03 Jul Hello Kalesma Mykonos
In October, Theresa returned from Greece and a visit to Kalesma Mykonos excited and proud to be welcoming this incredible property to the Highlife family.
Having never been to Cyclades islands in late summer, I was intrigued to see how busy it would be. The BA flight to Mykonos was packed with mostly couples as it was the first week back after school holidays and a fair number of upmarket hen parties, making the best of reduced air fares and hotel rates.
Having arrived mid afternoon in Mykonos, the island was certainly fulfilling its reputation as “the windy island”.
After a warm welcome from the immigration officers, I was greeted by Chris, one of the drivers from Kalesma who efficiently transferred me to the hotel in one of the resort’s BMW cars.
I’d heard a lot about Kalesma since it opened in 2021 so was very excited to be seeing it first hand and initial impressions certainly didn’t disappoint. Interior designer Vangelis Bonios, renowned for low key luxury has created a cool vibe with natural colours, sensational wood pieces and metal works.
There’s a calmness about Kalesma which transforms guests almost immediately and the clever design beckons sunrise on one side of the hotel and sunset on the other.
Bonios has given a nod to the history of the land which evidently was where Apollo and Artemis stabled their horses in Greek mythology through stylish lights themed as horse tails and saddle lampshades, not to mention the Kalesma logo embossed on resort memorabilia.
I was shown to my one bedroom villa (one of eight) overlooking Ornos Bay but the great thing about Kalesma is that all 25 suites are super spacious (63 sq metres) the only difference with the one bedroom villas being the additional outdoor patio area where guests can enjoy the tranquility and a private barbeque. The four lead in room categories – Kalesma Suites are the only ones without a sea view.
The stunning 3 bedroom Apollon and 4 bedroom Artemis villa combine to form the Leto 7 bedroom villa, ideal for small groups, events or weddings with the best sunset views.
I had some time to catch up on emails and enjoy my suite before dinner and quickly realised that with all this space and hand crafted furniture, not to mention the selection of delicious treats that had been gifted, guests may find it hard to actually leave their suite. There is even a private pool in every suite, heated to 23 degrees.
After getting to grips with the latest In – room technology, I went for a wander around the resort which, although almost full, felt very serene. The stunning Chapel is a unique addition and perfect for small weddings.
I wandered along to Ornos beach, just a stone’s throw away and reminded myself why people come back to Mykonos time after time. There’s something captivating about the island and at this resort, close to everything, one can enjoy the lively atmosphere at beach clubs and bars whilst returning to the stylish sanctuary that is Kalesma.
After a delicious cocktail at Aloni sunset lounge, dinner family style was served in Pere Ubu under the direction of chef Costas Tsingas. As always with sharing plates, I ate too much and promised myself I would go to the gym the following morning but that didn’t materialise!
I spent time with Aby Saltiel one of the owners who has a fashion background and is very involved in the hotel, chatting to guests endlessly and recounting wonderful tales about their repeat clients.
There’s a relaxed atmosphere in the restaurant with DJ in peak season but of course guests can explore the numerous eateries in Mykonos town just 3 km away.
Breakfast which is included is served till late allowing guests to lie in after the party scene and I was impressed by the various healthy choices. I can particularly recommend the beetroot, apple and ginger juice.
And so farewell to Kalesma and the lovely team there – it was a whistlestop stay but long enough to accept the invitation to represent the resort.
To make an enquiry about Kalesma Mykonos or to find out more, please contact Theresa Feeney.
E: Theresa@highlifemarketing.com
T: +44 7932 751 427
