From the ancient wonders of Athens to the sun-soaked shores of the Greek Islands, Y Travel Designer Pina Azzaro's first visit to Greece revealed a destination full of surprises, extraordinary hospitality and plenty of reasons to return. Along the way, a collection of beautiful Grecotel properties offered a memorable introduction to Greek luxury and hospitality.
With a strong Italian cultural heritage and a lifelong love of Italy, Y Travel Designer Pina Azzaro arrived in Greece with a few familiar expectations. Surely there would be similarities in the food, the people and the Mediterranean way of life? But while there were certainly some common threads, Greece quickly proved to have a character, culture and charm all of its own.
Over two weeks, Pina explored the Athens Riviera, Crete and several of the Cyclades, discovering ancient wonders, charming villages, spectacular coastlines and a food culture that was every bit as memorable as she had hoped. What she hadn't quite anticipated was just how much she would fall for the place.
“I kept thinking, how have I not been here before? Greece has left such a strong impression on me. The scenery was stunning, the food was incredible and, above all, the people were just beautiful.”
Athens: A little art, a lot of history
Athens was a fleeting introduction, but certainly an impressive one.
In the heart of the historic Plaka neighbourhood, The Dolli at Acropolis is a striking example of how the city's rich history and contemporary creativity sit beautifully alongside one another. Housed in a meticulously restored 1920s building, the Grecotel property combines elegant architecture with an eclectic collection of original artwork, from traditional masterpieces to more playful contemporary pieces.
The rooftop is the natural showstopper. An infinity-style pool looks towards the Acropolis, with the Parthenon appearing almost close enough to touch. It's a remarkable perspective on one of the world's most recognisable ancient landmarks, and a reminder that in Athens, history is never far from view.
For travellers looking to experience the capital in style, The Dolli offers a particularly beautiful base from which to explore its galleries, historic streets and lively neighbourhoods. Ancient history with a decidedly contemporary outlook.
The Athens Riviera: Greece's best-kept secret?
While many travellers are eager to leave Athens behind and head straight for the islands, Pina's time on the Athens Riviera revealed a compelling reason to linger.
Stretching along the coast south of the capital, the Riviera offers a different side of Greece, with beautiful beaches, marinas, relaxed seaside neighbourhoods and a slower pace of life, all within easy reach of the city. It's an ideal place to ease into a Greek holiday, particularly after the long journey from Australia.
Pina recommends allowing at least a few nights on the Riviera to truly unwind, escape the bustle of Athens and properly experience this beautiful stretch of the Greek mainland. After all, the islands aren't going anywhere.
Cape Sounio: Ancient history, modern relaxation
Set in beautifully landscaped grounds opposite the Temple of Poseidon, Cape Sounio has a special sense of place.
The spacious Grecotel resort feels wonderfully relaxed, with a private beach, beautiful rooms and plenty of room to unwind. Families are particularly well catered for, while couples can enjoy the quieter corners of the property and its stunning surroundings.
Dining is another highlight, from the beachside setting of Yali to the garden restaurant Aegean Grill, where ancient stones and greenery create a particularly atmospheric backdrop. There are also opportunities to connect with local traditions through experiences including guided garden walks, cooking classes with the chef, honey experiences and pottery.
And then there is the setting. With the Temple of Poseidon standing proudly across the water, it's difficult to imagine a more evocative introduction to Greece. A little ancient mythology, a little Mediterranean indulgence.
The Roc Club: A little Riviera glamour
A different mood awaits at The Roc Club in Vouliagmeni.
This boutique Grecotel property has a contemporary, residential feel, with distinctive artwork, minimalist interiors and a relaxed atmosphere that feels more like a private club than a traditional hotel.
Located in a quiet residential neighbourhood, it's just a short stroll from the beach and within easy reach of the marina and Lake Vouliagmeni, known for its mineral-rich waters and wellness experiences. The rooftop Rocket Bar and Restaurant offers beautiful coastal views, while the pool provides a relaxed spot to spend an afternoon.
For Pina, it was the property's personality that stood out.
“The Roc Club has a really laid-back, retro vibe. It feels like a private club, but it's also very welcoming and relaxed.”
Together, Cape Sounio and The Roc Club demonstrate why the Athens Riviera deserves a place on the itinerary. It's not simply somewhere to pass through on the way to the islands, but a destination in its own right.
And sometimes, it's the smallest moments that leave the biggest impression. Pina fondly recalls a local driver who, after sharing stories about the region's history, surprised her with a book about the area's silver and lead mines. A thoughtful gesture that perfectly captured the genuine warmth and generosity she encountered throughout Greece.
Crete: Where the food, people & landscape come together
Of all the places Pina visited, Crete was one of the most memorable.
The island has a wonderfully distinct character, from its traditional villages and rugged coastline to its generous food culture and strong sense of local identity.
One of Pina's standout experiences was a visit to Spinalonga, reached by a thrilling speedboat ride across the water. The excitement of the journey was followed by a more leisurely two-hour trip aboard a traditional handcrafted wooden fishing boat, with crystal-clear water, a light lunch and the chance for some of the group to take a swim.
But it was the island's food and hospitality that really captured her imagination.
During her time in Crete, Pina enjoyed a memorable farm-to-table dining experience beneath the olive trees of an organic garden. Guests gathered around communal tables, sharing a meal prepared with fresh, local ingredients. The atmosphere was relaxed and intimate, more like being invited to a family barbecue than dining at a resort.
“The food was so fresh and delicious. Sitting under the olive trees, sharing a meal made with love, felt like being invited to someone's home.”
For travellers drawn to Crete, Grecotel offers a diverse collection of properties across the island, ranging from larger resorts to boutique bohemian retreats, apartments and traditional agro-farm experiences. There are plenty of ways to discover the island, whether the appeal lies in its coastline, culture, food or quieter rural life.
Island hopping: Three islands, three distinct personalities
From Crete, Pina continued through the Cyclades, discovering that no two islands are quite alike.
Santorini needs little introduction. Its dramatic volcanic cliffs, whitewashed villages and deep-blue sea create a landscape that is instantly recognisable, yet still extraordinary in person.
Ios brings a different energy, with beautiful beaches, charming villages and a more relaxed, intimate feel. Pina particularly enjoyed dinner at Grandma's Restaurant, where the name might suggest a traditional Greek homestyle meal, but the experience was fine dining at its best. A delightful reminder not to judge a restaurant by its name.
Then there is Naxos, an island that feels wonderfully grounded. Its long beaches, traditional villages and strong connection to local food and culture offer a more understated kind of beauty.
Together, the islands reveal the diversity of the Cyclades. Some are celebrated for their glamour, others for their quieter charms, but each has a character that makes it worth discovering.
Mykonos: A little glamour, a lot of personality
Mykonos brought the journey to a lively finale.
Famous for its beach clubs, stylish hotels and vibrant atmosphere, the island certainly knows how to make an entrance. But beyond its glamorous reputation, Mykonos also offers quieter moments and beautiful places to simply enjoy the Aegean.
Pina loved the combination of glamour and relaxation, along with the exceptional food and warm hospitality she encountered throughout her stay.
Her final night was spent at Mykonos Blu, a Grecotel property perched above Psarou Beach. With its whitewashed architecture, village-like atmosphere and beautiful views, it offers a relaxed retreat within easy reach of the island's more glamorous side.
The resort has direct access to the beach, with the marina and Nammos Beach Club just a short stroll away. Its life-sized blue donkey sculptures in the foyer are an unexpected touch of personality, and a fitting detail for an island that knows how to combine style with a sense of fun.
Greece, with a little more Y
Looking back, Pina's first visit to Greece was about much more than beautiful hotels and spectacular scenery. It was the people, the food and the unexpected moments of connection that made the experience so memorable.
From the generous hospitality of the Athens Riviera to the communal tables of Crete and the welcoming spirit of the islands, the journey brought several of Y Travel's signature Y Factors to life, particularly Taste, Culture & Community, Generosity, and Nature & Sustainability.
“Coming from Australia, you grow up hearing about Greek hospitality, but experiencing it firsthand was something else. Everyone was so sincere and genuinely hospitable. They would do anything to make sure you were comfortable, happy and looked after.”
For those who have always dreamed of Greece, Pina's advice is simple: allow yourself time to explore beyond the obvious. Whether that means lingering on the mainland, discovering the many personalities of the islands or combining a little of both, Greece is a destination that rewards curiosity.
It's also where the value of first-hand knowledge comes into its own. Knowing where to linger, which destinations to combine and which properties best suit each traveller allows our Travel Designers to create journeys that feel genuinely personal. Through our valued partnership with Grecotel, and Pina's own discoveries across their distinctive collection of properties, we're able to introduce our clients to a more considered side of Greece, where exceptional hospitality, a strong sense of place and beautiful experiences come together.
And, as Pina discovered, even a devoted Italophile can find a new Mediterranean favourite.
Ready to discover your own Greece? From the understated elegance of the Athens Riviera to the sun-drenched shores of Mykonos, let Y Travel introduce you to the world of Grecotel and create a journey that's entirely your own.