Here, we journey through some of the best art and design hotels in a country known for its aesthetic prowess.
We owe a great deal to ancient Greece—the concept of democracy, the basis of geometry, and perhaps, unfortunately, the first iteration of the alarm clock. But to the aesthete, their true legacy lies in the worlds of design and architecture, born from a civilization that cared deeply about beauty and symmetry.
This dedication to aesthetics wasn’t limited to grand temples; it permeated every aspect of Greek life. From intricately designed amphoras to the harmonious proportions of their homes, the Greeks believed, and still do, that good design is a reflection of a well-ordered life.
With its sun-drenched islands and rugged landscapes, Greece has long been a magnet for design-devoted travelers. Beyond its well-trodden paths and postcard-perfect landscapes lies a collection of boutique hotels that offer an inroad to some of the country’s best design stories. These aren’t just places to stay; they are destinations in their own right.
Here, we journey through some of the best design hotels in a country long famed for its discerning eye.Verina Astra, Sifnos
Perched on the side of a steep hill, nothing sits between you and the Aegean Sea at Verina. This stay doesn’t just sit pretty; it embodies Cycladic architecture and an organic conformity to the environment with a sleek, contemporary edge that whispers rather than shouts luxury. Wake up to the scent of olive groves, taste fresh figs, and bask in sunbeams that bounce off the sea. By night, the sleepy island invites infinite stargazing. It is no wonder that the hotel has taken its name from the Greek word for stars–Astra–and each suite is named after a constellation. It’s the kind of place where you lounge by the infinity pool, drink in hand, and think that perhaps, «This is what life should always be like.» Verina is where you go to slow down, savor every moment, and maybe, just maybe, consider never going home.Skinopi Lodge, Milos
A private nine-acre stay on unspoiled land, Skinopi Lodge in Milos blends luxury and nature in equal measure. Set on a hillside overlooking the Aegean, each villa, named after the surrounding Greek herbs and trees, offers breathtaking views of the Bay of Milos and its stunning sunsets, considered some of the most beautiful in the Cyclades. The interiors, crafted from natural materials, are elegant in their simplicity, allowing the spectacular surroundings to take center stage. Sip chilled, local wine on your private terrace, complemented only by the island’s infamous sea breeze. Skinopi Lodge isn’t just a place to stay—it’s a place to live, if only for a little while, in harmony with the world around you.Mona, Athens
Located in the heart of Psirri—Athens’ most vibrant neighborhood—Mona is as culture-driven and eclectic as its surroundings.
