Kensho Boutique Hotel & Suites

There's a distinctly zen vibe at this 2016-opened property -- indeed "Kensho" is Japanese for enlightenment. Tucked away atop a hill overlooking Ornos Bay, the hotel's Myconian flair is strong with exposed stone and white stucco embracing outdoor terraces. Thoughtfully curated interiors are sleek and outfitted in airy decor made from mostly natural materials. Bleached or whitewashed woods, tee-stump stools, and locally made artwork decorates the interiors. A hip outdoor bar has tree slab tables under pendant lamps and suspended wicker seating, and more sea-view seating can be found at the open-air eatery and rooftop lounge. The bar's soft evening music is romantic, as are optic lights at the bottom of the pool that twinkle at night. The word indeed sums up the place, and Kensho is far more suited to couples than families with kids. Note that there are steps throughout, which may be difficult for those with limited mobility. Also be aware that the hotel is only open from May through October.

The hotel occupies a hilltop spot overlooking Ornos Beach, and sands bordering the bay's turquoise waters are a five-minute walk downhill. With taxis hard to get a hold of in Mykonos, guests make the most of free downtown shuttles, which run regularly. Small streets here have Cycladic charm from whitewashed houses, and they're packed with upscale boutiques, bars, and restaurants. Shuttle rides and drives take 10 minutes for Mykonos, its Old and New Port, the island's 16th-century windmills, and charming Little Venice district. Cosmopolitan Psarou Beach is nine minutes on foot. Mykonos Airport is a 10-minute drive.

Mostly sea-facing, stylish rooms are outfitted in dominating whites from Cycladic-style washed or textured walls, muted grays in bed runners and throw pillows, and clean stone floors. Entry-level Zen rooms lack views or the outdoor hot tub/plunge pool afforded by all of the other rooms. Individual room decor varies from delicate bauble lighting, brushed or rustic woods, suspended seating, or faux cow-print headboards, but all are chic and have a similar feel as common areas. They're also bright and airy (excluding interior-facing Zen Rooms) thanks to floor-to-ceiling glass doors that open onto comfy furnished terraces. Upgraded categories have the aforementioned private hot tub or plunge pool. Desks, satellite flat-screen TVs and Spotify-loaded iPads come standard, as do minibars, Nespresso machines, kettles, safes, and AC. Free-standing in rooms, glass-wrapped rainfall showers aren't for the privacy conscious. Swish toiletries are Hermes-branded, and slippers, bathrobes, and hairdryers are provided. Suites with living rooms have a second TV, and a private off-site Villa has five bedrooms. Free crib fittings and Wi-Fi come standard.

The outdoor pool is small, but peaceful, set surrounded by natural shrubbery and exposed stone. A limited number of loungers offer shade, and there are a few cushioned cabanas. A mezzanine-level whirlpool is small, but provides scenic views. Futuristic mood lighting from loungers at the underground cave spa is high-end, and a rock-surrounded whirlpool is atmospheric. A tropical rain bed, sauna, and steam room offer further relaxation. Pampering treatments are luxurious, and couples massages are popular. Yoga and pilates classes accompany a small, modern-equipped gym. The Kensho Fine Dining Restaurant serves refined Greek fare and fresh-caught seafood in an airy space, and free breakfasts here are fantastic. Buffet spreads consist of Greek options and made-to-order eggs, plus tea, coffee, and juice. The wood-accented restaurant is stylish and has al fresco seating, as does the trendy bar. A guest iMac in the lobby is free to use. Mykonos shuttles are free and regular, while airport transfers require a fee. Pets stay for free. On-site parking and Wi-Fi throughout are also free.