All of the accommodations at Kalesma have a full-sized, heated pool
One of Greece’s most anticipated hotels openings in 2021, Kalesma opened just days after the country loosened its border restrictions following the COVID-19 pandemic. Set in the southwestern corner of Mykonos, it immediately became one of the island’s must luxurious hotels, offering guests the finest when it comes to hospitality and accommodations. And despite overlooking Ornos Bay and its popular beach, it feels world’s away from the isle’s famed party scene.
A Rick Owens Double Bubble sofa sits in the lobby next to the reception desk
The serene oasis was designed by Athens-based architecture firm K-Studio and boutique interior design agency Studio Bonarchi. They took inspiration from traditional Cycladic villages and have married them with contemporary touches. The materials and exteriors of the buildings, for example, include brown granite stone; limewashing to create a white hue; and burnt wood, a technique used to create a darker color while simultaneously protecting it from the salty air. These classic Mykonian elements are then contrasted with pieces like Rick Owens furniture in the lobby; ceramics by Serbian artist Aleksander Vac; and horsehair sconces, a nod to the mythical history that the area served as a shelter to Apollo’s stallions.
Bathrooms are outfitted with a standalone tub, rain shower, and marble sinks
The entire property spans a whopping five acres, but you wouldn’t know it thanks to its intimate nature. Cascading down the lush hillside you’ll find just 27 suites and villas. All of the accommodations boast their own furnished terraces with a full-sized pool—a first for the island—and a shaded dining area. Interiors feature an earthy color palette that’s contrasted with black accents and are decorated with beautiful linens and luxurious furnishings like a Simmons mattress and a custom headboard with leather detailing evocative of a bridle. The bathrooms are spectacular, too, outfitted with both a standalone tub and rain shower, including an additional option outside; a marble sink; and are stocked with plush towels and Frédéric Malle toiletries. To maximize the indoor-outdoor arrangement, most of the doors open up to the expansive patio including the bedroom, which leads straight into the pool. And from just about every corner of the space you’ll have a view of Ornos Bay’s glistening blue waters. In addition to all of these sumptuous features you’ll also have an in-room yoga mat, a set of dumbbells, a TV hidden in the mirror, a Sonos speaker, and a complimentary mini bar with water, juices, and soft drinks at your disposal throughout your stay.
If you’re traveling with family or friends the hotel also offers two multi-bedroom villas, which can be connected internally for even larger groups. Named Apollon and Artemis, paying homage to the Greek god and goddess, respectively, they offer three- and four-bedroom configurations. Spread across three floors, both accommodations come with additional amenities such as butler service, a full kitchen with a wine cooler, living room, and a fitness area with Technogym equipment. And should you want a private chef to prepare your meals or a personal trainer to keep you on track during your holiday, the property can certainly oblige such requests.
The main pool, located next to Pere Ube restaurant, turns into a lounge in the evening
When hunger strikes, there’s the all-day Pere Ubu next to the hotel’s main pool. Helmed by Costas Tsingas, who previously owned Agrotikon in New York City and went on to be the culinary director for the Olympic Village in Athens, the chef has devised a menu of Mediterranean fare and modern takes on Greek classics. Savor all your favorites like mezes with house-made pita bread, fresh salads, wood-fired octopus, seafood pasta, and slow-baked rabbit served in a clay pot. The restaurant also offers an extensive wine list that highlights Greek vinos along with a selection of craft cocktails. Come around dusk and enjoy your tipple by the pool lounge or head to the back by the firepit and watch the sunset before enjoying an extraordinary dinner with a live DJ.
To help you explore Mykonos and the surrounding area, Kalesma offers a range of experiences to help you get the most out of your vacation. Whether it’s a shopping tour of some of isle’s best boutiques, private boat rentals, a guided tour of nearby Delos island, or a romantic sunset horseback ride, they’ve got you covered. You’ll be hard pressed to leave your exquisite digs, but just remember that you’ll have a relaxing abode waiting for you upon return.