Mikro Papigo 1700 Hotel & Spa, a 5-star boutique hotel owned by Elsa Exarchou, is located in the heart of the Vikos-Aoos Geopark, a UNESCO cultural heritage site. Its seven buildings date back to the 1700s, while an eighth, originally built in the 16th century, was the first guesthouse to open in Zagori in 1953. These historical structures have been carefully restored with deep respect for tradition and architecture.

Since 2007, the hotel has embraced a long-term sustainable strategy, ensuring authenticity, reliability, and environmental consciousness. Its unique character, personalized experiences, and strong guest relationships set it apart.

Can you share a bit about yourself and what inspired you to enter the world of boutique hospitality?

Hospitality has always been part of my life. One of the buildings in our hotel was the first guesthouse in Epirus and one of the first in Greece, opening in 1953. This means that welcoming travelers is not just something we do, it has shaped this place for generations, through my 100% hospitality roots. Our connection to tourism runs deep, in Epirus and Zakynthos, two regions with unique character and beauty. The belief that hospitality should be meaningful inspired me to take it forward, especially in Zagori. We live in a world where tourism is often about volume, more rooms, more bookings, more everything. But to me, true hospitality is about quality. It’s about creating a space where people don’t just stay, but where they truly feel connected and inspired. I always felt a responsibility, but also a passion, to continue this legacy in a way that feels relevant today. That’s why Mikro Papigo 1700 isn’t just a hotel; it’s a place where history, nature, and modern boutique hospitality come together. My goal has always been to honor the past while offering a fresh, personalized experience that today’s travelers are looking for.

When you first started as a hotelier, what was your vision for Mikro Papigo 1700, and how has that vision evolved over time?

The vision was always to create something special, that feels deeply connected to its surroundings. At first, it was about restoring and respecting the existing structures, but over time, it became more than just architecture. It became about curetting a full experience, luxury that feels natural, service that feels personal, and a connection to nature that feels effortless. We started with history, but we’re always evolving.

Boutique hospitality is a unique segment of the industry. How do you define the ‘boutique hotel experience,’ and what makes it stand out?

It’s all about authenticity and personality. A boutique hotel should never feel generic. Every detail should tell a story, whether through the design, the service, or how guests feel when they wake up in the morning. What sets boutique hospitality apart; is that it’s deeply personal. It’s about creating spaces and experiences that feel tailor-made, not mass-produced.

What are some of the biggest challenges you face as a hotelier, and how do you address them?

Being in the mountains comes with its own set of challenges. Seasonality,  logistics, and maintaining high standards with a small team. But we embrace these challenges because they make us who we are. Instead of fighting seasonality, we lean into it, offering unique experiences year-round. Instead of relying on big supply chains, we work with local producers, and instead of viewing small scale as limiting, we see it as an opportunity to be more hands-on, more personal, and more intentional.

How do you choose your vendors and partners? What values or qualities do you prioritize in those collaborations?

It’s never just about the product; it’s about the people behind it. We work with partners who share our values. Quality, sustainability, and a deep respect for tradition. Whether it’s the food we serve, the materials we use, or the wellness treatments in our spa, everything comes from relationships built on trust and shared philosophy.

Beyond hospitality, what in your life gives you a strong sense of purpose?

Creating something that lasts. Not just in a physical sense, but in the experiences people take away. When someone remembers their stay at Mikro Papigo 1700 years later, not just for the place, but for how it made them feel, that gives me purpose. I also feel a deep connection to this land, and I want to contribute to preserving it, not only about tourism but for future generations.

What does a normal working day look like for you?

No two days are the same, which is what I love. One day might start with morning coffee and conversations to see how we can improve experiences, others planning things only for me, self-wellness comes first. There are always details to refine, whether it’s the dining experience, the spa treatments, or how we welcome guests. It’s a mix of creativity, operations, and genuine hospitality.

How do you like spending your time off?

Nature, interesting places, and cities are my reset button. Living in such a beautiful place, I make the most of it, taking in the views, and simply breathing it all in. Traveling also inspires me. I love experiencing new places and staying in boutique hotels, drawing inspiration from their unique atmosphere. Beauty fuels my creativity.

What is your favorite hotel in the world, and why?

I admire hotels that have a strong sense of place. Aman properties do this well, but I also love small, family-run hotels that feel deeply personal. It’s about being by heart, it’s about creating something that stays with you long after you’ve left.

What do you see as the next big thing in the hospitality industry?

Travel is shifting towards meaning and authenticity. People don’t just want a nice place to stay, they want an experience that truly connects them to a destination. Slow travel, sustainability, and personalization are the future. The most remarkable hotels we’ll be the ones that evoke real emotions and lasting memories.