The seemingly endless sunsets. The azure water lapping onto ancient beaches. The allure of Oia, with its high-end shopping and exclusive restaurants. The reckless abandon of Fira, and the permission you give yourself to hit a nightclub no matter your age. These attributes mark the essence of a magical island that never loses its glitter, its glam, or its glory as one of the world’s most iconic destinations.
Once you’ve decided to make the trek, the most important next step is planning where to stay. This decision will make or break your trip because, as anyone who has been to Santorini knows, getting around can be backbreaking. Our advice? Make a list of attributes that are important to you:
1. Privacy (The island is marked by a series of paths, and unless you plan it right, unscrupulous tourists will be obstructing your view.)
2. Location (Right up there with privacy, and this is key: everything is seemingly hanging off the side of a cliff. Know your limits.)
3. Amenities (Duh. Number one and two on our list are endless bottled water and endless unique local wines.)
4. Pool (This island is a scorcher, and getting to a beach is not always as easy as it looks.)
5. Internet access (Just double check — at a minimum you’ll want to confirm that the nanny has a handle on what’s going down back at the manse.)
Once you’ve perfected your punch list, you’ll likely find the Iconic Santorini, a boutique cave hotel, to be the preferred option. Situated on a spectacular hillside setting and literally carved from the historic volcanic caldera wall, Iconic is a haven of tranquility.
Named Greece’s Leading Boutique Hotel for 2014, 2015, 2016 and 2017 at the prestigious World Travel Awards, it’s nearly impossible to find an equally serene retreat that offers the same grace, elegance, and breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea below.
Each room and suite is unique, featuring personal veranda seating high on the island, making the location perfect for those who don’t want to be too tucked away. Spend your downtime relaxing in the crystal waters of a dreamy outdoor infinity pool, sunbathing on the caldera sun terrace, or sampling local delights at the on- property authentic, home-style restaurant.
Schedule your up-time with the knowledgeable staff. From authentic Greek dinners to personalized excursions, guests receive unrivalled service and personal care.
That is, of course, if you even want to leave your room. Each residence is exactly what you’d expect from a luxury Santorini hotel: traditional cave accommodations combined with the finest in contemporary amenities and authentic Greek styling. Exquisite bedding is complemented by luxurious Aesop bath products for peace of body. For peace of mind, you’ll find reliable Internet, dining on personal terraces, and international power plugs.
There’s a reason why Santorini is consistently named among the most romantic islands in the world. It currently holds the third place ranking for The Most Romantic Islands in the World and ninth spot for the Best Islands in the World in the list of Condé Nast Traveler’s Readers’ Choice Awards. It’s entirely likely that Iconic Santorini is among the reasons why.
Iconic Santorini, A Boutique Cave Hotel