The northernmost island in the Cyclades, Andros, has a rich marine and artistic history. Visitors love the island for its beautiful meadows, hills, water springs, fig trees, rocky and sandy beaches. Enjoyed by Greek people and international travellers alike, this island is gorgeous and very different from the other Cycladic islands, with its quiet charm, wonderful olive trees, small villages and museums.

Neoclassical architecture elegantly merge with medieval buildings at Chora, the island’s capital and home to numerous well-known Greek shipowners and captains. Take a stroll down the main street, explore the village’s public plaza and winding alleyways, stop by the cute churches and important art collections. Relax in its exquisite stores, cafes, and eateries. The Frankish castle, located on an islet across the main island, connects with an arched stone bridge dating back to the 13th century. There is so much to visit and discover in Andros.

The Basil and Elise Goulandris Foundation in Chora, currently hosts a remarkable exhibition of both vintage and modern prints of celebrated photographer Martine Franck until 27th October. This is a dual exhibition with a second parallel incarnation staged at the foundation’s space in Athens, this time dedicated to Henri Cartier-Bresson, Magnum Photos’ founder, and other half of this mythical couple of artists and explorers.

Art is indeed central to Andros and stepping into Casa di Fiori Andros Suites follows this path thanks to its owner, Ms Dertouzou, entrepreneur, art royalty and wonderful host. “My mother was a painter, so I grew up in a house full of art and this passion stayed with me.” she tells Art is Alive. “The hotel is full of my mother’s (Anny Aretaki-Chaliori) paintings and many other artists. My parents were art collectors too. Several objects and artworks in the hotel are from my personal collection, from my house in Athens, and this makes Casa di Fiori even more special.”

Anny Aretaki-Chaliori was a great artist who was the subject of many exhibitions in private galleries, shows and fairs. She was from a family of painters. Her grandfather was one of the most famous Greek painters: Konstantinos Volanakis. Currently, fifty-two works by this emblematic seascape painter, Konstantinos Volanakis, are presented for the first time in the artist’s hometown, Heraklion, Crete, as part of a great exhibition titled Konstantinos Volanakis – waterline. It’s on view until 31st October.

Casa di Fiori Suites is a truly stunning property designed to respond to its natural environment. It was conceived by its owners and realised by Pantazis Construction, one of the best constructors on the island. The hotel with a guesthouse feel, with its ten amazing suites, has slick lines, a beautiful colour palette reflected on cushions, wall colours, textiles, art objects and furniture. The personal touches of the house blend with Cycladic style.

“Our family owns one of the best flower shops in Athens called ‘Les Fleuristes’ which I really got inspired by. The name of our hotel it is ‘Casa Di Fiori’ which means ‘the house of flowers’ in Italian. I love Italy.” Ms Dertouzou continues. Casa di Fiori Andros Suites is truly magnificent. Each suite bear a flower name, including magnolia, iris and lavanda for example.

Casa di Fiori is a home away from home, thanks to its personal approach. “The Dertouzou’s family already owned this ten acre land. My husband’s grandfather’s house was located on the land and we would come on vacation for a short period of time for many years. We chose to transform this land into a beautiful haven, and to hopefully make more people live wonderful holiday memories that we once had at the Grandparent’s house.”

Satisfying visitors’ comfort and respectful to the natural environment, Casa di Fiori features modern accommodations. Upon arrival, the open welcoming lounge area displays a large roof window letting the sunshine through the entire building. It is adorned with gorgeous Cycladic-style lamps, light touches of green, bouquets, and fantastic art pieces on the walls. “The architect I worked with is Mr. Dimitrios Vaxevanakis and I designed the interiors myself, as it is something I am very passionate about.” The lower floor of the main building features an interior working fountain, reminiscent of Roman architecture. “Mr. Dimitrios Vaxevanakis made my architectural vision a reality. He finished his studies in Greece at the Aristotle University and then specialised in Architecture at Politecnico Universita di Milano and worked in Italy for years.”

All rooms have their own ‘personality’, with amenities ranging from air-conditioning, safe box, toasters, coffee machine, wardrobes, refrigerator, large-screen TV, and a lot more. The suites are comfortable, practical, so well-designed, and with beautiful decor. The Gardenia Executive Suite has a furnished terrace with a jacuzzi which brings the luxurious stay to the next level.

The earthy tones of the two ultra-sumptuous Gelsomino and Oliva bungalows with private pools capture the distinct Mediterranean style. These bungalows, located on the best spot with breathtaking views of Andros’ boundless blue sea and the Tourlitis lighthouse. Guests will never leave these stunning mini-houses. They have kitchens with ceramic cooking hob, plates, cutlery & kitchenware and spectacular chairs and large terraces. The gorgeous little olive tree that decorates the master outside table is the final detail that will make you want to stay in this dreamy hotel forever. Curtains offer full privacy when staying outside.

What’s the best asset of this beautiful hotel? “A combination of everything as we offer comfort, design and marvelous views, luxury, and top services, labeling it as an ‘unforgettable experience’. Especially the breakfast. It is rich, tasteful, different each time. Its presentation is described as a unique experience by our guests. It is supervised by me and looks like a painting. Our visitors taste local products and what makes it even more special are the fruits and vegetables sourced from our own garden.” The breakfast is indeed out of this world thanks to Ms Dertouzou’s arrangement and dedication. It is served on vibrant and colourful plates. Delicious pastries, local cheeses, honey and jam, wonderful egg omelette, creamy mushrooms, hot coffee, and apple cakes baked in the early morning each day by Ms Dertouzou herself, are on the menu. Everything is fresh, local and very ‘haute-couture’ with eatable leaves and flowers decorating the plates. It is absolute perfection.

Celebrities, actors, artists and musicians have all stayed at Casa di Fiori for its discreet charms and absolute privacy. “Mostly, the audience that stay with us are middle aged couple, both Greek and foreign, very elegant and educated. A lot of them return because they understand the quality of our hospitality and services.” Ms Dertouzou makes guests feel so welcome with personal notes left on elegant cards. It’s also worth noting that Casa di Fiori is very welcoming to LGBTQI+ couples.

Guests can relax in the garden with lush vegetation, and nature at its best with pine, olive and cypress trees. Decor includes a large table with Cycladic vases, and comfortable chairs with Casa di Fiori branding, making for the best moments under the sun. Thank god for the Italian straw hats provided by the house too.

What are the green initiatives to protect the planet? “We have installed the first electric car charger on the island. We also use refillable soap and shampoo packaging instead of small bottles. We have selected the green pass programme from our electricity provider, which means that almost all the electricity we use comes from renewable sources. We also recycle whatever visitors leave behind. Finally, we have photovoltaic lights and solar water heaters.” Casa di Fiori is very conscious of the climate emergency and these actions are important.

Looking to the future, Ms Dertouzou adds: “The plan is to expand, to always progress, grow and offer more in all aspects. Always respecting the aesthetics and in harmony with nature.”

Facing the sea with impressive views, Casa di Fiori is also really close to Paraporti Beach and Neimporio Beach. It’s a short walking distance from the center of Chora with its cinema, music festivals and museums. “Firstly, Chora the capital of Andros has 2 cinemas, one is an ‘open cinema’, which change plays very frequently. Also, there is an ‘ancient’ theater that hosts concerts and drama plays. There are the museums and more specifically the museum of contemporary art, the Kydoniefs foundation (art), a naval museum, an archeological museum and a history museum, all located in Chora.” The Archaeological Museum of Andros features amazing finds brought to light by archaeological excavations on the island. It includes a collection of the Geometric settlement of Zagora and sculptures from the Archaic to the Roman era. Most remarkable finds are the Hermes of Andros, a Hellenistic copy of the homonymous statue of Praxiteles that was found in 1833 in Paleopolis.

Service at Casa di Fiori is about excellence, and very professional thanks to Ms Dertouzou’s team management. From the welcoming moments with local delicacies and sparkling wine, daily maid services, and many more services including massages and laundry (optional), it’s genuine and exceptional hospitality. This makes a difference.

“The museums we mentioned before are surely worth it, as well as a cave (Foros in Aladinou village) which is one of the most ancient in Europe (4.5 million years old). The island has a lot of wonderful beaches with very clean waters, some with easy access and some more hidden. Its nature is unique, and it has gained European awards for its excellent hiking paths. Finally, there are villages where you can get in touch with local people and feel more the culture of the island.” Ms Dertouzou continues, generously sharing her Andros tips. A handy list of top restaurants and shops is available in the bungalows as well, making it easy to find the best place to eat in Chora.

With its impressive views, its high attention to details, its tailored breakfast and warm hospitality, Casa di Fiori is the best in Andros, mixing quiet luxury, chic architecture, and ultra-relaxation. The music played throughout the open-air speakers give a real feel for holidays.

Ms Dertouzou’s impressive décor, generosity, and manicured gardens, its practical location, and grand service, Casa di Fiori Andros Suites is the best Cycladic experience.

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