Idyllic getaway redefined. We’re talking Gundari, a luxury property tucked away in the rugged landscape of Folegandros, a tiny island that’s part of Greece‘s iconic Cyclades island group. Situated on a 32-hectare (80 acres) plot on the rocks by the sea, the complex has been designed by Athens-based architecture practice block722. The design has been meticulously executed with great consideration for the island’s landscape and architectural traditions, but also with a keen eye for proportions and a matching, understated style. Gundari‘s accommodations comprise just 27 suites and villas. The suites come in three different sizes and five categories, all offering the comfort and amenities that modern travellers require to disconnect and fully focus on relaxation, such as a kingsize bed, indoor and outdoor living, and a private heated infinity pool.
At 114 sqm. (1,227 sq.ft.), the Deluxe Cave Suite – indeed, that name says it all – is the largest on the premises, and comes with a string of contemporary extras, such as a cocktail bar and a vintage Pioneer PL-570 turntable with access to the extensive Gundari vinyl library. All suites come with sweeping views of the Aegean Sea‘s alluring palette of blue shades. Obviously, the villas are in a class of their own, offering three or four bedrooms. with plenty of indoor and outdoor space – 600 sqm. (6,458 sq.ft.) and 480 sqm. (5,157 sq.ft.) respectively – and all the imaginable comfort and amenities that are supposed to come with such an extensive private space. First of all, there’s a separate indoor living area, while outside, the large shaded verandas feature large day bed lounges and lounge chairs.
A large private heated swimming pool completes the insouciant outdoor relaxation. The settings of the suites and villas have been crafted with natural materials and adorned with thoughtfully chosen, tranquil furniture pieces. The open-air private shower not only aims to rekindle memories of forgotten rituals connected with nature, but also instills nostalgia and a return to the simple pleasures of life in harmony with nature. Further enhancing the good life at Gundari is a set of matching facilities which know a thing or two about pampering your senses. First and foremost, there’s a restaurant, aptly named Orizon, which helmed by Michelin-starred chef Lefteris Lazarou. Situated on the northwestern perimeter, the venue is set up as a welcoming gathering place for any time of the day, featuring cozey indoor and outdoor seating areas with gorgeous sea vistas.
The adjacent bar is concepted as a cool Japanese jazz kissa, a hi-fi listening space where only vinyl records are played. The design of the setting an extrapolation of the aesthetic found in the rooms—warm and inviting, but understated and functional at he same time, and once again, with sweeping sea views as a bonus. The farm-to-table menu lists dishes made with fresh ingredients from Gundari’s very own organic produce garden where traditional techniques are used and a circular approach to cultivate the land. As said, Gundari is all about relaxation, and it’s no surprise there’s also a spa on the premises. Situated on a cliff, the full-fledged facility offers healing therapies of the ancient Greeks using local herbs and tonics, and a mineral pool. © superfuture
Gundari
840 11 Petousis
Telephone +30 693 6861242
Publishers Note
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