The Greek island of Santorini is one of the most premier destinations in the world. With its stunning natural and man-made vistas, Santorini is a must-visit location for any traveler. If you want to visit in style, be sure to stay at a luxurious suite hotel, with private villas along the famous caldera.
The Vasilicos is located in the village of Imerovigli, just north of Fira, and quieter than the postcard view of Oia that exists slightly north. The Vasilicos is tucked into the hillside as a small, family-run cluster of suites carved into the rock, offering private compounds for its guests. There’s no big lobby, no crowd of guests around a pool bar. Once you check-in and are taken to your suite, you feel like you’re the only guest at the hotel. Our stay was in a honeymoon-category suite, featuring cave-like ceilings and whitewashed curves to match the Santorini aesthetic.
Just outside the front door was a large private terrace complete with sun lounges, a table for breakfast, and a small plunge pool. The panorama from that suite was majestic, especially at sunset, when the crowds are elsewhere and you have the view to yourself. In the morning, a delicious breakfast was served on our private terrace, with signature Greek yogurt, fresh fruit, made-to-order eggs, and cured meats. Having our food served to us instead of in a generic hotel lobby was a special touch that made waking up in paradise all the more enjoyable. This level of personal service really separates The Vasilicos from a bigger hotel or resort.
Unlike many hotels, this property itself is the destination. The Vasilicos is designed for lingering, a quiet place to take it easy and enjoy the beauty. There aren’t many shops or restaurants nearby, but you come here for the views, the quiet, and the privacy. The Vasilicos doesn’t feel like just a place to fall asleep, it’s a place to spend an entire day relaxing. Their excellent hospitality, comfort, and seclusion make for a truly luxurious getaway.
If you’re looking to get closer to the screensaver views in the town of Oia, it doesn’t get much better than the historic property of Perivolas. This excellent location is just a short 15-minute walk into the center of Oia. The liveliest area of Santorini, Oia is the spot you want to be in for restaurants, shopping, and its world-famous views. Perivolas is one of the original Santorini cave-like hotel concepts. It was converted from fishermen’s caves into a scatter of suites along the cliffside connected by narrow stone paths. Inside your suite, you enjoy the same whitewashed curves and vaulted ceilings that define the island’s architecture, but stripped down to something minimalist. Inside the room is a king-sized bed, a large couch, and a huge bathroom that features a jacuzzi tub. Just outside is a small, semi-private area simply furnished with a small table and a couple loungers. The view overlooks Oia’s caldera and the gorgeous Aegean Sea.
Outside of your own area, Perivolas’ communal space includes an infinity pool and an outdoor jacuzzi on the edge of the cliffside. It’s a beautiful area to enjoy poolside cocktails while soaking in the Greek sun. In the mornings, you can enjoy your breakfast al fresco at one of the many tables on their property. If you’re looking for some exercise, they have a gym and large lap pool. The property being built into the caldera means the hotel is decentralized, so you can walk up and down different staircases exploring Perivolas and all its amazing features and views. Being able to enjoy the serenity of this deluxe accommodation just minutes away from one of the most famous views in the world is an incredible combination that Perivolas provides.
Both locations are excellent choices for those who want to enjoy Santorini in style. Neither is a standard hotel, they’re quintessential Santorini. Even on one of the most beautiful islands on Earth, these properties themselves are the main event. Being able to lounge at your hotel on the caldera while overlooking breathtaking views is the height of luxury.