OKU Kos

"Kos, Greece Pure relaxation is difficult to find, but it’s near-impossible not to lean into the chilled-out vibe you feel immediately as you enter Oku’s open reception. Inspired by the relaxed Greek way of life, Oku aims to combine local culture with relaxation, and easily succeeds. Somehow there are 100 rooms in the hotel, but it feels more like 20; the property is wonderfully private, and Greek-style whitewashed buildings blend seamlessly into the open landscape. Guests can choose from rooms with private or semi-private pools (shared with two other rooms, but surprisingly personal), or opt for a larger villa with a roof terrace and sea views. Special mention to the showers, which are some of the best I’ve used in a hotel thanks to the strong waterfall current and moody, stone walls that lean into the minimal aesthetic. Food at Oku, overseen by executive Chef Mark Vaessen, is impeccable and unapologetically Greek. Salads are topped with crumbly feta and tomatoes that burst in the mouth, while the tzatziki is so good it's impossible not to order a bowl at every meal. Take your dinners outside where you can watch the sunset—which sets over nearby Kalimnos and is guaranteed to be one of the most stunning you've seen—over the hotel's private beach, with a cocktail made at the bar in-hand. —Abigail Malbon Distance to the water: On the beach Travel time: 14 minute drive from Kos International Airport Price: Rooms from around $371 per night" - Lauren Burvill

"A cool, laidback summer hangout Pure relaxation is difficult to find, but it’s near-impossible not to lean into the chilled-out vibe you feel immediately as you enter Oku’s open reception. Inspired by the relaxed Greek way of life, Oku aims to combine local culture with relaxation, and easily succeeds. Somehow there are 100 rooms in the hotel, but it feels more like 20; the property is wonderfully private, and Greek-style whitewashed buildings blend seamlessly into the open landscape. Guests can choose from rooms with private or semi-private pools (shared with two other rooms, but surprisingly personal), or opt for a larger villa with a roof terrace and sea views. Special mention to the showers, which are some of the best I’ve used in a hotel thanks to the strong waterfall current and moody, stone walls that lean into the minimal aesthetic. Food at Oku, overseen by executive Chef Mark Vaessen, is impeccable and unapologetically Greek. Salads are topped with crumbly feta and tomatoes that burst in the mouth, while the tzatziki is so good it's impossible not to order a bowl at every meal. Take your dinners outside where you can watch the sunset—which sets over nearby Kalimnos and is guaranteed to be one of the most stunning you've seen—over the hotel's private beach, with a cocktail made at the bar in-hand. —Abigail Malbon" - Becky Lucas

"Best for: laid-back romance Set on a private beachfront on the north of Kos, Oku embodies relaxed minimalism, with hotel rooms housed in whitewashed buildings, and everything at ground level (aside from the few rooms that have two floors). Couples should book into one of the swim-up suites, where fringed hammocks hang from private terraces and overlook a pool shared with just two other rooms. A stay here feels like moving into a very chic village, where you have easy access to a spa and restaurant, and your well-dressed neighbors (adults-only) are also there to soak up the tranquillity for a few nights. Price: from about $211 per night" - Rachel Howard, Lauren Burvill

"The brand is leaning into “realistic luxury,” with rates starting at 180 euros per night. OKU Kos will be an adult-only 100-room property, including suite options with private pools and two-bedroom villas in Kos, a small island that will only continue to grow more popular. Opening Summer 2021." - Annie Fitzsimmons