For those of us who are trying to juggle the ever-changing landscape when it comes to emerging from our stay-at-home caves and craving some Vitamin D, there’s finally good news on the Horizon. As countries start their vaccination programmes, destinations like Greece are finally opening up to those vaccinated, COVID-free and those who’ve recovered from the virus and built up some immunity.
This will most likely be the way forward for many countries, but in the UK with the likes of all adults receiving their first vaccination before the middle of this year, summer holiday plans seem to be edging towards reality. How and where we travel, however, will be fundamentally different for many.
Most of the industry is predicting an escape from the crowds, reconnecting with family and going it alone, and with that certain properties are in pole position to welcome a new breed of traveller. One of these, the recently-opened Santorini Sky on the breathtakingly beautiful namesake in Greece, might well be one of the hottest tickets this summer.
Instead of a sprawling myriad of hotel rooms, this ‘hotel villa’ concept features just 6 villas in one location, and two more in a sister development just minutes away, perfect for those wanting to truly disconnect and bask in the Mediterranean sun.
Designed by native born architect Vassilis Zorzos, the property is an Instagram-loving design heaven. Created as ‘yposkafa’ subterranean dwellings, they are private and almost invisible from the street, but benefit from natural cooling in the summer and heating in the winter, and the way the properties are carved out the rock couldn’t be more evident than in the bathrooms where the outdoor showers are literally carved out of the rockface.
This is no rustic man-cave though, these are large and airy, stylish, contemporary hi-tech bolt holes, with electric blinds, huge smart TVs, wireless charging, and the most photographed of all elements, the highest private plunge pools on the island.
Being a collection of private villas, there’s no official reception, or restaurant, instead the friendly staff provide a fresh breakfast delivery every morning, featuring local items grown in their own garden, and have a curated selection of delivery options from some of the best restaurants on the island. There’s even a fully stocked mini-bar in each villa featuring the best local wines.
The sprawling complex is situated over 5 hectares with amazing sunset views, high-up over Santorini, and for those wanting to explore the island, quad bikes can be easily arranged to provide a fun and exciting way to enjoy the island at your own time and in your own way, with easy access from this prime location.
We love the simplistic utilitarian-yet-luxurious design finishes, which feature exposed and polished concrete finishes, beautiful showroom-like lighting features and sustainably-stocked, marble bathrooms and kitchens. Every detail has been considered, right down to the plates and glasses. But by far nothing can beat the panoramic crystal-blue backdrop of the Mediteranean sky, or at night, the starry backdrop to a magical, and very exclusive well-deserved retreat.
Private villas start at 299 Euros per night, including breakfast and airport transfers, www.santorinisky.com
The Big Greek Picture
