Destination Spotlight: Santorini
Destination Spotlight: Santorini
From spectacular scenery showcased in multiple Hollywood films (including the new Mama Mia! Here We Go Again), to unbelievable sunsets over the Caldera, Santorini is reknowned for white washed houses amidst cliffs and blue-roofed churches. As one of the more well-known Greek islands, Santorini is a popular destination for couples and honeymooners due to it's romantic scene. But there's something for everyone on this island, including a variety of beaches to archaeological sites to vineyards. Looking to take in some of the island's best views? Hike along the Caldera rim from Fira to Oia.
To experience local flavors, Fira is home to authentic tavernas where visitors can dine on mezedes (appetizers) and sip on anis-seed flavored ouzo. The island's vineyards of Pyrgos and Megalohouri are known for volcanic wines like the amber-hued Vinsanto and the dry white Assyrtikos, perfect for pairing with the Santorini's grilled fish dishes.
History enthusiasts will want to visit Ancient Thira which straddles a high promontory, and is home to Greek, Roman, and Byzantine ruins. While the Museum of Pre-Historic Thira in Fira has frescoes and pottery on display from the Minoan town of Akrotiri that was destroyed by a volcanic eruption in 1650 B.C.
Time to relax? Santorini's perpendicular coastline offers a beach for every style. The family-friendly Monolithos is backed by rock formations, those looking for windsurfing and jet skiing can head to Perivolos or Perissa, and couples seeking seclusion can hop on a donkey for a trek to one of Oia's initimate beaches along only-in-Santorini blue waters.
5. Grace Santorini
Perched on the Caldera, Grace Santorini is an exclusive boutique hotel providing guests with one-of-a-kind views and sunsets. Rooms and suites have contemporary styling interspersed with handcrafted pieces, while bathrooms have rain showers with mosaic feature walls, and marble carved sink basins. There's a new Champagne Lounge offering Chef Spyros' signature dishes and the finest Champagnes, plus there's a variety of wellness amenities including a fitness area, yoga, and Pilates studio.
Five Star Alliance Perk: All guests making reservations with Five Star Alliance will also receive a welcome gift that includes a glass of champagne and bottle of wine and fruit platter; a private arrival transfer per room/per stay; full breakfast for two daily; and a private yoga class for two per room once during stay.
Check availability at Grace Santorini
4. Canaves Oia Epitome
Featuring all-villa accommodations, the newly opened Canaves Oia Epitome is situated just outside of the cosmopolitan town of Oia, and within walking distance to the beach. Accommodations feature modern Greek styling with a color palette of white, large windows, and pristine linens, accented by amenities such as SONOS speakers, minibars, and Nespresso machines. There's children's amenities, fine dining, a shuttle to town, and daily yoga sessions.
Five Star Alliance Perk: Reservations booked under the "5 Star Signature Package" rate or "Best Available Rate" will also include full breakfast for each guest daily, a welcome gift of fruit and wine, and an 80 Euro food and beverage credit per room/per stay.
Check availability at Canaves Oia Epitome
3. Mystique Santorini
Combining high-end service and authentic local experiences, Mystique Santorini provides an exclusive hideaway in a natural setting. Amidst a legendary location, the property has uninterrupted views of the Caldera and waters of the Aegean. The property's Asian Spa Resort provides "whole being" treatments, and the Charisma Restaurant has open-air dining overlooking the infinity pool with a menu featuring local ingredients.
Five Star Alliance Perk: Reservations booked under the "5 Star Signature Package" rate will also include full breakfast for two daily (also available through room service), one wine tasting for two at Secret Wine Cove and one bottle of Santorini Wine, and a welcome amenity that includes a bottle of local liqueur and traditional sweets.
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2. Katikies The Hotel
Popular with couples, Katikies The Hotel hugs the dramatic Caldera, and offers white washed suites with arched ceilings and majestic Aegean Sea views. A recipient of Travel + Leisure World's Best Awards 2018, the boutique hotel is comprised of a complex of bridges, cubist cottages, and infinity pools. While the Dinner Restaurant consists of just four candlelit tables, and the Kirini Pool Restaurant has panoramic views and traditional Mediterranean dishes.
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1. Canaves Oia Hotel
Perched above the Caldera, Canaves Oia Hotel provides a location convenient to Oia's beaches and tranquil blue waters. The all-suite property mixes 17th century Canaves carved into the cliffside with state-of-the-art amenities and antiques. Designed for guests 13 years of age and older, the exclusive retreat is popular with couples, and offers a Honeymoon Suite with soaking tub and private pool with sea views.
Five Star Alliance Perk: Reservations booked under the "5 Star Signature Package" rate will also include arrival airport transfer, full breakfast for each guest daily, and a welcome amenity that includes a bottle of wine and fresh fruit.
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