The small and serene Saronic island of Spetses is the perfect destination to disconnect, explore, and immerse yourself in Greek culture. I stayed at Yayaki Spetses, a uniquely stylish property that’s halfway between a boutique hotel and a family guest house. The property is architecturally refreshing and was designed in the style of an original Spetses house with balconies and bougainvilleas climbing the walls. Upon arrival, my boyfriend, Matthew and I were greeted by the owners, Karl and Hannah and after settling in were welcomed with a glass of organic rosé.
Focused on health and wellness, one can find a yoga studio onsite and partake in fitness classes. Guests can take advantage of the island’s calming energy and idyllic setting to relax and recharge. Yayaki Spetses adheres to a green mindset and is the first vegetarian hotel on Spetses island. The breakfast menu was developed with Esco, founder of Athenian plant-based restaurant, The Plant Kingdom. All of the food served at the hotel is locally produced, organic, and many of the vegetables and herbs included in dishes are grown in the garden onsite.
The property is an interior designer’s dream. The style is modern, yet incorporates the island’s local style and atmosphere. Like a family home, each of the rooms and suites have their own personality and are adorned with Greek traditional vases, pictures and vintage objects.
The pool is an oasis surrounded by a sundeck topped with comfortable sunbeds and umbrellas. In the corner I found the pack of Spetses natives cuddling and playing – little kittens! Although it’s easy to spend the day lounging by the pool, there are also many special experiences on Spetses Island that will make your trip unforgettable.
As Yayaki Spetses is quite intimate, guests can receive personalized recommendations from the owners, Karl and Hannah and they are happy to assist with bookings too. A couple days in a row, we rented E-bikes and rode them around the 25km island taking in magnificent views. One will find mansions nestled in the coastline and luxurious yachts cruising the Myrtoan sea. We visited Xilokeriza beach, Agii Anargyri beach and explored the secret Bekiri Cave – shhhhh! Along the way we stopped at various tavernas and indulged in lovely Greek cuisine.
The island offers a wide range of activities for all ages. Everything from boating, water sports, hiking, and horseback-riding. Rich in history, there are two museums on Spetses – Hatziyiannis-Mexis, known as the Spetses Museum and Bouboulina Museum. One can also take a day trip to the nearby island, Hydra or Nafplio, the former capital of Greece.
Yayaki Spetses is a short stroll from beaches, village shops, and seaside taverns. Each day when walking to and from dinner I enjoyed taking a new route and discovering beautiful homes, gardens, and finding cute cats wandering about. There are picturesque moments on every corner.
Things to keep in mind:
- Spetses is pedestrian-friendly: a few cars, no big road, no touring buses and no airport around. Most travel on Spetses is by foot, horse-carriage, motorbike or e-bike
- An all-day selection of homemade snacks are available at the Yayaki bar
Hannah and Karl left their Parisian life to open Yayaki in 2021. They’ve created a beautiful slice of Spetses which is the perfect location for a getaway, romantic trip, family holiday, seminar or yoga retreat. Waking-up every day with the crickets’ music, being surrounded by nature, and far away from everyday worries soothed my soul. My experience on Spetses holds a special place in my heart and I hope to return again!
You sure had a terrific time!!! Sounds like you picked a wonderful island and hotel in Greece!
Can’t wait to visit!!!