AMANZOE: DISCOVER AMAN’S ULTIMATE GREEK PARADISE

View of the Adriatic Sea from the shore at Maslina Resort, with clear blue water, rocky coastline, and pine trees in the background.
July 1, 2025

author LISA VAN LEER

images COURTESY OF AMAN

AMANZOE is a modern acropolis set in the rolling hills of the Greek Peloponnese. Surrounded by centuries-old olive trees and marble pavilions, the resort reflects the grandeur of Ancient Greece with its symmetrical soaring columns and temple-like structures. Upon arrival, staff in soft-toned togas welcome you with a refreshing lavender elixir and a warm smile. Every aspect of contemporary luxury is thoughtfully blended with ancient Greek decor, making Amanzoe a sought-after retreat for relaxation and recharging in style.

The cigar bar at Aman Nai Lert

The acropolis-like architecture is a contemporary interpretation of the Greeks’ classical ideals, where balance, harmony, and symmetry unite in marble and light colours. The result is an extraordinary retreat that feels both sacred and grounded, steeped in history yet entirely of the present. A place of peace, purpose, and quiet luxury.

From Athens airport, Amanzoe is either a 2.5-hour drive or a swift 25-minute helicopter ride to the resort’s helipad. Set against a beautiful Mediterranean backdrop, guests can enjoy three world-class restaurants, multiple hotel pools, a library, a cocktail bar, a holistic spa, tennis courts, yoga and Pilates classes, and a private beach club. As you walk through the property, the tranquil atmosphere and the generous space of the resort create a sense of complete seclusion, almost as if the estate belongs solely to you. The only sounds you’ll hear are birdsong, polite murmurs from the friendly staff, and the gentle humming of bees. The scent of lavender fields and orange blossoms fills the air throughout the resort, while the view of cypress and olive trees soothes the mind.

Aerial photo of Maslina Resort on Hvar island, surrounded by pine trees and overlooking the Adriatic Sea.

Amanzoe is part of the international group of Aman hotels and adheres to the Aman philosophy. Like other Aman resorts, Amanzoe offers a remote location, minimalist design, and impeccable service that blends seamlessly with nature. Furthermore, there are four staff members for every guest. “In every Aman hotel you will find the same minimalistic style, infused with local culture, which is, at Amanzoe, a combination of classic and temporary Greek ideals. All Aman hotels share the same feeling of zen, offering an intimate sanctuary for guests to have a peaceful holiday. “Guests familiar with Aman know what to expect when they check in. New guests will quickly understand the spirit of Aman once they have experienced a stay with us,” says Aurélien Kinne, acting general manager of Amanzoe.

Ed Tuttle, the architect of Amanzoe, envisioned the hotel as a tribute to classical Greece. Tuttle is celebrated for designing many Aman hotels worldwide, including the original Amanpuri in Thailand in 1988 and Amanjena in Marrakech. “For the design of Amanzoe, Ed traveled through the country, drawing inspiration from its ancient temples and time-worn ruins. The result is a merging of the past and present, where symmetry, proportion, and light take center stage in the hotel’s design,” says Aurélien. Amanzoe opened its doors twelve years ago, and its standout architecture has made it a favourite among clients ever since.

Exterior view of a private villa at Maslina Resort, featuring modern architecture, floor-to-ceiling windows, a private pool, and views of the Adriatic Sea.
Interior of a villa at Maslina Resort with contemporary design, natural wood accents, large windows, and views of the sea.

For individual guests or couples, the resort offers 41 pool pavilions spread across 230 acres, each featuring its own pool, outdoor dining area, fireplace, and spacious his-and-hers bathrooms and dressing rooms. Some pavilions overlook the Greek countryside, while others provide majestic views of the Aegean Sea.

Families or groups seeking a more expansive retreat can choose one of the resort’s private villas. The standalone Greek villas provide all the benefits of Amanzoe’s impeccable service and amenities, along with the added comfort of complete seclusion. Available in configurations of one to nine bedrooms, each villa features a private infinity pool, spacious indoor and outdoor living areas, a personal chef, and a dedicated host. It’s the kind of place where multi- generational families come together or groups of friends gather to celebrate life’s milestones.

Despite differences in views and pool sizes, all pool pavilions feel equally grand, featuring marble interiors that evoke a Greek palace. Double-height ceilings and sliding wooden doors lead to a private terrace and pool, enhancing the extravagant sense of space. Slitted windows offer playful views of the surrounding nature, bringing the outside in. Greek reminders, such as coffee table books about the Peloponnese and goddess statues on the fireplace, are spotted throughout the pavilions. Yet it is the thoughtful service and attention to detail that make the rooms ultimately so memorable. Upon returning to your pavilion, sunglasses are placed back in their spot with a fresh cleaning wipe, and loose jewelry is artfully arranged as if it were part of the room’s design. 

Discover the turquoise waters of Croatia
Discover the turquoise waters of Croatia

Each evening, a small Greek gift is placed on your bed, resembling a gesture that connects you to the culture and spirit of the place. One night, it might be an evil eye pendant, which originates from Greek culture to protect you from evil and jealous spirits, a talisman of ancient belief, designed to shield you from negative energy. On another evening, a small pouch of lavender might be left by your pillow. In Ancient Greece, lavender — known as nardes — was valued for its healing properties, treating insomnia, aches and even madness. Lavender also enhances your sleep. Small mementoes to remind you of your stay in the Peloponnese.

During breakfast, the general manager makes personal rounds to ensure each guest is well looked after. Everyone knows your name and offers assistance when needed, always balancing professionalism and discretion. It’s this quiet attentiveness that elevates the experience, making it feel not only luxurious but also deeply personal.

You can be as active or lazy as you want at this luxury resort. Feel like dressing up? By all means. Prefer to drift through the day in your complimentary white bathrobe? Entirely acceptable. There’s no prescribed itinerary at the resort. You can explore the rich tapestry of the local Greek culture or visit the library and get lost in a book; its marble and wood decor make it an incredibly striking and unique space. Besides a stylish lounge area, you’ll find beautifully sculpted wooden spiral staircases, and shelves of curated books alternate with floor-to-ceiling windows that reveal the outdoor landscape.

Elegant, minimalist-style restaurant with floor-to-ceiling windows and a poolside terrace, offering panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea; features natural materials like terracotta and wood, reflecting the surrounding olive groves and vineyards.

The spa is equally remarkable, offering holistic treatments rooted in ancient healing traditions, set against the vibrant Mediterranean landscape. Here, world-class wellness merges with ancient wisdom to rejuvenate and recharge guests. Private yoga and Pilates classes are available in the stunning yoga pavilion, which opens to breathtaking views of the sea and countryside. At sunset, most guests gather around the grand firepit, watching as the Peloponnese sky transforms into beautiful shades of pink and orange.

While the resort entertains, Amanzoe’s location provides easy access to the region’s rich culture and natural beauty. Guests can visit archaeological sites, including the UNESCO-protected ruins of Epidaurus. The ancient city is home to the world-famous amphitheatre and the Sanctuary of Asklepios, once the most renowned healing centre of the classical world. It’s said that Amanzoe’s grounds were once an ancient healing land, and some believe the energy at the resort is still felt today.

Other nearby ancient sights include the legendary citadel of Mycenae, the charming city of Nafplion, the village of Didyma, the Temple of Hera near Argos, and the Byzantine monastery of St. Dimitrios. For Ancient Greek history lovers, Amanzoe is a perfect base from which to explore the myths and magic of the past.

Local lavendel is used at the Spa at Maslina Resort<br />

Besides historical sightseeing, the hotel also offers a variety of cultural activities, such as visiting a local apiary or a farming family. At the farm, children gather eggs and feed the animals while parents connect with local country life over a traditional Greek breakfast. (The Kayanas breakfast is an absolute must, with scrambled eggs, feta, tomatoes, and herbs. It’s delicious and perfect for those who love a hearty breakfast.)

For guests who prefer to stay at the resort, Amanzoe’s beach club is situated in a tranquil bay that is perfect for swimming and snorkelling. The beach club includes four pools, a boutique, a spa, a gym, and a Mediterranean beach restaurant, Nura. You’ll also discover some beach pavilions, designed similarly to the hotel’s pool pavilions, but located right on the shoreline for immediate access to the sea. 

Local lavendel is used at the Spa at Maslina Resort<br />
Local lavendel is used at the Spa at Maslina Resort<br />

But even with all the surrounding beauty of the resort — the islands, the sea, the sun — what lingers with you most is something far more intimate. It’s not the hotel’s facilities, the views, or even the luxurious setting. What truly sets Amanzoe apart is the kind-hearted staff; the small gestures leave a lasting impression long after check-out. In five-star hospitality, true luxury lies not just in comfort but in how deeply personal the experience becomes. You may forget the appearance of a place, but you will never forget how it makes you feel. Amanzoe makes you feel at home the moment you arrive, and you leave with a sense of nostalgia. The final departure gifts — a bracelet, a beach bag, a sunhat — aren’t just souvenirs. They’re reminders of a place that stays with you long after you’ve gone.