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In a nod to 2022 as the year of GOAT travel – Greatest Of All Trips – the luxurious Myconian Collection hotel group on magnificent Mykonos has shared eight exclusive experiences for those ready to take travel to an entirely new level.
Owned and operated by a local family since the first hotel was built in 1979, every experience on the list is curated and personalised to suit guests’ individual preferences. And while the terms ‘bucket list’ and ‘once in a lifetime’ are cliched when it comes to travel talk, this is a list which well and truly lives up to the hype.
Heaven in a helicopter
Take to the spectacular blue skies above Mykonos by helicopter for a bird’s eye view of the sun-baked earth dotted with whitewashed houses surrounded by the expansive Aegean Sea and neighbouring Cyclades islands, including Delos, Paros, Naxos, and Santorini. Taking off from a private helipad at Myconian Villa Collection or Panoptis Escape, just above Elia Beach, this is the ultimate way to take in the Greek isles in all their glory.
A sublime step back in time
For a divine day discovering the World Heritage-listed ruins of the island of Delos, start the day with breakfast in bed before boarding a boat for a private tour hosted by a certified guide. Sail past the beautiful beaches of Psarou and Ornos en route to Delos, where you’ll explore the well-preserved antiquities and archaeological remains spanning the island and hear the hidden stories of Apollo and Artemis, the Greek Gods said to have been born there, before returning to Myconian Collection’s private stretch of Elia Beach for an afternoon nap, refreshing dip or signature cocktail and fresh fruit delivered directly to your sunbed to watch the sunset.
Exclusive island-hopping
From the moment you board a charter yacht from Myconian Collection’s launch on Platis Gialos, you’ll be in for an unforgettable day at sea. Choose itineraries visiting any – or many – of the Cyclades islands, including stunning Santorini or unspoiled Folegandros…and arrive in serious style. From hopping along Mykonos’ south coast between famous beaches and hidden coves to swimming and snorkelling in the pristine waters off the nature reserve of Rhenia, to heart-racing jet-ski rides and private water sports instruction or beach picnics and sunset cocktails, the options are endless…and priceless.
Keen to ramp up the romance – or choose the perfect setting for a proposal? Why not drop anchor off a secluded beach, spend a full moon night on board, wake up to sunrise yoga, then take a breakfast picnic to discover Delos before the rest of the world awakens.
Horse riding
When it’s time to slow down and smell the ocean breeze, swap helicopter flights and jet-skis for a gentle ride on a rescue horse from Ano Mera to Fokos Beach – and create memories that will last a lifetime. Led by a professional instructor, horse trainer, and breeder with 24 years’ experience, Myconian Collection guests of all abilities, from beginners to confident riders, are invited to enjoy this unforgettable opportunity to experience the island like a local – and itineraries can be personalised for special occasions, celebrations…or popping questions.
Sublime spa days
Nothing says indulgence like an extended session in an exclusive wellness day spa – and the professional team at the Sanctuary Spa at the Myconian Utopia Resort, the Rejuvenation Spa at Myconian Villa Collection, or the Satory Spa at the Myconian Korali in Mykonos Town have pampering down to a fine art. Offering an extensive menu of treatments, steam rooms, Thalasso pools with diverse temperatures and salinity and Elemis and St Barth skincare products, the challenge is, of course, in the choosing. From an exfoliating scrub to prepare your skin for the magic of the Myconian sun to the ‘Frangipani Lovers’ package combining a body polish, full body massage, head massage and hair mask to specially crafted mother-and-daughter or father-and-son offerings, there’s a spa treatment (or seven) to suit.
Degustation at Mykonos’ most talked-about table
Overlooking the Aegean Sea and sparkling pool at the Myconian Ambassador – a Relais & Chateaux hotel – Efisia is one of the top tables on all of Mykonos. Sheltered from the evening breeze in an alcove carved from rough-hewn stone, a candlelit dinner at Efisia is a must for any luxe stay on Mykonos.
Executive Chef Ilias Maslaris uses only the best organic and local produce to create world-class cuisine, including octopus caught by Myconian Collection George Daktylides’ old friend Panagiotis and pork and lamb hand reared on Daktylides family land. Stand out dishes include poached lobster in a bisque or shrimp, garden vegetables and artichoke hearts, or lamb cutlets with a demi-glaze reduction and smoked eggplant.
Wine tasting with an expert sommelier
Greek’s Mediterranean climate creates beautiful wines, and while are well known, others remain well-kept secrets just waiting to be discovered. Wine aficionados – or those keen to learn more – will enjoy a private wine tasting with an expert sommelier which can be customised to suit guests’ interests, and appetites. From trying unique vintages from ancient local varietals to learning about traditional Greek harvesting techniques to touring Myconian vineyards for extraordinary wine and cheese pairings, the world of wine is elevated to an art form by the knowledgeable Myconian Collection team.
Fitness first…but make it fabulous
Take your wellbeing to the next level with Secret Sunrise yoga at spectacular Scorpios, a Full Moon evening class, restorative Sunset stretch and meditation or in-water yoga…with a view. Whether you’re continuing your practice or using your holiday down time to try a new hobby or get your fitness back on track, Myconian Collection’s dedicated personal trainers and yoga, Pilates and wellness coaches can tailor a program to suit.
In addition to facilities including gym rooms and yoga and Pilates studios featuring state-of-the-art equipment, guests can also attend group wellness seminars or book one-on-one personal coaching and take-home techniques to transform their everyday lives.
Looking for the ultimate base for a decadent stay? These two suites will satisfy even the most spoiled of guests.
A favourite with honeymooners who appreciate the high life, the Lover’s Suite at the Myconian Villa Collection is perched above Elia Beach and features a private infinity pool, walk-in wardrobe, open-plan living area with plush furnishings, oversized bathtub, and a roomy terrace with ocean views where couples can enjoy spa treatments or romantic private dinners dished up under the stars.
Also overlooking Elia Beach at Myconian Utopia, the Grand Majestic Retreat is available with a choice of private jacuzzi or infinity pool, both with epic ocean views. Featuring an incredibly spacious master bedroom, open-plan living room, luxury cosmetics, silent air-conditioning and an ultra-generous furnished terrace with a pergola, parasols, and shaded loungers to take in those views, it’s the perfect private retreat for a glorious Greek island escape.
Beach club bliss
Fancy an afternoon lounging on a shaded sunbed with cocktails on demand and views to die for? Just ask. The concierge team at the Myconian Collection can arrange to whisk you to the island’s most exclusive clubs, including legendary Scorpios at Paraga beach and breathtaking Principote Beach Club at Panormos, where you’ll rub shoulders with the celebrity set at the most sought-after tables and sunbeds.
Private shopping experience
For guests who like to shop with peace, privacy and personalised attention, exclusive after-hours access to the island’s luxe boutiques can be arranged by special request, with the Myconian Collection concierge team even delivering purchases to your room and carefully unpacking them for you – just like a personal butler.