Dillon Bhatt's Guide to Mykonos, Presented by Watchonista
Before summer regretfully ends, we take our city guide to Greece and the “Island of Winds.” Welcome to Mykonos!
As the small island in the Cyclades with an “anything goes” mentality, I like to think of Mykonos as Greece’s answer to freedom.
The island has been attracting Europe’s elite for numerous years. And yet it’s only been in the last few years that the island has become incredibly international, with individuals flying in on private jets and anchoring their super yachts.
All the above brands are familiar names you’ll see and hear when visiting Mykonos. However, several gems await visitors, ready to be discovered just off the beaten path.
Health & Home
When staying in Mykonos, you’ll want to check out Charisma Hotel and Wellness Suites because, as its name suggests, this beautiful new boutique hotel focuses on health and wellness.
Charisma Hotel and Wellness Suites takes pride in its treatments, such as morning yoga classes on the beach, and the hotel’s healthy culinary offerings, like its superfoods brunch menu. You’ll be in awe of the luxury suites, each with its own private swimming pool.
Additionally, the hotel’s sister company – Mykonos Performance – is the leading gym in Mykonos, welcoming the world’s most elite athletes. In fact, you may find yourself burning off some calories alongside the German national football team or Liverpool and Real Madrid players while overlooking the stunning blue Aegean Sea.
Shop & Nosh
During the day, check out the Cartier pop-up store in Nammos Village, which recently opened this past July. Not your typical brand boutique, this pop-up store brought a different concept to the Mediterranean than previous Cartier boutiques: Walls lined with artwork from the renowned Greek Konstantin Kakanias.
With the work displayed at the pop-up boutique, Kakanias has tried to encapsulate the Mykonian essence. “I imagined fun summer days and nights, with a totally free spirit where we indulge in nature, light, water, love, and beautiful things,” he said about his work for the Cartier pop-up.
As a result, Kakanias has kept the boutique light and airy by incorporating the island’s famous whitewashed walls and simple rattan furniture.
After checking out the boutiques in Nammos Village, have a low-key lunch at Nikos Gallop Taverna in Ornos. Nikos Gallop specializes in local Mykonian and Greek cuisine, where they source all ingredients locally from selected producers. And after opening for its 38th season, the place is considered an institution on the island. I recommend trying the arugula and eggplant salad, grilled octopus with fava beans, and the with seafood.
Horology & Hedonism
If, after lunch, you’re looking to do some more watch shopping, pay a visit to Rousounelos in Chora. One of Greece’s most distinguished jewelers, Rousounelos’ stunning boutique is stunning boutique is an official home to Rolex, Patek Philippe, Vacheron Constantin, Parmigiani Fleurier, Montblanc, Tudor, and more.
Moreover, I know from first-hand experience that their customer service is second to none, providing you with a dedicated professional and personal service. Family-owned, Rousounelos’ team goes out of its way to help customers purchase their timepieces and provide extraordinary aftersales care.
Next, spend the rest of your afternoon relaxing at the Soho Roc House. A private, members-only club that falls under the Soho House umbrella, the Soho Roc House at Paraga Beach has beautiful rooms, a stunning members area, a restaurant, pool, outdoor gym, and access to the sea.
If you’re feeling a bit peckish, the Soho Roc House has one of my all-time favorite watermelon salads and saffron spaghettini, which I always pair with their classic Picante while I stare into the blue abyss of the Aegean.
In short, any time you spend there will be filled with fun, include fabulous food, and feature some of the most stunning views on Mykonos (which are also excellent for taking perfect wrist shots).
Dinner & Dancing
Located in the heart of Chora, a real crowd pleaser for dinner has always been Interni. Enter through an unassuming door and find yourself in one of the most energetic and lively courtyards. You’ll have a great evening with DJs playing crowd favorites, waitstaff passing out sparklers, and performers displaying fire shows.