ADVERTORIAL • May 2024
Dreaming of a boutique hideaway, backdropped by the blue of the Aegean? These luxury stays in the Cyclades deliver on every front. Think cliff-perched infinity pools, barefoot beachfront dining and suites with some of Greece’s loveliest sea-meets-sky views…
Mystique, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Santorini
In a nutshell A dazzling, sea-framed hideaway, perched on the caldera’s edge.
Location The town of Oia, whose sugar-cube houses and blue-domed churches cling to the cliffs. Endlessly photographed, it’s lovelier still in real life.
The clientele Romantics basking in those pink-and-gold sunset views; anyone craving calm (it’s over-14s only).
The rooms Cave-chic, with show-stealing, sea-facing terraces. For an infinity pool with volcano views, check into a Holistic Villa.
Where to eat The flagship restaurant, Lure, showcases local produce, whether it’s wild mushrooms from Samos or sweet Symian shrimp. Come lunchtime, feast on lobster rolls on Charisma’s sunny terrace.
What to do Explore Oia’s twisting, bougainvillea-swathed streets, retreating to the hotel when the crowds get too much (instead, catch sunset from the pool bar, a mezcal margarita in hand). Feeling newly energised? The concierge can arrange anything from hiking to horseback rides.
Don’t miss Taking time to unwind, whether it’s with a sunrise yoga session or Korres Wild Rose ritual in the spa.
Vedema, a Luxury Collection Resort, Santorini
In a nutshell A calm, cocooning slice of Cycladic village life.
Location The whitewashed village of Megalochori, surrounded by emerald vineyards in Santorini wine country.
The clientele Travellers keen to see the real Santorini, with zero compromise on style; families who appreciate the spacious suites and poolside children’s menu.
The rooms Set around a 400-year-old winery, Vedema’s 74 suites and villas are a masterclass in understated luxury, with painted wooden shutters and spacious private terraces, some with sun-dappled private pools.
Where to eat By day, snack on crudo with capers and sun-dried tomatoes by the pool at Trataro. For dinner, head to candlelit Alati for refined dishes with authentic Greek heritage.
What to do Sail past the cliffs and caldera, bask on the black-sand beach at Perivolos, or stroll Akrotiri’s evocative Bronze Age remains. Come the afternoon, head to the cool of the spa or flop by your pool of choice.
Don’t miss Breakfasts here are the island’s best, running from brioche French toast to buttery kagianas – scrambled eggs with local tomatoes, feta and kalamata olives.
Istoria, a Member of Design Hotels, Santorini
In a nutshell Barefoot beachfront living – and a calmer side of Santorini.
Location In the southeast of the island, away from the caldera and crowds, by the black volcanic sands and turquoise waters of Perivolos beach.
The clientele Honeymooners hiding out from the world; design aficionados snapping selfies by the show-stopping pool.
The rooms 12 coolly minimalist suites riff on natural tones and textures. Think cool stone floors, original beams and tranquil terraces and courtyards – some with hot tubs, others with private pools. With a veto on under-14s, it’s all pleasingly sleek and grown-up.
Where to eat On the sand-floored, canvas-shaded terrace at Mr E, leisurely breakfasts segue into unhurried lunches (try the feta-dotted watermelon salad) and evening feasts that are big on seasonal ingredients.
What to do Time-travel back to the Bronze Age at Akrotiri, explore the island’s capital, Fira, or laze the days away by the striking, green-tiled pool.
Don’t miss Drinks in the exceedingly chic sunken bar by the pool, whether it’s a crisp glass of local white or a chia-laced mid-morning smoothie.
Parīlio, a Member of Design Hotels, Paros
In a nutshell Sun-dappled serenity, far from the tourist trail.
Location The northern coast of Paros, which – until recently – flew below most travellers’ radars. Now, everyone’s talking about its pretty villages, monasteries and beaches.
The clientele Clued-up travellers keen to find a new favourite island.
The rooms The 33 suites are beautifully simple and considered, with embroidered wall-hangings, capacious beds and geometric terraces. Need more space for the kids? Some rooms can be connected.
Where to eat At Paron, Aegean produce is handled with a focus on sustainability and zero-waste cooking, serving up a menu of redefined Greekness. Go for the Parian Salatouri – lobster from the island of Alonissos paired with traditional Parian mirmitzeli pasta, Cycladic shrimp with a hibiscus and sour cream.
What to do Stroll to the beach at Kolympithres, with its sandy coves and sculpted granite boulders, or drive to the island’s capital, Parikia, famed for its Byzantine church. Really, though, Paros is about slowing down, so claim a lounger by the cross-shaped pool or lose track of time in the spa.
Don’t miss The whitewashed harbour town of Naousa, with its boutique-dotted alleys and buzzing sunset-cocktails scene.
All holidays with British Airways Holidays are ATOL protected and include 23kg baggage allowance per person and a 24-hour holiday helpline. Secure your Greek holiday to Vedema, a Luxury Collection Resort, Parīlio, a Member of Design Hotels, Mystique, a Luxury Collection Hotel, or Istoria, a Member of Design Hotels now with a low deposit and enjoy flexible payments until you fly.*
*Full balance due four weeks before departure for short-haul holidays. Subject to availability. T&Cs apply. See ba.com/deposits
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