As the days begin to shorten and the intensity of the summer heat eases, many wise travellers take the opportunity to experience Greece and its islands as Greece bears its gift of late summer sunshine.With the crowds from peak season largely gone, it is a magical time to unwind in the most beautiful of surroundings. The sun may be just a little lower in the sky but it still casts its golden and warming glow over views that surprise, delight and inspire. From the bluest of seas to the olive groves planted so many generations ago, Greece sears its way far into the memory.

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Discerning travellers appreciate the space and sense of calm that Greece has to offer at this special time of year. What’s more, they can discover accommodation of such quality that their holiday becomes something to treasure as they enjoy enhanced levels of relaxation, outstanding service and individual care from a “new breed” of Greek hotels.
Let’s take just a few moments to look at five such venues all of which would provide the perfect escape from darker northern skies and the first hints of winter.

Amanzoe in Porto Heli

Elegantly combining classical Greek architecture with more than a nod to the latest in contemporary design, the Amanzoe Porto Heli commands views of the Peloponnese countryside and its dramatic coastline. The whole vibe of the accommodation is of design-led beauty where every effort has gone into creating spaces which capture the intensity of the light. Guests can enjoy private plunge pools with views of the sea and the cypress and olive-studded valley. There’s a focus on wellness with exclusive spa facilities and dining options which draw on the finest and freshest Greek and Mediterranean dishes. With easy access to a number of archaeological sites, Amanzoe guests can discover more about the area or simply chill.

Daios Cove in Crete

The intense azure of the Sea of Crete is the perfect backdrop for Daios Cove – a resort which blends effortlessly into its stunning natural environment. The villas, suites and rooms all offer memorable views and living space with exquisitely-furnished interiors, superlative attention to detail and complementary art works. Daios Cove offers exclusive spa facilities and yoga treatments and dining options which extend from Beach House intimacy to sophisticated cuisine at the Ocean Restaurant. In an area rich in Cretan and Minoan civilisation, hiking expeditions and exclusive tours are available to guests. For many, however, the lure of the private beach is simply too strong.

Santa Marina Resort in Mykonos

Visitors to the Santa Marina Resort in Mykonos quickly appreciate just what a special place it is. Set on its own private peninsula, the resort has been gently moulded onto a hillside right beside the sea. It’s a low-rise facility designed to be unobtrusive yet still warmly inviting for guests. A short stroll takes residents down to the private beach and the super-slick Buddha Bar – a place to dwell on the views and share the sunset. The hotel is especially proud of its “high-end aesthetics” with a sense of space, a quest for romance and a crispness and modernity of décor created to put guests at ease.

Euphoria Retreat in Peloponnese

An intensely enveloping escape is on offer at the Euphoria Retreat in the Peloponnese. This destination spa resort strives to place health and well-being right at the heart of the visitor experience with programmes and treatments carefully-crafted around the individual. The setting contributes to an holistic atmosphere of relaxation as the Euphoria Retreat sits so comfortably in its unique natural environment. Drifting effortlessly from the indoor to the outdoor pool, guests can easily forget any cares that arrived with them and watch as any stress simply washes away. Room designs contribute to a sense of comfort and cocooning while the dining facilities are all about healthy choices without the hunger pangs…

Grace Hotel in Santorini

The island of Santorini surprises and delights with its dramatic volcanic formation. The Grace Hotel offers suites which maximise the amazing elevated views from this the most southerly of the Islands of Cyclades. The hotel’s architectural vision was to exploit the natural topography so that the suites flow into the landscape and vice versa. From the Grace Suite to the 400 square metres of the Villa (with its own private spa), guests can lose themselves in unforgettable, panoramic views. They can also draw on the discreet service offered by the Grace’s always available, never intrusive staff – key qualities in a hotel where the ethos is one of romance.