The Royal Myconian is nestled partway up a steep hillside on the east end of the popular Elia Beach, across from its sister hotel, the Myconian Imperial, another member of Leading Hotels of the World. But while the Myconian Imperial offers a sinuous interpretation of classic Cycladic style, the Royal Myconian is a bit edgy and whimsical. “The resort is breaking the rules of perception and perspective and shows you that everything is possible in Mykonos,” says Myconian Collection Commercial Director, Anastasios Naoum. “It represents the other side of the Myconian coin from the Imperial. This wild side is displayed immediately in the lobby entrance, with its impressive jungle scenery.”
The theme that emerges from the chic Royal Myconian is a devil-may-care blend of the local and the global: Here the traditional Greek ethos mixes with youthful jet-set tastes. The accommodations feature driftwood and natural textiles—but surprising grace notes occur in the form of the royal blue hearts and thunderbolts that adorn the earth-toned headboards. Both the premium and superior rooms categories are available with outdoor Jacuzzis, and for those seeking private pools, be sure to book the Executive Suite, the Grand Executive Suite or the Royal Suite.
The theme that emerges from the chic Royal Myconian is a devil-may-care blend of the local and the global.
Cycladic-style stone arches line the figure-eight swimming pool, but at night, dramatic spotlights dot the water in nightclub-like bursts to punctuate an otherworldly green hue. If the terraces look like stage sets, perhaps thats because they were designed by a famed Greek theatrical designer.
Similarly, the spa’s relaxation lounge may feature a simple disc-shaped revitalization pool, but the lighting scheme throws starlight around the room and the water. And that spa telegraphs global exclusivity, casting its net wide around the luxury world, partnering with the wellness brands Elemis and Ligne St. Barth. (Signature treatment: the Elemis Pro-Definition & Contour treatment that makes use of active nutrients to firm up the face after a long flight. Hopefully the hotel’s luxury limo service will soften the blow.)
Athens-born Executive Chef Chef George Oikonomou brings his skills to a menu based on local Cycladic roots at the magical poolside setting at Camares. (Food and beverage is also available at Ambrosia Restaurant & Terrace, Sunset Terrace and Lagoon Swim-up Bar.) Meze specialties at Camares include the pan-fried feta with honey and sesame seeds, and Greek favorites like cheese and spinach pies, zucchini balls with Greek yoghurt sauce, and shrimp saganaki with tomato sauce and ouzo. And for a truly earthy Cycladic dish, try the Giouvetsi orzo with beef, cooked in vegetable sauce and Gruyere straight from the nearby island of Naxos.
The Royal Myconian is located on the island’s cove-studded south coast. Once you pass a string of Mykonos’ prized and popular beaches—Ornos, Psarou, Paragi, Paradise, Super Paradise, Agrari—Elia stretches as far as the eye can see, longer and more pristine than any of them.