How To Seek Out The Sophisticated Side Of Mykonos This Summer

From the sun-splashed balconies of the Amyth of Mykonos hotel, the only sounds are the gurgling of water from the private pool, the breeze gently swaying the raffia decorations and the far-off sound of a rooster crowing.

It’s not usually what comes to mind when thinking of vacations on the Greek island of Mykonos, notorious for its boozy beach clubs and bacchanalian parties.

But the island in the Aegean Sea has a sophisticated side that makes for a surprisingly peaceful, nature-filled holiday.

Where to stay in Mykonos: Amyth of Mykonos

Forget anywhere around the old town if you want to sleep undisturbed and not hit crawling queues of traffic when returning in the evening.

Just 10 minutes away by car is a scattering of houses forming the village of Agios Stefanos. Up a steep path of hairpin bends, you’ll find the oasis Amyth of Mykonos.

The boutique hotel opened in April this year with 17 rooms. The breezy, light-dappled interiors have a boho desert vibe of leafy plants, earthy tones and hand-woven straw furniture.

Rooms come with a hot tub or a private pool and are conveniently oriented to enjoy sunset views over the Aegean Sea.

Around the pool of pretty rope parasols, you can lounge with a cocktail from the poolside bar. Their creative concoctions include the High Roller – whisky, peach and apricot liqueur and French vermouth – and the tangy Citrus crown – Campari, limoncello and mandarin soda.

At the hotel’s Kouzina restaurant, prepare to dine like a Greek deity with a tabbouleh, quinoa, pepper and pomegranate salad, crispy calamari with sweet chili mayonnaise, and pan-fried seabass with avocado and mango.

Breakfast is delicately presented with edible floral decorations and all by order to avoid buffet food waste. Go light with creamy Greek yogurt and berries or indulgent with crushed avocado and poached eggs on toast.

Where to eat in Mykonos: Nikolas Taverna and Nosotros

If you want to avoid getting a transfer one evening, wander down the hill to Nosotros Mykonos on the seafront. With a few tables set out on a terrace and sunset views, it is perfect for an informal dinner.

Have the meze plates for starter – warm fluffy bread, tzatziki, eggplant spread and spicy Mykonos cheese.

For a main, try the zesty risotto with shrimp, ginger and citrus or grilled salmon with soya and chili sauce.

If you want the Greek dining dream, book a spot at Nikolas Taverna where you eat with your toes in the sand.

As the sun sets over the little bay dotted with sailboats, tuck into Mykonian and Greek dishes like louza cured meat, fried zucchini balls, saganaki fried cheese, shrimp with ouzo and cream and fresh fried fish.

Best beach club in Mykonos: Alemagou

There is no shortage of music-blasting beach clubs in Mykonos, but if you want true relaxation and sophistication, head to Alemagou near Paralia Ftelias Bay.

Hidden away, the beach club has a bohemian vibe with a few loungers spaced out on the beach and an open-air restaurant and bar under rope canopies.

In the evening, you can enjoy chilled, soulful DJ sets while snacking on grilled calamari, smoked eel and steamed mussels.