Greek destinations are already trending as Christopher Nolan’s blockbuster, The Odyssey, hits cinemas soon. Here are some glossy recommendations …
If you want to be in Mykonos, but removed from some of its more bacchanalian beach scenes, Bill&Coo Mykonos sits above Megali Ammos bay, within walking distance of Mykonos Town. This boutique property channels Cycladic architecture; think whitewashed walls, natural oak, sea-view suites with private pools or plunge pools. The infinity pool overlooks a Cycladic chapel with views across to windmills. Sister property – The Coast Bill&Coo – is an adults-only resort on Agios Ioannis beach, offering a more secluded setting with beachfront suites and direct sea access. @billandcoowayoflife
Take a day trip to Delos, a UNESCO World Heritage island, and the mythological birthplace of Apollo and Artemis. More importantly, it’s almost entirely off the mainstream tourist radar. According to Greek myth, the island is so sacred that no mortal was permitted to be born or die on its soil. Visitors will find remarkably intact ruins – The Terrace of the Lions is the island’s iconic symbol, while the Temple of Apollo was an ancient theatre seating up to 6,500 people! Here you’ll find beautiful mosaic floors, including the House of the Dolphins and House of the Masks, still open to the sky.
“Gradually, the magic of the island settled over us as gently and clingingly as pollen. Each day had a tranquillity, a timelessness about it, so that you wished it would never end,” so said author Gerald Durrell about Corfu in his book, My Family And Other Animals. For a dreamy stay, you can rent the Durrell villa, recognisable from TV series The Durrells. The house is just a ten minute drive from Corfu Old Town and is part of the Ionian Estates portfolio. “Our villas offer style, comfort and privacy in bewitching locations across Corfu, Paxos, Crete, the Cyclades and beyond,” says Lesley D’Agata, Founder & Director. The Durrell House is surrounded by beautiful terraces and direct shore access, with a tennis court and swimming pool. Other facilities include a complimentary welcome dinner, cleaning each day and a local island manager on hand to give tips on where to visit in the vicinity. @ionianestates
Olea All Suite Hotel, a member of Design Hotels, is another adults-only sanctuary perched on Zakynthos’ north-eastern coast. This year, new enhancements include an outdoor pool, fitness centre including a yoga shala, and island experiences designed to deepen guests’ connection. A must-do is a yacht cruise around the island, the finale of which is a private dining experience at sunset. @oleaallsuitehotel
The new beachfront Pounda Resort Paros is part of the Radisson Individuals portfolio, offering a family-friendly island setting with nearby access to windsurfing and kitesurfing spots, plus the island of Antiparos only moments away. Enjoy Mediterranean dining, a sea-view pool bar, outdoor swimming pool and sunset views over the Aegean. If you haven’t read it, pack Victoria Hislop’s book The Island, which weaves historical facts about Crete and a forbidden love story that will remain with you long after your holiday. @poundaresortparos
For a sun-soaked escape in Crete, this chic new hotel is the first five-star INNSiDE by Meliá property in the Greek islands and the world. Positioned on a hillside with panoramic views over posh Elounda Bay, the resort offers a range of well-appointed guest rooms and suites, including 18 rooms with private pools. It’s the perfect setting to lounge and linger – pack one of Rae Feather’s crisp Grecian shirt dresses for added allure. @innside_by_melia
Perfect for a family coastal getaway is Villa Galinia, on the island of Skorpios Perched in a panoramic position above Vlicho Bay, it combines sleek interiors with five bedrooms accommodating up to ten guests, and numerous terraces that take full advantage of the surrounding vistas. The infinity pool wraps around the villa, incorporating a sunken seating area, while a rooftop hydromassage tub provides the ultimate spot to relax under the stars. Nearby, guests can explore idyllic beaches, scenic mountain trails, charming hilltop villages, and the lively resort towns along the island’s east coast. @villa_galinia
The newly opened OVÉA Paros is beside the charming seaside town of Naoussa on Paros island. Set across a 19,000 sqm estate, the hotel is a collection of pared-back suites, villas, courtyards and plunge pools. The epitome of indoor-outdoor living. @oveaparos
Set above the coastline, the emphasis at Vione Paros is on openness and flow with light-filled interiors, expansive terraces and uninterrupted sea views. Each space is designed as a private retreat, introducing a refined new culinary collaboration with Michelin-starred chef Luca Piscazzi for special occasion dining. @vioneparos
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