Situated on the south-west shores of Cyprus, Antara Destination Spa & Resort merges the culture of the Hellenistic period with modern comforts in its opulent and luxurious interior.
An ancient Sanskrit name meaning ‘beauty from within’, Antara draws on the natural environment of fertile, organic farmland and the healing properties of the Mediterranean. Based on the principle that our bodies are innately able to heal themselves, given the right environment, Antara provides a supportive holistic wellbeing experience.
With six Royal Suites and a Presidential Suite, Antara is one of the world’s most exclusive and private spa resorts. Owner Sandor Kenyeres, who also designed the spa’s interior, says: “We built Antara Destination Spa & Resort as a specially protected and uniquely intimate place for regeneration, where the atmosphere, interiors and evocative details serve to create harmony for body and soul.”
As guests approach the resort along a cobblestone trail, senses are heightened from the sweet smell of roses and citrus from the lemon trees. The gardens feature an array of rare plants, striking flowerbeds, babbling fountains and romantic promenades. Drawing on the ancient traditional custom of food as our medicine, certified organic farming on site delivers fresh ingredients from the garden to the kitchen, alongside medicinal and culinary herbs.
The interior decor has been inspired by the Hellenistic period. “I always admired the golden age of Hellenic culture and architecture,” Sandor explains. “During my trips to the Mediterranean, I was inspired by Alexander the Great.”
Each wall is hand painted to represent the palaces of the ancient Greek aristocracy. The six Royal Suites and a Presidential Suite display distinctive architecture and noted artistry, and feature original paintings from award-winning artists and bathrooms decorated with mother-of-pearl mosaic tiles. Floor-to-ceiling windows and private terraces offer striking views of the Mediterranean. Plasma TVs and personal iPads bring a modern touch and convenience to the spa experience.
“I chose several suppliers from across the globe to build our exquisite retreat Antara Destination Spa & Resort,” Sandor says. “For example, for the furniture, I chose two Spanish companies, Moblesa and Vicente & Zaragoza, because their furniture reflect an aristocratic ambiance. An Italian company supplied the curtains and fine textiles.
“Many pieces were custom made – that is why the interior design project took more than three years. The grand marble statues and the four Aphrodites in the main entrance were created for more than eight months by 80 artists. The frescos were painted by 14 artists for four months, applying more than 30kg of 24 carat gold liberally, which has been used in the guest suites as well.
“We have a few intricate chandeliers made throughout the interior, and the largest one is composed of more than 3000 glass pieces, which was custom made in the Czech Republic. Five stained-glass artists worked on the grand dome in the ballroom which has a diameter of 6m. A very special custom-created mosaic art piece containing gold, silver and platinum can be enjoyed by guests relaxing in the jacuzzi suite.”
Alongside a range of dining options – including a gourmet restaurant and cocktail bar – other facilities include a private cinema, an outdoor infinity pool, yoga and meditation rooms, a grand gallery, a beach lounge and a tropical garden terrace.
