A different kind of chill at Chill & Co. [Serifos]

Halfway to Milos, about two hours away sailing from Athens, there is an island of Serifos – 1441 inhabitants, a hilly land surrounded by the shimmering Aegean Sea. Quiet & picturesque, the allure of this beautiful spot is immediately felt upon arrival in the port. Yachts docked at the bay, a white church overlooking the island from the hill, small tavernas with seats almost immersed in the water. And among them a very special concept – Chill & Co. Serifos.

Opened just last year, the hotel and the restaurant look like a new hotspot in Copenhagen or Berlin. The white & blue color palette of the décor set against the turquoise sea and clear skies create a very soothing (and Instagrammable) scene. Walking into the reception, one passes Chill & Co.’s open terrace where locals are sipping on Greek’s favorite espresso freddo. Because as the owners explain, no matter how good your concept is, you need to get an approval from the local community. Well, Chill & Co. is winning at it.

Featuring eight rooms and the loft, the hotel is a perfect spot for island nomads. Its minimalist, sober interiors have a truly calming effect and when examined closely, the quality of the details comes to spotlight. Geometrical, metal fixtures, cooling stone floors, custom-made, embroidered bedding – these small yet sophisticated elements are exactly what makes a difference between a good accommodation and a boutique hotel. The other things that makes a difference at Chill & Co. is the branding itself – an ocean-blue visual identity that’s used across the space with beautiful consistency that makes you want to join the Chill squad. Towels, papers bags, coasters, even matches. The logotype discreetly follows you around and before you know it, you’re following it yourself, having breakfast at hotel’s terrace, trying an excellent cocktail menu starring Negroni, Aperol and ultimately stunning Pornstar Martini.

But there’s more than goes behind this modern resto. First, the design – metal light installations, a blue-tiled bar and pleated wood surfaces complemented with lush, green plants. The atmosphere is unassuming yet cool, elegant, looking as good in the morning sun as in the night. Second, the menu – a thoughtful take on beloved classics with a (delicious) Greek twist thanks to unique ingredients sourced locally. Trust us – it’s not another avocado toast when it’s made with Serifos cheese.

And eventually, the service. Saying it was helpful and professional doesn’t do justice. It was more than that – warm, welcoming, kind. Having a chat at the reception or with the owners felt just natural. This authentic ambience is yet another dimension of Chill & Co.’s kind of chill – it’s not only about the rest but also sharing good vibrations.

Having experienced Serifos once, you will catch yourself planning when to come back. For the low-key atmosphere, for the beaches, for the crystal water. For an original Greek experience. And for Chill & Co., for sure.

Photography by Alin Kovacs

www.chillandcoserifos.com