Olean Tranquility Meets Michelin in Greece
In my more recent years of travel, which now span nearly two decades internationally, I would often consult the Guide Michelin to peruse the local culinary scene. Eventually this exercise prevailed in regularly providing some of my most memorable, and certainly delectable, of experiences. Though typically my primary focus when it comes to travel centers around the stay, namely the location (and all that entails) certainly to include the hotel or logement. Naturally, indulging in the local cuisine stands an indispensable element of any voyage as well. Which given the impending summer travel season had me recently reminiscing on past Aegean summerings when Michelin’s Grecian Keys were announced last month.
En route to Navagio, Shipwreck, Beach, Greece (August 2021) — Joy de Voyage, LLC © 2021
For fellow Michelin enthusiasts (and seekers of its Stars), you may already be acquainted with the Michelin Keys. Launched last year in April 2024, Michelin extended its extensive reviews and coveted approvals to hotels, and as mentioned the victors in Greece were just recently announced. Among these I was pleased to see listed one of my most special Grecian getaways, Olea, on the fabled western Ionian island of Zakynthos. (Which given my affinity for design I must note that Olea is also a member of Design Hotels.) Bestowed with one Michelin Key, Olea ardently delivers on “a very special stay.”
Poolside at Olea, Zakynthos, Greece (August 2021) — Joy de Voyage, LLC © 2021
Though Olea and Zakynthos may not immediately come to mind when envisioning an escapist sojourn in Greece, after traveling to some more visited isles, I opted for a less congested, yet equally appealing, alternative. And naturally, one that maintains a certain je ne sais quoi whilst simultaneously incorporating and exuding locally-sourced inspiration from every element of its essence. Olea effortlessly imbues the warmth of the Mediterranean across its perfectly punctuating accommodations, amenities, and multiple on-site restaurants and bars, many of which boast panoramic views beset in utmost tranquility. It further refines this esprit throughout its select natural materials and the modern contours of its grounds, perfectly juxtaposing Aegean and Arcadian aesthetics.
Santé (August 2021) — Joy de Voyage, LLC © 2021
Olea truly affords a refined retreat in its Mediterranean oasis of tranquility. Everything from the welcome upon arrival to its luxurious suites and spa usher in resplendent relaxation. While its abundant and delicious dining al fresco range from conveniently poolside to picturesquely framing sunset hilltop vistas. (Additionally, its bountiful daily petit-déj (breakfast) never disappointed, as I could similarly never get enough of its irresistible yogurt and local natural accoutrements.) Olea also is an adult-friendly stay, which further helps guarantee its tranquil setting, by serving guests at least 12 years and older.
This Michelin hotel also offers and can happily accommodate various itineraries to explore the beautiful local surrounds, including the famed Navagio, or Shipwreck, Beach. It is also advisable to pair this stay, or that of any other Greek island, with a brief stopover in Athens. This affords you requisite time to see the city’s incredible and historic highlights while still allowing for ample time to discover its desired isles. Thus be sure to explore the sublimity of Olea as well as Michelin’s other recently awarded Keys across this stunning Aegean nation and influential epicenter of Western civilization.
Athens, Greece (August 2021) — Joy de Voyage, LLC © 2021
