Island Seclusion & Falcon Haven
Folegandros, a lesser-known jewel in the Cyclades archipelago, presents an idyllic sanctuary for those yearning for peace and a deep connection with nature.
Unlike its more bustling neighbors, this island eschews airports and cruise ship terminals, maintaining an authentic and unhurried atmosphere. Its rugged topography, characterized by dramatic cliffs and windswept landscapes, provides a dramatic backdrop for a unique natural phenomenon: the presence of the Eleonora's falcon. These magnificent birds, a species with a significant breeding population around the Greek islands, are a prime attraction, particularly for keen ornithologists. Reaching panoramic viewpoints, such as the path leading to the Panagia church above the charming old town of Chora, offers the best chances to witness these raptors in their natural element, circling gracefully against the expansive Aegean sky. The island's quietude is further amplified by the gentle rustling of grasses in the sea breeze and the sight of locals tending to their donkeys, adding to its timeless appeal. The understated attractions, like sharing a meal with sparrows at a cliffside taverna in Agali Beach or wandering through Chora's bougainvillea-draped lanes, contribute to Folegandros's understated yet profound charm, making it an ideal destination for a restorative break away from the everyday.
Conservation and Gundari Resort
The southwestern reaches of Folegandros are home to Gundari, a remarkable boutique resort nestled within an 80-acre bird preservation zone. Accessible via a rugged, unpaved track that traverses the island's rocky terrain, Gundari emerges like a mirage against the azure sea, its architecture harmoniously blending with the landscape through the use of local rust-hued stone and natural materials like woven willow. This establishment is at the forefront of protecting the Eleonora's falcon, collaborating with Dr. Tasos Dimalexis, a distinguished Greek nature conservation consultant. The Eleonora's falcon, a striking bird closely resembling the peregrine falcon, inhabits the island from March to October. Astonishingly, approximately two-thirds of the global population of these falcons, estimated at around 20,000 individuals, choose the Greek islands for their breeding grounds. Guests at Gundari have the extraordinary opportunity to engage directly with these conservation efforts. Excursions by boat, led by Dr. Dimalexis himself, allow visitors to circle Folegandros and its neighboring islets in pursuit of falcons, gaining insights into their intricate behaviors while also looking out for other avian species like Bonelli's eagles. Furthermore, guests can contribute to scientific research through monitoring bird nests via live camera feeds, participate in surveillance expeditions to the Christiana Islands, or join guided hikes designed to explore the island's diverse ecosystems and its feathered inhabitants.
Serene Stays and Island Flavors
The journey to Gundari is an adventure in itself, leading to an experience of profound simplicity and tranquility. Mornings begin with leisurely breakfasts of Greek yogurt, nuts, and honey, followed by days spent immersed in the gentle rhythms of island life. The soundscape is composed of the soothing murmur of the sea, the distant bleating of goats, and the soft rustle of pages turned by the sea breeze. The resort's 27 suites and villas are thoughtfully designed to maximize the breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea, each facing south to provide shelter from the prevailing northern Meltemi winds during summer. Private, sun-heated infinity pools cascade over the cliff edge, offering an uninterrupted panorama of the sea. The interior design complements the natural surroundings, featuring furnishings crafted from wood and rattan, and a color palette inspired by earthy tones. Some accommodations even boast open-air showers, further enhancing the connection with nature. The resort's dining establishment, Orizon, helmed by a chef with a Michelin-starred background, offers a contemporary Greek menu that evolves with the seasons. Ingredients are locally sourced, including produce from the hotel's own garden, with a strong emphasis on fresh seafood dishes like cuttlefish risotto with squid ink and orzo with shrimp, complemented by local wines. Afternoons can be spent unwinding by the clifftop pool or indulging in a restorative treatment at the subterranean spa, which utilizes indigenous Folegandros herbs.
