In the realm of Greek mythology, the essence of hospitality finds its embodiment in the revered goddess Hestia. A
s the guardian of the hearth and home, Hestia symbolises warmth, welcome, and the spirit of communal sharing. Her presence radiates a sense of comfort and belonging, setting the foundation for the legendary Greek hospitality that resonates through the ages.
When guests crossed the threshold of a Greek household, it wasn’t just a mere visit; it was a sacred ritual steeped in reverence for Hestia. Every traveller, whether friend or stranger, was greeted with open arms and treated like family. The hearth fire, representing Hestia’s eternal flame, burned bright as a beacon of hope, guiding weary wanderers towards safety and solace.
The concept of xenia, the ancient Greek term for hospitality, was more than just a social custom—it was a divine duty. Guests were welcomed with lavish feasts, spirited conversation, and a generosity that knew no bounds. The bond forged between host and guest under the watchful eye of Hestia transcended mere politeness; it created lasting connections and fostered a sense of unity among all who partook in the ritual of hospitality.
As the hearth of every Greek home bore witness to countless tales of camaraderie and shared joy, so too did the spirit of Hestia illuminate the importance of hospitality as a cornerstone of Greek culture. In every handshake, every shared meal, and every heartfelt farewell, the legacy of Hestia lives on, reminding us of the enduring power of hospitality to forge bonds that transcend time and space.
And so enter Kivotos Hotels in Greece.
For those in search of an intimate and sophisticated retreat, Kivotos Hotels & Villas presents two enchanting alternatives that redefine luxury with a personal touch of familial hospitality.
Kivotos Santorini and Kivotos Mykonos epitomise the Michopoulos family’s commitment to authentic boutique experiences rooted in cherished family values. These havens for discerning travellers embody a blend of sophisticated architecture, locally inspired materials, and a deep reverence for family bonds and cultural connections.
In 1993, Spyros Michopoulos embarked on a visionary quest to create a sanctuary of relaxation that transcended the ordinary. Together with his family, he birthed Kivotos Mykonos—a boutique hotel steeped in art, culture, and unparalleled hospitality. Their mission? To infuse every corner with a sense of home and heartfelt warmth.
Located just a stone’s throw away from Mykonos Town, Kivotos Mykonos exudes an air of ancient Greek charm. The property’s design seamlessly blends chic blue and white hues with Cycladic columns, water features, and natural elements like wood, stone, and exquisite Pentelic marble. Soft lighting and neutral tones envelop guests in a cosy ambiance ideal for connection and rejuvenation.
Each of the hotel’s 40 suites and villas beckons guests on an enchanting journey of discovery. Individually styled with handcrafted design elements and curated art pieces by local talents, every room transforms into a living gallery, evoking the familiarity of home intertwined with moments of awe and fascination.
Nero Nero, the hotel’s private dining sanctuary, invites guests to savour familiar flavours reimagined with locally sourced ingredients against a backdrop of serene beachfront vistas. From freshly caught delicacies to island-specialties like blue crab, each dish is prepared with traditional techniques, offering an immersive culinary experience complemented by fine wines from Greek vineyards.
Under the stewardship of Sypros’s sons, Philip and Jason, Kivotos Mykonos continues to shine as an award-winning boutique hotel, recognised by Condé Nast Traveller as one of Greece’s finest. Embrace the legacy of artistry and hospitality as you immerse yourself in the captivating allure of Kivotos Hotels & Villas—a sanctuary where tradition meets innovation, and every moment is a treasure to behold.
They have that covered, too. In the realm of luxurious escapes, the tale of the Michopoulos family unfolds with a legacy of unparalleled 5-star service and an unquenchable thirst for innovative architectural design. Led by Spyros and his sons, a new chapter in this narrative began in 2019 as they embarked on a creative odyssey that birthed the captivating concept of Kivotos Santorini.
Nestled majestically above the Aegean Sea atop Santorini’s caldera, this ebony-hued marvel stands as a beacon of artistic flair, challenging the island’s traditional all-white aesthetic with its volcanic-inspired structure. Each moment spent at Kivotos Santorini promises a journey into indulgence, with 10 intimate suite and villa options beckoning guests into modern cavernous interiors adorned with luxurious amenities like indoor pools, hot tubs, and hammams.
Step into a world where traditional Greek charm marries contemporary design seamlessly, creating an ambiance that is both authentic and opulent. The clean lines and muted palette exude sophistication, while bespoke furnishings crafted from natural materials, ambient lighting, and Bvlgari amenities cocoon guests in a sense of comfort and connection. Witness the sun’s gentle descent into the sea from the hotel’s glass terrace, offering a mesmerising 180-degree panoramic view of Santorini’s legendary sunset spectacle.
Kivotos Santorini’s culinary masterpiece, MAVRO, embodies the concept of Tradinovation—a fusion of traditional Greek cooking techniques passed down through generations with innovative flavour pairings. Chef Dimitris Katriveses curates seasonal menus sourced exclusively from Santorini’s abundant sea and shores, presenting tapas-style small plates perfect for shared dining experiences reminiscent of cherished family gatherings.
For over 25 illustrious years, Kivotos Hotels and Villas has crafted unforgettable moments for prime guests, elite travellers, and celebrities alike. The Michopoulos family’s commitment to redefining luxury accommodation shines through, inviting guests to immerse themselves in the rich heritage of their family-run establishments amidst the allure of authentic island living.