Mykonos / Kalesma Mykonos

Since its grand 2021 opening, this boutique bolthole has quickly made a name for itself, coming through on its promise of space and privacy within its modern-Mykonian walls.

This all-suite microcosm ascends step by step up the vertebrae of a hillside, looking down on the glassy sheen of Ornos Bay. It’s this slow rise that permits all 27 keys to bask in sunrise to sunset views, and why they get away with boasting sizeable private pools and that all round feeling of isolation that impassioned-pairs crave. The roomy seclusion may be its biggest highlight, but it’s the fact that Kalesma dwells in a realm of authenticity that can be found outside the big-brand-bubble that really sells it. With the name itself meaning “inviting”, there’s a social ambience and warm hospitality here that is typically Greek, usually being found in excess at the Thursday night firepit festivities of the Aloni Sunset Lounge.

Travel notes:

• 25 suites and 2 private villas all with heated private pools
• With a heavy focus on cuisine, the restaurant – Pere Ubu – is run by the home-grown owners of some of Athens’ top restaurants
• Despite its appeal to couples, families of a more independent and explorative nature settle in just fine too
• The concierge team have deep connections to the island, helping to organise anything from touring the island’s 25 beaches to car hire for further expeditions
• Ornos bay is only a 3 minute drive away, with Mykonos town being just over a 10 minute walk