GUNDARI
Folegandros, Greece
PERSONALITIES
Slow travellers. Writers. Artists. Lovers and friends looking for an intimate and secluded Greek retreat.
MOMENTS
Infinite Aegean Sea. Cycladic simplicity. Authentic Greece. Natural paradise. Ancient cliffs. Hidden coves and sea caves. Time slowing down. Feeling inspired.
BEST VISITING MONTHS
May - October
COST
WHY STAY
Gundari is a luxury landscape hotel nestled within 80 acres of untouched nature on the secluded Greek island of Folegandros. Positioned on elevated cliffs, the resort offers breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea from every vantage point, creating an extraordinary oasis that prioritizes wellness, gastronomy, and sustainability.
Executed by the acclaimed Athens design studio Block722, the resort features 27 suites and villas crafted with authentic Cycladic simplicity, using a rich array of natural materials. Designed to harmonize with the island's ancient tones, Gundari seamlessly blends into its surroundings. Choose the Standard Suite or the Junior Suite featuring an outdoor space with a shaded deck, dining table, sun deck, and a heated infinity pool with expansive sea views. The Executive Cave Suite, Deluxe Cave Suite, and Superior Cave Suite are subterranean, bioclimatic designs with varying sizes, accommodating up to 3 guests each. The Cliff Front Three-Bedroom Villa features three bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms, a private terrace with a heated pool, jetted tub, kitchen zone, and dining area for up to 8 guests. The Cliff Front Four-Bedroom Villa accommodates up to 10 guests in a dramatic cliff front position with sea views.
Gundari's Subterranean Spa is situated on a beautiful cliffside location surrounded by serene seas, and offering a transformative wellness experience that seamlessly blends healing traditions of ancient Greece with locally harvested herbs and tonics from the wild landscapes of Folegandros. The spa features therapeutic treatments designed for ultimate relaxation and healing, including sound baths, energy healing, and yoga, delivered by a carefully curated selection of visiting wellness practitioners.
WHY WANDER
Folegandros is a small picturesque island known for its quiet beaches, dramatic cliffs, crystal-clear turquoise waters and authentic charm, promising a diverse tapestry of experiences for every traveler.
Visit Katergo beach, with unique views of the small islet of Pelagia, or the equally well known Aghios Nicolaos or Livadaki beaches. Sail away on private boat tours to discover hidden bays, pristine beaches, and the breathtaking coastline. Gundari’s boat trips extend to nearby gems like Polyaigos, Milos, Sifnos, and Sikinos, ensuring a captivating maritime adventure. Dive into the crystal-clear waters surrounding Folegandros with world-class scuba diving and snorkeling trips, exploring kaleidoscopic reefs, caves, and rock-walls.
Discover the island by foot, with its many natural and historic hiking trails, including Panagia, the famous church, serving as the symbol of Folegandros. Hiking enthusiasts will find numerous trails leading to secluded beaches, ancient ruins, and panoramic viewpoints such as the Church of Panagia, offering unparalleled vistas of the Aegean. Explore the island's far corners effortlessly with electric bikes or a Mini Moke EV, available for solo adventures or guided excursions. Folegandros is a sanctuary for wildlife, with a variety of bird species and marine life thriving in its protected habitats. Don't miss the opportunity to wander through the narrow cobblestone streets of Chora, the main town, and discover its whitewashed buildings adorned with vibrant bougainvillea. Delve into the island's culinary heritage with traditional cooking classes and gastronomy boat tours, including visits to Cantina Sifnos and sunset dinners at Sikinos Winery.
INDULGE IN
Gundari presents a gastronomic experience crafted by the renowned Michelin-starred chef Lefteris Lazarou. The culinary offerings showcase the bounties of the sea and land, embodying a commitment to elevated Greek cuisine.
GETTING THERE
Fly into Athens or Santorini and take a ferry to Folegandros.
WILD INITIATIVES
Gundari prioritizes sustainability as a fundamental principle, evident in its eco-conscious design and construction. Before the resort's inception, over 600 seedlings were nurtured and reintroduced to regenerate the land with indigenous plants. The property's stonework incorporates locally excavated rock, demonstrating a commitment to minimizing environmental impact. The hotel design incorporates bioclimatic buildings for energy efficiency and actively engages in various sustainability initiatives. These include carbon monitoring and certification through EarthCheck, utilizing renewable solar energy, maintaining a 100% electric vehicle fleet, and working towards zero waste and eliminating single-use plastics.
As a member of EarthCheck Certified, Gundari undergoes regular audits to measure its carbon footprint and enhance efficiency. The hotel also contributes to the well-being of Folegandros by supporting the development of a new medical facility, promoting local gastronomy and restaurants, employing local companies and staff, prioritizing local purchases, and aiding in the regeneration of traditional agricultural practices on the island.
Gundari is actively working to regenerate the biodiversity of Folegandros and surrounds through the Gundari Elanora’s Falcon Conservation Project. The Elanora’s Falcon is an endangered species that is one of the fastest birds in the world, and nests in the cliffs & islets of Folegandros and other Cyclades Islands. Gundari, in partnership with Dr.Tasos Dimalexis (an expert Greek bird conservation scientist), has established an ongoing program including surveys, active monitoring and establishing of nesting shelters that will improve the success rate of the breeding cycle. The program also includes the establishment and maintenance of a migratory bird oasis that will improve the survival rates of birds through their annual migration to Africa.
*Images property of Gundari