MANNA Hotel in Arcadia Greece: Discovering Serenity in the Greek Mountains

The highlights of what New Vibration Travel loves most about MANNA Hotel:

A year-round escape in nature's embrace

MANNA Hotel is an all-year-round retreat, where nature is not just at your doorstep but at the very core of the experience. The location feels like a newfound discovery, yet rich in history and existence. There are trailheads within 2 minutes walk from the property for all levels of hiking and are perfectly marked for comfortable exploration. It's unique hiking with a mix of nature trails and town-hopping paths. Around 35 minutes drive from the hotel property is the most beautiful river you will ever see in your life, the Lousios River. Hiking along the river all year-round is gorgeous and rafting excursions can also be coordinated.

Conscious property

The hotel operates with a deep commitment to sustainability, which New Vibration Travel vetted. There’s no single-use plastic to be found, and locals are employed to ensure that the surrounding community thrives and guests are provided recommendations. The food is sourced locally, celebrating the flavors of the region, while the cuisine is crafted to highlight the best of Greek traditions. (Must order the chocolate ice cream) The walls are adorned with art from Greek designers, making every corner of the hotel a testament to local creativity and culture.

Thoughtful design

From the moment you step inside, you’re enveloped in a warm, home-like energy. The main floor of the hotel feels like a family living room. With oversized sofas inviting you to relax, a creatively designed bar and spaces set up for work, reading or socializing. Board games are on hand for leisurely afternoons, and no matter where you sit, you’re treated to breathtaking views. Every angle and every seat offers a new perspective on the surrounding beauty, all thanks to the thoughtful design. Throughout the property, the neutral tones allow the green outside to really pop. A hotel that lets nature inside and take the center stage is a New Vibration Travel favorite.

Deep connection

The connection to the land and region is palpable, beginning with the hotel’s owner Stratis Batayas, who spent his childhood summers in the area. As a child, he was fascinated by the former sanatorium that stood vacant, and he and his friends would sneak in, drawn to its mystery. Today, that childhood connection has evolved into a deep, respectful relationship with the building and the area, much like a musician with a strong stage presence captivates an audience. You can feel this connection throughout the property, in every detail. Going back to the staff — it's special there are so many locals and Greek staff members that share their families stories with the region of Arcadia.

An easy, scenic journey

The journey from Athens is as beautiful as the destination itself. The drive is scenic, with charming towns dotting the route, each one easy to explore. Along the way, gas stations sell local delights like feta cheese and grains, adding to the sense of being immersed in the region’s rich culture and traditions. The towns around Arcadia, Greece, are steeped in history, mythology and natural beauty. Each village and town offers a unique glimpse into traditional Greek life, surrounded by stunning landscapes of mountains, forests and rivers.

When To Go: In the Spring, Summer or Fall this is the most perfect pairing with an island and a couple nights in Athens. If you find yourself in Athens in the winter then this is absolute worth extending a few nights and visiting Arcadia. No matter the time of year; it will be perfection. For those in New York and Philadelphia with direct flights to Athens a stay at MANNA Hotel is honestly the perfect 5 night getaway when you need a break from your kids or perhaps are down for the overnight flight to wake up somewhere magical.

Who is this best for: Adults only property which honestly (even as a mom) I feel adds to the perfection. Kids 12 + are welcome. A stay here is not just a getaway, but an immersion into a lifestyle that values consciousness, coziness, and connection.

A must: Rent a car. You need it to truly explore off property and experience the rivers and villages around Arcadia and the Peloponnese mountains. It's a very safe and easy drive from Athens and all around the villages.

Reach out to New Vibration Travel to help you plan your trip to Greece and figure out your best way to incorporate MANNA Hotel into your itinerary. OR to design your trip around MANNA Hotel because a stay here is not just a getaway, but an immersion into a lifestyle that values consciousness, coziness, and connection.

This trip report is part of our ongoing series on travel to Greece. In need of further inspiration? Check out Meagan Brown's guide, Your Ultimate Milos Travel Guide.