain's House, where contemporary Italian cuisine is served from a cliffside perch overlooking a charming lagoon. A cocktail out on deck is an after-dinner must.Of course, for the stars who opt for the peninsula's most luxury suites, such as the Dream Suite and Royal Villa, dinner out isn't necessary. With the utmost of privacy and tranquility, a private pool and marble bathroom, a charming living room with a fireplace, walk-in wardrobe and a gym – and even a kitchen and chef who can come and cook for you – there's little reason to leave.A luxury room with bay view starts at approximately £220 per room, per night. For more information, visit Grand Resort Lagonissi.
