Perfect Getaway

Cosmopolitan, elegant with ruggedly handsome sceneries and spectacular beaches, Mykonos should be on everyone’s ‘must visit’ wish-list. Serena Templeton takes a trip with The Greek Villas

Come summer, the world’s elite start descending for their annual pilgrimage to the indisputable queen among Greek islands. At the same time fashionable and easy-going, Mykonos is first and foremost a party island with a pulsing nightlife. Having said that, you can spend your time in perfect isolation should you wish -it is, after all, a haven for tranquil privacy.

The setting is typically Cycladic, with dramatic cliffs giving way to pristine beaches with crystal clear waters. Despite its early development, the island has stayed true to its vernacular architecture with iconic low-rise, stark-white buildings resembling bundles of cubes. Add to this, the stunning beaches, stylish boutiques and top-notch restaurants, and you might begin to understand why this island has been a star since the ’60s.

If you want to enjoy a cosmopolitan lifestyle at one of the world’s hottest party islands, or spend some quality time with your family without having to give up the luxuries of a worldclass destination, Mykonos is the place to be. As any self-respecting tourist guide will tell you, a tour to Delos is a must. Hop on one of the little boats that take you to the tiny islet, once a religious powerhouse to ancient Greece and one of today’s most important archaeological sites. If you’re a fan of the arts and culture, you will find an array of cutting-edge galleries that host exhibitions of local and international artists.

Shopping is an art form, too, in Mykonos. Walking through the narrow alleys of the town, you come across local shops and luxury boutiques. Island living is of course, all about the beaches, and Mykonos is thankfully big enough to satisfy every taste. If you’re in a cosmopolitan mood, head for Psarou or the fashionable bay of Panormos, with its stylish beach restaurants. To escape the crowds, try Agios Sostis, Lia or Kapari.

Mykonos is famed for its nightlife for a reason - the island is full of tredny venues that range from easy-going seaside bars to pulsing night-clubs that host international DJs. For a more relaxing experience, you can stroll the village of Ano Mera to get a feel of old Mykonos or watch a movie under the stars at the open-sky gardens of Cine Manto in Chora.

This being Greece’s most glamorous destination, there’s an abundance of luxury villas to rent around the island, ranging from spectacular sanctuaries at remote settings, to luxurious private villas in some of the island’s hottest locations.

The team at The Greek Villas has strived to create a diverse collection of the island’s most exquisite luxury villas that will satisfy any taste, with more than 500 across mainland Greece and 34 islands, in the most sought-after locations. Founded in 2010 by Vasilis and Anezina Pandi, The Greek Villas is a family-run business that draws on more than thirty years of experience delivering the ultimate luxury experience for travellers.

The Greek Villas’ sense of quality service extends well beyond just renting a property, they are with clients every step of the way, from choosing the destination that best suits their needs to the luxury retreat they will be staying in and everything else in-between.

Their vast portfolio of luxury villas is as diverse as their international clientele. Yet every single one of the luxury rentals has been carefully vetted by the team to make sure they are up to the high-quality clients are looking for.

As a result, The Greek Villas pair the luxuries and comforts of a top hotel with the freedom of feeling at home.

Anezina Pandi explains: “Each of our listings has been carefully inspected to make sure it complies with our rigorous list of requirements. The quality of the linens and fluffiness of towels to wi-fi signal and sound systems – when vetting a home, no detail is too trivial.”

Vasilis Pandis adds: “We also provide 24/7 concierge service and invaluable information on each destination. As well as customised itineraries with tips and advice based on clients exact needs, including the best beaches, gastronomical must-try meals, hidden architectural gems and much more.”

+30 210 64 10 280

www.thegreekvillas.com