Award-winning interior designer, author, curator (to collections owned by such notables as Gwyneth Paltrow and P Diddy), authority on everything you want to know about contemporary art and now accessory designer (could there be more??!!), it’s no surprise that my good friend Maria Brito has excellent taste! In anticipation of her upcoming feature for Gypset Girl on what’s sure to be an informative lifestyle journey she’ll take this week in Mykonos, I thought it would be fun to share with the Gypset Girl readers some of the fav’s on our compass here at Gypset Girl in this magical archipelago.
Gorgeous crystalline water, bright white cliff-top architecture, chic fishing villages and private beach coves make up the island chain of the Cyclades in Greece. The most famous islands in the circular chain are Santorini and Mykonos, where the jetset arrive in private yachts to hide away in beautiful beach coves or pure white villas overlooking the Aegean.
The Cyclades islands offer a Gypset Girl the perfect boho-chic getaway. Unique art and fashion boutiques, fantastic food, friendly, chilled locals and yoga retreats on every island, for every level and commitment.
There’s a spiritual vibe on these islands that remind you of the beauty of a slow, abundant and simple life where nature is the breathtaking backdrop to everything you do. Luxury is island life living and not exclusive to those arriving on mega yachts. Pure luxury is available to everyone willing to enjoy the multisensory beauty and charm of these islands. In the Cyclades, it’s not hard not to stop, smell the honeysuckle and feel like a million bucks.
Getting There
There are direct flights to Santorini or you can fly into Athens and take a ferry from there. The high speed ferry to Santorini takes five hours, while the ferries to Syros take between three to five hours. If you’re an ocean lover, the ferry is the way to go. The ferry trip gives you the chance to decompress after a long flight. By the time you dock, you’ll be in zen mode, ready for adventure.
Where to Stay
Each island has its own personality and great offerings of places to stay. Favorites include:
Santorini
The romantic island is often at the top of the world’s best lists for its beauty. The narrow alleys leading to the small shopping areas in Fira, Oia and Athinios harbour are worth getting lost in. The sunsets are incredible, while a visit to the volcano is a great adventure.
Perivolas Hotel in Oia
Located in the chic neighborhood of Oia, the hotel is located on a high cliff overlooking the sea a short walk from the center of Oia.
The infinity pool overlooks terraced gardens and the Aegean Sea below. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a sunset.
The whole resort, which was once a family home, is built as a cave home into the cliff. The cave guest houses are spacious, quiet and cool during the hottest times of the day.
Mykonos
Mykonos is a large island with something for everyone. It’s Greece’s most famous island and the perfect place to learn to surf or kite surf, lounge, shop and explore. “Little Venice”, an 18th century district, offers views of mansions with colourful balconies. Views of the quaint windmills on the hillside above can be enjoyed from many of the cafes and island walks.
Offering rustic modern residences and rooms and just a short walk to Psarou beach and the center of town.
Sifnos
Sifnos is the destination for the Gypset foodie. Apollonía, the capital town of Sífnos, is home to tavernas serving incredible dishes. The selection of lounge bars and nightclubs bring visitors from neighboring islands when the sun goes down.
Verina Villa is located in Vathi, one of the most picturesque beaches of Sifnos. The villas are comfortable and private with amenities including a private boat dock and an on-staff chef.
Ios
Ios or Nios, as the locals call it, is flower in Greek. The island was the homeland of Homer’s mother and the final resting place of the great epic poet. It’s a destination for yoga retreats and quiet, unspoiled beaches.
The traditional island design and the exceptional beach and ocean views from the Liostasi make this location the perfect place for wellness, meditation and yoga. Massages are offered in the gardens while enjoying the sound of the ocean below, or the birds in the trees.
The rooms are clean and bright, with beautiful private terraces.
The Cyclades by Sea
To truly see and appreciate the islands of the Cyclades chain, charter a sailboat or catamaran from Cyclades Sailing. Travel by sea is the best way to discover untouched coves or explore the ruins in the crystal clear waters around Santorini, where Jacques Cousteau searched for the lost city of Atlantis.
The Cyclades are exposed to strong, unpredictable northern winds called ‘Meltemi’, which are prevalent between July and September. Most charters will plan their trips around the winds to keep your sailing experience comfortable, but for the adrenaline junkie, a full sail journey in Force 5 winds from one island to another is a thrill.
