Discovering the tranquil and family-friendly side to the glamourous island of Mykonos with a stay at the Myconian Collection Wo r d s C A R LY G L E N D I N N I N G
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t was Jackie Kennedy that first brought the jet-set crowd Mykonos, an island that’s since become a glittering beacon of glamour in the middle of the Aegean Sea. A cosmopolitan crowd of celebrities holiday on the Greek isle, but the buzz has always focused on the exclusive clubs, the crazy parties and after-dark bar culture. So I was intrigued to discover that the destination has a more tranquil and peaceful side, perfectly suited to both blissed-out babymooners and new parents in need of a relaxing family getaway. The Myconian Collection has no less than ten of the leading luxury hotels on Mykonos (three of which are members of Relais & Châteaux) in its portfolio. We are staying at the 5-star Kyma, which has been awarded status as a Design Hotel. The 52-room, 29 suite property has an intimate 1960s feel, alive with colourful modern art and quirky furniture, carefully curated and collected from all over Europe. The rooms and suites are beautifully designed, some boasting terraces with private pools and Jacuzzis. On the first morning I am woken by the
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light streaming in through my balcony doors. Shining down from a blazing, bright blue sky, I am struck by the magical quality of the beams cast by the sun. The hotel overlooks the hillside of Mykonos Town, and I have panoramic views across the famous 16th century windmills, the pristine white cubic houses and out to the glistening sea. I can already feel my internal body clock resetting to the slow rhythm of island life. We eat breakfast in the newly-refurbished George’s Bar overlooking the idyllic pool area, a gentle breeze cooling us from the heat of the sun. Families with babies and toddlers trickle in, and the staff make a huge fuss of them – this is a hotel that clearly welcomes little ones. The Collection was founded in 1979 by George Dakylides and his wife Eleftheria and today it’s run by their four sons. It’s a true family business and it really comes across in the exceptional service. Absolutely nothing is too much trouble and the hotel really delivers on looking after your every need. This is luxury on the next level, and guests can take advantage of the concierge, private dining, limousines and even helicopter and
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