Kalesma Mykonos

"Since the 1960s, Mykonos has been known for a very singular brand of hedonism. One that revolves around dance-until-sunrise parties fueled by cocktails and thumping DJ beats. Kalesma is a pulse-slowing alternative that taps into the zeitgeist with yoga sessions, mocktails, a cold plunge, and views so spectacular that even device-addicted guests abandon their screens. Perched on a bougainvillea-draped hilltop overlooking Ornos Bay, this discreet retreat has no shortage of pleasures, from a sensational farm-to-fire restaurant to a dazzling new spa. Twenty-five one-bedroom suites and villas all have plunge pools as well as sunrise and sunset views. They’ve become so in demand the owners are adding 19 for next season. From $1,060. —Jen Murphy" - CNT Editors

"Kalesma Mykonos offers panoramic views and a minimalist style focusing on natural beauty. Spacious suites come with chic furnishings and private plunge pools. Dining options include Pere Ubu, specializing in Greek small plates." - Travel + Leisure Editors

"Kalesma Mykonos is a luxurious, hilltop retreat offering 25 suites and villas with private infinity pools and expansive patios. The design emphasizes natural materials and a seamless indoor-outdoor connection. The hotel also features a top-rated Mediterranean restaurant, Pere Ubu, and was included on the T+L 2022 It List." - Travel + Leisure Editors

"Kalesma is recommended for the fashion crowd, providing stylish accommodations that cater to trendy travelers." - Chadner Navarro

"A Hot List 2022 hotel For his new-wave retreat, restaurateur Aby Saltiel secured a stellar spot between the beaches of Ornos and Agios Ioannis (of Shirley Valentine fame), a world away from the busy thrum of town. But rather than a traditional Cycladic reimagining, he and business partners Makis Kousathanas and Sofia Kousathana have pulled together something altogether cooler. When you add fashion designer Rick Owens’s furniture and Serbian Aleksandar Vac’s artwork, the atmosphere takes on a certain edge. That’s not to say it is intimidating. Kalesma means invitation, and everything here is to be used, enjoyed or sat on, even if your bikini bottoms are wet from the pool. And the thrust for the owners is still very much a celebration of their Greek roots and local craftsmanship. In the dappled shade of a pergola is Pere Ubu restaurant, where guests chat while sipping spirulina cocktails or tucking into cauliflower tarama and grilled octopus. Couples from New York exchange notes about the Hamptons; a photographer paces around trying to capture the light. The mix is eclectic—aesthetes and party lovers, as well as those looking for some downtime. But there’s no hierarchy or competition to get the best suite or villa: all three types of accommodation—including the larger villas that sleep up to eight guests—have their own pool, with interiors designed by Vaggelis Bonios of Studio Bonarchi and architecture by hip Athens-based K-Studio in milky stone and sugar-cane-brown wood, and in a nod to island tradition, the ceilings are made from osier willow. Once a week, on the sunset side, everyone gathers around the firepit and a DJ plays a few sets. —I.Z." - Becky Lucas