WHISPERS OF ANTIQUITY, SYMPHONY OF LUXURY: A JOURNEY THROUGH THE DOLLI AT ACROPOLIS
Imagine a place where whispers of antiquity mingle with the invigorating pulse of a modern metropolis. Picture a haven where bespoke luxury meets the soul of a city, and every detail unfolds like a captivating narrative. This, dear reader, is The Dolli, a recent arrival upon the Athens hospitality scene that has stolen hearts and garnered accolades in equal measure.
First Erected in 1925, this neoclassical gem stands as testament to a bygone era.
Our story begins not with the Dolli itself, but with a grand dame – the Kallimasiotis Mansion. Erected in 1925 by the esteemed architect Andreas Kriezis, this neoclassical structure stood as a testament to a bygone era. In the discerning eyes of Mari Daskalantonakis, however, it held the potential for a glorious rebirth.
Daskalantonakis, the visionary owner and CEO of Grecotel, Greece’s leading hospitality group, embarked on a meticulous seven-year odyssey to transform the mansion into The Dolli. Two years were dedicated solely to conceptualizing the essence of the hotel. “Should it be a residence, a classic hotel, or a new-age definition of hospitality?” she pondered. The answer, like the soul of Athens itself, was beautifully complex.
Stepping inside the captivating lobby transports into a world of exquisite curation.
The Dolli, christened after a beloved Athenian term for “doll,” was envisioned as a feminine entity, mirroring the city’s ancient spirit. It would be a sanctuary for the discerning traveler, a launchpad not just for sightseeing, but for truly experiencing the vibrant tapestry of Athenian life.
The true pièce de résistance; breathtaking panoramas of Athens' cultural treasures.
Location, as always, played a pivotal role. Nestled in the heart of Plaka, Athens’ historic district, The Dolli boasts unparalleled proximity to the Acropolis. Stepping out of the hotel’s immaculate facade, with its soaring arches and grand windows, one is immediately immersed in the city’s vibrant energy. A symphony of colorful houses and picturesque cobbled streets unfolds, a sensory feast beckoning exploration.
But the true pièce de résistance is undoubtedly the view. From the privacy of one’s impeccably appointed suite or apartment, breathtaking panoramas of Athens’ cultural treasures come into focus. The Parthenon, the Erechtheion, the Ancient Agora – these iconic landmarks stand sentinel, seemingly within reach. The Dolli, in its very essence, epitomizes the harmonious confluence of historical marvel and contemporary dynamism.
The Dolli epitomizes harmonious confluence of historical marvel and contemporary dynamism.
As you step inside The Dolli’s captivating lobby, prepare to be transported into a world of exquisite curation. Original works by Pablo Picasso and Jean Cocteau share wall space with whimsical creations by François-Xavier and Claude Lalanne. Antiques from the 18th century mingle seamlessly with bespoke furniture and contemporary design pieces by the likes of Pierre Augustin Rose and Seung Jin Yang. A collection of ancient Greek ceramics completes this tableau of timeless elegance.
18th century Antiques mingle seamlessly with bespoke furniture and contemporary design pieces.
The 46 guest quarters – a beguiling blend of rooms, suites, and apartments – are sanctuaries of light and comfort. Each one is a canvas upon which sophisticated living is writ large. Imagine waking up to Athenian sunlight streaming through expansive windows, the promise of adventure beckoning just beyond.
The beguiling blend of rooms, suites, and apartments – are sanctuaries of light and comfort.
Culinary experiences at The Dolli are as unforgettable as the views. The rooftop restaurant is a haven for the discerning palate, offering an enticing exploration of new Greek cuisine. Here, amidst art-filled spaces bathed in natural light, guests savor dishes that weave together the finest local ingredients with age-old recipes and innovative techniques. Light bites and beverages are a constant temptation, whether enjoyed in the chic confines of the Salon or the intimate Le Bar Secret.
The Athenian sun dips below the horizon, casting the ancient citadel in a mesmerizing glow.
And then there’s the pièce de résistance – the infinity pool. Voted one of the world’s finest, it offers an unparalleled perspective of the Acropolis. Imagine sipping on a signature cocktail as the Athenian sun dips below the horizon, casting the ancient citadel in a mesmerizing glow.
The Dolli is a sanctuary for the soul, and a testament to the enduring magic of hospitality.
The Dolli is more than just a hotel; it’s a testament to Daskalantonakis’ vision. It’s a place where history whispers secrets to the contemporary world, where luxury is imbued with a sense of place, and where every detail – from the meticulously restored facade to the curated art collection – narrates a captivating story. The Dolli is an Athenian jewel reborn, a sanctuary for the soul, and a testament to the enduring magic of hospitality.
