The Margi

The upscale Margi hotel is a stylish getaway that attracts an equally stylish set of Athenians and international travelers. Interiors are sophisticated with a touch of rustic charm. The lobby sets the tone with ambient lighting and a color palette of camel and wood tones paired with Persian-style rugs, while seating clusters offer inviting corners in which to relax. The outdoor pool is one of the highlights here, a stylish area peppered with olive trees, bougainvillea, and lush greenery creeping over walls. This is the main area where guests congregate, and there's ample seating that invites lingering, from plush sunbeds lining the water's edge, to stylish sofas and chairs clustered in atmospheric corners complete with lanterns and rustic coffee tables. The area transforms in the evenings when it's illuminated by twinkle lights and lanterns, moody lighting that imbues it with a romantic atmosphere. Most of the guests here are leisure travelers, but the hotel also sees a fair share of business travelers. Event space is another draw that brings guests here for special functions. 

The hotel is situated in the seaside town of Vouliagmeni on the Athenian Riviera, about a 40-minute drive south of Athens, in a quiet and fairly residential area. The beach is about a two-minute walk away, and there are some dining options and cafes along the shore. Top attractions like the Acropolis and the Parthenon are about a 35-minute drive, but renting a car is advised as traveling by public transportation is time consuming. Athens International Airport is about a 30-minute drive from the hotel. 

Rooms feature chic contemporary decor in a pleasing beige and wood-toned color palette, though they're a bit small for a four-pearl hotel (and especially for one that bills itself as a luxury property). Plush white bedding stands out against the camel tones, while minimalist wooden furniture includes sleek desks and nightstands. All rooms have armchairs and suites feature living areas with sofa beds. Other standard amenities include flat-screen TVs, minibars, electronic safes, and free Wi-Fi, but there are no tea/coffee-making facilities in lower-category rooms. Junior Suites and up have Nespresso machines. Sleek, modern bathrooms are covered in large beige tiles that are paired with wooden sink vanities. They're equipped with walk-in rainfall showers; some suites have whirlpool tubs. Korres toiletries are a nice touch. All rooms open onto lovely private balconies furnished with outdoor sofas and coffee tables. Views either overlook the pool  or the picturesque neighborhood. 

The highlight and the hub of activity at The Margi is undoubtedly the outdoor pool, which features both plush sunbeds and chic seating areas framed by olive trees and wreathed in bougainvillea and other greenery. Four cabanas are also available for a fee, offering a more private experience and perks like chilled water, fresh fruit, and facial mist. The pool area is also home to a lovely bar offering cocktails and fresh fruit juices, as well as a restaurant (note that it's only open during the summer season) that serves Greek and international fare for lunch and dinner using organic ingredients from the hotel's own farm. During the winter season, Malabar InHouse serves Greek cuisine for dinner in a stylish indoor space. There's also a gourmet restaurant set in a lovely patio that serves tasting menus. The lobby lounge is open all day and serves a seasonal menu, including brunch and afternoon tea. An American breakfast buffet -- with made-to-order omelets -- is available for a fee.

The hotel has a chic spa with a sauna, steam room, and an indoor pool. It offers a variety of treatments, including massages, facials, and nail services. The fitness room doesn't have many machines, but it's a decent selection and good variety of TechnoGym equipment. Other features include a chic boutique that sells clothing and accessories from Greek brands. Meeting and event space is available, including conference rooms and outdoor space. Wi-Fi is free throughout.