Nestled in the heart of the Peloponnese, Manna Arcadia stands as a testament to history and healing. Once a sanatorium for tuberculosis patients, this iconic building, dating back to 1929, has been meticulously transformed into a 5-star wellness retreat.
A Historic Legacy
The story begins with Anna Mela Papadopoulou, an aristocrat who dedicated her life and fortune to treating wounded soldiers and tuberculosis patients. Her unwavering devotion earned her the title of the “Soldier’s Mother.” The sanatorium, named after her, thrived until 1938, harnessing the fresh mountain air and dense forest to aid patients.
This iconic building, influenced by neoclassical design, features cornices and gables. Following the closure and pillaging of the sanatorium, its valuable stone windowsills were distributed among new constructions, and its wooden roof was entirely relocated to a hospital in Tripoli.
Owner, Stratis Batayas, drawing inspiration from his childhood memories, conceived a year-round haven that pays tribute to the building’s heritage. Manna Arcadia, perched on Mount Mainalo, serves as a symbol of renewal and connection with nature.
This esteemed mountain retreat stands out for its blend of rustic charm and modern luxury, offering an alternative to the typical Greek seaside holiday. Tucked within lush greenery and presenting breath taking mountain views, it serves as a perfect setting for both unwinding and adventuring.
A Timeless Monument Reborn
Today, Manna Arcadia invites guests to lose themselves in its rich history serene ambiance of the mountains while enjoying top-notch amenities and personalized service. The interior, curated by K-Studio and Monogon Office of Architecture, pays homage to the past while embracing modern aesthetics. Natural materials including chestnut wood, wool, and linen to create a soothing palette, seamlessly blending with the preserved grey limestone and mosaic flooring.
The establishment boasts 32 rooms, including six suites, each meticulously designed to preserve the original lofty ceilings, refined décor, and spaciousness. Sustainable materials blend seamlessly with the surrounding fir forest and pond. Every room and suite emanates the allure of bygone days, creating an ideal setting for relaxation and inspiration that liberates both mind and soul, all while offering a luminous and airy ambiance. Essential amenities are provided with sustainability as a guiding principle.
MANNA restaurant, crafted by the acclaimed chef Athinagoras Kostakos, presents an ideal haven for enthusiasts of inventive cuisine. Drawing inspiration from the Mediterranean Diet and Greek culinary traditions, Chef Kostakos offers an unparalleled dining experience. The establishment serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, exclusively utilizing local ingredients of superior nutritional value, committed to ethical nutrition and serving food that soothes the soul while nurturing the body and mind.
Experiences of Absolute Well-Being
Revel in the healing properties of the sauna and hammam, unwind in the ‘cave’ pool, engage in meditation and yoga amidst nature or beside the indoor fireplace, and strengthen your physique in the well-appointed gym.
Nestled among forests, lakes, and pristine rivers, Manna provides an exceptional sense of liberty. Traverse the old-growth fir trees on horseback, paddle along the river, or forage for mushrooms in the woods. Be sure to try the acclaimed “Fir Tree Honey,” a local treasure.
This retreat is an essential addition to your travel list for its promise of peace, natural beauty, and a chance to immerse oneself in the unspoiled landscapes of Greece.