18 Best Hotels in The Cyclades, Greece

On one of the island's highest points, these six sumptuous villas offer a 21st-century interpretation of the classic Greek-island hideaway, built in a traditional style with careful respect for Cycladic architecture, with smooth white walls standing out brilliantly against the surrounding dark volcanic stone and the deep blues of the Aegean Sea. The villas are simple in design but entirely luxurious, with a fireplace, private veranda, and modern amenities, and a private plunge pool in one. In the inn's common area, a breathtaking infinity pool that has graced the cover of many a travel magazine sits on the edge of the caldera, offering unforgettable sunset views.

A former convent from the 18th century has been converted into the most comfortable and discreetly luxurious—as well as the most poetic and serenely quiet—place to stay in Fira. This is an aristocratic haven of heavenly pastels, marble floors, beautiful antique furniture, 19th-century engravings, and sublime terraces and balconies overlooking the caldera. There's maid service twice daily, impeccable 24-hour service, fresh flowers, and a gourmet Mediterranean restaurant that will serve you on your private terrace or in a deep, charmingly decorated cave house.

Perched on the towering cliff overlooking the sea and set amid a series of small garden terraces, this complex with truly breathtaking vistas of sea and sky, is the best place to stay in Folegandros. The apartments, in traditional blue and white, all have terraces, half with sea view—and what a sea. Even better, this area of the island offers geographical delights, with cliff-faces to explore, zigzagging roads to travel, and other shimmering white Xanadu-like mansions to make you turn green with envy. Breakfasts and transfers are included.

This intimate sanctuary is an especially magical place to stay, with terraced, vaulted-ceilinged cave houses that are sophisticated and full of character. The rooms are filled with beautiful multicolored tiles and plush beds tucked into alcoves, with private Jacuzzis and small pools in some. Romance fills the air at dinner time in the restaurant with panoramic views at the top of the property where the food, setting and service combine for memorable meals. Nice touches such as no extra charge room service and a free bottle of Santorini wine everyday endear the hotel to its guests.

Top of the pile of the luxury boutique hotels on the island for style and comfort, Cavo Tagoo is a whitewashed property climbing the hill over the bay in sensuous curves. Natural rocks project onto the winding path to the guest rooms, and the 38-meter-long infinity and many private pools make it feel like a hydro-heaven. More water is on tap in the pool bar where a 43-foot-long aquarium comes stocked with sharks. Stunningly decorated common areas lead to the all-white guest rooms—the furniture splashes some blue, pink, and gold—with terraces facing the sea and sunset.

Small, charming, luxurious, and set above the beach of Ayios Stefanos, the Mykonos Grace is blessed with a truly impressive setting, enjoying an encompassing view of Mykonos harbor. A boutique hotel that deftly combines traditional architectural elements and sleek modern design, a neutral palatte prevails brightened by splashes of art. The main pool, poolside bar, and restaurant beckon beautifully and throughout there is an impressive air of calm and, yes, grace.

Once a private 19th-century estate in the upscale district of Ermoupoli, Hotel Ploes has been completely renovated to luxury hotel status. Room decor is a tasteful mix of handwoven carpets, light inviting colors, painted ceilings, Venetian light fixtures, and marble bathrooms—some bathrooms have steam rooms and whirlpool baths. The entrance faces the city and is within walking distance of main sights. The back part of the hotel faces the sea where a private paved terrace is accessible to guests for sunbathing or swimming in the Aegean. A small café with views of the Aegean offers snacks and drinks—that's also where the complimentary breakfast is served.

A travel magazine favorite, Perivolas lives up to the hype and then some. That infinity pool still makes you gasp and the rest of the hotel is no slouch. The twenty houses have been converted from old wineries and stables in archetypal yposkafta (vaulted cave) fashion, with clever nooks for beds, sculpted walls, and sumptuous bathrooms; all are simply but handsomely furnished with handmade wooden pieces and weavings. Quietly glamorous and very private, you will start to fantasize about living here forever.

Even more exclusive and guaranteed to unleash your inner rockstar is the hideaway from the same owners across the water in Therasia, only accesible by helicopter or boat. Like the lair of a James Bond baddie, it is utterly stunning.

Architectural Digest–worthy decor and earthy Cycladic charm blend into what is truly Santorinian splendor; think sparkling white cubes with volcanic stone trimmings surrounding an 18th-century mansion. Interiors are picturesquely dotted with domes, skylights, and interior windows, and the decor is a fantasia of Chippendale armchairs, ancient amphorae, Byzantine icons, Corfiot mariner's chests, Picasso ceramics, and gilt-framed engravings; the glowing color schemes were cooked up by legendary British designer David Hicks. The showpiece is the "House of the Winds," where the grand, double-height, cathedral-roofed living room shimmers with elegant antiques and robin's-egg-blue walls. The elegant communal terrace overlooks the caldera, but many choose to enjoy dinner on their own terraces.

With traditional whitewashed Mykonian architecture and cozy lounging areas, this property's quiet apartments and studios are a refuge from the bustle of Mykonos Town yet are still close enough to enjoy it. Sharon, a British expat, and her husband Dimitri live on the property, so they pay attention to every detail to make it beautiful, welcoming, and hospitable. They succeed, as their roster of loyal and oft-returning customers proves. You'll want to enjoy the large pool and sunbathing area, complete with a view of the sea and sunsets. There's a continental breakfast and the staffers are friendly and helpful.