The Alex Hotel

Athens, Greece

Follow in the footsteps of the Athens-based glitterati of old, with a stay in the chic, revived port area of GREECE’s capital city, where rooftop cocktails come with a view of the never-ending coastline

The majestic silhouette of the Acropolis, the modern architecture of the Stavros Niarchos Cultural Centre, a white horizon of houses and the blue of the Mediterranean – there can’t be many better places to soak up the cultural legacy of Athens than the rooftop terrace at Nest, the top-floor restaurant and bar of The Alex. This 34-key hotel is spectacularly set on a slope on the hill of Kastella, surrounded by a charming mix of stylish apartments and pastel-toned houses.

Housed in a repurposed hotel, everything about The Alex is pleasantly minimalistic – think walls with a cement-like texture, black metal, light wood and contemporary abstract art. Rooms are on the smaller side, with the (very comfy) bed taking up most of the space. Bathrooms are similarlycompact, yet the limited dimensions are cleverly optimised. Superior rooms and the third-floorsuite feature balconies with stunning sea views.

The à la carte breakfast is a must – not only for the vista but also for the options available, all made with locally sourced ingredients. Don’t miss the traditional Greek platter, a feast of feta cheese, olives and apaki, smoked pork. Pair it with a classic cappuccino freddo – its stiff frothy foam will immediately put you in ‘Greek holiday mode’.

The location is perfect for those embarking on a cruise or setting sail for the islands, with the port of Piraeus a mere five-minute taxi ride away. The ‘little harbour’ of Mikrolimano, a favourite with style-savvy Athenians, is a short downhill stroll. Aside from a pretty view of fishing boats and fancy yachts, food lovers will be spoiled for choice with plenty of high-end seafood restaurants, including the renowned Varoulko. Once the playground for the likes of Onassis, Callas and Kennedy, t he area’s stunning transformation is symbolised by the rebirth of the 1970s Piraeus Tower, which reopened last June following major redevelopment to become Greece’s first green high-rise and a new city landmark.

Words by Marina Spironetti.

Doubles from £138, including breakfast. +30 210 6196980, santikoscollection.com