New Openings: Greece, Croatia, Montenegro

Though 2020 was not what we hoped it would be in terms of travel, the hospitality and hotel industry did not slow down! There were still several noteworthy new openings in Greece, Croatia and even Montenegro. Some properties opened this past year, others are new openings for 2021. Regardless, these are all amazing choices to make note of. When we can start to travel again (hopefully soon), we cannot wait to introduce you to these new openings!

Hotel MGallery, Athens, Greece – new opening

This newly opened property is located in the heart of the Greek capital of Athens. It is truly an enviable spot, close to Syntagma Square and many other main sites in the city center. There are 177 guest rooms as well as 18 suites. The hotel also has a breathtaking rooftop bar and heated pool for guests to admire the city panorama.

Lesante Cape, Zakynthos, Greece – opening 2021

This soon to be open 5-star hotel is built as a traditional Greek village on the island of Zakynthos. Including a square perfect for socializing at its center of the property (just like a town) there is also a cafè and a taverna. Shops and even its own church and museum of island folklore make this property feel like a luxurious stay in an authentic village. The property uses all natural colors, white stone and wood to make it an integrated part of the unique island feel.

Kalesma, Mykonos, Greece

This luxury 5-star property is an incredible addition to the world famous island of Mykonos. Kalesma has 25 suites and 2 villas set on the hillside of Ornos Bay. This gives it a secluded feel but it is still quite close to Mykonos town. It also has stunning views of the Aegean sea, particularly for sunrise and sunset. Mykonos is known as a party destination, but guests of Kalesma see quickly it is more than that. The property has a luxurious, private feel and the staff is full of hidden gems and insider spots to see, to help your discover the real heart of this amazing island.

Katikies Garden, Santorini, Greece – new opening

Though this 5-star property reopened at the end of 2019, we are including it since so many of our clients didn’t have the chance to experience it as the pandemic halted travel at the beginning of 2020. Located in the village of Fira, this converted monastery boasts spectacular views of the caldera. The hotel offers only suites, some with private pools, and is the perfect spot for a secluded vacation or honeymoon. Fira is the largest town on the island where you can find charming restaurants, eclectic shopping as well as nightlife. This hotel truly has it all!

Nomad, Mykonos, Greece

We love the bohemian beach feel of this 14-suite property on the island of Mykonos. It is located just 200 meters from Kalo Livadi, one of the most beautiful beaches of the Aegean Sea. This romantic accommodation has water as a feature in all of the suites – all of them offer a private jacuzzi or swimming pool. The decor uses local tile, marble, and custom made art pieces for each suite. The indoor-outdoor space and secluded feel of Nomad make it one of those places that you do not want to leave.

Hotel Amphora, Split, Croatia – new opening

This beachfront hotel in the charming city of Split is a great addition to our Croatian portfolio. The property has spectacular views not just from the rooftop bar but from many of the rooms as well. Several of them even have private jacuzzi on their private terraces, which is a lovely touch. There are 3 swimming pools as well as a wonderful spa with Mediterranean treatments and saunas. The proximity of the hotel to the beach means that it blends perfectly a new, modern structure and the views of this gorgeous waterfront city.

Tesla Nest Glamping, Lika, Croatia

This soon-to-open property is a relatively new concept for Croatia. It is situated in the Lika region on a lake near Lovinac. The resort will feature 72 wooden villas, “glamping” tents and tree houses. It is named after Nikola Tesla who was born in the Lika area in Smiljan. To keep the natural feel and support green tourism, all cars inside the resort will be electric. There will be two restaurants, and different spa and sauna locations on the lake as well as in the surrounding forest. It will be a great addition for those looking to explore this area of Croatia!

San Canzian, Istria, Croatia

Located in the heart of Istria, San Canzian is an authentic luxury Village & Hotel. It has 24 rooms and suites all situated in a medieval village of Mužolini Donji. It is also a member of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World. Istria is a dream for those of us who travel for gastronomic experiences, and San Canzian can organize some spectacular ones. Truffle hunting, olive oil tasting and wine tastings can all be organized by the hotel. In addition, there are also two restaurants and a wine cellar to try some of these local specialties. This estate was carefully renovated to make sure that the natural feel of Istria combines perfectly with all the comforts of a 5-star hotel.

Palace Elisabeth, Hvar, Croatia

This is another property that opened in late 2019, but deserves to be mentioned as the pandemic overshadowed its opening. Hvar is one of our favorite places in Croatia, and Palace Elisabeth has amazing views while also being centrally located. The building is a 13th century historical landmark and island’s only 5-star hotel. It is also a member of the Leading Hotels of the World. With just 33 rooms and 12 suites, it’s intimate enough to feel like your own private Croatian mansion.

One&Only, Portonovi, Montenegro – opening March 2021

One of the more anticipated openings on the Adriatic, this breathtaking property is located at the entrance of the UNESCO heritage site of Boka Bay. It is the first opening in Europe for the One&Only luxury resort group. Montenegro is the new destination on the breathtaking Adriatic riviera, the property is composed of elegant and sophisticated rooms, villas and suites. There are also incredible experiences offered in terms of dining, with a restaurant under the helm of London-based Michelin-starred chef Giorgio Locatelli. The location and activities like private island cruises mean that exploring Montenegro is easy from here. The property is so amazing, though, it will be hard to leave!