The Rooster

Peaceful and unpretentious, this laid-back wellness retreat seamlessly blends nature, design and mindfulness. Inspired by the soulful simplicity of the Cycladic way of life, your refuge is one of 16 houses, reminiscent of the island's humble farmer's cottages, made from local sand-coloured stone. Wildly romantic, serene and private, the houses melt into the sun-blushed landscape, each one carefully positioned to take full advantage of the expansive views.

Each house opens up to the elements, with generous indoor and outdoor living spaces, as well as a private pool and invigorating outdoor shower. The interiors have a nomadic aesthetic - Balinese daybeds, weathered wooden tables and driftwood four poster beds. The understated tones and textures put you instantly at ease. Suitable for couples and families with older children, some houses have an open-plan living and bedroom space whilst others have one or two bedrooms with separate living areas. There is also a three bedroom Farmhouse located on the owner's nearby farm.

The Rooster celebrates wholesome food that is seasonal, local and sustainable, from the fishermen's daily catch to artisan cheeses, salads, herbs and organic eggs, fresh from their farm. Chef Simos creates inspiring dishes using ingredients from around the Mediterranean. Slow-fermented bread is baked daily at their farm - the aroma of crusty sourdough, seeded rye and focaccia with hand-picked rosemary and thyme drifts from the farm kitchen as the sun comes up.

The Restaurant creates delicious farm-to-fork feasts. Breakfast of sourdough breads and pastries, honey and home-made preserves, yoghurt, granola and just-laid eggs is served around the lemon tree or in the dining room with side sea views. The open-air bar is perfectly positioned for sunset-viewing while The Secret Garden is an utterly magical spot for a special dinner. Casual but romantic, it’s reminiscent of traditional Cycladic courtyards with lights dancing overhead. Camouflaged in the dunes overlooking the bay, The Rooster's driftwood tipis are designed for snuggling up with smoothies and sundowners.

Like the island, the retreat is about freedom, nature, connection, and relaxation – a place to slow down and find happiness in simple pleasures. Little surprise then, that wellness lies at its core. The spa, aptly named House of Healing, delves into weird and wonderful rejuvenating experiences including wild gong bath sessions, sound healing and a ceremony of fire, alongside the more mainstream yoga, Ayurvedic treatments and deeply soothing facials.

Never has it been easier to hit pause.