Santa Marina: A Tranquil Mykonian Retreat Celebrating Mediterranean Bliss

Nestled in splendid seclusion, Santa Marina Resort stands as a tranquil realm unto itself, perched high above the azure expanse of Ornos Bay, gracing the southwestern corner of the beguiling island of Mykonos.

Nearly half a century ago, the esteemed Greek visionary, renowned host, and aficionado of life's pleasures, Elias Papageorgiou, acquired this parcel of land adorned with a residence and an adjoining private peninsula. A solitary windmill, a quaint "pigeon house" which served as a guest abode, and a charming chapel constituted the sole inhabitants of this coastal haven. Enthralled by the palpable vitality of the island, he perceived its latent potential even before it transformed into a mecca for global revellers seeking both respite and exuberance. Elias aspired to transform Santa Marina into a sanctuary for cherished moments, personal delight, and shared camaraderie amongst his friends.

In subsequent years, this sanctuary metamorphosed into Elias' personal retreat and became a coveted venue for exclusive soirées and jubilant gatherings. Over time, the property underwent a graceful evolution, marked by adding new structures and enhancements, such as refined dining establishments, a rejuvenating spa, and inviting pools. Ultimately, Santa Marina became an integral facet of the illustrious Luxury Collection brand.

In the present day, Elias' only child, Christiana, carries on the legacy of this splendid family estate, a place imbued with deep love and passion for the island—its wild beauty, breathtaking sunsets, and unique charm. More than just the owner, Christiana is a devoted mother to two daughters, both of whom dream of one day inheriting the estate and sharing in their mother's dedication. She is a guardian of her ancestral land, deeply in love with its idyllic views. One evening, she was moved by a strong belief against excessive development and towering buildings. Her conviction echoed the need to preserve the natural character of the land and protect the core of their heritage.

Such is the character inherent to Santa Marina. This character permeates every facet of its existence—reflected in the genuine warmth with which the staff extends their hospitality, the artful modulation of music that accompanies your journey, the vibrant array of hues that adorn the surroundings, and the meticulously crafted menus, each paying homage to the bounty of local seafood. Every element resonates with an unwavering commitment to preserving the land's intrinsic splendour and a fervent zeal to reveal an alternative facet of Mykonos, one that transcends the raucous dawn parties and the inundation of tourists.

Santa Marina's private beach is a highly esteemed attribute of the property, providing a sanctuary of serenity, a stark contrast to the island's vibrant dynamism. Conversely, the sophisticated Buddha-Bar infuses an element of festivity to your nocturnal escapades, set against the captivating panorama of the sea.

In 2021, Mykonos Social made its debut, under the leadership of esteemed British chef Jason Atherton. This restaurant marked Atherton's first venture in the Mediterranean, with the aim of enhancing the island's culinary offer.

Situated on the secluded terrace of Santa Marina Resort & Villas, Mykonos Social overlooks the Aegean Sea and serves as an all-day dining destination. Here, Atherton showcases the bounty of the Aegean Sea and Mykonian produce, working closely with local producers to support the local ecosystem. This collaboration results in a truly unique culinary experience on the island.

The restaurant offers three menu options: Vegetarian, Aegean Experience, and Sea Inspired, the latter two highlighting exquisite fish and seafood dishes. These include island red prawns, wild Aegean red dentex, and Skyros line-caught sea bass, all served with light accompaniments that emphasise the freshness of the ingredients.

In Mykonos, Atherton does not seek to cater to every luxury whim; rather, he places his trust in simplicity and technique. His focus is on the flavours and comfort inherent in Mediterranean cuisine.

Jason Atherton, originally from Skegness, was the first British chef to complete an internship at Spain's renowned El Bulli restaurant under Ferran Adrià. His career includes experiences with esteemed chefs such as Pierre Koffmann and Gordon Ramsay. In 2011, he opened Pollen Street Social in London’s Mayfair, which earned a Michelin star. Mykonos Social is the latest addition to Atherton's globally renowned restaurant group, The Social Company, which now includes establishments in London, Shanghai, Dubai, and St. Moritz.

To elevate your experience, a day excursion to the nearby island of Delos—a UNESCO World Heritage site—comes highly recommended. Accessible within a brief 10-minute journey by RIB boat, Delos lies just opposite Mykonos Town and stands as one of Greece's most revered mythological, historical, and archaeological treasures, celebrated as the legendary birthplace of Apollo.