Calilo Ios: This Secluded Greek Oasis is a Mediterranean Dream for Maximalists

Located on a remote corner of Ios—one of the smaller and more underrated Cyclades islands—Calilo is a seasonal, family-owned hotel known for its eclectic design and epic, pool-flanked suites. Rather than leaning into the traditional, white-washed Grecian architecture, Calilo takes a maximalist approach with handcrafted marble, curved pathways, over-water bridges, and intricate mosaic details around every corner. When I first arrived, it felt as though I’d stepped into a living art installation, yet the whimsical layout still manages to blend right into the surrounding rocky hillside. Ceilings are etched with heart cutouts that cast shadows on the ground during peak sunshine, while mantras of hope and love cover stone overhangs and walls. The hotel also sits directly on Papas Beach, giving guests prime access to the Aegean without ever having to leave the property. 

Your journey at Calilo begins with an over-water walk through a colorful corridor surrounded by life-size mosaic sculptures on one side, and a trickling waterfall on the other. When you walk into the lobby, you’re asked to write down any lingering worries and drop them into a rotating pit, symbolizing a release of negativity before checking in. This distinctly playful design continues throughout all of the common spaces, including the bar and restaurant area, which features a huge neon sign reading “Create A Life You Can Fall In Love With.” However, Calilo’s manifesting philosophy extends beyond an aesthetic, as the hotel is positioned around the idea of slowing down, connecting with nature, and being present. 

With just 36 suites, Calilo prides itself on giving guests ample privacy. Each accommodation is entirely unique, so don’t expect a one-size-fits-all experience. The room you choose ultimately depends on what you prioritize most. For example, I had a beachfront room that was conveniently located next to the main pool, restaurant, and beach cabanas. Every morning I was able to wake up for sunrise and walk right onto the sand or take a dip in the sea, but my room didn’t necessarily have the most striking view since it was situated at a lower elevation. I did have a large private pool along with a stone outdoor shower and another small pool in the back, but if you’re looking for one of Calilo’s signature stays, consider one of the suites higher up on the hill. Some feature trickling waterfalls and hidden grottos, while others have heart-shaped pools and hanging day beds. The only downside is that you’ll need to call a cart every time you want to leave or return since the hill is steep, but the drivers move quickly, so you’ll never wait too long. Decor inside the rooms follows a streamlined design with sleek walls and floors made from cool-toned marble, massive soaking tubs, and light blue headboards featuring abstract figures drawn by owner Angelos Michalopoulos himself. 

Calilo has two on-site restaurants: one designed for everyday casual meals and a fine-dining establishment, CHES. The main restaurant, which is adjacent to the resort swimming pool, serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Mornings feature a complimentary buffet alongside optional à la carte options like eggs Benedict and a Greek scramble. Pro-tip: take full advantage of the fresh spanakopita and cheese pie at the buffet; you won’t regret it. 

Lunch can be enjoyed on one of the hanging daybeds at the beach, inside the restaurant, or in one of the sunken booths by the pool. The tuna tartare is genuinely one of the most flavorful and bright renditions that I’ve ever had, but I was also a big fan of the grilled calamari. Dinner and lunch offerings are pretty similar, though you’ll find a few more refined steaks and pastas available in the evening. When you’re craving a fancier dinner, reserve a spot at CHES. This elegant experience is best enjoyed with one of the curated wine pairings, but I recommend the Odyssey, which includes a stunning selection of premium Greek bottles. The menu is created by Michelin-starred chef Alex Tsiotinis and changes every summer, but it’s always a journey through the Cyclades, with each course meant to represent a different island. 

While you'll likely want to spend plenty of time lounging in your private plunge pools, there are tons of worthwhile amenities to explore. First and foremost is the beach. Papas Beach boasts crystal-clear waters that are perfect for swimming. It gets surprisingly deep pretty quickly, but I recommend bringing a pair of goggles so you can take a peek at fish and the rocky sea floor below. There is also a floating dock you can hike to, should you want to do a little diving. The spa is another highlight, featuring whimsical treatment rooms that match Calilo’s maximalist ethos. The spa is located on top of a world-class gym, which also boasts a stunning yoga deck where you can watch the sunrise with a gentle vinyasa flow. Calilo occasionally hosts various workshops and retreats, and during my stay, many guests partook in a padel experience at the hotel’s very own courts. 

Rather than being in the middle of Chora or near the port, Calilo is intentionally removed and secluded. Though its location isn’t the most convenient for travelers wanting to explore the island, Calilo is the ideal backdrop for a romantic escape or honeymoon. That said, I do recommend arranging transport into town at least once or twice. Drakos Taverna on Mylopotas beach is a must, especially if you want an authentic seaside dining experience complete with sun-dried octopus, calamari, and a crisp bottle of white wine. You should also enjoy a late night in Chora, where you can dance at Jar while sipping mastika. When it comes to dinner in Chora, everyone flocks to Katogi (and for good reason), but I had the absolute best time at family-owned Sainis Taverna. We sipped on a liter of local wine and nibbled on the best pita bread while our dishes were delivered by a 12-year-old boy named Yannis—definitely an authentic Greek experience. Pathos, which is also owned by the Michalopoulos family, is the ultimate place for sunset and sushi. 

Location: Ios, Greece

Rating: 5-star

Room Count: 36 suites

Pricing: Rates start around $1,000 per night

Our Favorite Thing About the Hotel: The easy access to Papas Beach and the private plunge pools. 

Dining: Calilo Restaurant and CHES.

Amenities: Wi-Fi, private plunge pools, fitness center, two on-site restaurants, complimentary buffet breakfast, spa, room service, beach cabanas, a curated boutique, concierge, transfer services. 

Nearby Attractions: The hotel is pretty remote, but Chora, the port, and Mylopotas Beach are all just 30-ish minutes away. 

Airport: Santorini Airport (You’ll need to take a ferry from Santorini)