Nestled in the Aegean Sea, the enchanting island of Folegandros is about to welcome a luxurious new addition to its landscape with the grand opening of Gundari this spring. This boutique hotel, consisting of 30 expertly designed rooms, aims to provide a serene escape away from the bustling hotspots of Greece such as Santorini and Milos. With its pristine location set on a wildlife reserve along the tranquil southeastern coast, Gundari embodies the essence of a luxury retreat while committing to environmental sustainability and local culture.
Reflecting its surroundings, the name “Gundari,” which translates to “rocky place,” resonates deeply with the natural rocky terrain that envelops the hotel. Each of the accommodations is inspired by the island’s rugged beauty, offering an aesthetic that combines elegance and local character. Guests can choose from opulent suites to lavish cliff-front villas, featuring open-air designs that enhance the breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea and surrounding cliffs. These villas present a unique luxury experience with expansive indoor and outdoor areas reaching nearly 6,500 square feet, complemented by private solar-heated infinity pools, and hot tubs that invite relaxation amidst stunning vistas.
The design of Gundari has been crafted by the esteemed architecture firm Block722, based in Athens. Their vision integrates unpolished marble floors with sleek lines and fluid indoor-outdoor spaces. The hotel is not only a visual delight but also environmentally conscious, bearing the EarthCheck certification, which signifies its commitment to sustainable tourism practices. This attention to design and detail ensures that guests can immerse themselves in the serene tranquility of Folegandros.
At the heart of the Gundari experience is the Orizon restaurant, helmed by Michelin-starred chef Lefteris Lazarou. This culinary gem showcases local flavors, emphasizing organic, responsibly sourced seafood and produce harvested from its own on-site farm. Guests can partake in a unique dining event—selecting their own ingredients from the farm to create a personalized dish. With fresh tomatoes and wild herbs available at their fingertips, culinary enthusiasts will relish this farm-to-fork experience.
Gundari is dedicated to providing a holistic wellness experience. The subterranean spa offers a range of rejuvenating treatments by a diverse array of visiting wellness practitioners. Options include meditation, yoga, and sound bathing, as well as more traditional massages infused with therapeutic herbal compresses. Guests seeking relaxation can also enjoy the sunken swim-up bar or savor delightful cocktails at the main cocktail bar, all surrounded by the soothing ambiance of the Mediterranean.
The hotel’s prime location offers visitors easy access to both the natural beauty and rich cultural heritage of Folegandros. Guests can utilize the complimentary fleet of transportation options, which includes Fiat 500e Cabrios, a quirky electric Mini Moke, and electric bikes, to traverse the island’s scenic landscapes. Adventure seekers can explore the 35 miles of hiking trails or partake in exciting scuba diving and snorkeling excursions. The nearby hilltop Church of Panagia remains a must-visit, highlighting the island’s historical landmarks.
In addition to local exploration, Gundari enhances guests’ experience with exclusive excursions via its private Axopar speedboat. Adventures to neighboring islands such as Polyaigos and Sifnos, as well as sunset cruises that include cliffside dinners, create memorable experiences. A true culinary highlight awaits at Irene’s Restaurant, a revered local establishment where “Yia Yia” Irene shares her culinary wisdom with guests during private cooking classes, teaching them to prepare beloved regional dishes like rice-stuffed tomatoes.
Gundari’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond its services; it plays a significant role in conserving the endangered Eleonora’s Falcon, a unique native species critical to the island’s ecosystem. This dedication to protecting local wildlife signifies Gundari’s responsibility toward both its environment and community.
With its opening scheduled for May 16, Gundari is poised to redefine luxury accommodation on Folegandros. Offering an enticing blend of stunning natural beauty, exceptional culinary experiences, and a focus on sustainability, this boutique hotel promises to become a cherished destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure in one of the lesser-known gems of the Cyclades.