Myconian Imperial Resort

Myconian Imperial Hotel & Thalasso Centre has seven buildings and three-stories, renovated in 2009. Traditional Greek architecture details prevail: Think wide marble staircases, bleached white paint, and wall columns with sculpted seashell tops. Colorful hallway wall murals done in chalk look a little out of place. Outside, ornamental potted olive trees and parked BMWs are part of the jagged cliffs, rolling hills, and sparkling Aegean Sea scenery. Couples have complained that the hotel can get overrun with corporate events, which they say takes away from the relaxed atmosphere.

The gorgeous seaside location and private beach is a big part of what makes Myconian Imperial Hotel & Thalasso Centre such an expensive property. Elia Beach is a few hundred feet from the hotel. Past guests have complained that the walk is inconvenient, but there's a free shuttle option. Restaurants and a public beach are reachable via a walk down the beach, though the town of Mykonos is about five miles away and requires a drive. Again, there's a free shuttle, but the hours are irregular. Self-parking at the hotel is free, and there are valet services for a fee. Staff can arrange helicopter charters, luxury yachts, and car rentals.

There are 118 nicely sized guest rooms and suites at Myconian Imperial Hotel & Thalasso Centre, and some of them have jaw-dropping views of the Aegean Sea and Elia Beach. Each room comes standard with satellite LCD TVs, free Wi-Fi, and a furnished balcony or patio -- though some balconies offer zero privacy. Private hot tubs are a definite upgrade. They're elegant and airy, but not quite as luxurious as one may expect for this price point; some of the white furniture and walls are showing nicks and scuffs, and no one likes it when twin beds are tied together to make a double. Bathrooms have white marble vanities, blue and white tiles, and tub/shower combinations. A hairdryer is mounted to the wall. Evening turndown service is provided.

Though Myconian Imperial Hotel & Thalasso Centre is a bit isolated, the wide variety of fun and convenient features on the property mean that guests don't have to leave to eat, swim, get spa treatments -- or hire a yacht. The Thalasso Centre spa focuses on seawater as a form of therapy but also offers facials, massages, and body wraps. There are several swimming pools overlooking the Aegean Sea, and as well as free sun beds and umbrellas at Elia Beach, though food service is very limited, and guests are required to bring towels from their rooms. The daily breakfast buffet is free, and there's a sushi bar and a Mediterranean restaurant for a la carte meals. Eros Veranda Bar offers sunset views with cocktails on the terrace. For divers there's an on-site PADI dive center. The concierge can arrange luxury tours or charter a private yacht for guests.