Our opinion on Kalesma Mykonos: unadorned luxury on Aleomandra Hill

The pitch?

Perched on a jasmine-scented hillside, Kalesma is distinguished by an approach to luxury that prefers the essential to the ostentatious. Mykonos offers a striking contrast between, on the one hand, the unbridled nights and dreamy panoramas that feed the postcards, and on the other, a more confidential side. Kalesma (which means "welcoming" in Greek) belongs to the second category. Perched on the west side of the island, fifteen minutes from the city, this hotel in Greece offers a stripped-down version of luxury.

No glittering marble or gaudy excess, but a pared-down setting that highlights the views and craftsmanship. Aby Saltiel (owner of restaurants Pere, Ubu and Sea Spice in Glyfada, on the Athenian Riviera) and his partner Makis Kousathanas, nostalgic for summers spent in Ornos Bay, have transformed a family haven into an aesthete's haven, far removed from the sometimes caricatured excesses of the region.

How's the hotel?

It's said that Apollo's sacred horses once trotted the hillside here, evoking ancient myths. Today, it's a boutique hotel imagined as a typical Cycladic village that blends into this vernacular landscape. The Kalesma's suites and villas are now spread over two hectares of land planted with olive trees, lavender, vines and bougainvillea. These small 63 m² Greek villas, with whitewashed walls reflecting the Aegean light, were designed by the Greek architects K-Studio - a benchmark in contemporary Greek architecture - and feature sea views and a private swimming pool.

Inside, the décor flirts with the Japanese concept of wabi-sabi, focusing on the essential without sacrificing warmth. Ebony-colored floors, bohemian woven rugs, immaculate sofas and light-wood benches blend with a sobriety that invites rest and well-being, far from the rigid codes of traditional luxury. At the center of this complex, a main square with an immaculate chapel and infinity pool becomes a space for gathering and contemplation. Further on, the recently inaugurated spa offers treatments by Dr. Barbara Sturm, the renowned German aesthetic physician specializing in molecular science-based skincare.

How are the rooms?

The 25 suites and 2 private villas seem to sit naturally on the hillside, each space opening onto a permanent view of the Aegean Sea. There's nothing superfluous here, just subtle staging that magnifies the setting: generous terraces, private heated pools and wide openings to capture the island's ever-changing light.

The most "modest" of the suites, already impressive, offers 63 m² of thoughtful comfort: an outdoor shower, an open-air kitchen and an infinity pool that extends the terrace. All share Rick Owens furniture, exclusive to the dream hotel, where sculptural lines meet raw materials such as wood and stone. As for the Kalesma Leto Villa, with its seven bedrooms and multiple living spaces, it's in a different league! It's a sanctuary designed for large families or groups of friends in search of serenity and togetherness.

To complete this already incredible range of accommodation, Kalesma is introducing 21 new rooms in June 2025, specifically: 10 Deluxe Rooms with Sea View and 11 Junior Suites with Private Jetted Tub and Sea View.

What makes the difference?

An unrivalled sense of detail. From alabaster and braided horsehair fixtures by Apparatus to obsidian-colored yoga mats by Rick Owens, every element tells a story. But it's also the setting: a bay off the beaten track, far from the invading crowds, where time seems to slow down. When it comes to gastronomy, the Père Ubu restaurant honors local flavors with a cosmopolitan touch. Savor lamb chops sublimated by roasted figs, saffron aioli or tender octopus with giant beans.

All this is accompanied by homemade bread from the wood-fired oven, which deserves a special mention in its own right. In the evening, a DJ creates a hushed atmosphere that, miraculously, remains civilized. And for those with a thirst for adventure, the concierge acts as orchestra conductor, organizing scuba dives or escapades to the mystical island of Delos, the mythological birthplace of Apollo and Artemis. An invitation to combine maritime discoveries with legendary tales.

Additionally, Kalesma is launching a new restaurant named Kuveda, an all-day traditional Greek taverna, as well as a second main pool available to all our guests.

What to remember?

Kalesma Mykonos stands out for its perfect balance between authenticity and the contemporary. Here, everything seems calibrated to satisfy a demanding clientele without ever going overboard. An address that lives up to its promises, both simple and sophisticated. This quest for excellence is embodied by Aby Saltiel, one of the founders, who willingly mingles with guests, sharing addresses and advice with an infectious passion. He never hesitates to take the time to chat, almost giving us the impression of being a friend welcomed into his home, an impression reinforced by the team, many of whom have been here since the opening, and who embody sincere hospitality.

5 things we loved about Kalesma Mykonos

• The private infinity pools, all heated,
• The Père Ubu restaurant, for a new take on Mykonian gastronomy,
• The location, away from the crowds but close to everything,
• Discreet, attentive service, always ready to meet your every need,
• The breathtaking panorama, to be enjoyed every hour of the day.