Pārocks Luxury Hotel & Spa Hotel

Greece

Near the sleepy fishing village of Ambelas, in a wild, untouched corner of Paros, lies Parocks Luxury Hotel & Spa, surrounded by vineyards, rocky mountains and the Aegean sea. Step over the threshold to be greeted by the essence of modern Cycladic hospitality as you are handed a welcome drink of blue tea with dried fruits and stevia leaves.

Venturing further into a series of five buildings – with a décor of organic textures, earthy tones and natural stone and wood – weave your way to one of 40 rooms and suites and open your Greek wooden shutters to views of the cobalt sea or verdant gardens; or go one step further and choose one with private outdoor space - some have a pool, others a hot tub.

A soothing ‘Om’ may start your morning - yoga is one of many activities on offer – or elect for the serenity of sipping a coffee overlooking all-encompassing ocean views. When the midday sun calls for shelter, head for a shady table at waterside Seasalt, where Chef Spyros offers his own take on Mediterranean cuisine through imaginative use of local ingredients. Relax into the afternoon with a stroll to Damouli beach, perhaps, where you’ll find exclusive access to a private stretch of sand. On returning, you might decide to experience ancient Greek healing traditions alongside advanced skincare treatments at the hotel’s spa. Or take a scenic 20-minute drive that meanders past quiet monasteries and traditional villages until you reach the main port town of Parikia.

Follow the winding alleys that take you past Byzantine churches and relaxed cafés. Wine lovers will be called to Moraitis Winery, where biodynamic methods and native grapes marry to create dry whites and reds.

After hours, the former fishing village of Naoussa offers fine dining, shopping and a night-time buzz – a mere ten minutes from your temporary home.

Words by Angela Dukes. Doubles from £313, +30 2284 440500, parockshotel.com