6 Of The Most Astounding Retreats In Greece

Elegant, capacious villas built into the cliffs above a protected cove are the core of One&Only’s new Kéa Island outpost. This captivating, low-key member of the Cyclades is a quick, glittering hop from Athens (30 minutes by speedboat, 15 by helicopter). Amplifying the Aegean panorama that surrounds the resort, white marble (sourced locally) interiors flow out through floor-to-ceiling windows onto beautiful private terraces, complete with infinity pools, fireplaces and outdoor dining spaces. For guests who can tear themselves away from their beguiling accommodation, there is a wealth of ways to experience the island’s charms, as well as seasonal Mediterranean cuisine served in the restaurants, and revitalizing wellness opportunities at the One&Only Spa. Spread over three airy storeys on the seafront, the spa ethos is rooted in sophrosyne, an ancient Greek expression for the balance of mind and body – which isn’t hard to find in this secluded oasis.

The island of Antiparos, which is accessible only by boat, is the ultimate under-the-radar treasure, where the beaches are breathtakingly crystal-clear – and the more remote ones are incredibly quiet. Within a wild landscape of hills, ruins and sand dunes, The Rooster is a hidden gem on this heavenly Greek island. An effortlessly oasis-like escape, where wellness and a connection to nature are paramount, it is set above the unspoilt beach of Livadia. Here, 16 low-slung private houses have been built to blend into the background, with indoor and outdoor living spaces and intimate private pools to soak up the magical surroundings.

While it is the Greek islands that garner the greatest attention as vacation utopias, the mainland can be equally serene and has some of the most awe-inspiring architecture. Case in point: the ethereal Amanzoe, found on the east coast of the Peloponnese near Porto Heli, where Unesco-protected ruins sit alongside the dazzling Aegean. Described as a modern-day Acropolis, and inspired by classic Greek design, Amanzoe bestows guests with capacious, majestic abodes in the form of beach cabanas, pavilions and villas, columned and clad in marble and stone, each offering stunning views from private terraces and gardens with pools. There is also an otherwordly Aman Spa and a beach club, where guests can summon a speedboat to hop between the nearby islands.

One of the closest islands to party-loving Mykonos, Paros is a postcard-pretty, slow-paced member of the Cyclades, scattered with charming coves and bougainvillea-adorned fishing villages. Rising out of the rocky and rugged landscape, Parilio is a luminescent dream of gleaming white architecture, fronted by a masterpiece of a cross-shaped pool, lined with cream parasols and soft grey loungers. The breezy, beautiful design extends inside to the light-filled restaurant and 33 suites, decked in soothing tones and natural materials.

An exquisitely, eclectically restored mansion in Hermoupolis, on the island of Syros, The Aristide is a joyful harmony of old and new. The architecture brings together Greek neoclassical and art deco styles with colorful contemporary design, imbued throughout the nine suites, where bold bed linens sit alongside statement free-standing bathtubs. Every corner of the opulent residence is characterful, extending to the shaded garden bar and up the rooftop restaurant with far-reaching views of the sea and neighboring islands. Art is at the heart of the hotel: a permanent collection is displayed throughout the interiors, while the dedicated gallery hosts temporary exhibitions by resident artists.

Family-friendly retreats are not usually renowned for refinement and laid-back luxury, but The Peligoni Club is the exception to the rule. The members-only beach club is situated on the more secluded north side of Zakynthos (far enough away from the other kind of club scene that the island is known for), with a perfect spot on the Ionian Sea. Made up of a labyrinth of spaces in which to unwind – from feasting tables for the handful of restaurants and bars to a sprawl of sun loungers and a tucked-away spa – it caters to a plethora of vacation priorities. There is a program of chef pop-ups, wellness workshops and live music events, as well as water sports and ample activities to keep younger visitors entertained. Rather than accommodation on site, there is a curated collection of private villas, cottages and apartments to book in the surrounding hilltops, and guests can then get a weekly membership to The Peligoni, meaning the club retains its intimate, relaxed vibes.

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