Eirenic Eudaimonia | Reset at O by Myconian Collection in Mykonos, Greece

A love letter to Mykonos, the O by Myconian Collection hotel embodies the essence of slow living to inspire unfettered submission into the arms of bliss in its habitués

TEXT MONISHA SIVANESAN
IMAGES COURTESY OF MYCONIAN COLLECTION

‘The Island of the Winds’ was first ruled by Mykonos, descendant of the God of Light and Music, Apollo – at least, that’s how the story goes according to Greek mythology. While this may or may not hold water, one thing about the magnetising paradise is most certainly true: it deserves its widespread fame as a hotspot for white sandy beaches, marvellous Cycladic architecture and pulsating nightlife. These are just some of the alluring factors that have catapulted the birth of the O by Myconian Collection, the first hotel located in the highly desirable Ornos Bay area.

The 5-star beachfront property sparks an intimate dialogue between nature and design, while offering Myconian Collection’s renowned hospitality and luxury leisure to heighten the pleasures experienced. Here, a relaxed pace of life — intentionally slow and grounded — takes over and invites discerning travellers to immerse themselves in each moment, let their imagination roam free, rediscover forgotten pleasures as well as reconnect with all their senses to the wholeness of life.

Drawing on a contemporary design language and life philosophy which is deeply rooted in the timeless appeal of classic Greek island life, the entire establishment – interior and exterior – is technically devoid of colour in place of the always timeless but über trendy black-and-white palette. In fact, its dominant white hue is deeply tied to the nation’s legislative history as the 1938 outbreak of cholera, followed by the stringent military ideology around the same time, resulted in whitewashing via pure limestone to disinfect and impersonalise the islands. On a more positive note, this very same hue helps reflect the sunlight and cool down the indoor temperature to allow for a more pleasant, leisurely Mediterranean experience.

Moreover, all 65 guestrooms and suites have been conceived with a green conscience to maintain tactile connection to the environment. In other words, natural materials such as wood, stone and marble come into play, often most strikingly employed in their raw state. Bright and airy, all rooms boast private furnished verandas or balconies where guests can soak up the sunshine, with many also affording the option of a private pool.

Taking advantage of its beachfront location, the hotel grants direct access to one of the island’s most beautiful beaches, where the best waterfront bars, restaurants and a quaint line-up of convenience stores and water-sports concessions land just steps away. Seamlessly connected, the Oasis pool area features soft sunbeds in the shade of palm trees and parasols, and offers complimentary treats throughout the day, before transforming into a magical al fresco nightspot illuminated by giant wicker lanterns, complete with live DJ music, after sunset.

True to Myconian Collection’s renowned culinary culture, premium dining options await, beginning at breakfast and including poolside lunch and cocktails at O Bar. Delectable gastronomic delights come alive at the O Restaurant, where exceptionally fresh seafood and seasonal local produce used for a creative take on Mediterranean classics infused with regional flavours, are paired perfectly with international wines and rare local vintages; feel free to dine indoors, or alfresco on the terrace, surrounded by lush landscaping.

Relax and rejuvenate further at the O Wellness Spa, presenting a comprehensive selection of spa treatments which include thalassotherapy pools that draw on the curative properties of Aegean seawater, complemented by essential oils and hydro-massages. Also available is a well-equipped gym room, private and group training sessions along with special events such as full moon yoga on the beach. A little retail therapy is also at one’s disposal courtesy of the O Concept Store, a specially curated boutique shopping experience.

Crafted through impeccable design, exceptional personalised service, elevated amenities and authentically curated experiences, the ‘O’ in O by Myconian Collection justifiably represents the sublime modern oasis that it is. Evoking feelings of an escape and a return simultaneously, this is the ultimate destination to reset inner rhythms and rejoice in passing moments.