Live the Summer at Four Seasons Astir Palace Athens

With sunny days and blue skies reigning in Athens, the heady days of summer are literally around the corner in the ancient yet constantly-evolving Greek capital.

At Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens, located in an unrivalled location on the sparkling Athens Riviera, an inviting array of exciting new sports and recreational activities awaits guests.

From discovering Hippocrates’ healing secrets, morning meditation and Pilates classes to star-gazing and learning rousing Greek dances, there is something to suit everyone.

Youngsters, from toddlers to teens, can choose from a diverse selection of activities ranging from seashell painting and treasure hunts to STEM workshops and DJ tutorials.

From June through October, this vibrant city enjoys a good six months of deliciously warm weather. So, there’s plenty of time to drink in the energising Attican light and mull the myriad activities, spanning the gamut from laidback to active, on offer at this chic seaside hotel.

For the Fitness-Minded

Answering a growing desire among travellers to stay true to their fitness goals while they are on vacation or taking a business trip, Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens this year introduces aqua bike classes, cycling sessions and tennis lessons.

Tone up with an outdoor cycling group class that takes in views of the Saronic Gulf or stay cool while boosting cardiovascular fitness with a joint-friendly aqua cycling session in the Nafsika pool.

Pilates enthusiasts can get their fix of strength and flexibility training with a group class run by a member of the Hotel’s dedicated fitness team or opt for a personalised session led by a certified instructor and featuring BASI reformer machines.

Choose from an assortment of fitness classes, including heart-racing HIIT, soothing or more challenging yoga, deep stretching, focused core work, functional training and all-important mobility.

Tap into Spirituality and Healing

This year, the Hotel’s Spa, inspired by the ancient Greek physician considered to be the father of medicine, introduces Hippocrates’ Recipes.

Small group workshops, to take place at the Spa Suite weekly, will teach guests about select Hippocratic philosophies and show them how to conduct their own at-home mini spa sessions.

Take a moment to detox then learn easy methods to relax and revive mind and body by drawing on the infinite healing power of water, essential oils and herbs.

For those who may have already discovered the powerful, multi-faceted benefits associated with meditation, but also those curious to learn, the Hotel is launching hour-long open-air group and private practice sessions twice weekly.

Simply Let Go and Have Fun

There’s something about the heady combination of Greece’s salty sea air, rhythmic music and the warm, open nature of its people that encourages boldness, champions individual expression and values freedom.

Now, more than ever, is the time to live life out loud and there’s no better way to let loose, shake off stress and convey innermost thoughts than to dance.

At the Hotel’s Taverna 37, hour-long spirit-boosting Greek dance lessons will be held weekly from June through September. Follow in the footsteps of Anthony Quinn and learn the Sirtaki that the actor made famous in the silver screen classic Zorba but also Hasapiko, Kalamatiano and Ikariotikos in group sessions, or on a private basis. If nothing else, laughs are guaranteed.

Calling All Sporty Types

Game for a little golf practice? Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens will run outdoor driving range lessons with biodegradable balls, for one to two persons, led by an expert instructor from June through September.

As an alternative to sinking a putt, guests might aim to hit a bullseye. Book an archery session, also open to teens, to be held weekly from June through October.

Be Inspired

Spending time soaking up the Mediterranean’s easygoing vibes and admiring enduring ancient wonders may well awaken a yearning to create. Why not seize the opportunity and learn the archaic art of mosaic-making in a forest setting.

Pottery-making, believed to promote joint dexterity and release feel-good dopamine, is also available. Held once a week, these small group classes run for three hours and are suited to all ages. Private lessons can be arranged upon request.

Another way to seek divine inspiration is to look to the heavens. Lay back in a lounge chair or pillows and participate in a star-gazing session, to be held monthly depending on weather conditions and the moon’s phase. An expert will be on hand to guide guests in spotting constellations with the use of telescopes.

Just for the Kids

Young guests staying at Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens are truly spoiled for choice. This season, the variety of activities is unparalleled, with dozens to choose from.

Those aged four and up can paint t-shirts, make bracelets, play bowling, learn the basics of robotics or chemistry, take a wellness class or create postcards, among other things.

Teens can partake in watersports, learn how to DJ, play basketball, soccer, golf or tennis, or engage in a STEM workshop. In addition, weekly theme nights hosting parents and children will be held, highlighting Greek traditions such as Karagiozis shadow puppet theatre.

For reservations, call +30 210 890 1000 or book online.