Kalesma Mykonos is a luxury boutique hotel on a hillside overlooking Ornos Bay. It offers intimate to grand weddings for up to 290 guests. The property features the stunning Agios Dimitrios chapel with sea views, 48 suites and villas with private pools, and acclaimed Mediterranean dining at Pere Ubu restaurant. You get both sunrise and sunset vistas from the same hillside location. With its blend of traditional Mykonian village architecture and contemporary design, Kalesma creates an authentic yet elevated wedding experience just minutes from Ornos Beach and Mykonos Town.
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When I first heard about Kalesma Mykonos, I’ll admit I was curious but cautious. Mykonos has become synonymous with party culture and beach clubs. That’s not exactly what comes to mind when you’re planning an intimate, meaningful wedding. But after digging deep into what makes this venue special, I realized Kalesma offers something genuinely different. I read countless guest reviews, studied real weddings held here, and understood its unique position on the island.
The name itself tells you everything. “Kalesma” means “the calling” in Greek, and this boutique hotel lives up to that meaning. It’s an invitation to experience Mykonos as it was meant to be. Warm, authentic, and rooted in island tradition. But without sacrificing the luxury and sophistication that makes a destination wedding feel truly special.
What Makes Kalesma Mykonos Special for Weddings
The Location: Best of Both Worlds
Kalesma sits on a hillside overlooking Ornos Bay in the southwestern part of Mykonos. This positioning is strategic in the best possible way. You’re just a 15-minute drive from Mykonos Airport. You’re 4 kilometers from the famous windmills and white-washed lanes of Mykonos Town. Yet the property feels wonderfully secluded.
What struck me most when researching this venue is something quite rare. Kalesma is positioned to enjoy both sunrise and sunset from the same location. That’s not just a romantic detail for your wedding day. It’s a practical blessing for your photography timeline and guest experience. Morning preparations with golden light. Ceremony with afternoon glow. Cocktail hour as the sun dips into the Aegean. Yes, please.
Ornos Beach is one of Mykonos’ more family-friendly and accessible beaches. It’s just a three-minute drive away. This matters when you’re thinking about your guests’ overall experience. They can easily pop down for a swim before getting ready for your evening celebration. Or enjoy a beach day the morning after your wedding.
The Property: A Mykonian Village Reimagined
Walking through Kalesma feels like discovering a hidden village, and that’s entirely intentional. The property spans five acres designed to mimic traditional Mykonian architecture. Whitewashed houses clustered together, connected by stone pathways and olive groves. But here’s where it gets interesting. While the exterior honors centuries-old Cycladic design, the interiors are decidedly contemporary.
We’re talking Rick Owens furniture, ceramics by Serbian artist Aleksander Vac, smooth curved walls, and chestnut ceilings. The architectural firm K-Studio and interior designer Vangelis Bonios (Studio Bonarchi) created spaces that feel both timeless and of-the-moment. It’s luxury that doesn’t shout about itself.
The property currently offers 48 accommodations total. That includes 27 suites and villas, each with private heated pools and sea-view terraces. Plus 21 rooms with Aegean views. Every accommodation has that minimalist Cycladic serenity while incorporating organic materials and modern comforts.
The Chapel: Agios Dimitrios
Now, let’s talk about the real showstopper for weddings. The Agios Dimitrios chapel. This isn’t some token wedding prop. It’s a legitimate, functioning Greek Orthodox chapel that stands as a work of art in its own right.
The chapel’s interior features stunning liturgical art dominated by black, shining gold, and brilliant white. It’s dramatic, spiritual, and undeniably photogenic. The chapel overlooks the deep blue waters of the Aegean. It creates that picture-perfect backdrop that you envision when you think “Greek island wedding.”
Whether you’re planning a religious ceremony, a civil wedding, or a symbolic celebration, the chapel and its surrounding courtyard provide an authentic Greek setting. And when I say authentic, I mean it. This chapel honors the island’s traditions and connects your celebration to centuries of Mykonian culture. Something that feels increasingly rare as the island becomes more commercialized.
Wedding Capacity and Venue Spaces
Let’s get practical. Kalesma can accommodate weddings ranging from intimate gatherings to substantial celebrations:
- Seated dinner: Up to 290 guests
- Standing cocktail reception: Up to 380 guests
- Full venue buyout: Available upon request for exclusive use
The venue offers multiple ceremony and reception locations across the property:
Chapel courtyard for traditional ceremonies with the Aegean as your backdrop
The Plateia (the hotel’s main square area) bordered by the infinity pool and Pere Ubu Restaurant
Various terraces throughout the property with different viewpoints and atmospheres
Aloni Sunset Lounge with its stone architecture and fire pit, perfect for cocktail hours as the sun sets
The flexibility here is real. Whether you’re planning a 50-person intimate affair or a 250-guest celebration, the property has spaces that can be configured to match your vision.
Accommodation: Where Your Guests Will Stay
One of the biggest challenges with destination weddings is ensuring your guests are comfortable. Kalesma solves this elegantly because it functions as both venue and accommodation.
Each of the 27 suites and villas comes with:
- Private heated pool
- Spacious terrace
- King-size bed
- Sea views (either sunrise or sunset facing)
- Private bathroom with luxury amenities
- Air conditioning and modern tech
The design aesthetic throughout is that signature blend of Mykonian simplicity with contemporary luxury. Think whitewashed walls, natural materials, touches of grey and blue that echo the sea, and sophisticated lighting.
For couples, the villas offer the most privacy and space. The One-Bedroom Villas feature expansive gardens, infinity pools, and are perfect if you want to get ready on-site the morning of your wedding. The Grand Villas are the ultimate choice for couples or VIP guests who want maximum space and privacy.
The 21 rooms don’t feature private pools, but they still offer beautiful Aegean views and the same high-quality design and amenities. This tiered accommodation structure is actually helpful when planning. You can reserve the villas for immediate family and wedding party. Other guests can enjoy the equally lovely rooms.
Dining: Pere Ubu Restaurant and Chef Costas Tsingas
Here’s where Kalesma really shines for wedding celebrations. Executive Chef Costas Tsingas runs Pere Ubu Restaurant. His approach is refreshingly focused: reimagined Greek and Cycladic cuisine using local, often organic ingredients.
In an island where many high-end restaurants have gone the fusion route, Chef Tsingas stays true to Greek culinary traditions. He adds contemporary techniques and presentation. This matters for your wedding menu because your guests came to Greece. They should taste Greece.
Pere Ubu can handle everything from intimate family-style dinners to elaborate multi-course seated receptions. The restaurant sits at the top of the property’s hill (hence the name Pere Ubu) with panoramic sea views. When the sun sets and the lights come up, it transforms into a romantic setting that’s hard to beat.
The hotel also features Kuveda, a newer traditional Greek tavern for more casual dining. This gives you flexibility for welcome dinners or day-after brunches.
For cocktail hour, the Aloni Sunset Lounge becomes your best friend. This stone-built lounge with its fire pit and open-air design is THE place to watch the sun dip into the Aegean. Your guests can enjoy their first drinks and appetizers here.
What Couples Actually Say: Review Analysis
I’ve spent considerable time analyzing the 267 Google reviews for Kalesma. The patterns are remarkably consistent. The property maintains a 4.8 out of 5 rating. In the luxury hotel world, that’s genuinely impressive.
What Couples Love Most
The staff and service: This comes up in nearly every review. Guests consistently mention staff members by name. Rula (the hotel manager with over 10 years of Mykonos experience), the owner Aby who’s often on property, and various team members who go above and beyond. The Greek concept of “philoxenia” (hospitality) isn’t just a marketing term here. It’s genuine.
The views and location: Multiple reviewers describe the views as “breathtaking,” “stunning,” and “unbelievable.” The fact that you get both sunrise and sunset from different vantage points makes the property feel special throughout the entire day.
The design and rooms: Guests rave about the room quality, the private pools, the attention to detail in design, and the comfort level. Terms like “impeccable,” “luxurious,” and “tasteful” appear frequently.
The peaceful atmosphere: Despite being close to Mykonos Town’s action, Kalesma feels like a serene escape. Couples appreciate that they can enjoy the island’s energy when they want it. But they can retreat to tranquility.
What to Know Before You Book
Restaurant opinions vary: While the breakfast receives consistent praise, dinner at Pere Ubu gets mixed reviews. Some guests find it exceptional. Others feel the food doesn’t quite match the hotel’s overall luxury level or the prices. For your wedding, this means you might want to do a tasting. Discuss your menu in detail with the chef.
The property requires some walking: Built on a hillside, there are steps and slopes throughout. This is part of its authentic Mykonian village charm. But it’s worth noting for guests with mobility considerations.
Transfers and transportation: The hotel provides free transfers to/from Mykonos Town twice daily. Departing at 10am and 7pm. Returning at 1pm and 9pm. Additional transfers cost €40 each way. If your wedding timeline doesn’t align with these times, factor in transportation costs for guests.
Wedding Services and Planning Support
Kalesma’s events team has experience handling everything from intimate elopements to large-scale celebrations. The property can facilitate:
- Civil, religious, and symbolic ceremonies at the chapel or other locations on property
- Full-service catering through Pere Ubu Restaurant with customizable menus
- Bar service with signature cocktails and Greek wines
- Coordination with local vendors for florals, photography, music, and more
- Pre-wedding spa services at the Kalesma Spa (opened in 2024, featuring treatments with Dr. Barbara Sturm products)
- Welcome dinners and day-after events at various locations throughout the property
The hotel can also arrange activities for your wedding weekend:
- Private yacht charters in Ornos Bay
- Guided tours to nearby islands (Delos and Rhenia)
- Water sports (jet skiing, parasailing, paddleboarding)
- Sunset trekking to Mykonos’ highest point
- Yoga and Pilates sessions
- Helicopter tours
For more tips, check out my article on Planning Your Wedding in Greece.
Seasonal Considerations and Best Times
Mykonos weather is typically:
- May-June: Perfect wedding weather (70-80°F), fewer crowds than July-August, island is fully operational
- July-August: Peak season, hottest months, most expensive, island is very busy
- September-Early October: Ideal conditions (similar to May-June), warm sea for swimming, beautiful light, fewer tourists
Based on review patterns, September gets special mention as an exceptional time. The weather is beautiful. The island is busy but not crowded. And the energy feels just right.
Keep in mind that Mykonos is seasonal. Most hotels and restaurants close from November through March. Kalesma typically operates from April through October.
Pricing Expectations (€€€)
While Kalesma doesn’t publish wedding package pricing publicly, here’s what I can tell you about the property’s positioning. Prices vary significantly based on season, guest count, and specific requirements.
This is a luxury boutique hotel. Rooms start in the range of $300-500+ per night during season. Suites and villas command significantly higher rates. For exclusive venue buyout and full wedding services, you’re looking at a substantial investment. One that reflects the property’s five-star status.
However, compared to other luxury Mykonos wedding venues, Kalesma’s pricing is relatively more accessible. Venues like Panoptis Escape or Mykonos Rocks start at €23,000 for exclusive use. Kalesma still delivers that elevated experience.
The value proposition here is clear. You’re getting a recognized luxury property with genuine Mykonian authenticity. The property was included in Condé Nast Traveler’s Hot List 2022 and Travel + Leisure’s Best New Hotels. Not just another pretty hotel.
Real Wedding Examples
I found several real weddings that took place at Kalesma, which helps paint a picture of what’s possible:
Kate and Jordan’s Contemporary Chic Wedding (featured in Kiss from Fleur): This couple held their full wedding celebration at Kalesma with planning by Kiss from Fleur. The contemporary chic theme showcased the venue’s versatility beautifully. Their ceremony took place in Kalesma’s backyard. The dinner featured suspended clouds of beige and lavender blooms that created a magical atmosphere. The after-party was held in a unique mirror-covered room with a mirror dance floor. The celebration ended with fireworks over the Aegean. Photography was by Roman Ivanov, with stunning florals by Fiorentino.
Anthony and Ryan’s Rehearsal Dinner (photographed by Lilly Red Photography): This couple chose Kalesma for their elegant rehearsal dinner during their 4-day Mykonos celebration. The formal evening required cocktail attire for all guests. Large pink floral arrangements wrapped around columns inside the pergola, inspired by native Greek flora. The couple praised Kalesma’s modern architecture and nature paths for their portraits after dinner. They also appreciated how the property’s professional service helped facilitate their multi-day celebration. Their actual wedding ceremony and reception took place at Spilia Seaside Restaurant.
These real examples show that Kalesma works for different purposes. It can host complete weddings. Or it can serve as an elegant backdrop for rehearsal dinners and pre-wedding events. The neutral, sophisticated setting adapts beautifully to various wedding styles and visions.
Getting There and Logistics
Airport: Mykonos International Airport (JMK) is 5 kilometers away. Approximately 15 minutes by car. During summer, direct flights connect from major European cities. London, Paris, Amsterdam, Frankfurt, and many others. Most North American guests connect through Athens (ATH), which has frequent daily flights to Mykonos.
Ferry access: Mykonos is well-connected by ferry to Santorini (2-3 hours). Also to Athens/Piraeus (3-5 hours) and other Cycladic islands. This makes island-hopping before or after your wedding quite feasible.
Local transportation: Having a car isn’t essential. Kalesma provides twice-daily transfers to Mykonos Town. But a car is convenient if you want to explore freely. The hotel offers parking. You can also arrange taxis through the concierge. Budget approximately €40 each way for private transfers outside the scheduled times.
What Makes a Kalesma Wedding Right for You
After all this research, here’s my honest take on who should seriously consider Kalesma for their Mykonos wedding:
You’re the right fit if:
- You want authentic Mykonian architecture and culture, but with contemporary luxury
- You value genuine service and hospitality over just pretty Instagram backdrops
- Your guest count ranges from intimate (30-50) to substantial (200-290)
- You appreciate good design and attention to detail
- You want your venue to also serve as accommodation for you and key guests
- You’d like your guests to have both peaceful retreat and easy access to Mykonos Town
- Having a legitimate chapel for your ceremony matters to you
- You want flexibility in your celebration style (formal sit-down vs. casual cocktail)
You might look elsewhere if:
- You’re primarily focused on beach access (Ornos Beach is close but not steps away)
- You want ultra-modern, minimalist design without traditional elements
- Your priority is being in the center of Mykonos Town’s nightlife
- You need fully flat, wheelchair-accessible property throughout
- Your budget is very limited
Christina’s Take: Is Kalesma Worth It?
Look, I’m Greek, and I’ve seen countless hotels and venues try to capture that elusive “authentic Greek island” feeling while delivering luxury. Most fail. They’re either too traditional and sacrifice comfort. Or too modern and lose soul. Kalesma actually nails the balance.
The property respects Mykonian heritage. The architecture, the chapel, the landscaping with centuries-old olive trees, the cuisine at Pere Ubu. While providing the level of service and amenities that destination wedding guests expect. The staff clearly takes pride in what they do. That elevates the entire experience beyond just “nice hotel with pretty views.”
For weddings specifically, the combination makes logistics easier. The Agios Dimitrios chapel, multiple event spaces, on-site accommodation, and experienced events team. Easier than piecing together separate ceremony, reception, and hotel locations. After watching many destination weddings face last-minute weather or timeline challenges, I appreciate venues that offer flexibility and backup options.
The honest truth about pricing: Yes, Kalesma is expensive. You’re looking at a significant investment for a luxury boutique property. But here’s what I’ve learned from planning my own Greek wedding and helping others plan theirs. The cost difference between a mid-range venue and a truly exceptional one is often smaller than you think. When you account for the full package. Accommodation, catering, coordination, and that intangible quality of not worrying whether everything will come together beautifully.
When Kalesma makes sense: If you value genuine hospitality, architectural beauty, and having most wedding elements coordinated through one exceptional property, the investment pays off. In reduced stress and elevated experience. You’re not just booking a venue. You’re creating an experience that honors Greek tradition while celebrating your love story in one of the most magical islands on Earth.
When to look elsewhere: If you’re primarily budget-focused, other venues might serve you better. Or if your vision centers on ultra-modern minimalism or beachfront access. And that’s okay. The right venue is the one that matches your priorities. Not the one with the most Instagram buzz.
Alternative Mykonos Wedding Venues to Consider
While Kalesma is exceptional, every couple has unique needs. Here are two other Mykonos venues worth considering:
Panoptis Escape: For Design-Forward Luxury (€€€€)
If Kalesma represents elevated tradition, Panoptis Escape is pure architectural drama. This Small Luxury Hotels property is built into the mountainside above Elia Beach. It features stunning tribal-ethnic interiors and 360-degree views that include both sunrise and sunset.
What makes it special: The design is unlike anything else on Mykonos. Think carved mountain rocks integrated into the pool area. Natural seawater pool. Cave-like interiors with high-end furnishings. An absolutely breathtaking location. With a 4.9 rating from 55 reviews, guests consistently describe it as “heaven on earth” and “the best hotel they’ve ever stayed in.”
Best for: Couples who prioritize cutting-edge design and architectural experience. Those who want ultra-private (only 22 rooms total). Who don’t mind being further from town. Guests who appreciate art and design as much as location.
Capacity: Smaller scale than Kalesma. Best for intimate weddings up to about 100 guests.
Price positioning: Ultra-luxury tier. Higher investment than Kalesma but delivers unparalleled design experience.
Consider this if: Kalesma feels too traditional for your taste. You want something that pushes boundaries while still delivering Greek island luxury. Budget is flexible as this is ultra-luxury positioning.
Aletro Cottage Houses: For Authentic, Family-Run Warmth (€€)
Sometimes the most memorable weddings happen at venues that feel more like family homes than commercial properties. Aletro Cottage Houses in Agia Sofia offers exactly that experience.
What makes it special: This family-run property features restored traditional stone cottages. They’re clustered around a quaint on-site chapel. All nestled into a hillside with gorgeous gardens filled with bougainvillea. The 4.8 rating from 223 reviews emphasizes the genuine hospitality. Stunning views. And that hard-to-define feeling of being truly welcomed rather than just served.
Best for: Couples who want authentic Greek hospitality without the corporate hotel feel. Those who value warmth and personal connection over polished luxury. Guests who appreciate traditional Cycladic charm.
Capacity: Up to 120 guests for your celebration. With accommodation for 70 on-site.
Price positioning: Starting at €1,500. Making it significantly more accessible than luxury boutique properties. While still delivering beautiful Mykonos views and genuine service.
Consider this if: Kalesma’s luxury positioning exceeds your budget. Or you simply prefer the intimacy of a family-run property. You want your guests to experience genuine Greek culture and hospitality. You’re planning a smaller, more intimate celebration (50-120 guests).
View Aletro Cottage Houses in our venue directory.
Two discover more wedding venues across Mykonos and the rest of Greece, browse my curated Greece wedding venue directory.
Frequently Asked Questions
Before You Book
For peak season (June-September), I recommend reaching out at least 12-18 months in advance. Especially if you want full venue buyout or have a large guest count. Shoulder season (May, October) might allow for 8-12 months’ notice. But the property is popular, so earlier is always better.
Yes, Kalesma can facilitate civil, religious, and symbolic ceremonies. For legal Greek weddings, you’ll need to work with a wedding planner to handle the paperwork requirements. These can be complex for non-EU citizens. Many couples opt to do legal paperwork in their home country and have a symbolic ceremony in Greece. This simplifies the process significantly.
The property is built on a hillside with traditional Mykonian architecture. That means steps and slopes throughout. While the hotel has some accessibility accommodations, it’s not fully wheelchair-accessible across all areas. If you have guests with significant mobility concerns, discuss specific arrangements with the hotel team in advance.
Planning Your Wedding Day
Mykonos weather is typically stable during the May-October season. But unexpected rain can occur. Kalesma has covered and indoor options for ceremonies and receptions. The Pere Ubu Restaurant area can be covered. There are indoor spaces available. Discuss weather backup plans thoroughly with the events team during your planning.
Kalesma is generally flexible about outside vendors. Though they have preferred vendor relationships that they can recommend. Many couples bring their own photographer or planner. While using hotel-recommended vendors for items like florals and catering. Discuss your specific vendor plans with the events team early in the planning process.
This varies significantly based on your specific requirements. Guest count and chosen services. Generally, venue rental, basic setup, catering through Pere Ubu, and standard bar service can be included. Extras often include florals, photography, videography, entertainment, special lighting or décor, upgraded menus, fireworks, and specialized services. Request a detailed proposal to understand all costs.
