Cali Mykonos

According to Greek mythology, Mykonos was where the Olympian Gods fought the Giants. 

The struggle ended when Hercules buried his enemies under the island’s huge rocks. 

Perhaps this explains the forceful nature of the island – strong winds, large rolling hills, and tall cliffs that crash dramatically into the sea. 

On one of these hillsides, and in close dialogue with the natural landscape, lies Cali Mykonos. 

Mykonos is a small island, and much of its famous nightlife is concentrated in its main town, Chora. 

Cali Mykonos is located on the south-eastern edge of the island, in the laid back coastal town of Kalafati. It is only 15 minutes by car from Chora, so all the main attractions and tempting distractions are easily within reach – and the hotel’s complimentary concierge service is more than willing to assist with recommendations and reservations – yet arriving here is like entering a completely different world, calmer and more serene. 

Cali Mykonos is planned almost like a village of its own, with little reason to ever want to leave.

Planned by Athens-based STFN Labs, the design has taken inspiration from the traditional Cycladic buildings, once the inspiration for Le Corbusier when he launched the Modernist movement in architecture. Each of the 40 rooms and suites has been uniquely placed in a way that respects the existing terrain. 

The stones come from the initial excavation, while the flat rooftops are planted with local vegetation, flowers, and herbs, which insulates the rooms and improves air quality. 

All furniture has been handcrafted in Greece, constructed from native wood and marbles. 

The modernist architecture appears to frame the surrounding landscape, creating a dialogue between nature and culture. This exchange enhances at the same time the natural beauty of Mykonos and the understated elegance of the hotel. 

While the hotel boasts a private beach, and practically all suites have private pools, the main attraction is the 130-metres long infinity seawater pool, which also happens to be Mykonos’ longest. 

The pool follows the organic shapes found in nature; the water becomes gradually both deeper and bluer as one successively steps into the pool. It gently curves along the side of the mountain, while on its other side, 60 sunbeds are readily available. 

There is also a poolside bar, for those wanting a drink or a light snack.

The culinary offerings are overseen by Greece’s first Michelin-starred chef Lefteris Lazarou, and are based in traditional Greek cuisine. 

Greece is world-famous for its excellent food and simple dishes, characterised by locally sourced, high-quality ingredients.

The restaurant has a wonderful view of the sea, but guests can also dine on their private terrace, for a more intimate experience.

An integral part of Cali Mykonos is the impeccable service. 

As the hotel area is not only vast but also built on a hill, electric buggies continuously drive up and down the hill, transporting guests who take this opportunity to chat with the friendly drivers about everything and nothing. 

The impression is welcoming and relaxed, and no request – whether it’s booking the hotel yacht for an excursion at sea, wanting an in-room massage or arranging a Pilates session – is too big or too small.

The hotel is also accessible for those with difficulty walking, with lifts and disability-friendly restrooms in all the public spaces. 

In sum, staying at Cali Mykonos is the perfect base for an exploration of the island, but it is also a destination in itself; a place for those wanting to get away from the world and unwind. 

Cali Mykonos