Interview: General Manager Henry Gray of Amanzo'e

Along with his wife Char, the genial Scotsman Henry Gray has been managing Amanresorts properties for over a decade. He has also worked with Six Senses and the Oberoi group.

You've worked at many Aman properties. How has the brand evolved through the years?

The foundation of Amanresorts remains unchanged. The concept is to have architecturally crafted resorts in beautiful locations. They maintain a low size density in order to capture the individual essence of the local culture, geography and history. The support of locally recruited employees is essential with every new destination. In many respects the evolution has been perpetual.

Why did Aman decide to locate a hotel in the Peloponnese?

Adrian Zecha immediately declared the Peloponnese an Amanworthy site when he first visited the hilltop site of Agios Panteleimonas in 2006.

What are the "don't miss" sights in the Peloponnese?

A charter on one of Amanzoe’s motor boats to the nearby islands and the rest of the peninsula including Spetses, Hydra and Monemvasia. Day trips to Nafplio, the Nemea wine region and Mycenae – the ancient archaeological sites and Epidavros.

What do you consider to be the signature amenities of Amanzo'e?

The Aman Beach Club, which provides a typically Mediterranean beach experience. The Aman Spa which has eight fully serviced treatment suites as well as a Watsu bath spa, Haman, manicure/pedicure studio and a pilates/yoga platform.

Will Amanzo'e be adding any new amenities in 2013-14?

As this is now the first full year of operations, the amenities at Amanzo'e will all be very new for all guests. There will be two fully serviced villas available, one with six bedrooms and the other with four bedrooms.

Who chose the books in the magnificent library at Amanzo'e?

They were selected jointly between an exclusive supplier and ourselves.

Any locals wines on the hotel's wine lists that shouldn't be missed?

Wines are generally labelled in Greek language. To assist our guests we have two very knowledgeable food and beverage managers who are readily available to assist with requests. Furthermore, we offer wine tastings twice a week in order for guests to experience a wider variety of Greek wines.

Any favorite beaches or restaurants that you'd like to share?

Beaches: Lepitsa Beach is a great family location. Hintsa Bay with the Xhintsa tavern. Restaurants: Castello at Hydra, Omilos at Hydra town, Patralis seafood and Liotrivi Mediterranean food at Spetses, Spirandreas Tavern at Ermioni, Papadias Restaurant at Porto Heli. There is also a very large range of restaurants in the immediate area generally more focused on traditional "tavern" style Greek food. Marivon at Ilos Kastro is a wonderful experience for traditionally grilled meats. Salt n’ Pepper in Fira is very good honest wholesome Greek food. There is a good range of seasonal seafood restaurants on the island of Spetses.  

Read more from our Interview Series.