Kivotos

Kivotos is that rare creature on the Greek Islands, where dramatic and minimal is usually the order of the day - a ravishingly pretty hotel.

A luxurious and romantic one, too, whose Italianate architecture and rich mosaics are a reminder that the chic island of Mykonos was once occupied by the Venetians. Though individually designed, the sumptuous rooms tucked into a villa-like environment, mostly feature carved headboards, gauzy linens and beautiful bathrooms(though bedrooms and bath-rooms can be quite compact by modern standards). Some have living areas, private Jacuzzis and/or a balcony or terrace with sea view.

Bedroom blocks open on to flower-lined paths that wind through the lush grounds to a freshwater pool with a swim-up bar. The poolside café, overlooking the sea and a small private beach, is a divine place to enjoy a lazy lunch.

A lavish breakfast buffet features fresh Greek pastries, but although Kivotos has its own gourmet restaurant, it would be a shame not to go to lively Mykonos Town at least a few nights for dinner and some night-time jewellery shopping at Voulgaris. Honeymooners and romantics can splash out on a private dinner served on the beach or the Kivotos yacht.