Kivotos Mykonos

Built in 1993, this upscale property has gorgeous views of the Aegean Sea and Ornos Bay. It's a peaceful retreat for sun-seekers, and is popular with couples and honeymooners, in part due to its quiet, away-from-it-all atmosphere. Whitewashed buildings and painted doors give the modern architecture a Cycladic finish, while lush green gardens and pathways brighten up the buildings. There's a lot of attention to detail when it comes decor, with an artsy concept evident throughout. Rare artwork and opulent antique furniture -- from the owner's personal collection -- is dotted around lobby and dining areas -- which are bright, breezy, and classically decorated. Other areas have a more modern feel, such as the cosmopolitan K Bar and pool area, which have contemporary cube seating areas. With high-end extras like a fully-crewed yacht, a spa, and daily yoga, there's a distinctively luxurious polish to this exceptional little place, one that keeps drawing well-heeled travelers. Oh, and the free Champagne upon arriving doesn't hurt either.

Kivotos Luxury Boutique Hotel stands alone on a rocky hillside, perched above the beautiful Ornos Bay. The village of Ornos has a few bars and restaurants, but Mykonos Town is where the action is. The center of town is around a five-minute drive from the hotel, making it easy to reach the lively nightlife and popular attractions, such as Little Venice, Paraportiani Church, and the Windmills of Mykonos. There are plenty of beautiful beaches to explore too, such as Paradise Beach and Ella Beach. Many travelers choose to hire a quad bike or car to get around, as opposed to public transport. The International Airport and Old Port are around a 10- to 15-minute drive from the hotel.

The hotel's focus on art has been carried through into all 39 rooms, suites, and villas. Each room has been individually designed by famous artists and local craftsmen, making them all unique and stylishly furnished. They're spacious and bright and feature traditional whitewashed walls and beams, premium white bedding, ornate metallic bed frames, and balconies with lovely sea or pool views. Some villas come with private pools, though some are quite exposed, so don't feel very private. There are plenty of modern amenities, including air-conditioning, free Wi-Fi, safes, phones, minibars, and flat-screen TVs, though technology like CD players feel a little dated. Bathrooms are big and modern, with marble-tiled walls, whirlpool shower/tub combos, flat-screen TVs, large sinks, mirrors, hairdryers, and free designer toiletries, robes, and slippers. The hotel also provides fresh fruit and flowers, and a daily turndown service.

Features are on par with the hotel's luxury status and include a small private beach that's lined with sun loungers, umbrellas, and a cozy cabana perched on the shore. The main saltwater pool has underwater music, a separate hot tub, and a swim-up bar serving cocktails. The hotel has a second freshwater pool, which also features a hot tub. There is a cosmopolitan boutique bar, K Bar, plus several on-site restaurants. Le Pirate, serves a choice Mediterranean and local dishes, while La Meduse focuses on gourmet seafood dishes and Greek fusion cuisine. La Meduse also serves a generous, free daily breakfast buffet with hot and cold options. 

The spacious fitness center has up-to-date cardio equipment and free weights, as well as a squash court. Beachside yoga and Pilates classes can also be booked, as well as a variety of water activities, such a scuba diving and canoeing. The full-service spa provides relaxing massages and treatments, plus a steam room, sauna, and hair salon. Other features include an art gallery, clothing boutique, 17th-century chapel, billiards room, and a private yacht anchored in the bay of Ornos. The hotel also offers 24-hour room service, concierge, laundry, ironing, wedding and honeymoon coordination, vehicle rentals -- including helicopters, cars, and bikes -- meeting and conference facilities, free Wi-Fi, and free on-site parking. Airport transfers are available at an additional fee.