IWC JOURNAL: Golden Days In The Peloponnese

Sarah-Louise and Christopher journey to the Peloponnese for a taste of Greek culture dipped in sunlight.

Landing in Athens airport before setting off on the three-hour drive to Amanzoe, a beautiful hilltop resort on the east coast of the Peloponnese, we found ourselves winding through rugged hills with sea views like no other. We arrived just in time for magic hour as the afternoon sun bathed the whole hillside in a golden light.

Nestled high on a hilltop, amid olive groves, vineyards and cypress trees, Amanzoe draws its name from the Sanskrit-derived word for ‘peace’ and zoe, the Greek word for ‘life’. Join us as we indulge in a quick Greek getaway to see off the end of what has been a truly magical summer.

— A Peloponnese sunset

Sarah-Louise at Amanzoe Villa 20

Pool area of Sarah-Louise and Christopher’s room at Amanzoe

History meets elegance

The region itself is steeped in ancient mythology, with several iconic archaeological sites nearby and the islands of Spetses and Hydra only a short boat ride away. With its majestic panoramic views of the Peloponnese coastline, breathtaking sunsets and inimitable architecture, the signature work of US-born, Paris-based designer Ed Tuttle, Amanzoe offers an enchanting and tranquil Greek getaway.

The resort feels like an acropolis, with majestic pillars and colonnades crafted in marble and stone which are surrounded by pale blue waters, echoing the contemporary minimalist design and creating a serene atmosphere. The columned walkways lead up to a circular platform and firepit, which not only has a panoramic view of the Peloponnese and Aegean Sea, but it is also the prime spot for watching the sunset. Before the sky turned a deep purple giving way to thousands of stars, we enjoyed a cocktail or two as we were treated to a magical artist’s palette comprising of every colour of the rainbow.

But these are days we dream about when the sunlight paints us gold

— Christopher wears the IWC Ingenieur Chronograph (IW380801)

A 5-minute drive from the resort, the sunsets at the Amanzoe Beach Club are just as spectacular, as is the seafood buffet — we spent many evenings dining under the stars to glimmering candles and the sound of local live Greek music.

— Spetses Island

The Art of Seclusion

Tranquillity and relaxation is at the core of the Aman philosophy, and at Amanzoe, time almost stands still. The focus lies in health, wellbeing and relaxing seclusion, essential for those leading busy city lives. This exclusive haven of unsurpassed beauty has quickly become the Mediterranean playground of those in the know, offering sleek and contemporary Amanzoe Hotel Pavilions or Amanzoe Villas to purchase or rent, all opening up to expansive private terraces creating a seamless extension of airy interiors blending effortlessly with nature, an unrivalled sense of calm and seclusion.

For our last day, we set sail to the beautiful island of Spetses, the golden Greek sun warming our skin as the Amanzoe yacht danced gently on the waves. The island is loved by visitors and locals alike, small tavernas and boutiques line the narrow walkways and turquoise pebble beaches line the shores.

Want to know where we’ll head to next? Follow the @IWCjournal to find out. #AdventureswithIWC

Sarah-Louise Marks and Christopher Phelps run the popular travel blog “The Adventures of Us”. The London-based couple are sharing their breathtaking escapes on The Journal in a special travel series.