Odera Tinos was one of the most anticipated Greek hotel openings of 2024 – somewhat surprising for an island that many tourists have never even heard of.
Greeks know the Cycladic island of Tinos well – it’s the site of one of the country’s most important Orthodox churches, Panagia Evangelistria, where thousands of pilgrims come to worship each year. But, in comparison to other Greek islands, few tourists make it here. All the more surprising when you consider the island’s proximity to Mykonos – it’s less than 30 minutes by boat.
Odera Tinos represents a change to tourism in Tinos; it’s the first official luxury hotel on the island. And it’s a welcome change, our driver Zafiris tells us during a tour of the island, adding that most of the local population are happy to see such progression, but that they are also collectively keen to ensure that the essence – and genuine hospitality – of Tinos endures. “We welcome visitors, not tourists,” he clarifies.
The Vibe
From the private pool in my room, I take in my surroundings: views stretch across a silent, small beach bay surrounded by rocky hills; the Greek sunshine gently (yet firmly) soaks into my skin; and the only identifiable sound is that of a few goats bleating nearby. The occasional whirring of helicopter propellers as they swish through the sky is my only reminder of the island’s coveted location, a mere hop from our more famous neighbour. I feel smug – almost like I’m hiding – here in Tinos, far removed from the hustle, bustle and busyness of Mykonos.
This sense of calm endures throughout the hotel – whether lounging by the show-stopping central infinity pool, sinking into sun beds underneath stylish black-and-white striped umbrellas on the beach, or lingering over a cooling cocktail at the al fresco restaurant.
The Rooms
Designed by TConstructions in typical Cycladic style, all of the 77 low-rise, sugar-cube-shaped rooms and suites have sea views, and 24 of them come with a private pool.
Interior design by Studio Bonarchi is inspired by the island; white-washed walls merge with sandy-coloured sofas and dark-wood finishes, and are accented against blue-and-white soft furnishings including plump cushions, flatweave rugs, and abstract – often ocean-inspired – artwork.
Describing a space as ‘indoor-outdoor living’ might be a cliché concept (hotels, real estate, dining) but Odera Tinos proves why, when done right, it’s the pinnacle of modern luxury. In my Premium Chill Out Pool room, the comfy and spacious bed takes centre stage in the middle, yet it’s the sea view from it – framed through a wall of floor-to-ceiling sliding window doors – that commands all the attention.
Swing the doors wide open and there’s perhaps no better place in the hotel to seek solace than on the room’s adjoining patio. Mornings here are well spent sipping coffee as you watch boats sail past the bay, afternoons are ideal for taking cooling dips in the pool, and evenings are best enjoyed gazing towards the stars, which thanks to a lower level of development than on nearby islands, seem to shine that little bit brighter.
Go all out in the two-bedroom, duplex Odera Residence, which comes with three bathrooms, multiple living spaces, two terraces, one patio, a 25-metre pool, artwork hand-picked by the owner, and plenty of space – it’s over 1,800 square feet.
The Food + Drink
Breakfast awaits by the centre-piece swimming pool; a self-serve buffet of freshly-baked breads and pastries, greek yoghurts, berries, and cooked dishes including eggs and bacon. Best taken on a table with a front-row view of the pool and sea.
Post breakfast, this space transforms into a tranquil pool bar and restaurant by day, and the hotel’s Mediterranean dining destination by night; arrive in time for sunset to feast on Greek, Caesar and couscous salads followed by hearty dishes such as lamb shank, Black Angus burgers or striploin, seafood spaghetti, and freshly-grilled whole sea bass, carved at your table. Finish with a nightcap in the next door bar, Eós: opt for the O/Purist Tsipouro if you dare – it’s a 40 per cent spirit, distilled in Greece with local fruits, herbs and spices.
A short meander (or hotel buggy) takes you to the beach where, when you’re tired of swimming, you can walk the few paces to Nosti Beach Bar & Restaurant for fresh juices and smoothies coupled with a burger, a club sandwich or a (sizable) freshly-cut fruit salad. It’s worth it for the photo-worthy space alone, which with dappled sunlight creeping through the overhead pergola, personifies Greek summer.
The Little Extras
It’s really no little extra at all, the spa at Odera Tinos is a must-visit for tension-releasing massages. Begin on the Zerobody Dry Float to reduce any stress. Follow with a treatment such as the vitamin and algae Marine Scrub skin exfoliation, a facial supported by products from Dr. Barbara Sturm, or a rehydration therapy using wildflower extracts. End in the hammam or sea-view relaxation room with indoor pool.
In-room amenities include a premium Dyson-like hairdryer, an efficient clothes steamer, a Nespresso machine, tubs of nuts and chocolate by Greek-born Carpo alongside other snacks, and bathroom products by Diptyque.
The To-Do List
Odera Tinos is all about taking time out, whether to soak up the rugged landscapes, to do a few lengths of the pool before finding a sun bed, or to laze over long lunches and dinners with good food, good wine and good friends. It mirrors the ethos of the island where summer days are spent lounging on scenic beaches, driving through the hilly terrain, stopping at small villages, or finding a taverna for locally-sourced Greek food.
If you’re looking for the first, beaches, you’re spoilt for choice – Tinos has plenty and you can’t go far wrong. But Kolympithra, a duo of beaches, is a good option. The larger of the two has day beds alongside plenty of places to simply plonk down a towel, as well as a restaurant and coffee shop.
There are anywhere between 40 and 60 villages on Tinos (the number varies depending on who you ask). Pyrgos in the north of the island is a must; almost everything here is made of marble from a nearby quarry, including buildings, churches, and even the drains (yes, really). Find out more at the nearby Marble Museum, or at the house-turned-museum of well-known Tinos-born marble sculptor, Yanoulis Chalepas. As night begins to fall and the heat of the day burns off, take a seat at a restaurant in the main square to enjoy the lively atmosphere.
A 40-minute drive south and you’ll arrive in the village of Volax, home to just 50 residents. Look out for the street art – though it’s not as you might expect. The words of Greek poets and songwriters are scrawled artistically across walls, doors and windows.
Tinos is a farmers’ island, so if it’s a fresh, farm-to-table meal you’re after, you’re in luck. If you’re anything like us, you’ll find it difficult to pin down which dishes to order at Svoura Taverna in Komi, and end up with an overflowing table. Visit Xoreutra in Kampos for elevated Greek cuisine in a truly picture-perfect al fresco setting under the bougainvillea – the Greek honey-baked feta was a table favourite.
We may earn a commission if you buy something from any affiliate links on our site.
Any Questions or Tips to add?