SANTORINI is the Greek island famed for its Cycladic architecture – pristine white villages with organic curves and blue-domed churches clinging to the cliffsides, which, in the age of social media, have become a popular backdrop for Instagram selfies.
But there is so much more to this stunningly rugged island. The people are warm and kind in a way that is more akin to those from the Middle East than frosty Europeans. Cleaning ladies hug and kiss your children and the man in the car-hire kiosk goes out of his way to help you – even at midnight when he’s had to wait an extra hour because your flight was delayed.
Infinity pool overlooking the Aegean
The locals welcome you to their small land with sincerity and pride. Santorini whispers its millennia of isolation and self-sufficiency in the dramatic farming terraces cut right up to the mountain peaks and the wide expanse of sea surrounding it. The food is exquisite and no dish is the same in two places – hinting at family recipes handed down with their own unique secrets.
Undoubtedly, the most popular spot on the island is the gorgeous old town of Oia, where throngs of tourists compete for space during the famously beautiful sunsets. But we were lucky enough to have no competition for our sunset views as we stayed at the palatial Villas by Santo Collection, close enough to enjoy the beauty and life of Oia but able to retreat to our own secluded sanctuary.
One of the villa’s many stunning lounge areas
There are two stand-alone, four-bedroom villas that are interconnected and can also be used as a single eight-bedroom villa. Each villa has its own infinity pool, two jacuzzies, outdoor kitchen and fire pit, private gym and sauna as well as an indoor kitchen and three luxurious living rooms; plus, all bedrooms are ensuite. The interiors are beautifully styled in white and sandy hues to reflect the colours of the island and all rooms on the top level have unobstructed views of the Aegean sea.
The outdoor kitchen
Guests benefit from the concierge and reception services of the nearby Santo Mine and Santo Pure resort and the villas are just a 12 minute walk from the famed Ammoudi Bay, where restaurants serve the catch of the day by the waterside with dramatic views of Oia perched on the clifftop above. This is one destination that my heart truly felt sad to leave.
by Nicola Kavanagh
Lush villa is available from £2,000 per night