Temple of Chic, Imaret Hotel
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to step back in time and live like a Greek in an ancient place? Kavala is the place to do exactly that (and more). Northern Greece’s second largest city is just a few hours by car from Thessaloniki and as it’s a hilly, port city it’s vibe is (for lack of a better term) romantic. A mere 62 miles from the Bulgarian border, It’s the gateway to the island of Thassos, famous for its snow white marble. A mysterious old city with winding cobblestone streets and a real Greek flavor, it’s a dreamy place where in summer ferries embark to the island of Samothrace.
Kavala feels important perhaps because of its history as part of the Ottoman empire for over 500 years. There is still an ancient castle on the hill and a rambling old town waiting to be explored. In the center of the city is an ancient aqueduct built in the Byzantine era. It also has a strong spiritual connection to Egypt having been the birthplace of Mohamed Ali Pasha, the founder of the Egyptian state. Should you forget all of this it probably wouldn’t matter as long as you remember Imaret. Imaret is Ali’s grand foundation built in 1817, a remnant, yes, of ancient times but ultimately a gift to his native town. When built it was a series of inter-related buildings, including schools, a mosque, a hamam, administrative offices and the Imaret itself (the Soup Kitchen). It quickly became a recognized center of learning throughout the Balkans but eventually fell into ruin and decline. Now, thanks to Ana Missirian’s brilliant intervention, it has again regained its former glory and splendor and has been renovated sensitively, without shedding any of the history. Let’s just say it’s definitely a horse of a different color in Kavala.
Today, Imaret is a five star hotel crowning the hillside of Panagia, Kavala’s old district, offering stunning views to the sea and the surrounding hills. It’s a city landmark and considered an architectural gem blending orient and western influences. It is in fact, the first hotel operating within a historical building in Greece and the land where the hotel stands is rented to Ana, the owner, for 100 years. All of the existing structures have been combined to form a lodging locus that is unlike any other. As part of the Small Leading Hotels, it is a temple of chic in a town that is high on looks and even higher on quality.
Imaret features 26 rooms and suites located around the 3 inner courtyards of the monument, the most impressive being the water garden. They are characterized by impressive architectural details and Ana’s completely individual decorative style. No two are the same. Suites have vaulted ceilings, large fireplaces and sunken tubs. Imagine spending your day in ultimate luxury relaxing at the indoor cistern, the hotel’s hidden secret, where you can enjoy a spectacular pool under a dome and take advantage of the hotel’s essential oils treatment. Have you thought about surrender yet? Head to the hamam where you’ll bathe away stress following an 18th century technique then give in to one of Imaret’s comprehensive massages.
Dining overlooking the harbor is a sensual experience with sea breezes, candlelight and a mesmerizing ambience. Starched linen napkins with an embroidered hem signal a level of elegance that sets the tone for stellar international cuisine. Have the fish soup followed by the day’s fresh catch, you’re still in Greece even though your mind may be residing on another planet by now. Give some thought to tomorrow’s activities … perhaps you’ll finish that book after all.
IMARET
30-32 Poulidou St.
Kavala, Greece 65110
30 2510 620151