Greece is hardly undiscovered. But with thousands of islands and islets, it offers endless opportunities for escape and exploration. Despite its popularity, you could visit every year and still never see all of it. The Cyclades, which means ‘encircling islands’, is so named because this group of islands forms a rough circle around Delos, the legendary birthplace of the sibling Greek heroes Artemis and Apollo. The Cyclades cluster, with its white sugar-cube architecture, is wildly popular for good reason.
Within this iconic part of the Aegean archipelago, you can still find peaceful retreats — and with many of them just a short ferry ride apart, you can enjoy great variety in one holiday.
The Wellness Escape
Gundari, Folegandros
One of the southernmost islands in the Cyclades, Folegandros offers an escape from the fray. If you’re looking for an authentic taste of Greek island life, this small island packs a punch disproportionate to its size. Because of its increasing popularity, though, it might not stay so laidback for long — be sure to get there soon!
Located on Folegandros’ southern coast, among 80 acres of rugged landscape is Gundari. This naturally inspired luxury resort is underpinned by wellness, sustainability and gastronomy (steered by Michelin-starred chef Lefteris Lazarou). Athens architecture studio Block722 envisioned Gundari as an organic extension of Folegandros’ cliffs, and its spaces are set up to frame the uninterrupted sea views. The 27 suites and villas embody understated luxury in the form of natural materials and a tribute to Cycladic simplicity. Private pools and sea-facing terraces come standard, as does a true sense of tranquility.
In the Gundari spa, ancient Greek rituals merge with native herbs in a restorative wellness experience and a roster of visiting practitioners offer sound baths, energy healing, yoga and meditation.
The Secluded Sanctuary
Perma Serifos, Serifos
A brand-new addition to the rugged island of Serifos (opening this past August), Perma Serifos encapsulates the wild beauty of its location through minimal architecture and a programme rooted in transformative travel.
Perma offers a curated selection of residences and suites designed for rest and reflection and is underpinned by a psychological philosophy geared to human well-being. As an adults-only (no children under 12) retreat, their sleek self-catering, design-forward suites foreground mindfulness and serenity.
Set on a dramatic secluded cliffside, yet only a five-minute drive from the port and 10 minutes from the village Chora, the setting is raw and rugged while its design is highly sophisticated. It’s a contemporary and biophilic tribute to the surrounding landscape, looking out onto jaw-dropping panoramic sea views.
Outdoor kitchens and terraces keep guests engaged with the elements, while indoor spaces offer refuge. Each of the five suites and residences has its own private pool, and there is a private beach — down an off-road path — 150 meters from the property. Baskets with home-cooked breakfast and local produce are delivered to your room daily.
The Feet-Up Retreat
Andronis Minois, Paros
Paros is one of the most versatile islands in the Cyclades, in that it has abundant old-world charm but also sophistication in spades. This sums up Andronis Minois — a member of Small Luxury Hotels of the WorldTM. The newest addition to the Andronis collection, Andronis Minois strikes a perfect balance. With 44 suites, which each lead onto its own terrace or patio, some with private pools, it boasts the spaciousness of a resort and the intimacy of a boutique hotel — while its interiors encapsulate the spirit of the Mediterranean.
Settling in from day to night, guests can camp out on the vibrant lounge deck by the shared swimming pool. For long-stay guests, a well-equipped outdoor gym will keep your routine intact and a subterranean spa offers extra relaxation. On one side of the hotel, a superb breakfast buffet sets you up for the day. On the other side, scenic fine-dining restaurant, OLVO — tiered and offering beautiful sea views — elevates the dining experience.
To ensure a seamless stay, a nifty app really seals the deal in service. Here, you can order a steamer for your clothes, book a shuttle to town, or request a pillow — all at your fingertips.
Credits
Text by Julia Freemantle
Images: Supplied
This article was originally published in the House & Garden SA December/January 2026 Issue
