What is the story behind Lesante Collection? How did the idea of creating a hospitality destination that reflects the authentic spirit of Zakynthos come about, and how has it evolved over the years?
Lesante Collection was never born out of the ambition to create luxury hotels. It began with our family’s desire to share the real Zakynthos with our guests—the island as we know it and love it.
We grew up in a place of extraordinary natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and a deeply rooted tradition of hospitality. From the very beginning, we believed that true luxury is not defined solely by exceptional facilities or impeccable service, but by the authenticity of the experience and the emotional connection a destination creates with its visitors.
Over time, this philosophy naturally evolved into what Lesante Collection represents today. Each hotel has its own distinct personality, yet they all share the same soul: a deep respect for the island, its people, and the rich heritage of Zakynthos.
The purest expression of this philosophy is Lesante Cape. It was never conceived as just another luxury resort, but as a contemporary interpretation of a traditional Zakynthian village. The village square, church, café, museum, grocery store, olive groves, vineyard, authentic local cuisine, and live music evenings were not created simply to impress. They were designed to tell the story of our island and to offer guests an immersive experience that connects them with the true spirit of Zakynthos.
Today’s travelers are looking for far more than a beautiful room. They seek experiences with character, authenticity, and meaning. That is what we strive to create every day at Lesante Collection—not simply places to stay, but destinations where guests leave feeling they have truly discovered Zakynthos.
As a family business transitions to the next generation, what does that responsibility mean to you, and what new opportunities has it created?
Taking over a family business is perhaps the greatest responsibility of all. You are entrusted with evolving something that has been built with dedication and hard work, while preserving the values and spirit that define it.
Our family’s journey in hospitality began in 1988 with Poseidon Beach Hotel. Later, with the creation of Lesante Classic, my parents laid the foundations for what would eventually become Lesante Collection. I was fortunate to grow up within this journey, witnessing firsthand what genuine hospitality, consistency, and dedication truly mean.
When the time came for my brother Konstantinos and me to take on an active role, we never felt the need to rewrite the story. Instead, our goal was to continue our family’s vision while giving it a contemporary perspective. This led to the creation of Lesante Blu and, later, Lesante Cape—two properties that reflect our own vision of modern Greek hospitality while remaining deeply rooted in the values passed down by our parents.
For me, the greatest responsibility is not simply continuing a successful business. It is safeguarding the trust that has been built over decades and passing on to the next generation something even stronger, while preserving the authenticity and family philosophy that define who we are.
Success is not measured solely by new investments or new hotels. It is measured by our ability to keep evolving, to create experiences with genuine meaning, and to see guests from around the world return time and again because they feel they have become part of a story—not simply stayed at a hotel.
What were the biggest challenges during the development of Lesante Cape, and what design principles define its architecture and interior design?
Our greatest challenge was never to create another luxury resort. It was to create a place that feels as though it has always belonged to Zakynthos.
From the outset, we knew we did not want to design a hotel that could exist anywhere in the world. Our ambition was to create a destination with a genuine identity, a strong sense of place, and a deep connection to the island.
The guiding principle behind the design was to capture the essence of a traditional Zakynthian village—not by recreating the past, but by reinterpreting it through a contemporary architectural language.
This is why Lesante Cape has no dominant central building. Instead, it unfolds organically around a village square, with smaller buildings, a bell tower, a museum, a traditional grocery store, vegetable gardens, olive groves, and a vineyard, echoing the natural evolution of a village over time.
The same philosophy shaped the interior design. Natural materials, earthy tones, handcrafted details, and elements inspired by Zakynthian architecture and the refined aesthetics of the Ionian Islands create interiors that feel calm, intimate, and timeless.
I believe that today the true challenge in hospitality architecture is not to design something spectacular, but to create something with soul—something that could only exist in the place it belongs.
What makes the Lesante Collection experience unique, and what distinguishes it from other luxury hospitality offerings?
Today, luxury is no longer defined solely by exceptional service or beautiful surroundings. It is defined by the ability to offer an experience that could not exist anywhere else.
That has always been the philosophy behind Lesante Collection. We do not simply create beautiful places to stay; we create experiences that connect guests with the island’s history, gastronomy, culture, and people.
At Lesante Cape, for example, guests do far more than enjoy a seaside escape. They can wander through a village square inspired by traditional Zakynthian life, taste seasonal produce from the Bostani garden, listen to traditional kantades, discover the island’s history in the museum, and experience the rhythm of a living community rather than that of a conventional resort.
At the same time, each hotel within the Lesante Collection has its own distinct identity. Lesante Blu is designed for guests seeking absolute tranquillity, privacy, and understated luxury. Lesante Cape celebrates the authentic cultural identity and traditions of Zakynthos. Lesante Classic, where our journey began, continues to evolve while preserving the warm, family-driven hospitality that defines our philosophy.
What truly sets Lesante Collection apart is that, despite the individuality of each property, they all share the same purpose: ensuring that every guest leaves feeling they have not simply discovered a hotel, but experienced the true essence of Zakynthos.
As members of The Leading Hotels of the World, what role does design play within the resort, and how has that philosophy evolved over time?
The Leading Hotels of the World does not select its members solely on the basis of luxury or exceptional service. It brings together hotels with a distinctive identity, authentic character, and experiences that cannot be replicated elsewhere. That philosophy perfectly reflects our own approach to hospitality.
Both Lesante Blu and Lesante Cape are proud members of The Leading Hotels of the World, yet each expresses a different interpretation of the same vision. Lesante Blu was conceived as an adults-only sanctuary dedicated to tranquillity, privacy, and understated elegance. Lesante Cape, on the other hand, offers an immersive experience deeply rooted in the history, architecture, and cultural heritage of Zakynthos.
What unites them is a shared design philosophy: every space should have a purpose, evoke emotion, and express the spirit of the place it inhabits. We believe timeless design is never driven by trends. It is born from authenticity, respect for local identity, and enduring aesthetic values.
Being part of The Leading Hotels of the World is also a constant reminder that excellence is never a destination but an ongoing commitment. It inspires us to continually invest in our people, our services, and our spaces, ensuring that every guest experiences a thoughtful balance of refined design, genuine hospitality, and a profound sense of place.
Who is Lesante Cape designed for, and how important is it today to offer guests the opportunity to slow down and reconnect with nature?
Lesante Cape is designed for discerning travelers seeking an authentic hospitality experience that combines understated luxury with tranquillity and a genuine connection to the traditions of Zakynthos. It welcomes couples, families, and independent travelers alike—people looking to step away from the pace of everyday life and dedicate time to themselves.
I believe this opportunity is more valuable today than ever before. In an increasingly fast-paced world, the ability to pause, reconnect with nature, and experience a destination at a slower rhythm has become a true luxury. It offers not only rest and renewal, but also a deeper connection with the landscape, local culture, and the authentic spirit of hospitality that defines Zakynthos.
Where can guests discover the authentic spirit of Greece, both within the resort and in the surrounding area?
The authentic spirit of Greece reveals itself both within Lesante Cape and throughout its surrounding landscape. The resort itself was conceived as a contemporary interpretation of a traditional Zakynthian village, with intimate squares, stone-paved pathways, natural materials, and architecture that reflects the island’s rich cultural identity.
Guests also experience Zakynthos through its gastronomy, locally sourced ingredients, regional wines, and the warmth of genuine Greek hospitality. Every detail is designed to celebrate the traditions and way of life of the island.
Beyond the resort, the nearby areas of Akrotiri and Bochali offer a deeper connection to Zakynthos’ history and culture. Once home to many of the island’s distinguished aristocratic families, these neighborhoods also have close ties to one of Greece’s most celebrated literary figures, the national poet Dionysios Solomos.
Ultimately, a stay at Lesante Cape is about far more than luxury accommodation. It is an invitation to discover the history, culture, traditions, and authentic identity of Zakynthos through meaningful experiences that create lasting memories.
Which collaborations have proved most valuable, and which have become enduring pillars of the resort’s identity?
The most meaningful collaborations at Lesante Cape are those that connect the resort with Zakynthos itself and the people who call the island home. Among the most enduring are our partnerships with local producers, who supply us with olive oil, wine, honey, and other regional ingredients, allowing guests to discover the authentic flavours of Zakynthos through every dining experience.
Equally important are our collaborations with local wineries, artisans, producers, and cultural ambassadors, which bring the island’s heritage to life through wine tastings, cooking classes, and traditional Zakynthian music and cultural evenings. In recent years, our partnership with award-winning chef Nikos Ispyroudis has further strengthened the resort’s culinary identity, celebrating the flavours of the Ionian Islands through locally sourced ingredients and a contemporary interpretation of regional cuisine.
These collaborations go far beyond providing products or services. They are an integral part of the philosophy of Lesante Cape, creating authentic experiences that connect guests with the island’s culture, traditions, and way of life.
Looking back today, do you feel the result has fulfilled your original vision?
I believe it has.
What began as a family vision has grown into a collection of distinctive hotels, each with its own identity while sharing the same commitment to genuine hospitality.
For me, Lesante Cape is perhaps the clearest expression of what we set out to achieve: demonstrating that luxury can coexist with authentic Zakynthian culture, architecture, gastronomy, and tradition. The trust of our guests, together with the international recognition and accolades received by the Lesante Collection, confirms that this vision has resonated with people from around the world.
At the same time, I have never seen success as a final destination. Hospitality is a journey of continuous evolution. There is always room to refine, to innovate, and to create experiences that are even more meaningful. That ongoing pursuit of excellence is what continues to inspire us every day.
Do you have many returning guests? What kind of feedback do you receive, and why do you think they choose to come back?
Yes, and I believe that is perhaps the strongest validation of our philosophy. A significant number of our guests return, whether to the same property or to another hotel within the Lesante Collection. For us, that lasting relationship of trust is more meaningful than any award or distinction.
The feedback we receive shares a common thread. Guests often tell us that they feel they are not simply staying at a luxury hotel, but in a place with warmth, authenticity, and a genuine sense of character. They value the personal relationships they build with our team, the discreet yet thoughtful level of care, and the fact that every experience is deeply connected to Zakynthos, its history, and its culture.
Today, I believe the greatest luxury is making people feel at home—to know them personally, remember their preferences, and welcome them back as old friends. That sense of familiarity is something we cultivate every day, and it lies at the heart of our hospitality philosophy.
Perhaps this is why our guests return. They discover something that cannot easily be replicated: a rare combination of refined hospitality, authentic experiences, and genuine human connection that makes them feel they are returning not simply to a hotel, but to a place they now consider their own.
What are the rare qualities that define the unique character of Lesante Cape?
I believe the most distinctive quality of Lesante Cape is that it does not seek to impress—it seeks to tell a story.
At a time when many beautifully designed luxury hotels can feel interchangeable, we chose to create a destination that could exist nowhere else but Zakynthos.
The architecture, spatial layout, gastronomy, experiences, and even the way guests move through the resort have all been carefully conceived to evoke the feeling of a living Zakynthian village rather than a conventional hotel. It is not a themed environment, but an authentic interpretation of the island’s identity.
Equally important is the way luxury is expressed here—with quiet confidence and restraint. It is found in the tranquillity of the landscape, the honesty of natural materials, the personalised attention, the authentic flavours, and the meaningful relationships guests build with our team. It is an experience defined not by excess, but by detail, emotion, and a genuine sense of place.
I believe this balance between contemporary hospitality and the cultural identity of Zakynthos is Lesante Cape’s rarest quality. It is what ensures that guests remember not only the hotel itself, but, above all, how they felt while they were here.
Do you believe Zakynthos is a destination for high-quality tourism, and how could that positioning be strengthened?
Without question. Zakynthos possesses every ingredient needed to be recognised as one of the Mediterranean’s leading destinations for quality tourism. Its extraordinary natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, exceptional gastronomy, and deeply rooted tradition of hospitality give the island far greater potential than it is often credited with internationally.
In recent years, we have seen a growing number of travellers seeking experiences with substance. They no longer choose a destination solely for its beaches, but for its history, culture, gastronomy, nature, and the quality of the experiences it offers. Zakynthos has the ability to meet those expectations, and it is already moving in that direction.
At the same time, I believe there is still considerable room for growth. By placing even greater emphasis on preserving the island’s cultural identity, protecting its natural environment, safeguarding its authenticity, and creating meaningful experiences throughout the year, Zakynthos can further establish itself as a destination defined by quality rather than seasonality.
The future of Greek tourism, in my view, lies not in attracting more visitors, but in creating better experiences. Destinations that leave a lasting emotional impression are the ones people return to. That is the philosophy we strive to uphold every day through Lesante Collection, while contributing to a stronger and more distinctive identity for Zakynthos.
What lies ahead for Lesante Collection?
Our ambition has never been to grow simply by adding more hotels. Every new step must have purpose and strengthen the identity we have built over the years.
Our focus is on continually elevating the Lesante Collection by investing in service excellence, sustainability, innovation, and, above all, our people. We believe that outstanding hospitality is ultimately created through human relationships and the genuine care offered by an exceptional team.
At the same time, we want to deepen the experiences that connect guests with Zakynthos. Gastronomy, culture, local craftsmanship, and the authentic rhythm of island life are all areas where we see tremendous opportunities for further development and continued investment.
Naturally, we are always exploring new opportunities. However, growth has value only when it remains true to the principles that have defined Lesante Collection from the beginning: authenticity, timeless design, genuine hospitality, and profound respect for the place we call home. If we can preserve that balance, I believe the future holds even greater possibilities.
How do you envision Lesante Collection ten years from now?
In ten years’ time, I hope Lesante Collection will still be recognised for the very quality that defines it today: its authenticity.
For me, success will not necessarily be measured by having more hotels, but by having evolved without compromising our identity, our values, or our philosophy. If we can continue creating meaningful experiences while remaining true to who we are, I will consider that our greatest achievement.
How would you define beauty?
To me, beauty lies in authenticity.
It is found in things that are genuine, timeless, and capable of creating emotion. A place, a person, or a space is not truly beautiful because it impresses; it is beautiful because it possesses character, identity, and the ability to create a meaningful connection with others.
That is the kind of beauty we strive to express every day through Lesante Collection—a beauty rooted not in excess, but in simplicity, thoughtful care, and deep respect for both place and hospitality.
What does authenticity mean to you today?
Authenticity is remaining true to what you genuinely are.
In a world where so many experiences are designed simply to capture attention, authenticity lies in honesty, consistency, and staying faithful to your identity. Whether we are talking about a person, a destination, or a hotel, authenticity comes from having character, history, and soul.
It cannot be copied, and it does not follow trends. It is something that endures because it remains true to its values.
