ROOM KEY

Greek Paradox

Immerse yourself in the ancient stories of Kéa Island from
the new and beautifully modern One&Only resort.

While other Cycladic islands like Mykonos and Santorini are famously magical, Kéa, the closest to Athens, lives like a step back in time, a secret wealthy Athenians have been keeping for decades—their second homes nestled into the island’s cerulean coves and hillsides.

The anticipated opening of One&Only Kéa Island has discerning nomads clamoring for first dibs (it officially debuted in June 2024). Expect to arrive via a 45-minute trip on a high-speed RIB boat (there’s also a helipad) from the port of Lavrio, only 22 miles from Athens International Airport. As Captain Dimitrius pumps Eighties music (by request) and points out various landmarks (hello, Temple of Poseidon), we approach the resort’s shore, a horseshoe stretch of sand named Bond Beach Club—a play on connection, not James—and the property comes into sharp focus. Concepted by renowned architect John Heah, the 63 modern one- and two-bedroom villas are tucked into the cliffside, designed to complement nature’s bounty.

After we dock and check in, my personal host miraculously arrives in my WhatsApp feed. A signature of One&Only, this host quickly becomes my conduit to resort life with golf cart rides along steep switchbacks to and from the open-air lobby, secluded beach, decadent spa, and hilltop infinity pools. Every nook and cranny of the property frames the environment—strategically placed windows, doorways, and architectural curves bring the outdoors in. Here, the Aegean Sea is your daily inspiration, an ebb and flow of local culture and the muse to Kea’s hidden treasures.

“Here, the Aegean Sea is your daily inspiration, an ebb and flow of local culture and the muse to Kea’s hidden treasures.”

Villas feature natural light, private infinity pools, outdoor terraces, and spacious living rooms. As such, admiring the astounding view from your enviable headquarters is time well spent. When you’re ready to explore the resort grounds, indulge in indelible meals at Atria, which serves the finest Greek cuisine on the island.

Pier-to-plate delights are paired with local Greek wines by knowledgeable sommeliers, while the chic Kosmos Lobby Bar serves artisan cocktails fueled by Greek favorites like ouzo and mastiha. Post-dinner, cap the eve at the aptly named Incognito Speakeasy Bar, a tucked-away Cuban-inspired space with top-shelf whiskey and festive live music and dancing. Mornings are refreshing, take-your-time affairs. The Kaiki Pool Bar attracts a mix of traveling Europeans, visiting Athenians, and fortunate Americans beginning the day with authentic Greek dishes such as strapatsada (scrambled eggs with tomato, feta, and olive oil). Oenophiles should spend ample time at Èpicora, a sophisticated wine bar where Greek varieties are paired with local charcuterie and artisanal cheeses. Èpicora is also the staging area for pop-ups with visiting celebrity chefs.

As the largest spa in the One&Only family, the multi-level Kéa Island expanse is an enticing architectural focus. Laze away the morning at one of the most picturesque pools in all of Greece, followed by your choice of natural treatments (pomegranate enzymes, tulsi, wild turmeric, and more) created exclusively for One&Only Kéa Island in collaboration with Subtle Energies, and inspired by the ancient Greek concept of sophrosyne, or mind-body balance. If you’re hoping to work off Kéa’s incredible cuisine, Club One has every fitness bell and whistle, much of it al fresco with daily yoga sessions overlooking Bond Beach Club and cycling classes with unforgettable island vistas. The gym features top-of-the-line studio equipment and customized personal training programs.