Villa Diomede

Villa Diomede stands on the hillside of Aleomandra, on Mykonos in the Cyclades, and is one of the larger villas on the island: nine bedrooms and nine bathrooms for up to 18 guests.

With the main house complemented by four guest houses, it works well for extended families, celebrations and groups of friends who want to spend time together while each keeping a space of their own.

The architecture mixes whitewashed walls and stone detailing with an eclectic interior style. Generous windows run around the house, so the sea is visible from most rooms. Meals can be served in the indoor dining room or outside, and the kitchen is fully equipped for groups.

Air conditioning, Wi-Fi and TV are throughout, and several rooms have a private balcony for a quiet coffee at the start of the day.

Outside, the private pool sits against a wide view of the Aegean, with sun loungers, a pergola for shade and an outdoor dining area. An open-air gym lets early risers train with the sea below them, and a stylish pool bar and Sonos sound system make the villa an easy place to host a party.

A barbecue is ready for long summer evenings. A path from the property leads down to a private beach, something few Mykonos villas can offer.

The hillside position gives easy access to the island's best-known spots, and Ornos is nearby for a more relaxed taste of Mykonos away from the busiest party scene. As a villa for 18 guests in the Cyclades, Villa Diomede combines size, privacy and a setting by the sea, with free parking on site.