Oia, Santorini Island, Cyclades, Greece. Twilight, Houses and churches after sunset.
Santorini has been ranked the world's top island by many travel magazines and experts, with over two million tourists visiting annually. And it’s no wonder when you consider the gorgeous white stone villas, private pools and incredible views over the Caldera, the volcanic crater submerged in the Aegean sea. The architecture and landscape of Santorini create a picture postcard setting. Here are five of the best Santorini hotels to enjoy.
Athina Luxury Suites, Santorini
Situated near the quaint town of Fira, on the cliffs of the Caldera with views of the famous volcano, the sunset and the whole island, Athina Luxury Suites is a superb place to stay in Santorini. Recently renovated, the suites feature a minimalist design, and quality amenities. The large heated infinity pool on the clifftop offers wonderful views stretching from Oia to Akrotiri. A bar in the water open all day until sunset is a decadent touch. Other decadent details include Guy Laroche linens, Hermes and Azzaro bath amenities and handmade, eco-friendly mattresses in every suite. Each piece of furniture in the villas has been carefully selected while outdoor furniture is by Vondom Italy. The top villa, the Royal Suite features handmade Greek furnishings from Leontiadis and a large balcony with a jacuzzi.
Grace Hotel, Santorini
A member of the prestigious Auberge Resorts Collection, this lovely hotel was created from two village houses partially destroyed in the 1956 earthquake. The 20-room sanctuary debuts redesigned spaces across the property this year, including a luxurious two-bedroom villa. With the largest infinity pool (22 metres) on the Caldera, the resort features an excellent wellness program, including holistic spa treatments, private yoga and pilates classes. Also launching in 2022 is a new restaurant and bar, headed by Chef Lefteris Lazarou (of Michelin-starred Varoulko in Piraeus) and a new culinary experiences offering to include honey tastings, private sunset picnics and cooking classes with a Greek yaya (grandmother).
Kivotos Santorini
Perched high atop the cliffs in the sleepy village of Imerovigli, this hotel is an architectural gem, admired for its unconventional, bold all-black exterior with and sleek all-black interior color scheme as an homage to Santorini's volcanic origins. Impressive luxury services include butler service and private jet or yacht rental services. Five suites and two villas have indoor or outdoor pools, a hammam and en-suite treatment rooms. The signature suite has a large terrace with a heated plunge pool. This season, the hotel has partnered with award-winning French chef Jean-Charles Mavro Métayer (Le pavillon, Athens) to offer an exciting menu that combines Mediterranean, Greek and French cuisine.
4.Katikies
Katikies Kirini spa hotel, Santorini
This member of Leading Hotels of the World, located right on the cliff edge in Oia has two stunning split-level suites designed in the 18th-century style of a noble family. The façade is painted in pale ochre while the interiors are pale blue and packed with antiques. The other 25 rooms and suites, with sea views and patios, have bright white exteriors you’d expect on a Greek island. Also on site are three infinity pools, an indoor hot tub and a sunbathing deck with open air jetted tub. Therasia restaurant is contemporary Italian cuisine under Greek-Italian chef Ettore Botrini (of Michelin- starred Botrini's, Athens).
Zannos Melathron, Santorini
This characterful boutique hotel was a historic mansion with an attached villa built in the 19th century by local wine magnate Michael Zannos. It has an enviable location in picturesque Pyrgos, right beside the entrance of a medieval castle. Restored by the current owners, the 12 rooms and suites combine traditional and modern decor, including all the luxury conveniences. The hotel has an excellent guests-only restaurant with gorgeous sunset views across the island.
