Oniropetra Boutique Hotel

Ever had those times when you know what you don’t want but it’s hard to pinpoint what you do want? This was my dilemma, I knew that I didn’t want a busy, sight-seeing city break which would require organisation and tire me out. I knew that I didn't want to spend my day lounging in the sun with not much else to do apart from take a swim in the pool or face a crowded beach with no shady refuge. So what were my options? As if by magic, a few days later my sister rang with the same problem and a few ideas. A country retreat in Normandy? Been there, done that, and definitely got the t-shirt. Frolicking in our own Lake District? But the weather at this time of year would not be reliable. It was only after this that we stumbled across the Grecian Oniropetra, a boutique hotel that is unique in every way. A mountain escapade in Greece, well I never!

In the end my sister and her family decided she would take a weekend break in the capital, Athens and then drive up to meet my husband and I in Karpenissi for several days, in order to get the best of both worlds. As for me, I found what I was unintentionally looking for and here I would stay!
The Oniropetra is surrounded by a verdant landscape, colourful flowers, flowing streams and luscious greenery. The exterior resembles a chalet, wooden buckets and bricks made the hotel feel rustic and traditional, yet this hotel is new and modern. The interior contrasts with its exterior with minimalist and neutral design made interesting with splashes of colour. Looking forward to the surprises of this unique holiday, my husband and I stepped into the funky world of Oniropetra. The reception was a modern reflection of its surroundings using the deep browns from the hills outside with a splash of bright colour. Check-in was dealt with quickly and smoothly and we were led by smiley staff to our suite.

We were presented with a spacious 35m² suites. My eyes were immediately drawn to the blackboard above the king size bed: “Without the rain there would never be rainbows,” and a scribbled picture of an umbrella and rainbow. As an English girl, too accustomed to rainy days, I much appreciated the positive thought. What a curious touch! The bathroom was bright white and sparkling clean, with Korres toiletries provided. My eyes took a good look around the room, fluffy rugs, mahogany furniture and a LCD TV, it felt like our little Greek Alpine home! I could wait to part the curtains and step onto the private terrace. And there were the mountains, as if staring straight at us with all their majesty. To the mountains the Oniropetra was a humble abode, now our humble abode from which we could best appreciate nature and her blessings.

After a journey sleep is never far away so we decided to take a little nap in the delight of our requested goose-feathered duvet. The tranquil setting made sleep come easily and before we knew it, it was dinner time! We went across past the funky and colourful lobby and to the dining area which had a similar vibe. For now we would eat at the restaurant until we could buy some food ourselves to rustle up in our suite’s little kitchenette. After a tasty meal, we spent the rest of the evening staring at constellations named after Greek gods that light up the sky at night from our terrace and retired only once our eyes began to droop.

The next morning we listened to the birds singing as our breakfast was delivered to our suite, what a complete luxury! It was abundant and tasty, filling us with energy for the day’s antics. It was just as well since my sister was arriving that day with my two darling but energetic nephews. Once she had arrived and settled, the kids were introduced to the kids club so that, we, the adults could go and enjoy the delights of the outdoor sauna.

We all loved everything about the Oniropetra. Strolling along the streams that surround it and gazing up at the wondrous hills and mountain, how the decor used natural materials to blend in and the amazing welcome provided by the staff. All ready an adventurous mountain lover, the large floor to ceiling windows in the main building that displayed a splendid view, made me fall in love with the landscape even more. Cosy fireplaces and rustic wooden details added to the homely feeling of the place whilst sleek lines and splashes maintained a contemporary and modern flavour. Little luxuries such as breakfast delivered to our suite and personal and attentive help from the staff was just want I was looking for, I had found what I had wanted!