Mykonos is not a place one finds easily in the imagination, and yet few destinations have that effect. The Greek island has for years been the very definition of Mediterranean luxury, with its mix of whitewashed villages, turquoise water and the usual bustle of beach clubs. But there is a new draw for visitors: the Four Seasons Mykonos. This resort puts a more refined and quiet spin on what is arguably Europe’s most popular destination.
We had the chance to put it to the test on a recent foray through Greece, spending some time as among the first to call this property home. In doing so we found something that does not quite fit the mold of a conventional luxury hotel; it is closer to a secluded Mykonian village set above the Aegean.
The brand’s second Greek venture after the Astir Palace in Athens, the new Four Seasons Mykonos is sited on a hillside with commanding views of Kalo Livadi Bay. Where other places might vie for attention with the island’s high-octane beach scene, this resort is content with a slower tempo. The architecture and the setting are peaceful, inviting you to put down your plans for the next stop and make yourself at home.
Nicos Valsamakis, the well-known Greek architect, has put his stamp on the 15-acre grounds. The result is a layout that recalls a traditional Cycladic village, with its white buildings tumbling down to a private beach. You will find yourself pausing to look out over the Aegean from almost any vantage point.
What stands out is the balance.
You can put in a morning at one of the infinity pools or take a dip in the stillness of Kalo Livadi Bay. Then, if you are in the mood for the designer shops and waterfront dining of Chora (Mykonos Town), a brief shuttle will put you there. It is a good way to have your cake and eat it too, enjoying the island without being worn down by its relentless energy from dawn till dusk.
Of the 94 rooms, suites and villas on offer, many have their own plunge pool with a view of the sea. Inside, the understated elegance is consistent with the rest of the grounds. There is nothing fussy about the natural stone and warm wood; the space is calming and lets the scenery be the star. It is the sort of room that makes you want to put the phone away and watch the boats go by.
As one would expect from the Four Seasons, the food is an integral part of the stay. At Álef, the signature spot, the Mediterranean fare is done right, with fine seafood and a good list of Greek wines. For a more casual lunch or dinner, Corbu is an easy option with its Italian leanings. And as the day wears on, the bar by the beach is where everyone seems to congregate for a cocktail.
We made a habit of going to Kafeneo though. We were there for coffee before the island was up and about, and again come sunset when the bay was bathed in gold. It was our preferred spot to just let the moment be.
The spa is tucked away in the gardens and has everything from a vitality pool to seven treatment rooms and an outdoor pavilion. There is a 24-hour gym and even a yoga pavilion with a view of the water for those who need to work off the day. Whether you are reading on the beach or in an early class, the resort facilitates the kind of pace you would want on an island.
Hotels like to talk of escape; the Four Seasons Mykonos provides it.
The island is renowned for its glamour and nightlife, but here you get some much-needed room to breathe. It is removed from the fray but never feels cut off from what makes Mykonos so iconic. If you are putting together a luxury itinerary for the Greek islands, this is more than just another five-star name. Between the hospitality and the views, it is shaping up to be one of the most worthwhile places to be on the island.