The Greek Island of Mykonos is famous for its vibrant nightlife scene and beautiful, white-washed buildings. A charming mix of beautiful beaches, ancient history and mythological tales, there’s something here for everyone. The island is named after Mykons, a hero who was believed to be the son of Apollo, the god of light, music, and poetry. The myths are kept alive on the island, with every other restaurant or shop referencing the famous gods, and it’s part of the charm of this lovely place.
Where to stay:
BILL&COO is a collection of two adults only boutique resorts; serene and elegant, they are the perfect example of how Mykonos might surprise you. The Coast BILL&COO is situated at the far end of Agios Ioannis beach on Mykonos’ western peninsula. In a sheltered bay (Mykonos is known as the ‘Windy Island’, so you might need to hold onto your hat when the wind really gets going) it is the perfect hotel for a romantic stay.
With only 25 rooms, most with private pools and huge terraces, it’s an intimate, stylish place to while away the hours. You could easily be forgiven for not wanting to leave your suite and just enjoying room service, but when you do leave, it’s so peaceful you feel like you have the hotel to yourself anyway. Eating meals by the main pool, and next to the circular bar serving the best innovative cocktails (the hotel even has its own cocktail lab), it’s only a short stroll down to the beach where private sun loungers and attentive staff await.
The hotel is an assortment of small buildings, the interiors stylishly neutral and natural throughout. Stone, poured concrete, wood and rattan, with terracotta splashes and olive trees, the elegant aesthetic has been carefully curated by Greek-based designers, K-Studio. The suites are huge, most with double showers, double sinks, double sun-beds… the couples’ theme is strong here! A la carte breakfasts (classic options with a Greek twist and coffee that will definitely rev up all engines) and more casual meals are served in the main building, overlooking a pool and the sparkling blue Aegean Sea.
Next door is the famous Beefbar. Known for incredible food and service (the staff have such an effortless and efficient manner that they seem to glide, rather than walk, between tables), it’s the perfect partnership with BILL&COO. A local hideaway as well as a go-to restaurant for the coolest crowd, the interiors blend seamlessly with the surroundings, and the prime cuts of beef are just one of the highlights of the menu. The Black Cod is a must, and make sure to share as many of the street food options as possible. A knowledgeable sommelier, award-winning cocktails (don’t miss the Watermelon Paloma) and a DJ spinning laidback tunes means you can’t fail to have a good time here.
Just up the road (free transfers are always available between the hotels) is the sister hotel, BILL&COO Mykonos, situated a short stroll from Mykonos Town. With a huge glittering pool as its centrepiece, it’s the perfect spot to see and be seen. Whether you’re here for breakfast or dinner, spending time gazing out at the beautiful sea views is a must.
A lovely spot to watch the sunset too, many guests are found here at that time, cocktail in hand, before dinner at the hotel restaurant, YĒVO. Offering different tasting menus; ‘7 Senses,’ ‘Essence of COO-ing,’ and ‘Origins’, each dish is a carefully orchestrated symphony of flavours and textures. Each course is like a work of art, drawing deeply from Greece’s storied culinary heritage and the rich bounty of its land and sea. Dishes include locally sourced fish and meat, and there are vegetarian and vegan options too, and the staff are very happy to oblige any dietary requests.
With all this temptation, there is a gym at the Coast hotel, which you may want to check out! There is also the lovely Valmont Spa at the Mykonos location and it’s an oasis of calm with secluded spa ‘cabins’ that can be hired for private use, with a sauna and steam room, and the chill of a cold plunge. Bespoke treatments can be arranged, and after a day by the pool, a facial or massage would be just the ticket.
Things to do:
You may be staying in a serene sanctuary, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t at least check out some of the nightlife the Island is famous for. Head into Mykonos Town for a browse around thenarrow-whitewashed lanes, exploring the cute shops selling a mix of Greek jewellery, the usual tourist offerings, and probably unsurprisingly, designer boutiques such as Louis Vuitton.
Typical Cycladic architecture and pretty blue-domed churches and the famous windmills are Instagram-worthy, and Little Venice, with its Venetian architecture, is a hot spot for bars and restaurants, and incredible views over the sea, particularly at sunset. Once you’ve had your fill of the crowds, it’s good to know you have the BILL&COO retreats to head back to. In fact, they will organise a return transfer, so you don’t need to worry about a cab home.
If you fancy exploring another part of the island, and a fantastic Greek taverna, ask for a transfer over to Panormos Beach. After a morning on the beach working up an appetite, just up the hill is PELAO Tavern offering an authentic Cycladic atmosphere and traditional Greek cuisine. This pretty, open-space tavern has a breathtaking beach view and relaxed, friendly service. Whether you’re a seafood lover craving Aegean seafood and fresh fish, or you’re after some local Mykonian meat, PELAO has got it covered. The kind of restaurant where the wine flows and the afternoon becomes evening before you realise, it’s well worth a visit.
The island of Delos, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the most important mythological and historical archaeology sites in Greece, and should definitely be top of your list to explore. According to Greek mythology, Apollo was born on this tiny island in the Cyclades archipelago and his sanctuary attracted pilgrims from all over Greece, and beyond, as a prosperous trading port.
The island bears traces of the succeeding civilizations in the Aegean world, from the 3rd Millennium B.C. to the Paleo-Christian era. A short boat-ride away, book a tour guide to help you step back in time through thousands of years. Locals say the island is sacred and there is certainly a special energy there.
If you really want to arrive in Delos in style, charter your own yacht for the day. Yaloou have a range of yachts for various group sizes. Perfect for those who want some privacy, and to move at their own speed, a crew will take you out to explore the best snorkelling spots and hidden beaches. You can be dropped off at a beachside restaurant, or eat on board, the options are endless, and luxurious. With all the equipment you might need for a dip, you just need to arrive in your most glamourous swimwear.
The starting rate (from September 2025) for a BILL&COO Beachfront Junior Suite at The Coast BILL&COO is £701 (prepaid rate) per room per night based on two people sharing on a B&B basis. Rates vary at different times of the year.
Bill & Coo Suites and Lounge Megali Ammos Beach, Mikonos 846 00, Greece
