Santa Marina, a Luxury Collection Resort, Mykonos

Overlooking the Aegean's crystalline turquoise waters, panoramic views here alone are something to write home about. Built into the cliffside and staggering many levels (steps here are inevitable, despite outdoor elevators), the hotel's stacked stone exteriors are typically Cycladic, while 2014-renovated interiors are stylish and sleek. Expect lots of natural elements like metallic-embossed pebble details at the front desk, wood floors, tree stump tables, and woven baskets acting as light fixtures. Impeccable outdoor spaces are similarly chic and offer sea-facing terraces. The private beach and oceanside dining up the intimate and tranquil atmosphere. A family pool and playground cater to kids, although this is more of a couples' retreat. The odd wedding can be disruptive, but otherwise, it's peace and quiet here. Note that the hotel is only open May through October.

The hotel's hilltop spot benefits from spectacular Ornos Bay views. Electronic gates separate the property from the region's crowds, but guests needn't travel far for local action. The private beach gives little incentive to test out public sands, although Ornos Beach is a nine-minute walk, and the area is packed with shops, bars, and restaurants. Free hourly shuttles run to Mykonos in 15 minutes -- handy, since taxis can be hard to get a hold of in Mykonos. Traditional whitewashed houses line the town's maze-like streets, alongside upscale boutiques and restaurants, and the Archaeological Museum of Mykonos is worth a visit here. Mykonos' Old Port is a 15-minute drive, as is Mykonos Airport.

Gorgeous rooms come in many categories, from 215-square-feet (20-square-meter) Superiors with partial or full sea views, to larger Deluxes, plus Suites starting at 430 square feet (40 square meters). The natural design in public areas continues into rooms, with wood furniture and floors, white or gray linens, hanging lanterns, rattan accents like bedside tables that resemble suitcases. Sea-themed artwork adds some decor, and higher-category rooms have romantic four-poster beds. Rooms are bright from French glass doors opening onto private sea-facing balconies or terraces, and these turn more expansive in upgraded rooms with terraces housing hot tubs or plunge pools. 

Amenities include satellite TVs with DVD players and sound systems, desks, minibars, Nespresso machines, and seating areas, plus hairdryers, AC, and safes. Starting at 1022 square feet (140 square meters), Villas add on private butlers. Honey marble bathrooms have walk-in rainfall showers, luxury Acqua di Parma toiletries, and bathrobes. Higher-category units add separate jetted tubs.

Unsurprisingly, amenities are extensive and high-end here, catering to relax-minded couples. Guests have access to the lovely private beach that's lined with free loungers and umbrellas. Other spots for a dip include two outdoor infinity pools that are surrounded by various forms of comfy and stylish seating. The larger main pool is adult-only, while kids can swim in the smaller pool that has a built-in hot tub. The poolside Colonial restaurant serves Mediterranean cuisine, plus free breakfasts with cooked, continental, and Greek specialities. Al fresco dining is popular, both here and at the private beach's Buddha Bar Beach Restaurant, where buddha statues and Asian-themed decor around red-cushioned wickers fit the name, and Pan-Asian fare is gourmet. Alternative drinking spots include the shack-like pool bar. 

Raised stone steps above water features at The Gingko Spa make for a swish entrance, and back-lit hallways here continue the serene mood. Top-of-the-range treatments include massages and hair and nail services. There are also a sauna, Turkish hammam, modern 24-hour gym, and flood-lit tennis court that's free to use. A private chapel on-site caters to weddings, as do two function rooms. Lobby computer/print/fax facilities are free to use. The concierge arranges boat tours and excursions, and the super well-heeled can make use of private yacht docks and a helipad landing. On-site parking and Wi-Fi throughout are free.