Melisses is a magical boutique hotel located on the stunning island of Andros, Greece. With its peaceful atmosphere and traditional Cycladic architecture, it will make you feel right at home by the Aegean Sea. Andros is one of the northernmost islands in the Cyclades and known for its lush, green landscapes, charming villages, and rich history. Hotel Melisses offers the perfect balance of relaxation and the opportunity to explore the beautiful world of Andros as if you're staying in your close friend's holiday home.
History of the Hotel
Hotel Melisses was founded by the wonderfully creative Allegra Pomillo. Though Italian by heritage, Allegra has been visiting Andros for many years and has created a true home away from home on the island. With a rich background in the food industry, she has designed this sanctuary with a farm-to-table approach at its core. Surrounded by lush fruit trees, fresh herbs, and local spices, the hotel’s vegetable garden grows everything from Santorini tomatoes to various types of zucchini and onions, all harvested daily and used in the meals served on the property. Allegra has crafted a unique experience, feeling less like a traditional hotel and more like a welcoming home, designed for comfort from the moment you arrive.
The Interiors
The property is nestled right on the Aegean Sea, with several stone structures that seamlessly blend into the natural landscape. Inside, the interiors have been thoughtfully designed, featuring a calming white palette complemented by carefully curated antiques and decorative objects. The main building boasts an open floor plan, with windows and doors left open throughout the day to invite the sea breeze and bring the sound of the waves right to your doorstep. The panoramic views promise breathtaking sunsets, and every guest room is positioned to overlook the water. The property also offers two saltwater pools, one conveniently located just outside the shared living room, where guests gather each morning for breakfast. This space, with its inviting sofas, becomes a social hub, with guests lingering for hours enjoying the peaceful atmosphere. The breakfast deserves a special mention: Sappho, the talented chef, prepares a three-course spread each morning, often finishing with a handmade sweet treat that we eagerly anticipated each day.
Things to do
The hotel's meandering pathways lead you down into the water to rest on rocks right on the sea. This was our favorite way to spend the day at Melisses, bringing a book down to the chairs and jumping into the perfectly clear waters. The swimming in this bay is perfection and we'd find ourselves gone for an hour at a time, swimming from little bay to bay and resting on the rocks in the sun. The waters are peaceful and so clear you almost forget you're in the sea and not in a swimming pool. We found ourselves staying days on end at the property to truly enjoy the peace and quiet. However, once you're ready to explore, we've noted below some of our must visit places to see.
Beaches
Ahla
Kolona
Tis Grias to Pidima
Restaurants
Του Ζοζεφ
Kóssēs
Taverna Ag. Marina, Stivari, Andros
Andriakon (organic food market)
Stamatis Tavern
Other
Cyclades Olive Museum
Waikiki (clothing store)
Kardo Ceramics
