Greek Architects

Tainaron Blue Retreat in Vathia, Greece

Tainaron Blue Retreat is housed in an early 19th-century stone tower that boasts stunning panoramic views of the southernmost slope of Taygetos Mountain and the sea. Perfectly situated in an idyllic location, it is an ideal place to watch the magical sunset over the sea or witness the serene beauty of a new day dawning.

This traditional tower is a perfect example of the defensive architecture of the area. With their simple and austere beauty, the imposing towers of Mani resist the passage of time and offer a fascinating journey into the past. In times of conflict, they served to control and repel hostile attacks, while in times of peace and prosperity they were used as residential places and courtyards.

During the conversion of this three-story tower into a guest house we encountered considerable difficulties. We had to adapt to the specific characteristics of the architecture of Mani and at the same time ensure that the interior spaces keep pace with modern aesthetics. The structure inside and outside of the tower had to remain unchanged, while all modern facilities and infrastructure had to be settled imperceptibly.

As the formation of the exterior spaces had to ensure minimum interference, the addition of a water surface area was adapted to the specific environment and respected the topography of the landscape, resulting in an even and unified set of buildings and space with intensity and character.

Location

Tainaron Blue Retreat is located in a place of mystery, myths and natural beauty.

For thousands of years, Cape Tainaron (formerly known as Cape Matapan) has been a unique region full of mystery, myths and natural beauty.

According to Pausanias, this is where a Temple to Poseidon had been built. Poseidon was worshiped especially by Lakones, and the temple became the center of the “Brotherhood of Freelakones”.

There is also a cave at the tip of the Cape, that legends claim it was the home of Hades, the god of the Underworld. According to the ancient Greek mythology, Cerberus, a three-headed dog guarded the gate, to prevent the dead from escaping and the living from entering.