Mykonos has long been a party destination. But let me coda that by saying the parties here are of a very different ilk to those you’ll find in Zakynthos and Kos (school leavers and stag dos have firmly cemented the latter’s reputation). Instead, Mykonos offers something more upmarket; think Greece’s answer to St Tropez and Ibiza, the type of scene that attracts the well-heeled rather than the young and naive. 

Of course, it hasn’t always been this way. Once a humble fishing island in the Aegean, Mykonos was thrust into the spotlight in the 1960s by a handful of Hollywood elite. Jackie Kennedy, Grace Kelly, and Brigitte Bardot all holidayed here and where celebrities go, the world’s wealthiest follow. Mykonos, accordingly, is now known as a ‘billionaire’s playground’ and ‘King’s Road-on-Sea’. 

However, to say this island is solely dedicated to parties is to do it a disservice. You can certainly visit the island and escape the loud music and sparkler bottles that dominate beaches like Super Paradise, Paraga, and Psarou, and clubs such as Cavo Paradiso, Scorpios, and Tropicana. And there are few places which offer luxury in harmony with the Mykonian way of life better than Bill & Coo Mykonos. 

Founded by island native Theodosis Kakoutis, and overseen day-to-day by general manager Elena Kostopoulou, Bill & Coo is situated in the quiet bay of the Megali Ammos, guaranteeing its 35 rooms and suites boast serene sea views. It is just a short walk from the bustle of Mykonos Old Town but is a world away in terms of vibe: channelling the quintessential laidback way of Greek life, a break here isn’t about late nights and bright lights, but the ultimate R&R Mykonos was once renowned for. 

Adorned in a palette of white and baby blue hues, accommodation has been designed with Cycladic architecture in mind. Inside, simple, minimalistic spaces with bare walls and wood accents have been curated to let the Greek sunlight flood in, while outside, discover your own hot tub or pool overlooking yachts bobbing in the bay. Book the opulent Bill & Coo Suite to enjoy a private terrace, complete with sunbeds suspended in the plunge pool: the ultimate sun-drenched (and Instagrammable) spot. 

If languid lounging by your own pool isn’t enough, head to the sunbed-fringed infinity pool framed by a classic Cycladic church and the island’s raw landscape in the distance. The space is smattered with sink-in seating warmed by firepits and is serviced by casual fare from the pool bar. Dine on a curated selection of classic Greek dishes and fresh salads accompanied by ice-cold wines and cocktails. 

The latter are no afterthought here, having been curated at the Bill & Coo Lab, which has taken inspiration from the scents and sights of the island to form a concise list of tipples including Sheer Beauty – tequila, mango, peppers and grapefruit soda – and the Bloom of the Mountains, mixing whisky, fig leaf soda, jasmine and apricot to reflect the natural landscape of the Cyclades. 

For more upmarket fare, head to Yēvo. Helmed by executive chef Aggelos Bakopoulos, expect a culinary love letter to his homeland drawing on the island’s bounty of ingredients from land and sea. Bites and small plates don’t skimp on savoir faire, featuring beluga caviar and blinis, wagyu beef mini burgers, and sumptuous shrimp tacos with guacamole and chilli. 

Come evening, the restaurant offers three tasting menus: Essence of Coo-ing, Origins and the seven-course Seven Senses. The latter is a must, elevated further by the sunset view guaranteed from the restaurant’s tables. Dishes of baby calamari with crumbled tomato, local lobster with celery cream and organic lamb with marinated chickpeas and onions are clear indicators as to why this restaurant has been voted among the best restaurants in Greece. Pair with a sommelier-recommended bottle from the 300-strong wine list, ranging from classic new and old world blends, as well as organic serves from Greek vineyards. 

Yēvo's coffee and hazelnut dessert.

Yēvo's lettuce green risotto.

When you’re not spending your time sunbathing or being wined and dined, pampering awaits at the only Valmont Spa on the island. Home to two expansive suites, Valmont’s array of facials, massages, and beauty treatments provide the perfect relaxing antidote to the hum of Mykonos town which lies mere metres away. The Swiss brand has been involved in the spa since its conception, ensuring each bespoke treatment seamlessly merges its holistic practices while nodding to Greek mythology. 

Case in point is the Delos Beauty treatment, inspired by the nearby UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Greece's most important archaeological, historical, and mythological locations, which is clearly visible from Mykonos. Exclusively designed by Valmont, this 75-minute treatment aids with recharging and erasing all signs of fatigue and muscle tension, finished with an eye collagen mask and premium Elixir Glaciers products that will help you rejuvenate from busy days and late nights spent in Mykonos (or in your suite, it’s a hard life). 

While we didn’t feel the need to leave, there is, of course, plenty to do on Bill & Coo’s doorstep. As previously mentioned, the Old Town is a short walk away, while the nearest beach is 150 metres from the entrance. Bill & Coo extended its presence on the island in 2016 with The Coast, offering 15 premium adults-only suites fringing Agios Ioannis Beach. Make the most of the complimentary private transfer service between the two hotels to enjoy The Coast’s private beach. Set across tiers of sand, discover a red umbrella and sunbed-peppered space as well as the uber-cool Beefbar. 

Transplanted from its origins in Monte-Carlo, Beefbar is helmed by head chef Yiannis Babalis and offers a buzzy beachside locale complete with a DJ and decadent menus. Select from the Beef, Reef, and Leaf offerings and expect plates of flame-grilled prime cuts and seafood, as well as street food favourites. Our top pick? The signature kobe beef gyros – the Greek classic reimagined in the most luxurious way. 

Bill & Coo has built its reputation on striking the perfect balance between Mykonos’ livelier and calmer duality. Having the best of both worlds has always drawn luxury travellers from afar, and it’s why this hotel has continued to lure guests to this serene corner of the island for 20 years. Long may it continue. If you’re heading to Mykonos this summer, this is the place to book. 

Bill & Coo Mykonos reopens for the summer season in April 2026. From £350 per night. 

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