Hotel Kinsterna
Peloponnese, Greece
This hideaway is located in the heart of the Peloponnese. Surrounded by a wildly romantic Mediterranean landscape, near the mystical town of Monemvasia, this luxurious country hotel was originally a historic 17th-century country estate. Renovated with great sensitivity and style, it offers everything you need for a perfect Mediterranean escape.
This is the hotel
Hotel Kinsterna is a unique refuge in the Peloponnese! A hotel that is authentic and harmoniously blends into the distinctive landscape and culture of the Peloponnese. It is committed to tradition, culture, and nature . Yet it doesn't seem old-fashioned or stuck in time. No, quite the opposite: with its concept of sustainable, upscale ecotourism, it is absolutely on trend . The furnishings are luxurious, rustic, and cozy, yet absolutely contemporary and modern. It has everything you would expect from a hotel in this category. The amenities are of a 5-star standard and well-thought-out design. The old manor house dating back to the 17th century was carefully and painstakingly renovated and converted into a country hotel. You can feel the attention to detail and the passion with which the old building was rebuilt. For example, old plastering techniques were used to remain as authentic as possible. New buildings with residences and two villas were architecturally planned and designed so skillfully that they perfectly complement the existing structure, but never compete with it. The spacious restaurant building, which houses the Mouries restaurant and bar, as well as a hall, breakfast area, and lounge, acts as a modern counterpoint. Kinsterna has several restaurants : Mouries, a daily restaurant, Sterna, open daily, and the private garden tavern Linos, which is also only open during the day. Two bars round out the dining options.
The expansive hotel complex was built on several levels and blends harmoniously into the Mediterranean landscape of olive groves, vineyards, and orchards . It offers two stunningly beautiful spring-filled pools , one of which is designed as a family pool. There's also a pool bar with delicious drinks and snacks. There's also a spa , with organic treatments that even use the hotel's own natural products , such as herbs, olive oil, grapes, and honey. There's also a fitness studio . Ample secure parking is available free of charge, and there are also charging stations for electric cars.
The resort has its own chapel and spring . The hotel's own vineyards and olive groves produce fantastic wine and delicious olive oil. They also grow their own vegetables and fruit, which are later used in delicious homemade products. They are proud of their home-made honey; there's even a honey tasting with different flavors. You can admire the hotel's own sheep, horses, and donkeys, and of course, pet many friendly cats.
A wide range of activities offers something for every guest. Boat trips on the hotel's own yacht , fishing trips, hiking, as well as insights into viticulture, olive harvesting, and the production of home-made products such as soap, honey, and bread are just a few of the highlights in the hotel's activity portfolio.
Culinary
All of Kinsterna's restaurants follow the concept of sustainability . Great emphasis is placed on authentic dishes of the highest quality . Ingredients come from our own farm and from regional and local suppliers . Furthermore, many products are produced in-house.
A culinary highlight at the start of the day is definitely the Greek breakfast . Lovingly prepared dishes and local specialties await your liking. A rich selection of fresh fruit, exquisite cakes, and homemade jams, honey, and spreads offer a wonderful selection for every taste. You simply have to try the local specialties : homemade sourdough bread, local Ladotiri cheese, Tsaitia pies, Lalangia, Trachanas, and much more!
The all-day dining restaurant, Mouries , named after the surrounding mulberry trees, offers authentic Greek Mediterranean cuisine . As mentioned above, all ingredients are locally sourced and, of course, sourced from reliable producers and fishermen. Emphasis is placed on natural, clear flavors and tradition , following grandma's recipe, so to speak! The Mouries terrace is stunning and offers a beautiful view of the surrounding nature.
What could be more beautiful than a romantic evening sitting under lush vines and enjoying a delicious Greek dish from the wood-fired oven? At the Linos Taverna, you can do just that! The Linos is named after the wine press of the same name, which you can also admire, along with the olive oil press and the stone wood-fired oven . The atmosphere at Linos is casual, just as we like it in Greek tavernas ; the food here is authentic , fresh from the wood-fired oven, the wine is delicious, and the walk back to your room is short. The perfect setting for a carefree evening in a wonderful atmosphere!
The Sterna , located in the historic part of the hotel next to the old cistern with its water lily pond , offers delicious cocktails and aperitifs on certain days around the new Belvedere Bar. The comfortable lounge furniture invites you to relax and forget about time. It's a great place to gaze up at the sky and admire the stars at night with a drink! The skies there are very clear, by the way.
International drinks and cocktails, as well as great signature drinks, are available at the stylish Mouries Bar . The stylish interior, along with the old distillery with its kettle and old pipes, invites you to linger. In nice weather, you can also enjoy your drinks on the terrace.
Finally, the pool bar deserves a mention. Refreshing drinks and delicious snacks can be enjoyed right by the pool or served to your sunbathing spot. I highly recommend the Black Angus beef burger and the delicious pinsa! As well as the specialty cocktails like the Mike's Margarita or the lavender lemonade.
About the rooms
Hotel Kinsterna offers a variety of rooms, suites, and two villas with private pools. Due to the historic nature of the property, all rooms are different , with some featuring wooden ceilings, others vaulted ceilings, and individual details reminiscent of the building's history. However, they all offer the same basic standards. Decorations include traditional tapestries, luxurious marble bathrooms, shutters, and, especially beautiful, the herringbone-patterned wooden ceilings! Carpets are handmade, and the bed linens are of the highest quality. Modern and classic decorative objects are tastefully arranged. The ancient open fireplaces, which can be found in most of the rooms and suites, are particularly cozy on colder days. Naturally, all rooms feature modern amenities such as a minibar, smart TV, Wi-Fi, a safe, a pillow menu, and high-quality natural cosmetic products.
The categories : It starts with double rooms measuring 17-25 sqm, each one different, with different architectural elements, sometimes with views of the vineyards, the sea, or the orchards. Junior suites measuring 20-41 sqm, as well as the Byzantine suite measuring 28-31 sqm, offer a wonderful living experience. The Kinsterna Suite is the best-selling room category and, at 35-42 sqm, offers a spacious feel. It features an outdoor terrace, combined sea/mountain views, a fireplace, and a lace tapestry as decoration. The Kinsterna Family Suite, measuring 47-51 sqm, offers plenty of space for 2 adults and 2 children. It has a terrace or French balcony, as well as separate living and bedroom areas.
The three residence categories are particularly recommended: the Premium Residence (35-42 sqm) for up to 3 people and a spacious terrace with plenty of privacy and a large bathroom. The Deluxe Residence (51-60 sqm) accommodates up to 4 people (3 adults), offering extra space and a spacious terrace with a garden. The Master Residence (90-100 sqm) offers enormous space for up to 2-6 adults and also features a terrace with a garden, a walk-in closet, and two independent bedrooms that can be connected. It also offers a large living room with a dining area and a fireplace.
The highlight is undoubtedly the two Kinsterna Pool Villas, each 120 square meters and accommodating up to six people. The villas are characterized by their privacy, offering plenty of space, independence, and freedom on two levels. Design, sophisticated luxury, and traditional architecture complement each other perfectly. The terraces in the garden are spacious, and the villas share a private pool.
The excellent service at the Hotel Kinsterna is worth mentioning. Meticulous cleanliness in the rooms is a given, the minibar is restocked daily, and fresh water bottles are delivered to the room daily. There are always plenty of coffee capsules for the Nespresso machine in the rooms. Special requests are, of course, gladly fulfilled. The daily turndown service is a pleasant touch.
Highlights and what's gorgeous
The historic 17th-century manor house is impressive in itself , but I find what's been transformed into something truly gorgeous. The motto is to preserve the old and carefully incorporate the new . Discreet luxury and comfort meet genuine hospitality and tradition. You can practically feel the attention to detail and the passion! The conviction with which the concept of sustainability is implemented is truly remarkable. The cozy Linos Tavern is also fantastic, with its wonderfully romantic ambiance .
A daily stroll through the magnificent orchards and vegetable gardens, as well as the olive groves and vineyards, is a balm for the soul. The two pools alone deserve the "gorgeous" label; I've rarely seen such beautiful pool complexes!
Another highlight is certainly the range of sustainable activities that teach traditional agriculture such as olive and wine growing.
The hotel's location is perfect for a tour of the Peloponnese or Greece!
The Kinsterna has received numerous awards , most recently the Trip Advisor Travelers' Choice Award 2024 for the ninth year in a row. The Tourism Awards awarded the Kinsterna Gold in 2024.
Currently in 2025, the Kinsterna has received 2 keys from the Michelin Guide
Why go there?
The Kinsterna is a hideaway for lovers of charming country hotels. Mediterranean joie de vivre, tradition, and sustainability are paramount. Those seeking peace, relaxation, and individuality will be in the perfect place. Tourism here is moderate and sophisticated, the value for money is still reasonable compared to some of Greece's hotspots, and the service is extremely friendly and attentive . The hotel is ideal for exploring the area around Monemvasia and for excursions and sightseeing in the direction of Mani/Kalamata. The hotel can be perfectly integrated into tours of the Peloponnese or Greece .
The hotel offers the perfect romantic setting for weddings and honeymooners, as well as for eternal romantics! The hotel is certainly an experience for families, as you can experience nature and animals like horses, donkeys, sheep, and chickens up close; where else do you get that opportunity?
The hotel is also well-suited for corporate events, special events, and conferences. It offers suitable rooms and technical equipment.
Around the Hotel
The Peloponnese is a beautiful region of Greece, known for its rich history and breathtaking landscapes. Epidaurus, Mycenae, Corinth, and Olympia are just a few of the highlights on the peninsula. The area around Monemvasia is particularly notable for its impressive rock-top fortress and well-preserved Byzantine and Venetian buildings. Cultural sightseeing includes exploring the old town of Monemvasia and visiting ancient sites such as Mystras .
The nearby beaches are equally varied, ranging from quiet coves to lively beaches offering water sports. Particularly beautiful are the stunning beaches on the island of Elafonisos , which can be reached quickly by car and a short ferry ride. The landscape of Laconia is characterized by rugged mountains, but also rolling hills, olive groves, and crystal-clear waters, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and outdoor activities . Whether hiking, cycling, water sports or simply relaxing on the beach – the region has something for everyone.
My tips
As an absolute must, I would highly recommend a trip on the hotel's own yacht, the "Kinsterna." There are various routes. I booked the Damos - Gerakas excursion. It's an unforgettable experience to enjoy an exclusive picnic in a secluded bay, naturally with cool drinks and lovingly prepared snacks from the hotel. The view of historic Monemvasia from the boat is breathtaking. The boat tour concludes with lunch/dinner in Gerakas, a small fishing village nestled on a striking fjord.
Another tip: A day trip to Limeni, Mani . This small fishing village is picturesquely situated on an impressive bay. Turquoise water and typical stone houses...it looks stunningly beautiful. The O Takis taverna is highly recommended. Delicious Greek cuisine and fresh fish straight from the sea...you sit right by the water. What a highlight! With a bit of luck, you can admire sea turtles from your dining table . Advance reservations are recommended.
Monemvasia by night . First, have a meal in one of the small tavernas in the old town, then enjoy a few drinks in one of the bars and gaze at the night sky. The air is clear and there's little light pollution, so you can admire an impressive starry sky.
By the way, the parking situation in Monemvasia is a problem, so here's a tip: Park your car at the town's harbor and take a taxi to the historic town. It's inexpensive and saves you a long walk.
Getting there: From Athens Airport, take a rental car along well-maintained roads to Monemvasia. This is a relaxing journey, as the roads are well-maintained and there is little traffic outside of Athens. A good alternative is Kalamata Airport.
Book
Contact
Agios Stefanos, Monemvasia, Peloponnese, 23070, Greece.
T: (+30) 27320 66300
Phone: +30 27320 66116