Review: A remote Greek island escape at Gundari
This property is the first and only luxury boutique resort on the isle of Folegandros
Location: Gundari is the first and only luxury boutique resort on Folegandros, one of four islands that make up the southern Cyclades. The property is tucked away on the southeastern coast, close to the village of Petousis. Folegandros doesn’t have an airport, but is served by daily ferries from Athens and other Cycladic islands. Clients unwilling to navigate Greece’s oft-chaotic ferry system can arrange a private helicopter or boat transfer.
First impressions: Gundari looks stark when it first comes into view – blending into the rocky hillside in tones of rust, apricot and terracotta – although on closer inspection its marriage with the landscape is a work of art. The seemingly simple architecture, featuring local stone and dark wood, makes it feel as though Gundari has always been there, while simultaneously making modern additions pop: I gasp when I see the cliff-edge infinity pool, the deep blue of the sea and sky vivid against the hotel’s stone surfaces and mocha-hued sunloungers.
The facts: First-time hotelier Ricardo Larriera quit a 25-year advertising career to launch Gundari, inspired by his friend Terry Seremetis, whose family have historic ties with Folegandros. The property opened last May to much fanfare – for many, Gundari put this tiny Greek isle on the map. A total of 30 bioclimatic suites and villas are staggered down the hillside overlooking the Aegean, each boasting a private, heated infinity pool, marble floors and timber and ceramic details. One eatery, Orizon Restaurant & Bar, is spread over three areas – inside, poolside and a walled courtyard – and helmed by Lefteris Lazarou, the acclaimed Greek chef responsible for the country’s first Michelin-starred restaurant. Its menu celebrates the bounties of the surrounding land and sea, with many ingredients sourced from the hotel’s organic farm. Elsewhere, there’s a gym and a subterranean spa featuring a hydrotherapy pool and treatments using the island’s native herbs.
Ideal for: The remote location of Gundari won’t be for everyone – during our visit, an American couple express dismay at being “in the middle of nowhere” – but for many that is precisely the allure. Gundari is a place to disconnect.
Explore: A fleet of electric bikes allows guests to explore under their own steam. Clients can also visit the island’s hidden caves and coves on the hotel’s private boat.
Wow: Gundari’s suites feel like private oases on the edge of the world. It’s hard to beat staring at the Aegean from your infinity pool, where the views can extend all the way to Crete.
Book it: Suites lead in at £520 per night on a B&B basis for two people, including taxes and fees.
Gundari.com
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