Gundari – Folegandros, Greece
On the tiny island of Folegandros, floating in the Aegean, Gundari is a stylish oasis. High in the rugged hills, it is carved into the rocks, looking out over dramatic cliffs and sparkling seas. And its offering is one of pure and very simple, understated luxury. Gundari’s architecture blends in with the surroundings, and the earthy and cool décor is both soothing and inviting. Come here for the volcanic scenery; the peace and quiet, and to be truly pampered.
This retreat is for those who love being far from the madding crowd, in a place where nature takes centre stage and the age old charms of Greek living are enjoyed.
At A Glance
Luxury Hotel
Why We Love It:
For its feeling of intimacy and serenity, and proximity to the beautiful island caves.Style:
Understated contemporary Greek luxe.Location:
On the south east coast of the tiny Cycladic island of Folegandros in the Aegean.Rooms:
25 earthy and luxurious suites and 2 villas with private pools, large terraces and idyllic Aegean views.Swimming:
Private pools, a resort pool, a Spa mineral pool and the crystal clear waters of the Aegean.Children:
This is quite a grown up retreat, but families are most welcome.rooms
Hewn from the rock, cave-like, the rooms and suites are gloriously elegant dwellings, with vast terraces, outdoor showers, private infinity plunge pools and utterly mesmerizing Aegean views. The spaces are cool and comfortable, decorated in muted, earthy tones, with the indoors flowing seamlessly with the outdoors, making them the perfect retreat. The Standard Suites are anything but standard. Luxuriously spacious, they are romantic bolt holes – and some of them can accommodate an extra child.
The Junior Suites are definitely for couples, and look out over dramatic cliffs. For real drama, book the Executive Cave Suite, situated on the cliff edge, with the sparkling sea right in front of you. Even larger, the Deluxe Cave Suites can sleep up to three guests and also enjoys a clifftop position. Or for even more space, the Superior Cave Suite, can also sleep three, and boasts the most beautiful infinity pool that appears to be part of the Aegean. For families, the Villa 3 Bedrooms, with its sunken terrace seating and vast sundeck, is a real haven. And then there’s the equally stunning and stylish Villa 4 Bedrooms, which may result in you not wanting to leave the island!
food
Inspired by the surrounding Aegean and traditional island gastronomy, the menu has been crafted by the Michelin-starred chef Lefteris Lazarou. Much of the produce, if it hasn’t been fished from local waters, is grown in Gundari’s organic kitchen garden. Dining is agora style – where food is savoured and enjoyed with company. Dinner as the sun sets can’t be beaten.
activities
Gundari is a place for relaxation and reflection, and it is hugely tempting to spend lazy mornings and afternoons on your terrace sun loungers. The island of Folegandros is tiny – with just one road – so exploration is easy, but it’s also rewarding. And the ever helpful concierge team are always on hand to arrange an excursion or an itinerary for you. Circumnavigate the island and admire its dramatic coastline on a private boat tour, or hop to the neighbouring islands of Milos, Sifnos or Sikinos.
There is plenty of fabulous diving to be had in these waters, with reefs, wall dives and caves to explore. Or if it’s exercise you’re after, then there’s a myriad of trails, up and down, and perhaps combine it with a private picnic on the beach.In fact, the island is perfect for beach lovers – most can only be reached by boat or by a steep path. Gundari also has a collection of e-bikes for guests to use. Gastronomes may want to take a traditional cookery class or boat over to Cantina Sifnos for lunch. And if that all sounds a bit too much, then head to the Spa, with its clifftop location and indulge in a treatment with ingredients made from traditional ingredients.
family
For families who love the far flung, and the great outdoors, Gundari ticks the boxes. It’s a grown up retreat, but families are welcomed with true local hospitality. Children under 12 cannot use the main hotel pool so the villas could not be more perfect.
sustainability
Gundari blends into its surroundings, feeling part of the island itself. Hundreds of seedlings were collected from the land before construction began and replanted once complete. This is coupled with a conservation and bird monitoring programme – the island is a stopover for multiple migratory species. Energy efficiency was core to its design, with solar power used to heat water and the pool; there are no single use plastics; water is recycled for irrigation and the hotel has a zero waste goal.
Importantly, Gundari is a member of EarthCheck Certified – the world’s leading science based environmental programme for the tourism industry.
Location
Folegandros, Greece
On the south east coast of the tiny Cycladic island of Folegandros in the Aegean. 3km from Chora, 5km from the port and 2km from the heliport. Arrive by fast ferry from Athens, Santorini or Milos, or by private boat or helicopter.
