The chic sleep: Santa Marina, Mykonos
Sat on its own peninsula and with the only private beach on the island, this hotel has to be the most stylish spot in Mykonos. By JENNIFER DICKINSON
Unless you’ve been under a rock, or have yet to download a popular little app named Instagram, you will know that Mykonos is the island to visit now. Sure, Ibiza is still party central and the Gili Islands are laid-back to the point of inversion, but if you want to be where those who seek – and find – the finer things in life go to indulge, then this is your next port of call.
But where to stay? There are plenty of stylish options; Mykonos is a place that takes picturesque to new levels. To boast one of the best addresses on the isle, however, head to Santa Marina. Speckling the hillside of the southern corner of Ornos Bay are a collection of white-washed villas, suites and rooms that wind down towards the two infinity pools and, eventually, a private beach that is so perfect, the Greek gods would gladly and believably take credit for it. Rooms are ultra-modern without being showy – think huge, dual, hand-carved wooden sinks, Acqua di Parma products and high beds that cocoon you until noon (the electric shutters that block out every shaft of light have a part to play there, too). If the Lapis Lazuli villa (our favorite) is taken, opt for one of the deluxe sea-view suites. Looking out to the ocean from your private plunge pool guarantees a ‘pinch me’ moment.
Relax
Many hotels have spas to speak of, but the Ginkgo Spa at Santa Marina is something else. Cross the mini moat via stepping stones and you are on your way to finding nirvana. Choose from massages, facials and body treatments, and a selection of either Espa or Phytomer potions: whatever you opt for, you’re in good hands. Indeed, when Kate Moss stayed here, she saw fit to label the massage she booked her “best ever” – ask for Christine if you want to get the supermodel treatment.
Must do
I was lucky enough to get my Mykonos must-do tips from the island’s First Lady of fashion, jewelry designer Diane Kordas, who decamps here every summer with her Greek husband Stefanos. Top of those is the beachside restaurant (-cum-bar-cum-boutique) Alemàgou; the staff look like sage yogis, the clientele lounge with the confidence that comes with knowing there is nowhere better in the world to be, and something as simple as a tomato salad tastes like the nectar of the gods (OK, I ordered fries too).
Dine
Yes, you must venture out of the hotel during your stay, but it won’t be for the want of great food. Santa Marina is host to Buddha-Bar Beach Mykonos, where you can order from a rich menu of Asian-inspired dishes, while the DJ spins behind you and the waves lash in front of you. Just turn a blind eye to the diners who can’t resist taking selfies of themselves in situ – it’s understandable. Breakfast is served in the Colonial Pool Restaurant, where the staff are the kind who greet you by name, whether you return every morning or every few years.
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