The Vibe: 

An oasis at the edge of the stark Myconian landscape, Greco Phila’s white-washed facade feels as if it’s seemingly carved into the cliff side. As you pull up in a car, standing stoically at the entrance way is a 100-year-old olive tree, just the first breathtaking feature of the property. Once you can pry yourself away from the large pool with its unobstructed views of the Aegean and the delicious food served up poolside, make your way down for some time on the sand. You might be bumping into honeymooners and luxury lovers looking for some privacy, but that’s about it on the beach, making it a relaxing hideaway.    

The Facts:

Originally a private summer residence to the Kavouras family in 1085, Greco Philia was converted into a 7 suite boutique property in 2007. Now, it boasts 30 villas and suites each with a moniker of a famous artist. Art, a passion of the owner, is also hung throughout each room. As you twist and turn down cobblestoned and cacti-lined walkways, rooms ranging in size—from Junior Suites, queen bed-sized rooms, up to a Two Bedroom Grande Deluxe Villa with private pools—all come with in-room spa service and one of the best views of the island sunsets.  

Not only do the accommodation warrant its 5-star rating, but so does the restaurant. With fresh fish and seafood caught each day by Stergios, the hotel’s on-site fisherman, handpicked olives, tomatoes and leafy greens from the garden, and cheese delivered by boat from a family-run farm from the nearby tiny island of Tinos, it can’t get more authentically Greek than this.

The Experience:

We arrived from Santorini by ferry, where we were picked up by Greco Philia’s complementary black car service (a nice precursor to the level of service we were going to experience). The drive from the port was about 30 minutes across Mykonos’ surprisingly barren landscape—all the stunning and lively features the island offers line the water. As we made our way up a steep road to the entrance way, we were greeted by the friendly but not at all pretentious (something you might expect from such an exclusive property) concierge. 

We stayed in the Kandinsky, a Deluxe Suite with white washed walls and linens reflective of the exterior, and organic touches throughout. A walk-in closet and small living area made the space feel even more comfortable and the expansive windows and balcony gave us undisturbed views of the turquoise cove below. The only caveat here is the strong wind (common on the island), which makes sitting outside sometimes uncomfortable. 

Privacy is the theme here and each suite and villa is strategically scattered amongst the cliff side to feel secluded—even at capacity, you’ll rarely run into other guests.

Good to Know:

Getting around Mykonos can be pricey, so expect to spend around 35 euros to get to Mykonos town from the hotel. A great and more economic way to explore the amazing beaches the island has to offer is by water taxi, which for only 7 euro makes pit stops to 5 of the best southern sunbathing spots. The best part is that you’ll tour the island from the water, which we like to think is a real highlight. 

Room to Book:

Although you won’t be disappointed by any room on this property, a suite perched on the cliff with an outdoor private jacuzzi, like Rembrant, overlooking the stunning Elia beach below is unmatched. If budget allows, splurge for one with a private pool—but be forewarned, it will be hard to leave. Every room is spacious, airy and allows for ultimate views.

Price: $$$