Review: Katikies Mykonos

_Location: Situated above the popular Agios Ioannis beach on the island’s southwest coast, just a 20-minute drive from the airport. Katikies Mykonos is set just up from the water’s edge, but winds its way up the hillside with sweeping views of the Aegean Sea

_{First impressions:} Having opened only last summer, Katikies Mykonos still feels like a shiny, new toy. The exteriors are bright white and angular, punctuated by pops of pink bougainvillea and lush green plants. Wandering up the steps to reception, I was greeted by immaculately dressed staff in all-white ensembles, while a turquoise infinity pool winks at me to my right and a trendy-looking taverna looms above.

_{The facts:} The group’s first property outside of Santorini, Katikies Mykonos features 35 rooms and suites in seven categories, with all but three featuring an outdoor swimming pool or whirlpool bath. Rooms are gorgeously designed with rose gold metal accents and rich blue fabrics throughout. My bathroom was also a highlight, featuring a statement cobalt-blue sink with copper tap, a glorious waterfall shower and bath, and deliciously scented Bvlgari products. Peeling yourself away from your room, you’ll find a spa with three treatment rooms, a fitness centre, a boutique and two infinity pools. The pool I’d ogled earlier was ideal for early-morning dips, while the second – residing proudly at the top of the property – exuded beach club vibes, with tropical house music and sunloungers dotted beneath palm trees. When you get hungry, head to Seltz restaurant for breakfast, lunch and dinner (and the best cappuccinos) or fine-dining dinner spot Mikrasia.

_Explore: Katikies Mykonos is a short drive from the pretty, cobbled streets of main town, Hora. Peruse the numerous boutiques selling sundresses and jewellery; visit the 16th-century windmills sitting atop the hill; or take a boat to the sacred archaeological site of Delos island.

_Wow: Home to just six tables, the ultra-exclusive Mikrasia restaurant offers high-quality cooking and attentive service. Executive chef Aggelos Mpakopoulos serves up elegant Mediterranean fare with a firm focus on the island’s wealth of fresh seafood. From innovative amuse-bouche – a smoky egg ‘cream’ served in a perfectly cut egg shell – to marinated sea bass carpaccio paired with parsley sorbet and celery sauce, you’ll be in gastronomic heaven.

_{Book it:} B&B rates start at €345 a night for a double room. Katikies.com