The site of an ancient and massive volcanic explosion, the island of Santorini is now one of Greece’s most popular destinations, scattered with whitewashed clifftop villages and surrounded by black-sand beaches. It’s not short on all-inclusive resorts either, so here we’ve brought together some of the best, from romantic retreats to luxury spas overlooking the slumbering volcano.
Orabel Suites offers luxury accommodations overlooking the black sands of Perivolos Beach, where the non-stop oceanfront bars attract a younger crowd. Daily fresh breakfasts are made to order and delivered to your room or poolside, by a chef who bends over backwards to accommodate dietary restrictions. The full range of pampering options is available: spa, jacuzzi, pool and beauty salon. If you’re feeling sporty, Perivolos offers opportunities for windsurfing, jet skiing, scuba diving and beach volleyball.
Originally a 10-bedroom summer retreat, the family-run Anastasia Princess Luxury Residence and Suites now comprises 30 accommodations set back from Perissa’s black-sand beach. Suites are available with their own plunge pools or jacuzzis and the apartments, which sleep up to three, overlook either the pool or the gardens. All accommodations blend the islands’ iconic Cycladic architecture and turkuaz hues with modern touches and designs. The family serves up homemade meals three times a day, and can arrange activities such as cruises, cooking lessons and photo tours.
Kamari’s four-star La Bellezza takes its eco duties seriously: rainwater fills the pool, solar panels heat the water and everything that can be is locally sourced and made, from the beds to the breakfasts. Located metres from the beach, the accommodations range in size from modest doubles to apartments with private pools, and most have either a terrace or veranda balcony. The complex is perfectly appointed for exploring the resort town of Kamari – Perissa’s younger rival – or the Mesa Vouno mountains, where you can enjoy archaeological sites and panoramic views.
The five-star Cavo Bianco provides a classy, tranquil retreat amidst the bars and restaurants of Kamari. Predominantly white, contemporary accommodations are spread over double rooms or suites, the largest of which (The Pool Suite) has two private balconies and an open-air jacuzzi overlooking the mountains. Relax with cocktails and light bites around one of two saltwater pools, pump iron at the gym or treat yourself to something soothing from the spa’s massage menu. Kamari’s black-sand beach is a three-minute stroll from reception.
The Smaragdi Hotel offers great value accommodations in Perivolos, just a flip-flop away from the town’s boisterous beach. Its 32 rooms and suites centre around a pool and jacuzzi area, where you can lounge with drinks and snacks from the bar. Alternate these poolside sessions with time spent in the lively hangouts of Perivolos (which has some of the best nightlife on Santorini), or on hotel-organised jaunts such as horse riding, hiking, helicopter tours and wine tastings. Beauty treatments, therapies and massages are available on request.
Romantic outings such as sunset cruises and luxury yacht experiences make five-star La Mer the ideal couples’ retreat. Its accommodations range from Standard Rooms to suites with their own jacuzzis, all of which are characterised by a minimalist take on the chunky Cycladic style. Onsite amenities include three outdoor pools, a superb Mediterranean restaurant and a pampering centre with treatment and massage rooms. The black sands of Kamari’s beach are metres away and it’s a five-minute walk to the town centre. Fira, Santorini’s clifftop capital, is a 15-minute drive away.
Meltemi Hotels is a luxury chain that takes its name from the Aegean’s strong summer winds. Its flagship establishment is the Meltemi Village hotel in Perissa, where classically designed rooms cluster around one of the biggest outdoor pools in town (complete with its own bar).
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