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The scruffy northern Greek port of Kavala might not top your list of honeymoon destinations, but this historic hideaway in the Old Town is shamelessly romantic. Built by the Egyptian Pasha Mohamed Ali in 1817,
the walled seminary languished for almost
a century until a local tobacco magnate convinced the authorities to let her restore it. The result is downright decadent. Twenty-seven generously sized rooms and suites overlook three courtyards linked by arched promenades, sprinkled with burbling fountains, fragrant orange trees, and secret nooks heaped with cushions. Oriental interiors blend original features wooden sleeping platforms, huge fireplaces, vaulted roofs pierced with skylights with luxe updates such as Molton Brown candles, Bulgari toiletries and Frette linen. Huge bathrooms with sunken marble baths and picture windows (with sea, harbour or garden views) encourage indulgence. You can drift through domed pools lit by dozens of candles, get scrubbed up in the shimmering amethyst hammam, or rubbed down in the womb-like treatment rooms. The former prayer room, with its antique chess set and rare books, also invites quiet contemplation. Breakfasts are lavish and service impeccable in the elegant restaurant, where the Mediterranean evening menu features organic ingredients from the garden. Tours can be arranged to the ancient theatre of Philippi (Greek dramas are staged under the stars in summer), Nestos National Park and far-flung Thassos island.
WHEN TO GO
Any time the urge to escape overcomes you.
ROOM TO BOOK
One of the three Water Garden Suites, which have two bathrooms
so that couples can enjoy private bath treatments with relaxing essential oils.
CONTACT
3032 Th. Poulidou Street, Kavala, Greece (00 30 2510 620151; www.imaret.gr).
COST
Doubles from 250 euros; suites from 550 euros
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