The Grande Bretagne is not simply a luxury hotel in Athens (surely the most luxurious establishment in Greece) - it is an institution in itself. Ever since it opened its doors to receive the first visitor in 1874, the Grande Bretagne has been a point of reference in the social, political and economic life of Athens and, by extension, of the whole of Greece.
Over the 126 years of the hotel' s existence one also observes the evolution of a basically agricultural society -just half a century after the country's liberation from the Ottoman rule and the creation of a tiny, impoverished country- through the gradual stages of development leading to a modern State and the creation of an important middle class with a European character.
Over this period, the country lived through an unfortunate war with Turkey, two Balkan Wars that tripled its territory, two World War~, the Asia Minor Disaster and its accompanying radical transformation of the structure of Greek society, and the Civil War, with its catastrophic consequences.
At the same time, the nature of visitors travelling to Greece changed radically, passing from a few thousand wealthy travellers -admirers of Ancient Greece and its monuments- to millions of visitors, whose interests also encompass seaside resorts, entertainment, business or governmental liasing.
All of these developments had serious repercussions on the Grande Bretagne's evolution, whose very creation -thanks to Efstathios Lampas' perspicacity- though undoubtedly excessive when compared to the needs of the time, was instrumental in both introducing Western standards and creating a strong bourgeois mentality in what as yet was the young Athenian society. The existence of a hotel on an equal footing with similar European establishments, where visitors felt at ease in a familiar environment, contributed to the development of a flow of high-level travellers and became the prototype for the later development of other hotels and related activities.
Crowned kings and princes, Heads of State, Prime Ministers and Ministers, business tycoons, prominent names in Literature and the Arts, renowned journalists, well-known theatre actors and film stars and many other travellers were regular patrons of the hotel~ which became the Greek State's official guesthouse.
Athenian society embraced the hotel. The Grande Bretagne, in the way of the great luxurious hotels in the rest of Europe, was always the venue of the Greek capital's important social gatherings. Receptions, balls, cotillions, marriages, fashion shows and banquets were regularly held in the hotel's halls, while the lounges, salons and the bar were the meeting place of businessmen, politicians and journalists at the same time as being a favourite haunt of cosmopolitan Athenians.
As the history of the Grande Bretagne unfolds, so does the transformation of the city of Athens, as well as the political history of Greece, with which the hotel is indissolubly associated. There is no political or historical event in modern Greek history with which the Grande Bretagne is not somehow linked, by one means or another.
It should be noted that, with the exception of the 36 new rooms added on the sixth and seventh floors in 1974 and the creation of the GB Corner and new bar in 1976, no major modernization had been carried out on the Grande Bretagne’s premises since the mid-1950’s, when the wing overlooking Constitution Square was rebuilt.
As a result, the hotel's furniture, and its interior decorating in general, were beginning to show signs of "time fatigue", while all of its installations (heating, air conditioning, bathroom facilities, lifts, telephone appliances, etc.) had become antiquated, constantly breaking down and needing maintenance.
In this respect, the year 2000 marked an important milestone in the Grande Bretagne’s recent history as it heralded the entry of Hyatt Regency SA in the capital of Hellenic Hotels Lampsas SA. Through the Athens Stock Exchange, Hyatt Regency acquired a majority stake in the company, allowing it to control the Board of Directors and implement a radical renovation of the hotel's premises. In 2005 Hyatt, following a restructuring of its strategic planning, sold its shares in the owing company of the Hotel Grande Bretagne to the Laskaridis shipping family, who were already major shareholders in Hellenic Hotels Lampsa SA. Following this transaction, the Laskaridis family controls in excess of 60% of the equity.
The Grande Bretagne has been restored to its former glory and transformed into an establishment capable of meeting the modern requirements of hotel hospitality, while simultaneously contributing to the upgrading of Athens' hotel infrastructure.
Finally, it is not by accident that Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide Inc., the large international corporation in charge of the hotel's management for the next twenty-five years, has listed the Grande Bretagne in its “Luxury Collection", which includes some of the most luxurious hotels across the globe.
Approximately 82 million euros were invested to create a state-of-the-art, five-star hotel worthy of that title. Reconstructed from top to bottom, it features 290 rooms and 31 suites, all of them newly refurbished, and redecorated in keeping with the old Grande Bretagne’s traditional style. These are completed by modern networks and facilities, the hotel's premises also housing three restaurants, two swimming pools, a spa, spacious halls and conference rooms as well as all other comforts expected of a European deluxe hotel of the twenty-first century.
Luxurious fabrics and restored antiques personalize our 321 rooms and suites, all newly renovated. Distinctly refined residential elegance is reflected in each of the 59 well appointed suites, while butlers and staff provide unsurpassed service.
All rooms and suites offer the finest appointments : beds are cocoon of pure comfort with multiple pillows and cloud soft douvets, plush bathrobes and slippers the wall-to-wall marble bathrooms are well designed with fog resistant mirrors, quality amenities and lighted magnifying mirrors.
All rooms are equipped with cable television, voice mail, high-speed internet, minibar and wood-paneled wordrobes with in-room safes Precious fabrics, fine furnishings, and the latest high tech facilities, carefully combined to preserve a perfect harmony.
In detail: - Classic Rooms 122 - Deluxe Rooms 140 - Junior Suites 22 - Deluxe Suites 16 - Grand Suites 16 - Grand Deluxe Suites 3 - Presidential Suite 1 - Royal Suite 1
Classic rooms The historic features typical of the classic rooms were meticulously restored during the Hotels renovation. The warm yellows and reds in the decor reflect elegance and charm. The average size of these rooms, which offer a choice of king, queen, or twin beds is 27 m2/290 ft2 Rooms with connecting doors and with balconies are available.
Deluxe rooms The special features of the premium deluxe rooms are warm colors, classical furnishings and unique views of the Parliament and Lykabettos Hill. With an average of 33m2/355ft2 these rooms epitomise class and sophisticated style. The accommodation offers a choice of king or twin beds.
Junior suite Elegantly furnished in a classical style and accented with antique oil paintings, these rooms vary in size (an average of 44 m2/470 ft2) and layout, typical of the hotel’s historic character and unique heritage. The exceptional views of Constitution Square, the Acropolis, or the Lykabettos Hill provide the finishing touches. There is a choice of king or twin beds in this accommodation.
Deluxe suite These suites are graciously decorated in classical style, finished in cream tones and earth colors. They have an average size of 50m2/530 ft2, and are comprised of one bedroom and a sitting room. This suite is the ideal place to become your hideaway for a day, a week, a year. Space to live in and to experience the charm of a grand hotel blended with the exquisiteness of a private home.
Grand suite Indulge your taste for the finer things in a luxurious suite, distinguished by generous space (an average of 60 m2/ 860 ft2) and classical style, decorated in warm earth colors. The sleeping quarters in this type of suite are secluded from the living and working areas, ensuring privacy during informal meetings or while entertaining. The bathroom offers ultimate luxury with separate bathtub, steam shower, and bathroom TV. Most of these suites offer views of the Acropolis or Constitution Square. There is a choice of kingor twin beds for this accommodation.
Grand Deluxe suite The two-bedroom corner suites offer magnificent views of the Acropolis as well as the Parliament with the changing of the guards, and the National Gardens. With a large corner living-room and luxurious amenities, covering a total of 90 m2/960 ft2 these suites combine the tradition of a noble past with the requirements of contemporary travellers.
Presidential suite The Presidential Suite is uniquely designed columns and arched ceilings add to the charm of this spacious (200 m2/2100 ft2 Sq.f.) luxury suite. A large corner living-room overlooks the Parliament, the Acropolis and Constitution Square. Panel mouldings and the oval-shaped ceiling details create a classical touch. A private entrance foyer leads to the living room and dining area. The Suite has a large dining room, seating 12 persons, an airy master bedroom, with two-sided fireplace and separate sitting area.
Royal suite The Royal Suite of the Grande Bretagne offers 400 m2/4300ft2 of elegance, furnished with antiques and original artwork to create an unparalleled atmosphere of comfort and beauty. Located on the 5th floor of the Hotel, the Royal Suite offers a panoramic view of the city including Constitution Square, the Acropolis, the Parliamentt with the changing of the guards at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and Lykabettos Hill. Created to offer the ultimate in luxury hotel living, the Royal Suite includes a triple living room with fireplace, two formal sitting areas palatial dining room with seating for 16 and a media room with state-of-the-art electronics.
Residents of the Royal Suite can enjoy a variety of 300 different labels from the private wine cellar. The master bedroom, an expansive corner-suite with several seating areas, features a fireplace, walk-in closets, dressing room, a luxuriously spacious master bathroom equipped with a TV, glass enclosed shower and a separate soaking jet tub, as well as a fully equipped gym with sauna and steam shower.
Children services Covers for power outlets - Night lights - Children Bathroom Amenities (shampoo, Shower Gel, etc.) - Bathrobe - One use Baby bottles - Bandages and plasters - Bed railings - High Chairs - Potty Seat - Sun Screen - Babysitting Services - 50% discount on all laundry and dry cleaning services for children garments - Special children menus in our restaurants, and Room Service
Meetings overview Absolute luxury begins with knowing that every wish for your event has been interpreted by specialists, to create a perfect, tailor-made experience.
ROOM TO SUCCEED Perfect surroundings where your ideas are cultivated and put into action.
ROOM TO CELEBRATE Once in a lifetime? Discover our unique settings for your dream wedding.
ROOM TO FOCUS Spaces where everyday noise and distractions fade and disappear.
CHURCHILL'S Be drawn by the brilliance of this unique private dining/meeting room which caters for small private functions for up to twelve people.
THE CELLAR Experienced hosts never select a venue without first checking the wine list. 3000 bottles of wine await you in this distinctive private dining/meeting room.
The Ballroom Fine furnishings and crystal chandeliers make every moment, a grand occasion in the Hotel's Ballroom an banquet Halls.
The Golden rooms The Golden Room, which covers more than 300 square meters, is part of the new wing on Voukourestiou Street created in order to add to the total number of conference rooms available to demanding clients. Designed along the lines of the Grand Ballroom, it is divided into four smaller autonomous rooms that can seat up to 300 delegates.
The Churchill's rooms Be drawn by the brilliance of this unique private dining room, which caters for small private functions for up to twelve people.
The Royal room The Royal Room, also known as the Royal Pavilion and just opposite the airy Winter Garden, is the ideal place to hold a presentation, a cozy 100-person dinner, or to receive guests for welcome drinks before a main event, perhaps in the adjoining Athenian Hall. The Royal Room can be separate from the Hall or open to it, but whichever way you choose, the atmosphere here is sure to relax. Together with the Winter Garden, this spacious square-shaped room with its eye-catching stained glass ceiling looks onto the outstanding view of the natural-light-filled and palm-treed Atrium, which lies in the heart of the hotel. And while the luxurious china and furniture may verge on the opulent, light cream colors maintain an aesthetic balance, inspiring a light and easy mood.
The Boardroom Spaces where everyday noise and distractions fade and dissapear. Our 3 Boardrooms are the ideal venues for your executive meetings.
The Cellar - Private meetings/dining room
GB Corner The most famous brasserie in the capital lies to your right as you walk into the lobby. The GB Corner is famous not only for its unique ambience and excellent Mediterranean cuisine, but also for its clientele. Highly renowned Athenians meet here to partake in GB Corner's refined environment, complete with its luxurious yet functional lighting and the unique comfort afforded by perfectly designed chairs and dinner tables arranged to allow privacy in crowd. GB Corner sets the standards against which people measure the best of Athens eateries.
Located in a corner of the hotel’s main lobby, GB Corner is the property’s signature restaurant. It boasts a sophisticated, yet lively, atmosphere. Much of the mood stems from its 1900 art-deco interior design, which is essentially elegant in style and a delightful reminder of such a charming era.
The varied, colourful, Mediterranean menu by Chef Bertrand Valegeas is complemented by the relaxed and comfortable surroundings. An open kitchen enhances the atmosphere of the restaurant.
Drop in anytime for lunch or dinner from 12 noon until 2 o'clock in the morning and dine in the company of the capital's most influential writers, politicians and professionals. Relax at one of the exclusive ground floor tables or luxuriate in the historical loft with its leather button sofas. Whichever you choose, you are sure to be impressed by the speed of the service.
And as you savor the tantalizing cuisine, let your eyes wander over the rich collection of art deco from the 1900s. Relax and allow yourself to be carried away by the magical sounds of instrumental melodies.
GB Roof Garden Unparalleled in the capital, this magnificent roof-top restaurant with contemporary design provides breathtaking city views. Stunning vistas summon up a totally relaxing ambience for breakfast and dinner year round. The restaurant re-opened in June 2006, following a complete renovation. Grilled steaks, fresh seafood and the very noblest of Mediterranean cuisine from Chef Filippo Abisso are served, as guests savour the experience of watching the sun set majestically behind the ancient Acropolis, firing the imagination to thoughts of a truly classical age.
Open now during breakfast, lunch and dinner, you are given the opportunity to enjoy your meal with great view of the whole of Athens. Regardless of the weather, sunny, cloudy, rainy, windy, have a unique experience in the GB Roof Garden
GB Winter Garden A cafe-style restaurant, the Winter Garden offers continental breakfast, a-la-carte breakfast dishes and, from mid-morning to closing time, a selection of tempting, light snacks. In the heart of the hotel’s lobby, adjacent to the bar, this restaurant even boasts some specially planted palm trees!
The Cellar A wine connoisseur’s dream, with even more. The Cellar is a delightful tasting room and a relaxing haven to enjoy an old favourite beverage or meet a new one! It is definitely the place to enjoy a selection of Greece’s leading wines. You don’t have to be a connoisseur to visit The Cellar. It is simply a place to be savoured by those who enjoy the finer things in life. The Cellar is also available for private dining and private meetings.
Alexander's Bar A superb cocktail bar reflecting the excitement and enthusiasm here in this buzzing Greek capital. The focal point of the bar is an extraordinary tapestry from the 18th century of Alexander the Great. In a warm, congenial atmosphere, Alexander’s offers premium brand cognacs, brandies, local and international wines and other beverages as well as the most impressive selection of cigars in a specially designed walk-in humidor. All of this is accompanied by live music and, of course, warm and friendly service.
Pool Bar The place to relax with a refreshing drink in a pleasant open-air poolside setting. Laze or swim amid an environment of pergolas, aromatic plants and a magnificent view of the Lucabettus Hill. At night there are few equals to this illuminated view. The perfect romantic interlude.
Atrium After a high energy workout or a relaxing body treatment in GB Spa, easeback into real life in the beatifully tranguil atrium. Enjoy a variety of freshly prepared juices.
GB Spa Nestled in the heart of this legendary hotel is the GB Spa, a palatial destination for the discerning spa user. Escape from the hectic pace of modern-day life into this urban retreat - a place where East meets West and contemporary meets classic.
We are proud to introduce the exclusive line of E'SPA treatments and products at the GB Spa. Every E'SPA treatment is a totally caring experience and the ultimate in luxury.
By taking a holistic approach, the treatments are as much for the inner-self and mind as they are for face or body. By using blends of products tailored to the clients needs and combining them with advanced therapy techniques, E'SPA has become a name that is synonymous with quality and outstanding results.
As innovators we bring you the most effective treatment techniques from around the world, and then ensure that the benefits can be continued at home.
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