ADVERTORIAL • April 2022
The whitewashed village buildings of Santorini have become a visual shorthand for the charms of all the Greek islands. But, of course, there’s so much more to Santorini and neighbouring Cycladic isles, such as Paros, than their dashing good looks. With properties to suit all trips and tastes, all that’s left to ask is, which one’s for you?
Best for: connecting to the authentic Santorinian lifestyle
In mainland Santorini’s pretty mediaeval village of Megalohori, a 400-year-old winery is at the heart of Vedema, which was completely renovated in 2019.
Bed down: Almost a village in and of itself, Vedema has 59 luxury suites and villas loosely grouped around a central winery, and all in the white, clean-lined architectural style typical of the Cyclades.
Chill zones: All the suites and villas have private terraces and many also have Jacuzzis or even pools to complement the shared pool and Jacuzzi areas and gym.
Grub’s up: Restaurants include the atmospheric stone-cellar setting of Alati, with its elevated Mediterranean dishes, and poolside vibes at Pergola.
Epic moments: Spend your downtime being spoiled at the Elios spa or grab the chance to see the island on horseback, or even on a helicopter tour from the hotel’s very own helipad. And a pristine private beach is just a complimentary shuttle drive away.
Top tip: Book a wine tasting session at the resort’s Canava Wine Bar, housed within the 400-year-old wine cellar, which provides a fascinating atmospheric backdrop for exploring the world of Santorinian wine.
Best for: Retreating to a world of your own
Mystique is a distinctive property literally carved into Santorini’s caldera cliffs, and delivers views across the Aegean and the active volcano.
Wellness first: Cobbled paths link its 41 suites and villas, as well as two swimming pools, the organic Elios spa and a well-equipped gym. Yoga and guided meditation experiences are also part of the holistic wellbeing offering.
Getting hitched: Staff will testify that, for many couples, Mystique has been the place to propose, as well as honeymoon. If you want somewhere to pop a question or celebrate that ‘yes’, dining options include Lure by Olivier Campanha, the flagship restaurant of Mystique. A modern oasis drawing inspiration from the Aegean and Mediterranean seas, Lure is set to be the social nexus of Oia. Ask staff to show you the ‘secret wine cave’, too.
Exploring: Venture out to discover ancient sites, climb the volcano, go horseback riding, hike or cruise the glittering caldera at sunset.
Top tip: Make a real retreat of it by booking the Mystery Villa, which includes a private fitness room and a plunge pool.
Best for: volcanic beach adventures
This boutique hotel and private beach club sits on the distinctive black sand beach of Perivolos, in the quiet eastern half of Santorini.
One of kind: Backdropped by greenery, Istoria’s tranquil beach meets the midnight blue caldera waters of the Aegean in exquisite harmony. Its private beach club is the ultimate spot in which to unwind with a wellness-inspired cocktail.
A place to re-connect: Located right on the seafront of the black-sand Perivolos Beach, in the pristine eastern side of Santorini that is still left undisturbed by the visiting crowds, Istoria is inspired by storytelling, deriving its name from the Greek word for story. A new spin on the Greek beachside hotel, Istoria’s design is an eclectic impression of Mediterranean influences with rustic textures and sleek, modern furnishings sitting side by side.
Sandside suppers: The upmarket Mr E Restaurant has an alfresco beach setting, shaded by canvas sails, where diners can sink their toes straight into the volcanic sand.
Top tip: Book the Tarina Suite and you’ll have your own private pool.
Best for: A soothing, sun-drenched getaway
Since opening in 2019, Parīlio has offered distinctly high-end accommodation on the Greek island hoppers’ enduring favourite of Paros.
Designer digs: The glossy-magazine-worthy 33-suite hotel echoes the island’s distinctive block white architecture style, while crafting understated luxury from natural stone materials and a soothing colour palette.
Hottest tables: Dining includes a notably stylish poolside bar, Circe Bar, and the Paros site for the hotel group’s rustic-chic restaurant, Mr E.
Dazzling day trips: Parīlio’s location in a peaceful northwestern corner of the island puts guests within easy reach of the almost cinematically perfect fishing village of Naoussa, and its lively independent boutiques, as well as the crystal-clear waters of Kolymbithres beach, where distinctive rock formations create an unusual beach with natural pools.
Top tip: The Sun Suite offers the luxury of private pool; but you might find the outdoor Jacuzzi of the Uranus Suite just as desirable.
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