Fifteen years after the first arrival of major “stars” in Kranidi in 2012, the year 2027 is set to mark the beginning of a new wave of luxury developments in this unique part of the Peloponnesian Riviera. Altogether, hotel investments already underway in Porto Heli—both strategic and non-strategic—are approaching €2 billion, backed by major domestic and international investors. These include luxury residences, as well as new port infrastructure expected to significantly boost maritime tourism in the area.

The landscape is further enhanced by well-known hotel brands that have already secured agreements for their presence in these multi-million-euro projects, including Four Seasons, Six Senses, Waldorf Astoria, and Radisson. Aman, of course, was the pioneer, having debuted in 2012 with a resort that is now expanding with new villas.

Four Seasons

Those shaping the area’s reputation now refer to it as the “Monaco of Greece,” largely due to the influx of new five-star developments. In reality, however, Porto Heli derives its name from the gradual linguistic evolution of the ancient city “Halieis,” which became “Chalieis” and later “Heli,” with the addition of “Porto” due to its harbor.

At least seven major investments—each exceeding €100 million and reaching up to half a billion euros—are currently progressing in the wider area, at various stages of licensing and construction. These projects will be complemented by modern investments in maritime tourism.

In terms of scale, the largest investment spans 1,750 hectares and belongs to Giannis Vardinogiannis: the €475 million “Serenity Village,” which aims to become a benchmark for high-quality Greek tourism. It is currently in the licensing and planning phase. Meanwhile, Irish businessman Paul Coulson is ahead in construction, with the first phase of his €250 million investment scheduled to begin operations in 2027. This project will also mark the arrival of the third Four Seasons in Greece, following those in Astir Vouliagmenis and Mykonos.

The “Six Senses Porto Heli,” a €150 million investment, is also expected to open in 2027. Additional projects include “Scarlet Beach” (€203 million), “Kilada Hills” (€420 million), “Salanti Beach” (over €266 million), and the newer “Porto Heli Hospitality” (over €96 million), completing the portfolio of seven major investments planned for the coming years.

Complementary Investments

Additional investments are also underway, such as Grivalia Hospitality’s €60 million first-phase expansion of “Amanzoe” with ultra-luxury beachfront villas, and a Zafido Group project in Costa involving a 75-room five-star hotel expected within three years.

Regarding whether the region can support such extensive development—particularly in infrastructure like water supply and waste management—the mayor of Ermionida, Yiannis Georgopoulos, expresses confidence. Tourism in the Peloponnese starts from a relatively low base, especially in attracting foreign visitors, and these investments are expected to transform the region’s tourism product.

Water supply is being addressed independently by investors through desalination, while wastewater treatment is handled through modern systems. Waste management is overseen by the municipality, with transfer stations directing waste to the Tripoli processing unit.

A key project supporting the primary sector is the irrigation network from Anavalos, budgeted at €53 million, expected to cover 22,000 hectares and significantly boost agricultural productivity.

Infrastructure

Maritime tourism investments are particularly noteworthy, with three marinas planned in the region. These include the already operational Marina Porto Heli (since 2020), the fully upgraded Marina Ermioni expected soon, and a new marina linked to the “Hydra Rock” project.

Additionally, the area is expected to join Greece’s seaplane network once commercial operations begin. Trial flights have already taken place, aiming to connect Ermionida with destinations such as Athens, Kalamata, Kyllini, and nearby islands.

Marina Porto Heli recorded strong performance in 2025, with an average occupancy of 79.4%, reaching 91% in July and 100% in August. It hosted 1,456 vessels that year and continues to expand services, including fueling stations, waste collection units, EV charging points, and new dining areas.

Marina Ermioni

By summer 2027, Marina Ermioni is expected to open, offering around 250 berths and accommodating vessels up to 60 meters. The project combines modern port infrastructure with commercial spaces, restaurants, cafés, and a boutique hotel, creating a “seaside village” atmosphere blending modern design with local tradition.

Together, the marinas aim to create a unified ecosystem with diverse docking options and high-quality services year-round.

Individual Projects

The flagship “Serenity Village” (Hydra Rock) covers 1,750 hectares, featuring a five-star resort, spa, tourist villas, and a structured holiday village. The design emphasizes sustainability, including renewable energy use, desalination, bioclimatic architecture, and preservation of olive groves.

The most advanced construction project is the “Four Seasons Resort and Residences Porto Heli,” which will transform the former AKS Hinitsa Bay into a luxury complex with 80 rooms, suites, bungalows, and private villas. Scheduled for completion in 2027, it will operate year-round.

First in Greece

The “Six Senses Porto Heli” will be the first of its kind in Greece, part of the IHG Hotels & Resorts group. The €150 million project includes 60 rooms, suites with private pools, and 12 branded residences.

Work is also progressing on the Kilada Hills golf course, while the Scarlet Beach project—featuring the Waldorf Astoria brand—is expected to open in 2029. This €203 million investment includes 121 rooms and 13 luxury villas.

Meanwhile, the Salanti Beach redevelopment (over €266 million) will transform a former resort into a modern five-star complex with residences.

Finally, the Porto Heli Hospitality project (€96.75 million) involves a mixed-use coastal resort with hotel rooms, suites, and private villas, totaling 202 beds.

The Seven Major Investments

• Hydra Rock (Serenity Village): €475 million
• Hinitsa Bay (Four Seasons): €250 million
• Kilada Hills: €420 million
• Scarlet Beach (Waldorf Astoria): €203 million
• Infinity Project (Six Senses): €150 million
• Salanti Beach: €266.5 million
• Porto Heli Hospitality: €96.75 million