7 impeccably dressed hotels for your Greek getaway

Travel is well and truly on the brain this month. With many of us transitioning into double-vaxxed life, European getaways can finally become a reality. And the latest offerings from Greece – both mainland and islands – fuse effortless vacation with design-led elevation.

From monochromatic modernism in Athens to contemporary Cycladic architecture in Crete, these are our favourites.

NUMO Ierapetra, Crete

NUMO hotel in Ierapetra, Crete — Courtesy of NUMO

Located in Ierapetra — the area that boasts the most hours of sunshine and the lowest rainfall in all of Greece — is Crete’s latest addition, wellness retreat, NUMO. Its beachfront destination is juxtaposed with evergreen gardens that delicately decorate the design-led rooms inside the chic and contemporary Cycladian facade.

NUMO Ierapetra, Crete plunge pool and deck — Courtesy of NUMO

Expect a conscious design that draws the outside in, purposely increasing the mindful experience, with a colour palette that follows suit. The neutral and earthy tones take inspiration from the light grey tones of the beach sand and the gentle greens of the native tamarisk trees that adorn our neighbourhood.

Epar.Od. Ierapetras – Sitias, Ierapetra 722 00, Greece

The Modernist, Athens

Private deck at The Modernist hotel, Athens — Courtesy of The Modernist

Housed in the former Canadian Embassy, The Modernist is perfectly situated for those looking for proximity to the city as it provides a convenient base on the southern slopes of Lycabettas Hill. Its decor takes on an undeniably cool tone with a monochromatic palette and warm, tactile finishings.

A bedroom suite inside The Modernist, Athens — Courtesy of The Modernist

The Modernist also prides itself on fusing ethics with aesthetics, looking to its neighbours and supporting its local community to ‘create uniquely crafted, heartfelt and holistic experiences.’ See more on the Athens hotel.

Ioannou Gennadiou 4, Athina 106 76, Greece

Santorini Sky, Santorini

Santorini sky villa suite with infinity pool and terrace — Courtesy of Santorini Sky

As the name suggests, Santorini Sky sits 2,000 feet above the Aegean Sea and offers unparalleled panoramic views over the crystal-blue waters, as well as the highest infinity pool on the island. Each of its eight elegantly designed villas is finished with high-end touches — spectacular Greek marble is hand-carved locally while minimalist lighting is by Tom Dixon. Each bolthole is fitted with indoor-outdoor showers, private terraces and plunge pools for sumptuous seclusion.

Epar.Od. Pirgou Kallistis – Profiti Ilia 1, Pirgos Kallistis 847 01, Greece

Aristide Hotel, Syros

In contrast to Greece’s typically white-washed Cycladic offerings comes the Aristide Hotel on the island of Syros, which injects bold colours into the mix. The restored mansion, located in the historical centre of Hermoupolis, combines classic and contemporary design.

A colourful pink bedroom suite at the Aristide Hotel, Syros — Courtesy of Aristide Hotel

A dramatic marble staircase and Doric columns highlighting the architectural styles of Greek neoclassical and art deco in the public spaces. In addition to the nine suites, the mansion also hosts an art gallery, an artists’ residence and workshop, and two bars.

Mpampagiwtou 27, Ermoupoli 841 00, Greece

OKU, Kos

Oku channels tropical vibes — Courtesy of OKU

OKU in Kos takes the traditional Greek island village and centuries-old architecture as its inspiration. It features a collection of one and two-story cubist buildings, congregating around gardens, patios and pools, that house spacious guest rooms, suites and a handful of private two-bedroom villas.

An aerial views of Oku hotel — Courtesy of OKU

Inside, midcentury elements are contrasted with naturally tactile textures and traditionally handmade pieces in warm, earthy tones to create a space that elegantly fuses slow-living, mindfulness and minimalism.

OKU Kos, Sikamini, Marmari, Kos, 85, 853 00, Greece

Kalesma, Mykonos

Kalesma is one of the latest hotels to open on the island of Mykonos, yet it is the only one with a private pool and terrace in every suite. Both the architecture and design are unquestionably minimalist, but a Cycladic aesthetic runs throughout its spaces. Whitewashed walls, neutral, earthy colour palette and clean-lined furnishings lend a laid-back, low-key glamour.

Unobstructed sea views can be enjoyed from the freestanding tub, offering a comforting highlight.

Aleomandra, Mykonos, Mikonos 846 00, Greece

Shila, Athens

Shila is a bohemian boutique hotel situated in the undeniably cool neighbourhood of Kolonaki in Athens that revives a late-1920 residential building. The hotel comprises six distinctive suites, each with its own unique character and an old-worldly elegance running throughout. Bold, contemporary design touches and modern amenities are ideal for indulgent self-care.