A place for the curious and the quietly discerning, Gundari opens up a wilder, more rugged side of the Greek islands. In a destination where donkeys outnumber cars, the resort’s scenery-sympathetic construction makes sense, drawing guests into a landscape of terraced hillsides, hidden coves and ancient footpaths. Each suite is a private refuge, painted in earthy tones and finished off with its own pool. Impressive, yes – but upgrading to the likes of the cave suites bestows even greater seclusion and sea views. Nature is, in fact, so revered here that it’s influence can be found everywhere; the restaurant’s Michelin-starred chef, Lefteris Lazarou, serves up local ingredients from both land and sea, and the spa harnesses the power of indigenous herbs and tonics alongside visiting practitioners.  

Days unfold slowly and luxuriously. Gundari’s headland location may have left it without a beach, but that’s no issue – a private boat whisks guests to secret ones dotted around the island, where towels and umbrellas are set up to while away hours under the sun or rest after a spot of snorkelling. Even exploring the rest of the island seems to take very little effort; just 10 minutes away lies Chora – a cobbled gem of a town with family-run tavernas and timeless charm, and the surrounding landscape and heritage sights can be toured by gentle hikes and e-bike rides.