Andy Mossack stays at the new Asomaton boutique hotel in the centre of one of Athens’ trendiest neighbourhoods.
Sunday morning and I’m sitting in warm sunshine on the roof terrace of the Asomaton boutique hotel eating a freshly prepared breakfast with nothing but the Acropolis for company. Talk about decadent living.
It’s a lofty enough perch to get a proper bird’s-eye view of Athens. A 360-degree tapestry of history, artistry and democracy having a right royal debate with bohemianism, hipsterism, politics and general mayhem. All playing out down below.
But up here, in the luxurious oasis of calmness that is the Asomaton, I’m just lying back, nibbling on a fresh pastry, and feeling rather godlike.
Like most of the buildings in Athens, Asomaton’s home has had a few years under its belt. This 19th-century former workshop garage in the uber-trendy Psirri neighbourhood used to repair carriage wheels and wheelbarrows before being artfully repurposed as a designer boutique hotel. Beautifully restored, under the watchful eye of the Greek Ministry of Culture, there’s plenty of original exposed brickwork and wood in here, and not a hint externally of what lies behind. Its three floors are connected by a network of steel staircases, balancing the semi-industrial feel with plenty of modern art by New York-based Greek artist Philip Tsiaras aka the ‘Greek Warhol’.
But the surprises keep on coming. Astoundingly, there’s a plunge pool in the lobby, a couple of very comfy sunbeds for pre and post plunge, and some tables for a breakfast plan B if the weather’s not favourable up on the roof.
There are 19 guestrooms ranging in size from a cosy nest to a more spacious loft or even an Experience Suite. But each one has been thoughtfully crafted to maximise the space provided by its former self. Some have little sun terraces with a table and chairs, others have balconies, either street-facing or with the Acropolis firmly framed front and centre. But whichever you choose, the interiors are stylish, contemporary, and welcomely minimalist.
White walls and exposed brickwork provide the canvass for soft pastel grey and burnt orange interiors interspersed with Tsiaras artworks above a king bed with high thread linen. You’ll find a minibar tucked away in a discreet corner adorned with a Nespresso machine and a kettle. And in the bathroom, a rain forest shower, luxury branded toiletries and robes and slippers.
I’m in Athens to discover her alternative side. No ancient stones for me on this trip, more spray painting and tagging experiences as I admire the remarkable street murals around the city. My bijou terrace is a relaxing spot to recover from a day touring the streets. A coffee, birdsong, and the last remnants of sunshine, before readying myself for the night ahead.
The indoor plunge pool is a lovely touch I have to say. The lobby reception primed and ready to offer a drink by the sunbed if required. I can see it being put to plenty of use escaping the heat of Athens’ blisteringly hot summer months. Again, beautifully put together, like an ancient oasis.
The jewel in Asomaton’s crown though is the roof terrace. Breakfast aside, it’s a perfect space for an early evening drink as the sun sets and the lights begin to twinkle all around the city.
Asomaton boutique hotel is perfect for a city-based stay. It’s a 5-minute walk to Thisio metro station, the ancient Agora and the Monastiraki Square flea market. Just a bit further on is Plaka and the Acropolis while a few minutes the other way lies Syntagma Square.
As for me, I might just get another breakfast coffee and keep the godlike feel for a little longer.
All hotel images © Christos Drazos Photography
Tell me more about Asomaton Boutique Hotel in Athens
Asomaton Hotel, Agion Asomaton 10 Athens – Greece
T: +30 210 32 49 109 E: reservations@asomaton.com
From £90 per room per night includes breakfast and all the relevant taxes.
Getting to Athens
Olympic Holidays can organise week or long weekend breaks or simply flights via easyJet direct to Athens from the UK.
Parking at Gatwick with APH
Airport Parking and Hotels offers a wide range of parking and overnight hotel stays at all major UK airports. One week of Meet & Greet airport parking at London Gatwick Airport costs from just £68 in December 2021. For the latest prices and to book, call 01342 859442
