Lithos by Spyros & Flora

Lithos by Spyros and Flora is a chic and elegant Mykonos hotel, set far enough away from the more populated areas of the island to make it a peaceful, sun-drenched oasis for visitors -- many are international guests keen to sit by the pool or explore nearby beaches. The whitewashed, terraced look of the hotel give the impression of age, but it is new, quality construction, thoughtfully designed for guest privacy and comfort. Stone walls and walkways, various porches and balconies, and the pool deck offer numerous vantage points for visitors to relax and wonder at the sweeping vista of the Aegean Sea. Designer cocktails can be enjoyed at the poolside bar while stretched out on a stylish white sun-bed or at one of the bright white tables. The lobby bar is small and predominately white, with cool, glass-topped round tables filled with river stones -- an example of the stylish simplicity that characterizes this property.

The hosts take great care to make their guests' stays memorable, offering personal recommendations for outings and restaurants.

The Lithos by Spyros and Flora is a five-minute walk from Agios Ioannis Beach, and is surrounded by hotels, but manages to feel secluded and peaceful -- thanks in part to cozy nooks, balconies, and quiet walkways. The airport is three miles from the hotel, and the center of Mykonos is two-and-a-half miles away. The bus into Mykonos and to Ornos Beach stops right outside, but guests who want to tour the island extensively may want to rent a car, ATV, or bicycle. Water taxis from Ornos Beach are available for access to other nearby beaches, include Elias.

Rooms, suites, and studios at the Lithos by Spyros and Flora are immaculate, enormous, and come with kitchenettes, seating areas, and balconies with pretty wooden tables and chairs, many of which have phenomenal Aegean Sea views. Furnishings and textiles are mostly white, with earth tone accents and occasional touches of blue or green, and modern furniture with clean lines. Bathrooms are gorgeous and white, with beautiful tile-work, glass shower stalls, and an abundance of olive oil-based toiletries. There are (smallish) flat-screen TVs with satellite channels, safes, cooktops and kitchen necessities, and electric teakettles.

The central gathering place at the Lithos by Spyros and Flora is the gorgeous pool and poolside bar, where drinks, juices, and snacks are served throughout the day. Cocktails and conversation by the pool or in the lobby bar is a great way to end a Greek island day, or prepare for a night out in Mykonos. A delicious continental breakfast with delicious Greek yogurt is served by the pool each morning. There is a guest laundry, and the owners and staff receive raves for their personal attention and helpful recommendations for restaurants, beaches, and all things Mykonos.