Streep goes boutique Greek, and puts the Pelion on the map

When ‘Mamma Mia! The Movie’, based on the global smash hit Abba musical, hits the silver screen on 10 July, Greece will be the word. Filmed on location at the Pelion Peninsula, overlooking the Pagasitic Gulf, this unspoilt and extraordinarily beautiful region is as yet an Aegean unknown.

Members of the cast, including Meryl Streep, Colin Firth and Pierce Brosnan, were inspired by the area’s dramatic dreamscape during filming: dominated by mountains, villages clinging to its verdant slopes, where the waters are wonderfully clear, and its beaches blissful. It’s an area untouched by time, and gratifyingly Greek.

The stars opted for authentic eccentric, serene bohemian on the accommodation front, staying at the rather special Damouchari Hotel, situated in a tiny, car-free hamlet, one of the most beautiful places on the peninsula. Just a short walk from the natural harbour and the white-pebble beach, this bijoux hotel is eclectically decorated and has a freshwater pool and four excellent local tavernas. The owners, Apostolis and Elli Vainopoulos, have created an oasis of lawns and shady trees here between the dazzling blue sea and the white cliffs.

A seven-night stay at the Damouchari Hotel costs from £640 pp (two sharing) in July, including flights (Gatwick) and accommodation with breakfast.

Filming also took place on Skopelos, a beautifully green, wooded island with delightful secluded coves that has retained its Greek flavour. Sunvil Specialist Greece, the UK’s expert operator to the country for 34 years, offers the most comprehensive programme to Skopelos from the UK.

A week’s stay at the secluded Stone Cottage near Skopelos Town, costs from £677 pp (two sharing) including return flights (Gatwick) and transfers.

For further information, call Sunvil Specialist Greece on 020 8758 4758 or browse the website:

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Sunvil Greece was featured in the Mail on Sunday on 30th June. To read the article please click here >