Forget the bright whites and cubist structures: This wellness-oriented hotel puts green nature at the forefront. F Zeen (an adults-only luxury property) is located in Lourdata, a coastal town on the island’s southern coast just under the dense, pine tree-lined forest of Mount Ainos. It’s set across 10 acres of land, which covers 69 rooms, seven villas, an outdoor cinema, and two restaurants—and for the summer traveler, the beach is just steps away.
From the sandy, hand-textured walls to the terraces ensconced by gardens and the private infinity pools overlooking the treetops, the accommodation options all underscore a deep connection to nature. Book an appointment at the spa, which includes treatments like an energizing Ionian salt-and-citrus scrub, or take a walk through the property’s expansive gardens. The latter makes up much of F Zeen’s dining menu: It’s seasonal, based on what organic produce is available on-site. It doesn’t get much more locally sourced than this.
Amenities: Spa, yoga/pilates classes, outdoor gym, gardens, two on-site restaurants/bars, beach bar, outdoor cinema
Editor’s tip: Skip the restaurant out in favor of a night in to enjoy the outdoor cinema: Order your snacks, pop in your wireless headphones, and settle in for an evening of classic movies under the stars.
Address: Lourdas Beach Road, Kefalonia, 28083, Greece
Courtesy of Gundari Resort
Of the lesser-known islands in the Cyclades, the tiny island of Folegandros has always stood out for its abundance of breathtaking beaches, crystal-clear waters, and traditional villages. 2024 marked the unveiling of the island’s first luxury 5-star resort, Gundari, located in a bird wildlife reserve on the southeastern coast, just a short distance from the main village of Chora. The hotel hosts 27 suites and villas, made of stone that was excavated on-site, with private solar heated infinity pools cascading over the cliffside. Elsewhere on the property, guests will find a cliff-edge main pool featuring a swim up cocktail bar and three additional dining spaces, which include the main restaurant and two bars curated by Greece’s first Michelin-starred chef, Lefteris Lazarou, who uses ingredients sourced from Gundari’s own organic farm, offering a true farm-to-table experience.
