Summer Dreaming: These Are the Places We're Dreaming of Right Now

The Most Beautiful Hotels on the Mediterranean

Winter seems to drag on forever, the days are short, and the longing for sunshine grows with every glance out the window. This makes the need for a ray of hope all the greater—and for inspiration for trips that will finally become a reality in a few months.

Summer on the Mediterranean promises azure waters, cultural treasures, and tranquil retreats—all without long journeys or jet lag. Whether diving in the Aegean, strolling through pine groves in Croatia, or enjoying balmy evenings above the rooftops of historic old towns: these hotels and destinations offer special moments of relaxation. A journey to hideaways between Portugal, Tenerife, and the Greek islands that brings summer a little closer already.

1. Myconian Panoptis Escape: Summer hideaway overlooking the Aegean Sea

Summer on Mykonos can also mean peace, sun, and sweeping views of the Aegean Sea—at least at the Myconian Panoptis Escape, part of the Myconian Collection. Perched high above a sheltered bay near Elia Beach, this collection of villas offers a private retreat far from the hustle and bustle of island life. The villas, featuring a modern, natural design, open onto terraces with pools or Jacuzzis, inviting guests to relax and unwind. Personalized in-villa treatments, sunrise yoga, and Mediterranean cuisine featuring fresh fish and regional ingredients at the on-site restaurant underscore the laid-back concept. For those looking to explore, yacht or helicopter excursions are available upon request—all at your own pace.

More info: www.panoptisescapemykonos.com




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2. One&Only Kéa Island: Diving Adventures at 120 Meters

The Cycladic island of Kéa combines myth, nature, and Mediterranean tranquility. Nestled in a secluded bay on the west coast, One&Only Kéa Island is situated on a 65-hectare beachfront property, just about an hour from Athens. The resort offers elegant cliff-top villas with private pools, fine dining, and an award-winning spa set amidst unspoiled natural scenery. A special highlight awaits guests underwater: off the coast lies the HMHS Britannic, the sister ship of the Titanic, which sank in 1916—the largest accessible passenger shipwreck in the world. As part of the new Greek underwater park, the wreck can be explored by certified divers accompanied by experienced guides. An extraordinary experience that combines history and adventure with exclusive island comfort.

More info: www.oneandonlyresorts.com/kea-island

3. Amirandes & Caramel Boutique Resort: In the Footsteps of the Sun God

Those looking to squeeze a few extra hours of sunshine out of summer should head to Crete, where, according to legend, Zeus was born. An early excursion to the Lasithi Plateau and the Dikteon Cave combines nature with mythology before returning to the sea to two very different retreats. Open year-round, the Amirandes Resort, with its lagoons, palm trees, and clean lines, evokes a Minoan water palace and combines private pool villas, a spacious spa, and diverse cuisine with proximity to Knossos, Heraklion, and the Agreco Farm. On the north coast near Rethymnon, the boutique resort Caramel welcomes guests with Mediterranean gardens, white villas, and charming Greek-style design details. Here, relaxing days at the beach meet cultural discoveries in the historic old town.

More info: grecotel.com/amirandes and grecotel.com/caramel.

4. Corfu Imperial: “σιγά σιγά” – take it easy

“Siga siga,” taking one’s time, is a way of life lived to the fullest on Corfu. The greenest of the Greek islands presents itself as gentle, tranquil, and almost aristocratic. High above the olive groves of the private Kommeno Peninsula lies the Corfu Imperial, surrounded by palm trees, marble paths, hidden coves, and a promenade through Mediterranean gardens.
Rooms with panoramic views, bungalows, and villas with direct access to the sea blend harmoniously into the landscape. Culinary offerings range from Corfiot specialties to French cuisine, creative seafood dishes at Yali Seafood, and an on-site gelateria. The experience is complemented by eco-conscious activities such as mini-golf with biodegradable balls or the opportunity to adopt coral in the Ionian Sea.

More info: grecotel.com/corfuimperial.

5. SIRO Boka Place: Summer, Sun, Sports

The Adriatic Sea lies calm and serene in the sheltered Boka Bay, revealing its particularly unspoiled side in Montenegro. Sailors, stand-up paddlers, hikers, and climbers will find ideal conditions here, as will those seeking relaxation who wish to combine physical activity with rejuvenation. Since May, the first European SIRO Hotel has offered a new retreat for active travelers, featuring views of the surrounding mountain scenery from the rooftop terrace, a 25-meter outdoor pool, and a Recovery Lab for targeted relaxation after a workout. Those who want to turn the journey into an experience can take the route via Dubrovnik and cover part of the distance by ferry, passing small coastal towns and impressive landscapes.

More info: www.sirohotels.com