Mykonos
Mykonos – the legendary island of the Aegean,
where vibrant nightlife meets idyllic oases of tranquility.
Mykonos, one of the most beautiful Cycladic islands in the Aegean, attracts travelers from all over the world and is a hotspot for the international jet set. According to legend, the island was formed when Hercules defeated giants and threw them into the sea, where they turned to stone. The island of Mykonos was named after the grandson of the god Apollo and still has a wild, almost magical effect on its visitors.
Most tourists know Chora, or Mykonos Town, famous for its white houses, narrow alleys, lively atmosphere, and vibrant nightlife in the trendiest clubs. The truly unforgettable parties take place in beach clubs like Scorpios, Nammos, and Jackie O. The stylish vibe of Bill & Coo’s Beach and the charmingly laid-back atmosphere of Kiki’s Tavern couldn’t be more different — and yet both are worth a visit if you’re looking for other unique beachfront experiences.
Far from the hustle and bustle, Vasilis, a Munich-based restaurateur with Greek roots,
has created a retreat with his wife Barbara over many years that radiates
pure peace and beauty.
“I always feel slowed down and relaxed when I enter my home,” Vasilis says. “I first go to the kitchen, the heart of the villa.” Which, unsurprisingly, has gastronomic dimensions. “There, I make myself a strong coffee, go out onto the terrace, sit on a rock to the left of the infinity pool, gaze over the sea, and leave all everyday thoughts behind.”
Meanwhile, his wife Barbara tends to her Mediterranean herb garden, which she designed herself. Most days, the family dines at home on the spacious terrace, which can accommodate an extended family. When the couple wants to go out, they love hopping on their small scooter — which they rent upon arriving in Mykonos — and riding to their favorite restaurant, Tsaf, in the little village of Ano Mera. The restaurant on the village square is known for its fresh seafood, gratinéed oysters, and fish dishes based on recipes from Chalkida, like sea urchin with linguine in lemon sauce.
Those seeking fine dining can head 20 minutes away to Efisia, where guests can choose between a multi-course vegetarian or tasting menu. Chef Ilias Maslaris uses regional flavors and seasonal organic ingredients to create subtle and sometimes surprising courses. His current recommendations at Efisia include poached lobster in a shrimp cream soup, served with fresh garden vegetables and artichoke hearts. The restaurant is only open during the season, starting May 1st, and reservations are recommended. At the adjacent Myconian Ambassador, a Relais & Chateaux property, guests can enjoy a thalasso treatment at the day spa before or after their meal. Derived from the ancient Greek word for sea, thalasso therapy alleviates stress symptoms or respiratory conditions with cold or heated seawater, algae, and sea mud.
© Mykonian Ambassador
Vasilis and Barbara enjoy the sea in the open air — at Kalafati Beach. Old olive trees provide shade here, the water is turquoise, and you can see all the way down to the rocky seabed while swimming. When the east wind is strong, Kalafati becomes a paradise for windsurfers. On calm days, you can rent a canoe and paddle into secluded coves.
When Vasilis and Barbara return home, they reach their 4,000-square-meter estate via a private road. They have no immediate neighbors, which guarantees seclusion. This also makes it possible to enjoy the sunset in absolute peace — perhaps briefly interrupted by Psipsi, a cat that wandered into the family’s life and now considers herself a full member, living in the villa’s garden.
The retreat features several bedrooms in minimalist elegance. The rooms are built from natural stone and wood, and are decorated in white, beige, and blue tones. The high-quality linen bedding smells fresh and stays cool at night. The villa accommodates 10–12 people, and since Vasilis, Barbara, and their teenage son want others to enjoy the home’s beauty too, they rent it out weekly to families or groups of friends seeking a place to retreat. “Of course, cooking classes, scriptwriting workshops, yoga courses, or seminars can also take place here. This power spot just invites creativity,” says Vasilis —
and you believe it immediately, because this place on Mykonos is pure magic.
Vasilis and Barbara live in Munich with their teenage son and seize every free moment to travel to Mykonos. As restaurateurs, they are also exceptional hosts in their private lives – a quality reflected in every corner of the villa.
Buchbar exklusiv bei mavi