So many cruises start or end in Athens, that I thought I would investigate the idea of staying outside of that often overheated and hectic city. We chose our Signature preferred property in the seaside suburb of Vougliameni: the Westin Astir Palace. Located about 35 mins from the airport, it is part of a gated resort that also includes the Arion Resort. The Westin has been fully renovated and cascades down the slope from the reception floor, to the beach below, which affords every room a very large terrace and a spectacular view of the sea. The exception is the lowest floor which trades out the view for a patio overlooking the garden or pool.
Jetlagged, we found ourselves delighted to spend the rest of the day at the beautiful and very large pool area, but even more lovely, was the easy access to the sea with a small private beach and safe enclosed bay ideal for kids, or by diving in from stone balustrades by the pool deck.
The room itself was almost entirely white, large, spare and with an expansive marble bath, and a wonderful bed with delicious linens.
Two options for dining both quite expensive, but many restaurants in Vougliameni, a 15-20 min walk from the hotel, or by taxi. Breakfast however, is an included amenity and was one of the best we have enjoyed, offering a tremendous array of items and also dishes cooked to order. The view was an added bonus.
