New Year 2020

LUXLIFE MAGAZINE | 51 New Year 2020 Rising humbly from the shimmering east of the Aegean Sea is Samos Island, famed for being the birthplace of world-renowned philosopher and mathematician Pythagoras. Full of myth, history, and unequivocal beauty, the island is full of hidden treasures simply waiting to be explored and awed at. Seated on a hill above the classically quaint village of Kokkari is the equally characterful and charming Hotel Cattleya, waiting to receive guests with an unparalleled warmth. Enticing guests from the first steps through the door owner Renee and her team are on hand to insure that everything is total perfection. Luxury abounds, from the expertly-chosen furnishings in the hotel, to its proximity to the stunning beaches. First stepping inside the hotel reveals a world of luxury that are far from the tradition of the village below the hill. The wealth of unique furnishings appeal to even the most eccentric designer buff, with colonial chic styles dotted throughout. Antique whisky tray tables, ostrich feathered throws, and an Italian 1950s love seat all inspire a sense of luxury at Hotel Cattleya. However, the pièce de résistance of the furnishings is undoubtedly the custom-made twelve-seater dining room table. There, owner Renee entertains her guests with impromptu homemade dinners or a sampling of local tonics. Upon arrival at the room however, the luxury is elevated to a whole new level. A plethora of in-room spoils await guests. The outstanding terraced area afford views unlike any other, and are the perfect way to begin, end or simply a spend a day. Rates for Hotel Cattleya include a full continental breakfast, refreshments on arrival, complimentary refreshments every day on the patio between 4pm and 6pm, as well as a number of facilities. Guests can experience the common terraced area to witness a traditionally glorious Greek sunset, or perhaps retreat into the mini-library for some privacy with the free WiFi, peace and quiet. The true beauty of Hotel Cattleya is that it is not reserved for a specific type of holidaymaker or discerning luxury traveller. Intimate romantic couples can escape to the countryside, friends can experience a beach holiday far from the madding crowd, or engaged couples can choose to tie the knot in this delightful sanctuary. Renee will do everything she possibly can to ensure every stay, regardless of purpose, is a memorable one that guests won’t soon forget. Constantly going above and beyond to make every guest feel truly cared for, Renee and her team act as personal concierges on an authentically Greek journey. Luxuriously hospitable, Renee is more than willing to help arrange adventures, recommend restaurants and advise on awesome activities. When you finally leave Hotel Cattleya with great memories we will arrange your transport and ensure you make it to the airport with plenty of time to spare. The generosity of Renee seemingly knows no bounds and is all part of the luxury that this boutique hotel offers. Long before departure however, Hotel Cattleya offers you a superb location from which to explore everything that Samos has to offer. An enviable selection of irresistible beaches are between 2 and 20 minutes’ walk away from the hotel itself to suit every need. For expansive space and a stunning view from the northern side of Samos, Tsabou Beach is not to be missed. For those in search of a pristine bay in which to relax and swim with matchless clarity, Small Lemon Beach is only a two-minute walk from the front door of the hotel. If adventure calls, there is no shortage of activities to be found on Samos, all of which the team at Hotel Cattleya would be more than happy to help arrange. From the mountaineers to the water bugs, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Ancient rugged mountains offer a mixture of routes, ranging from easy to very difficult. For the most determined and tenacious hiking affords the opportunity to see almost every corner of Samos. Further down the mountains, there is also the opportunity to take part in horse riding, 4 x 4 experience and cycling, no better way of absorbing the beauty and jewels of this island. On the water, the activities range from adrenaline-pumping, to the epitome of serenity. Seekers of adventure can take part in sailing, windsurfing, and jet skiing to race across the Aegean. For the more laid-back visitors to Hotel Cattleya, staff can arrange experiences that include snorkelling, diving, or perhaps a simple and gentle canoe ride alongside some of the island’s most spectacular caves. Exploring the island is one thing, but absorbing the culture and learning its history is also an adventure in and of itself. Every corner of Samos drips with the ancient past, from historical sites to time-honoured monuments. The ancient city of Samos lies just a short 15-minute drive east from Kokkari, and is the perfect place for those of you interested in learning more about the fantastic culture of ancient Greece, as well as the island’s mythical role as a sanctuary for the Greek goddess Hera. Once again, Renee is on hand to help put together the perfect history tour that is individually tailored. A perfect addition to any stay at Hotel Cattleya is the ability to briefly set sail across the mile-wide Mycale Strait and explore some of Turkey’s most historical sites. Every day, scheduled ferry connections enable you to explore areas such as Kusadasi, Ephesus, Didyma, and Miletus. However, should you grow tired of ruins, then the traditional local Turkish bazaar offers a shopping experience unlike any other. Hotel Cattleya is, undoubtedly, one of the most beautiful and unique place to stay on any visit to Samos Island and the picturesque village of Kokkari. Hotel Cattleya embodies excellence, always striving to make sure that every guest has everything they could possibly need. With a wealth of opportunity for adventure, and a luxurious boutique hotel to return to, this Greek jewel is one that cannot be missed. Company: Hotel Cattleya Contact: Renee Karetsou Website: http://hotelcattleya.com/#