Luxury in Greece: Astir of Paros

Some of the world’s most remarkable and luxurious destinations are off the beaten path in places we least expect. Such is the case with the Astir of Paros, a 5-star luxury beach resort on the Greek island of Paros, where couples, families and businessmen go to escape from reality and get lost in the magic of the Aegean Sea.

Paros is best-known for low key, laidback vacations. While some of the more popular islands like Santorini become overrun with throngs of tourists during the summer months, Paros maintains an atmosphere of peace and tranquility that makes it ideal.

Astir of Paros beach access. Photo: Eugenia Lazaris

On the Greek Islands, the rest of the world simply melts away. Problems cease to exist. Real life quickly becomes a fading memory as you slip into the luxury of the Astir, a premier island getaway that offers unparalleled comfort in an unmatched setting. Located on the northern face of Paros, the Astir allows guests to have the full Greek Island experience without leaving the resort. The buildings are whitewashed in typical island style and situated on a private stretch of beach. The property has a seaside swimming pool, allowing you to swim and sunbathe on the beach without getting sand in your toes. The poolside bar will keep the snacks and drinks flowing, leaving you with absolutely no reason to do anything but relax and enjoy your vacation.

The Astir has left nothing to chance, ensuring every amenity imaginable is available to make your stay one of pure perfection. In addition to the usual WIFI, gym, room service and laundry service, the Astir takes it a step further to make your stay is a pampered one. The resort is equipped with a helipad for jetsetters, a tennis court and a three-hole golf course. Art lovers can explore the on-site Venus Art Gallery featuring Greek and International contemporary artists. If guests require medical attention, a doctor is on call and salon services are available upon request.

Photo: Eugenia Lazaris

Families with children are catered to at the Astir with plenty of water sports and horseback riding around the island. If Mom and Dad need some alone time or need to attend to business in the resort’s conference facilities, hotel staff can provide babysitting services upon request. Cars for hire can be arranged by your concierge, as well as shuttle rides to and from the airport or port.

Octopus drying in Naousa in Paros, Greece. Photo: Eugenia Lazaris

Luxury resorts must have world-class restaurants, and the Astir doesn’t disappoint. With two restaurants to chose from, the talented chefs make magic with the freshest of ingredients. Aeolos offers sushi and contemporary Asian fare, while Poseidon brings Mediterranean cuisine to new heights. Both offer bio (organic) choices and allow guests to dine in a stunning setting overlooking the beach with the lights of the nearby town twinkling in the distance.

While the Astir is located away from the island’s main drag, it is by no means isolated from civilization.  In just a few minutes you can be in nearby Naousa, a picturesque fishing village that offers a maze of narrow streets filled with restaurants, bars, shops and playgrounds. Roaming Naousa allows you to get a true picture of island life. Amid the tourists are local fishermen tending their boats, bringing in their catch and hanging octopus to dry in the sun.

From the moment you arrive at the Astir of Paros, you will want your vacation to go on forever, but since all good things must eventually come to an end, you will instead find yourself planning your next trip to this beautiful island paradise.