Best for A chilled-out, peaceful hotel
Lindos is a low-key, beautiful town on the south-east coast of Rhodes. It’s known for its hilltop acropolis, with its temples from the fourth century BC, and that Pink Floyd’s David Gilmour once owned a home here. The fishing village was a haven for summering Greek families who bought crumbling villas. So when this bohemian hangout quietly opened last summer, it caught the attention of many. Vana pernari, a designer by trade, found the former nightclub abandoned for over 10 years. Her studio is specialized in large-scale projects like Casa Cook, which is located half an hour to the north. Cretan Malia Park On Crete. But when she began the renovations in 2019, it was with the intention of creating a holiday home to share with friends. And that remains the spirit of seven-bedroom Casita Casita—the vibe is more house party than hotel stay. The subtle, knocked back palette allows the natural beauty of the surrounding area to take center stage. Under the gnarled, old olive trees, you can enjoy a breakfast of fresh fruit and homemade cakes with Rhodian honey.
While you lie on the beach swimming pool looking up to the castle within the acropolis, the only sounds are the rustling leaves, the cicadas’ sonata and bleats of goats and, if you listen very carefully, the waves—sandy Palestra Beach is a three-minute walk away. Each room is decorated with items from Pernari’s world travels. There are ceramics and vintage vases, as well as carpets from nomadic tribes. With crisp cotton sheets and organic mattresses as well as Apvita bath products that are made from medicinal herbs, the style is both functional and aesthetic. Time slows down here, and things just feel simpler—it’s a sensation that makes you wish summer would stretch on and on. —George Lagoudakis
