Cali Mykonos hotel review: one of the most luxurious hotels in the Cyclades

Times

5 days ago

Clustered together like a hilltop village, the luxurious suites and villas that make up Cali Mykonos are built in Cycladic style using bare stone and white-painted architecture, along with what must be an entire quarry's output of marble. Weaving it all together is an exquisite sense of detail, from striking guest room interiors to super-attentive service. But the most impressive element is the pool, which at 130m long is by far the largest on the island and hangs above the sea and a private cove. Stays cost above average for Mykonos but the vibe, one of sophistication rather than excess, is hard to match.
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Score 10/10Each of the 40 suites and villas has exterior space, an open-air shower and at least partial sea views, plus a green roof with pollinator-friendly plantings. Clearly designed on a nothing-but-the-best budget, even the entry-level Deluxe Suites are a generous 45 sq m, stretching to almost the same again outside (higher categories have private pools).
Every detail is top-notch: cut-stone floors, stained oak doors, incredibly comfortable Coco-Mat mattresses, and oversized sofas and loungers from STFN Labs, a well-known Athenian designer. Equally beautiful are the rain-shower-equipped bathrooms wrapped in marble, and the views of the sea and sculptural rocky surrounds framed by deep-set picture windows.
Score 9/10Breakfast — served à la carte with the morning sun glinting off the sea — offers choices of avocado toast, shakshuka, omelette or vegan breakfast wrap, plus strapatsada (scrambled eggs with feta) for local flavour. Daytime appetites are satisfied by sushi rolls, watermelon salad, souvlaki, calamari, dips and cheeseburgers (plus vegan options) enjoyed either poolside or in an open-air lounge, sheltered from wind and sun.
Highlights of the drinks menu include quality Greek wines by the glass, or signature cocktails such as the mastiha-based Polka Dot. Among standouts from the dinner menu's land, sea and vegetarian sections are seafood risotto and slow-roast lamb, all at reasonable-for-Mykonos prices. Further choice comes via the Lounge for sushi and staggering sea views (evening only).
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Score 9/10Cali's showpiece saltwater pool is an absolute one-of-a-kind stunner. At 130m long, it's the largest in Mykonos and gives the illusion of merging with the bay: an infinity pool indeed. Below it lies a gravelly cove flanked by the hillside's sculptural rocks that partially shelter it from persistent breezes. Two Axopar 37 speed boats float beside the adjacent pontoon, ready to whisk guests on island tours or to the south coast's beach clubs. Those into fitness will appreciate the gym's extensive equipment and there are classes in yoga, reformer Pilates and personal training available at an additional cost. There's no spa, but treatments can be arranged in-suite.
Score 9/10While the east coast, far from Mykonos Town, was once the unfashionable side of the island, its chilled-out vibes are now a valued commodity. Cali sits above the sea here, looking out towards Tragonisi islet, whose form resembles a slumbering dragon. Sandy Kalafatis beach is at the bottom of the hill, with smaller Agia Anna beach (home to see-and-be-seen Spilia restaurant) just beyond. Along with Elia, these nearby shores can be accessed by complimentary shuttle, which also runs a several-times-a-day service into town (a 25-minute drive away). Airport transfers take about 20 minutes, depending on traffic.
Price B&B doubles from £743Restaurant mains from £14Family-friendly YAccessible Y
James Litston was a guest of Cali Mykonos (calimykonos.com)
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