Our contributor Lassi Martikainen picks his favourite Greek island hotels for a late summer getaway.
Less"Newly opened for the 2024 season, Gundari is nestled on the serene island of Folegandros. It offers a minimalist design and breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea. The architecture seamlessly blends with the island’s rugged landscape, characterized by simple, clean lines and the use of natural materials like stone and wood. The property places a strong emphasis on environmental responsibility, with various initiatives designed to minimize its ecological footprint."
"Skinopi Lodge features seven villas seamlessly integrated into the cliffs of Milos. Designed by the Athens-based Kokkinou & Kourkoulas duo, the architecture minimizes human impact, emphasizing traditional Syrmata fishermen house interiors made from local volcanic stone and retractable glass doors. The hotel has taken special care to preserve its natural surroundings, which include nine acres of wild Mediterranean gardens full of indigenous plants that need little to no water."
"The hotel’s name is a hybrid between ‘Paros’ and ‘Helios’, the Greek sun god. The design is influenced by the traditional houses and monasteries found on the island of Paros. The all-white exterior, architectural arches and arched windows, concrete columns, and thick masonry reflect the island's heritage. The interiors combine works by ceramists from Morocco, Crete, and Copenhagen, who’ve all paid tribute to the Koukounaries cliff. These bespoke art pieces accompany contemporary Greek design."
"Built within a 30-acre landscape of hills, ruins, rocks, and sand dunes located above Livadia, a magical unspoiled beach. Barely noticeable from the sea, all 16 private suites and villas are beautifully camouflaged to blend in with the island’s aesthetic and nature. All of the property’s ingredients come from farm-produced crops, island fishermen, Greek olive trees, and home-grown fruits and vegetables hand-picked daily from our farm, located just a few minutes from The Rooster."
"A boutique gem on the rugged island of Serifos, offering intimate accommodations with a blend of traditional and modern design. Located in Kalo Ambeli at the southern part of the island, on two hectares of untouched virgin land, its prime location provides easy access to the island's pristine beaches and authentic local culture."
"Melisses comprises five beautifully simple rooms, each with sea views, spread across the main house. Along with the two salt-water pools, stone steps descend to a rocky platform that leads directly to the sea. Blessed with an abundance of natural beauty, the property offers even more in its kitchen-living room, managed by the amazing Allegra. She cooks, guides, and runs workshops on the property with natural warmth and ease."
"Eros Keros, this small property consists of four unique villas surrounded by cedar trees, thyme, and oregano, all overlooking the Aegean Sea. Each villa is uniquely decorated and features a private terrace, daybeds, and stunning views of the islands of Amorgos, Glaronisi, Kato Koufonisi, Schinousa, and even Santorini’s lights at night."
"A colorful paradise on the small island of Kimolos. This small property consists of just three unique suites, all with direct access to the turquoise sea, and two of which are old Syrmata caves. It’s the kind of place you want to tell everyone about but don't wish anyone to know about."