.jpg)
Mykonos is an island with many hotel options in the luxury category, but one hotel, the Belvedere Hotel, holds the top spot for an ultimate experience in luxury and comfort. Located on the slopes of a hill overlooking the beautiful town of Chora and out to the turquoise Aegean Sea, the Belvedere Hotel is in a prime location for any guest seeking luxury and convenience. It’s whitewashed buildings collide to make a cluster of elegant and private rooms for guests to unwind, relax and spend a few days in the sun.
Just a ten-minute walk from the old port, getting to the hotel by car or by foot is easy. Arriving at the Belvedere, you’re instantly struck by just how intimate it is. A boutique property with a mere 43 rooms, you feel as if you’ve stumbled into a large estate where the owner has invited you to spend your holiday in peace – being looked after by his army of friendly staff members. I was given a suite with a large terrace overlooking Chora and the sea. Inside the room you are immediately at-ease with the all-white interiors giving way to a sense of calm and zen. Inside the cave-like rooms, guests can peer-out of large windows, relax in their plush white beds, rest in front of one of their large flat screen televisions or have a Greek coffee outside with majestic views.
The details won me over. Rooms are mostly marble with intricately carved stone embedded into walls, ceilings and floors. The marble floors are punctuated with silver leaf detail, a beautiful touch to break-up the white. Marble is softened by layers of fabric and there isn’t a moment here where you don’t feel a halo of serenity due to the materials and colors chosen for each dwelling. Just down from my room was the cozy lobby where the hotel’s operations are based. Breakfast is served nearby, inside or out – even by the beautiful swimming pool during the height of the summer.
The Belvedere is not just a beautiful place to hang your hat while in Mykonos, it’s the “it” spot for those looking to mingle amongst the international jet-set. During the summer, Nobu Matsuhisa maintains an outpost here where regulars include European and American celebrities. There are also three bars where you can enjoy ouzo on the rocks while reflecting on the fun you’ve had that day. I am in-love with the sexy martini bar.
The staff at the Belvedere are there to help make their guests’ experience unforgettable. They are all kind, attentive and willing to do what they can to help. Rooms are cleaned promptly and organized by the housekeeping staff – which is a wonderful touch. For those looking to be based in even more private accommodations, the Belvedere also offers private villas which are tended-to by personal butlers. They are, simply put, over-the-top in the best of ways.
A stay at the Belvedere is unforgettable. It’s not uncommon for people to extend their reservation here once checked-in – as they just can’t get enough. But, a word of warning, summer months book-up well in advance so make your reservation now – or forever hold you peace.
