The philosophy behind the lodge has always been to share the beauty of the Zagori region and Aristi to the world, and the construction of the Greenhouse is another means for continuing this journey. Not only can guests discover this destination, but they can now explore the destination through taste. With seasonal organic vegetables, fruits and herbs growing on-site, guests have access to the finest and freshest quality ingredients all from the comfort of this beautiful hotel.
Situated in west Zagori, Epirus in north-western Greece, Aristi Mountain Resort & Villas is delighted to announce its brand new natural dining concept Greenhouse. Bring the natural wonders of the UNESCO World Heritage Site closer than ever before. Guests can dine on fresh produce grown by the hotel whilst surrounded by breathtaking vistas of Vikos Gorge's eastern wall and the Mt. Astraka scenery. As the delightful owner Mr. Vassilis Iosifides shares:
“Aristi is surrounded by such wild and beautiful nature that the ethos of the property is to embrace this and for Aristi Mountain Resort & Villas to complement its natural surroundings. That is what we wanted to reflect with this Greenhouse by creating a place that further highlights this unique environment”
The Greenhouse
Following the strict architectural guidelines of the region, its surroundings were built using the traditional stone also found in the village, with all the windows’ weight and height corresponding with the regulations of the 18th century. Zagori is one of the most protected and best preserved traditional settlements in Greece and is currently under consideration for the UNESCO World Heritage List. The Greenhouse will grow seasonal ingredients to be used for cooking. From November to February, guests can expect dishes centred around spinach, arugula, beets, lettuce, broccoli, parsley and celery. From March to October, the hotel cuisine will include fresh tomato, cucumber, peppers, eggplant, basil and coriander. Alongside the Greenhouse, Aristi Mountain Resort & Villas will also continue to support the local community by using free-range meats and sourcing from local farmers and artisan producers.
The Brunch
A fine food enthusiast’s dream, guests can now enjoy a Greenhouse Brunch on the patio with a menu inspired by the seasonal produce being grown at the hotel. Indulge in the traditional Zagori pie prepared using that current seasons fresh ingredients and cooked in the Greenhouse stone oven. Guests will also continue to enjoy the hotel’s breakfast menu including pastries, eggs of the day and freshly grown watermelon and strawberries. Greek sweets are also available such as pasteli (honey/nut bars), mantolato (soft nougat) and halva (sweets made with sesame paste).
The Cooking Workshop
For the budding chef, Aristi Mountain Resort & Villas has also introduced a cooking course available at the new Greenhouse. Explore traditional local cuisine as the hotel’s chefs share all the tricks and flavours of authentic Greek dishes. Guests will learn to prepare a full three course meal using hand-pick fresh organic ingredients from the Greenhouse, as well as local produce. The menu includes favourites such as handmake tzatziki, traditional greek salad, lamb with potatoes as well as the famous Zagori pie. Once all dishes have been perfected, guests can then enjoy their creations on the patio of the Greenhouse, al fresco style.
Getting there
Merely 40 minutes from Ioannina airport and 2.5 hours’ drive from Thessaloniki airport, Aristi Mountain Resort & Villas is easily accessible yet entirely remote, making for an intimate mountain escape. The property is also a member of the Zagori Excellence Network and National Geographic’s Unique Lodges of the World.
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Vangelis Paterakis
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