One&Only Kea Island review: Is this Greece's most exclusive island escape?
Greece has no shortage of luxury resorts, but One&Only Kea Island is in a league of its own. Perched on the rugged west coast of Kea – an island with a permanent population of just over 2,300 and a reputation as a lesser-known getaway for Athenians – this clifftop retreat of 71 private pool villas is more like a sprawling village with excellent room service. A friend and I spent two nights here,…
One&Only Kea Island is a luxury resort nestled on the rugged west coast of Kea, an island with a permanent population of just over 2,300. This secluded retreat of 71 private pool villas offers an unparalleled escape from the bustling world, providing guests with a genuine feeling of disconnect. Upon arrival, arriving via a 45-minute private speedboat ride from Lavrio Port in Athens, guests are greeted with a carefully orchestrated experience that sets the tone for their stay.
The lobby, designed by John Heah of London's Heah & Co, is an open atrium featuring a three-storey space, local stone, and whitewashed walls that play with light and shadow, subtly reflecting the resort's commitment to Cycladic tradition while maintaining a contemporary feel.
The accommodation consists of Cliff Villas with sea views, featuring private infinity pools and expansive indoor-outdoor spaces that seamlessly flow into each other through glass doors. The bathrooms are spectacular, boasting standalone bathtubs, walk-in showers, and two sinks. The resort's dining options span six restaurants and bars, showcasing exceptional quality across the board.
From Bond Beach Club's sea bass four ways to Atria's five-course dinner prepared by a Michelin-starred guest chef, the culinary offerings are consistently outstanding. Breakfast at Atria's sea-view terrace is a buffet-style affair, offering a wide array of fresh pastries, cold cuts, cheeses, and daily specials, accompanied by beautifully crafted freddo cappuccinos.
The resort's facilities are extensive, including an infinity pool overlooking the Aegean Sea, various pools, including one adults-only and one family-friendly, and Vroskopos Bay for swimming, paddleboarding, kayaking, and snorkelling. Club One provides tennis and padel courts, a state-of-the-art fitness center with a sea-view yoga pavilion, and dedicated facilities for children and teenagers.
Additionally, the resort offers various activities such as diving courses led by conservationist Yannis Tzavelakos, art tours, archaeological digs, private yacht charters, stargazing excursions, and helicopter trips for island-hopping adventures. The main town of Ioulida, with its narrow, whitewashed lanes, charming boutiques, and local restaurants, offers a delightful departure from the resort's polished ambiance, providing guests with a well-rounded experience.
The spa, One&Only Spa, is the largest in the brand's portfolio and follows a wellness philosophy centered around sophrosyne, incorporating ancient Greek principles with modern techniques. Guests are invited to embrace the balance of mind and body by indulging in the spa's diverse range of treatments.
Written by urgent.news from The National UAE's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — it may contain errors, so check the original before relying on it.
