Sun-baked cobbled streets and a boat-strewn harbour ooze old world romance in Paros, one of the central islands of the scorching Cyclades. It’s the sort of place where you can walk into a tiny seafood restaurant with sea-blue shutters and a few peeling-paint tables, and order grilled fish caught less than a couple of hours ago. If you want to stay near the island’s best beaches and the harbour for easy access to Mykonos and Athens, one of these top hotels should do the job.
Hotel Petres
Independent Hotel
Sleek, sloping architecture and sweeping hillside views promise a scenic stay at Hotel Petres. Family run since 1994, the place has an inviting atmosphere helped by a personal touch from owners Sotiris and Clea. This is mirrored in the cheery interiors – think bright cushions and plenty of cosy corners to recline; the shaded sun-lounger area is a popular spot, as are the sauna and hot tub. Shabby-chic flourishes and hothouse colours dominate rooms that are spacious, well equipped and offer glimpses of the distant Aegean Sea.
Poseidon of Paros
Independent Hotel, Resort, Spa Hotel
Named after the mythological god who ruled the sea, Poseidon of Paros is a fitting tribute to the watery monarch. The marine theme sees seashell cushions adorning bright white and aquamarine rooms, while a large pool with an adjacent whirlpool overlooks local beach Chrisi Akti, known locally as ‘Golden Beach’. Another nod to the gods is found in the spa, where guests can hop between the hammam, the hot tub and foot bath, or choose a relaxing therapy from the treatment menu which exclusively uses Ariadne products.
Paros Bay Hotel
Independent Hotel, Boutique Hotel
Framed by a sugar-white sand beach, Paros Bay Hotel is a sea-facing resort that’s become a popular spot to tie the knot – to the extent that it’s not uncommon to see a bride donned in all white on any day of the week. Typically Cycladic, the hotel contrasts curved powder-white archways with a cerulean blue ocean backdrop, while managing to exude a boho-meets-maritime aesthetic. Pile your plate high with organic egg dishes, spinach pie, feta or fresh fruits at the breakfast buffet (early breakfasts and cooked meals are also available on request), then settle in the sun by the pool. The taverna is a good option for nights in – especially on traditional “Greek” nights which are held in the on-site amphitheatre.
Kanale's Rooms and Suites
Boutique Hotel, Independent Hotel
A cluster of whitewashed apartments make up this village-like utopia that overlooks the sparkling Aegean Sea. Given its proximity to Athens and Paroika, Kanale’s Rooms and Suites is a popular spot for island hoppers. It’s also a stone’s throw from Naousa, an adorable seaside town dotted with quaint cafes, upmarket restaurants and pretty trinket stores. Piperi Beach is right around the corner too, so you’re sorted for sunbathing. Rooms are minimal and modern, fitted with beds big enough for three, and come with private balconies with sea-facing views.
Svoronos Bungalows
Independent Hotel, Boutique Hotel
The Svoronos family have run Svoronos Bungalows for over 50 years, and their experience shows in the standard of hospitality guests receive here. Beds are turned down daily, airport and port transfers can be arranged, and beach towels are provided for trips to the stunning Agia Anargiri beach just 10 minutes away. In contrast to the brilliant white and blue that dominates the island, this pretty retreat is made up of floral-entwined archways, traditional terracotta vases, painted pottery and wood-beamed ceilings.
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Summer Senses Luxury Resort
Luxury, Independent Hotel, Resort, Spa Hotel
If you love good food, modern design, or both, this noteworthy resort will hit the spot. Interconnected lagoon pools are enhanced with impressive waterfall features and breeze block-style bridges – get there early to bag a spot in the morning sun. But don’t rush your al fresco Greek buffet breakfast of cold cuts, local cheese, seasonal fruit and fresh pastries. Later, swing by the Hydor Pool Bar for a cucumber G&T and perhaps a light bite before sitting down for dinner at Gaia Restaurant or Galazia Hytra, an à la carte restaurant supervised by Michelin-starred chef Tasos Mantis. Try the grilled bonito with green beans, the fish roe salad, or the beef hunkiar creamed aubergine for a gastro experience you won’t soon forget.
Calme Boutique Hotel
Boutique Hotel, Hotel
Created to offer visitors ‘a sanctuary of luxurious refinement and unpretentious tranquillity,’ Calme Boutique Hotel is a unique relaxation paradise. With superb stone architecture, featuring rooms with private swimming pools and all-white minimalist designer furniture, this outstanding hotel is perfect for couples on their honeymoon and those who want to enjoy a truly exclusive experience. Located near the quiet village of Drios, Calme Boutique Hotel is very close to Golden Beach (Chrisi Akti), one of the most famous beaches of the island. The views of the sea from the hotel are sensational.
Saint Andrea Seaside Resort
Resort, Hotel
Located only 1km from Naousa, the four-star Saint Andrea is a top choice for its great location, stunning views and excellent high-end hospitality. The rooms are stylishly decorated with soft pastel tones and romantic Blanc D’Ivoire furniture that creates a chic, yet quaint, ambience. They all have island-type whitewashed patios, which are perfect to relax on in the afternoon before hitting the town. Saint Andrea’s proximity to one of the best beaches on the island, Kolymbithres, also makes it an ideal setting.
Senia Hotel
Hotel
Senia Hotel is a whitewashed boutique four-star hotel in Naousa. Its location high on a hill overlooking Naoussa makes it the perfect spot to enjoy fantastic views of the bay. The spacious rooms, suites and apartments are elegantly decorated with white minimalistic furniture and they also include private spacious balconies with sun loungers. Senia’s offering of high-quality breakfasts and authentic Greek hospitality has made it one of the most popular hotels in Paros.
Paliomylos Spa Hotel
Spa Hotel, Hotel
Located in cosmopolitan Naousa, this family-owned three-star hotel has tonnes of character and boutique charm at great value. Paliomylos Spa Hotel has stunning views of the bay of Naousa and the picturesque Piperi beach, and its close proximity make it a perfect spot for morning or evening romantic swims. The rooms are modern and spacious and decorated to a high standard with beautiful bathrooms. Its location, a short walk from downtown Naousa, makes it a perfect spot to enjoy the town’s famous nightlife. Paliomylos also features a luxury spa.
Argonauta Hotel
Hotel
Argonauta Hotel is an elegant three-star hotel in the port town of Parikia. It is the best place to experience the traditional character of Paros with all the modern comforts of a luxury hotel. Its location in the heart of the Old Town is ideal to visit all the nearby shops, cafes, bars and restaurants. The hotel’s deli restaurant offers delicious organic local products and daily specials made with the freshest of ingredients. All the rooms have marble floors and wooden ceilings and are decorated to a very high standard.
Lilly Residence
Hotel
If your worst vacation spoiler is the noise pollution created by the screaming toddler splashing water around the pool, there is a place for you in Paros – Lilly Residence is a four-star adults-only hotel. This complex of whitewashed buildings combines the modern and sleek with local Cycladic character, making it an effortlessly elegant spot for boutique luxury. Lilly Residence is the perfect high-end destination for couples looking to enjoy a romantic ambience, fantastic views and great cocktails by the pool.
Villa Isabella Suites And Studios
Hotel, Villa
This family-owned hotel combines authentic Greek hospitality with comfortable elegance. Overlooking Naousa Bay, Villa Isabella is at a privileged location that offers its guests panoramic views. Interiors and exteriors are uniquely decorated throughout with beautiful flowers, romantic furniture, and luxurious artistic touches that make Villa Isabella feel like a home away from home. Only a short walk from all the restaurants and bars in Naousa, it is the perfect spot to enjoy the exciting island life.
Katerina Mare
Hotel
Katerina Mare’s supreme location on a hillside offers sensational high vistas of Piperi beach in Naousa. The modern and sleek rooms all have private balconies with comfortable furniture to enjoy the island’s dramatic sunsets. This family-owned hotel pays close and loving attention to detail and keeps the rooms spotlessly clean. Katerina Mare is walking distance from the restaurants, supermarkets, cafes and bars of Naousa.
Pandora Studios
Hotel
This hidden gem provides high quality, affordable accommodation in Naousa. Pandora Studios is popular for its traditional, immaculately clean rooms and apartments, run by a friendly family that make guests feel at home. All the rooms have a fridge whereas the apartments also have a kitchenette. Being a few steps away from the centre of Naousa and close to some of the best bakeries and tavernas is also an ideal location.