Marvellous Mystique (Oia, Santorini) « Navigationz
Mystique: a stellar establishment on a crater’s edge above the Aegean
Featured in the Condé Nast Traveller Hot List 2008, Mystique is a member of Starwood’s Luxury Collection and thus it was expected that it would be “stellar”. The author was not disappointed and writes that it is “a sensitive makeover” of an earlier hotel with friendly staff and “curvaceous walls” which “stand out in comforting cream” in contrast to the usual “Cycladic white”.
Located on a crater’s edge above the Aegean, the Starwood Mystique features guest rooms which are “carved into the cliff” and offer “caldera views”. Décor is a combination of “the troglodytic look” and “island flair”, with limestone floors and “lamps sculpted from driftwood” being paired with cushions in “traditional floral designs”. It is noted that the “cave-cellar” is full of interesting wines and the restaurant provides “delicious dishes made with fresh, local ingredients”.
The hotel was awarded on the 12th February in New York with the Travel & Leisure Design Award 2008 for the Best Small Resort in the World. As the publication notes, “Architecture and design shape every aspect of the travel experience”. Mystique was honoured for its standout design attended by Frank Lefebvre of Bleu Nature.
Its 18 Suites and Villas with a contemporary, yet respectful towards the tradition design, have managed to perfectly adopt in the surrounding area of the traditional Cycladic village of Oia on the caldera of Santorini. Mystique’s facilities include an outdoor infinity pool at the cliff’s edge, the Charisma gourmet restaurant, the poolside Aura bar and the Secret Wine Cave, a dramatic 150 year old wine cellar. [source: yatzer]Review: Mr & Mrs Smith
