Why Go?
A sleek new stay set on the wild cliffs of Folegandros, Gundari is where design meets soul, offering a heady mix of seclusion, raw beauty and quietly radical hospitality.
Honeymoon Style
Best for couples craving uncharted-Greek-island romance with eco-sensibilities and cinematic views. Think: private plunge pools, vinyl spinning the sounds of Morcheeba, and skies that stretch into the Aegean.
Set the Scene
Clinging to the cliffs of lesser-known island Folegandros, Gundari feels like stepping into the pages of Architectural Digest – all creamy stone, organic forms, and expansive horizons. The mood is meditative, with earth tones blending into the volcanic rock of the island. As we arrived, we were greeted by founder Ricardo Larriera, who gave us a tour. ‘It was a combination of naivety, delusion and vision,’ he joked, reflecting on the wild ambition it took to build something so refined in such a remote setting.
The resort’s central hub – the lobby – is all soft lines, sculptural furniture and soaring glass. Guests pad in and out, mostly creative couples, wellness devotees and those in the know, drawn by Gundari’s quiet whisper. Whilst the main areas are complete and beautifully executed, it’s worth noting that development continues elsewhere on the site, with building work visible in some corners as Gundari evolves further into its vision.
Rooms
All 25 suites and two villas come with private plunge pools, Klipsch sound systems, and interiors that blur the line between indoors and out. Expect creamy stone, timber textures and sweeping Aegean views from every angle. The suites also feature Pioneer turntables and curated vinyl collections – Morcheeba’s Big Calm among the standouts.
Bathrooms are generous, with open marble showers and, in select suites, outdoor showers that reconnect guests with nature. The Deluxe and Superior Cave Suites – set into the cliff itself – offer the ultimate honeymoon escape: subterranean calm, panoramic views and maximum privacy.
Food and Drink
Designed by Greece’s first Michelin-starred chef, Lefteris Lazarou, Gundari’s Orizon Restaurant is a masterclass in elevated simplicity. Dishes draw on Gundari’s own organic farm and the surrounding waters. Breakfasts are a highlight: flaky pastries, just-sweet-enough French toast and pitch-perfect coffee.
By day, light Mediterranean plates are served poolside or in-room. Come nightfall, couples can settle in for a three-course tasting menu with wine pairing.
The Story
Gundari is the vision of Ricardo Larriera, an Australian-Uruguayan creative with a background in hospitality branding. What began as a passion project has become a pioneering boutique resort – built with purpose and an enduring commitment to the island’s heritage and ecology.
Ricardo is also leading the creation of Folegandros’ first medical facility and actively supports bird conservation efforts on the island. His connection to the island is evident – widely recognised and warmly greeted by locals, his presence in Chora (the main town) draws frequent stops and familiar conversation.
Family Friendly
Gundari is designed for calm and connection – not chaos. While some suites can accommodate children, this is a resort best suited to adults, particularly couples seeking uninterrupted time together.
Spa
The subterranean spa feels more sanctuary than facility, with panoramic sea views and rituals rooted in Ancient Greek healing. Guests can expect herbal therapies, hydrotherapy, sound baths, and energy work. Double and single treatment rooms allow for both solo and couples’ sessions. The hydrotherapy pool, set right on the cliff edge, is not to be missed.
Recommended treatments include full-body massages using locally harvested herbs, followed by time in the sea-view relaxation lounge. A must for honeymooners looking to slow the pace further still.
Eco-Friendly
From its bioclimatic architecture to solar-heated pools, Gundari sets a benchmark for low-impact luxury. No single-use plastics, locally sourced stone, and a solar-first energy system ensure minimal environmental footprint.
It’s also part of EarthCheck’s sustainability certification programme and leads a bird conservation initiative focused on the endangered Eleonora’s falcon and Bonelli’s eagle. Additionally, Gundari offsets carbon emissions for private transfers and supports reforestation efforts on the island.
Location
Just 3km from Chora and 5km from the port, Gundari offers dramatic seclusion without total isolation. The journey there is via a winding dirt road – not for the faint-hearted, although improvements are underway. Transfers to beaches like Agali (home to the excellent Pasithea taverna), and hiking routes to Livadaki and Galifos beaches, are easily arranged via the concierge.
A guided walking tour of Chora with local historian Poly offers rich insight into the island’s layered past. Its maze of sugar-cube houses and bougainvillaea provide a charming contrast to Gundari’s hushed calm. End the evening at Chic, a tucked-away gem known for its slow-cooked lamb and exceptional local wine.
Nightly rates start from £520 at Gundari for a Standard Suite on a B&B basis. For more information please visit gundari.com.
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