Have you ever had one of those days where you just want to close your eyes and wake up on a remote island where everybody is friendly and the sun always shines? Then here’s what to do next time. Fly to Athens or Santorini, take the ferry to the tiny Cycladic island of Folegandros and hop into the waiting minibus of bright-eyed Dimitris Patellis.
After a brief drive past mysterious moonlit cliffs and glimpsed white-washed chapels, his daughter Diana shows you to a spacious and spotless blue-white room. When you wake up, step out onto the balcony for a view you will never forget. A plunging drop to a sea so clear and turquoise you can see the urchins on the seabed; a trio of humped islets floating on a misty horizon; and above, a pyramid of rock crowned by a graceful, white-washed church. Flagged paths lead to the hotel's pool and restaurant, the other way into the photogenic alleys of Hora town. Your troubles are over; prepare to relax.
Highs
- The clifftop location is breathtaking - you could spend days just soaking up the view
- The studio rooms are spacious and Greek-chic, with sitting areas and kitchenettes; some have rooftop terraces or bougainvillea-shaded patios
- Most can sleep 2 additional children (or adults) using the very comfy built-in sofabeds
- We loved the way the hotel feels like an extension of the picturesque village of Hora, whose tavernas are on your doorstep
- The impeccable and welcoming service from Diana and her fabulous team
Lows
- You'll have to drive or take a boat cruise to reach Folegandros' lovely little beaches
- It books up early, especially for summer
- The terrace bar sometimes fills up with non-residents enjoying a sundowner here
- Allergy sufferers should note that there is a friendly dog and a few cats (as expected in Greece) roaming around
- Some rooms are more private than others
Best time to go
Without doubt, May-June and September are the best times: pleasantly warm, delightfully uncrowded (an island this size fills quickly). April and October are also lovely if you don't mind the cooler sea / weather respectively. In high summer (July-August) you will be jostling for elbow room (and Anemomilos rooms) with Athenians, but there is a lovely friendly buzz in the tavernas and bars.
Our top tips
Don't rush this place. Allow 2 more days than you initially planned. Bring some novels (you can swap them when you're done); borrow a backgammon set from the hotel (they'll explain the rules); let yourself slow down and switch off. But if you do get itchy feet, consult the hotel's magazine or ask the staff for recommendations for things to see and do on the island: walks, boat trips, snorkelling spots etc.
Our guests' ratings...
Based on 7 independent reviews from i-escape guests
We loved our stay here. A beautiful spot with amazing sunset views. We were in room 6 which was huge with a double balcony and separate sitting area. Had a lovely homely feel. The breakfast was plentiful with good coffee. Folengandros is a special island with quiet beaches and great restaurants.
This was a truly lovely hotel with friendly, attentive staff, a perfect location and wonderful rooms.
Hi, I was meaning to write a review for Anemomilos. We absolutely loved this hotel. It hits the perfect balance of feeling luxurious but in a very simple and honest way. The staff were all incredibly friendly. The island of Folegandros is so beautiful. We can’t wait to go back. 5 out of 5 all round for food service and value.
I cannot fault this fabulous hotel! What a find! The service was exceptional, setting out of this world and the local town was like a time capsule - filled with shady allies, little squares and a great variety of restaurants and shops. Unlike many other holiday areas, the shops and restaurants were great value and the people exceptionally warm and friendly.
The hotel is wonderful and every guest is treated like a star. The staff couldn’t have been nicer, the rooms are bright and airy. The location is fabulous with stunning sea views. The village is friendly and lively. Buses to the beaches are cheap and regular and only take 10 mins or so. We have never had a holiday so relaxing and it’s down to Diana and her amazing team. We never return to the same place twice, or won’t have until next year when we will be back!
A brilliant, super-friendly hotel with a lovely, classy but understated style. It was great for our 2 daughters, aged 10 and 6. Diana and the team create a real home-from-home atmosphere! The room wasn't the biggest but absolutely as expected and described - well appointed with nice design touches. The hotel view is epic and the overall location perfect, right on the edge of Chora, a very short walk from the centre. Chora offered a lot more than we expected in terms of food options, shops etc. Such a lovely village. It's easy to get to the beach by bus and from there a regular boat service goes to 2 other beaches. All 3 are very nice and the first 2 have excellent fish restaurants on them.
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