Andros Serenity Retreat

Rustic Cycladic Retreat Inspired by Natural Materials and Locally Grown Herbs

This adults-only resort on Andros, the northernmost island in the Cycladic archipelago, welcomes guests to stone-clad retreats that are designed for unrivaled peace. It has three units that can be booked separately or together, making it an ideal destination for groups of friends.

The retreat preserves the vernacular style of Cycladic architecture and, as its hosts say, "Stone, love and respect for nature are our building materials." Framed by an 80-year-old olive grove, the individual houses are built from natural stones and seawood. Each residence is named after locally grown herbs – thyme, sage, oregano – that are found all over the rocky outcrops of the region. And design details, including doors inspired by the gateways of local 18th-century monasteries, immediately caught our attention.

You can cool off in the shared swimming pool, which is an impressive 50 square meters in size, or enjoy a therapeutic hydromassage experience in the Jacuzzi. A 20-minute trek downhill, passing by aromatic plants, leads to the nearest beach.

The property's hosts have a passion for food and are happy to share the island's top delicacies.

Around

In spite of being one of the closest Greek islands to Athens at only two hours away by ferry, Andros preserves its remote island character. Home to less than 40 permanent residents, the surrounding area of Kalamaki makes for the ideal getaway to reconnect with your sense of inner tranquility.

As an island defined by a broad variety in landscapes, Andros is surrounded by clear waters, highlighted by mountains and pervaded with Mediterranean forests, deep valleys, rough canyons, steep waterfalls and stunning beaches.

During the summertime, the annual etesian winds from the north blow cool air across the Cyclades. Take respite in the still silence and inhale the distinct aromas of wild herbs and crisp sea air, all the while taking in the unforgettable views of the crystalline Aegean waters.

The island is dotted with incredible beaches, including Plaka, Chalkolimionas, Apothikes, Agios Petros, Ahla, Vitali and Vlychada, all within easy reach of the villa. Other activities include windsurfing, trekking, swimming and scuba diving among reefs and shipwrecks, as well as exploring breathtaking caves and some of the best hiking trails in Greece.

Korthi is located in the southern part of Andros, with a panoramic view of picturesque villages. North of Korthi Bay, don't miss the Castle of Faneromeni, once the largest medieval settlement in Andros. Chora, the capital of the island, with its winding streets and imposing whitewashed Cycladic villas, is only 20 minutes from the house.

Established in 1979, the Museum of Contemporary Art Andros was the first of its kind in Greece. Their collection focuses on European 20th-century modern and contemporary art and frequently hosts world-famous exhibitions. The Petros and Marika Kydoniefs Foundation promotes cultural events, organises musical events and showcases the artwork of contemporary Greek artists. The International Andros Festival takes place each summer in the town's open-air theatre, with theatrical and dance performances, as well as classical and jazz concerts.

For history buffs, the Archaeological Museum of Andros houses an extensive range of artefacts dating from Mycenaean times to the island’s Roman period. Perched on the west coast of the island are the impressive ruins of Palaeopolis, the ancient capital of Andros. Centrally located on the island, the local mill of Pitrofos village has been transformed into the Cyclades Olive Museum which preserves pre-industrial techniques of olive oil production.

Location

Morakei, Andros, Cyclades, Greece. Nearest airport: Athens International (105km). From Athens, you can reach Andros directly by the two-hour ferry connection which departs from the port of Rafina.

Best time to visit

April to October