Santorini is, for many, a dream destination. With its active volcano (Santorini Caldera), its beautiful cliffside villages, and what I rate as quite possibly the best sunset in the world, a trip to this Greek island is certainly worth the outlay. Because Santorini is relatively expensive; probably the most expensive Greek island in the Aegean, in fact. But do you get value for spending all that money? Not always. Grace Hotel, however, is certainly one of the exceptions.
Located in the stunning Imerovigli village, somewhere in the middle of the island, this gorgeous boutique hotel is part of the Auberge Resorts Collection, with luxury hotels, resorts and residences all over the world. Grace Hotel is perched on the cliff overlooking the Venetian Castle of Skaros, with the heart of the volcano on its left, granting one of the best sunset views on the entire island. It has a large pool, and in total just 23 rooms, including a completely independent villa, and its newest additions, two Infinity Suites featuring private entry, a private dining area, and a private infinity pool, where you are greeted with a bottle of Champagne and sweet snacks made by their pastry chef.
For your first dinner on the island, Varoulko Santorini is your best choice. The summer edition of the Michelin-starred Varoulko Athens, the brainchild of chef Lefteris Lazarou, one of the most prominent Greek chefs, sits on the best spot of the property. Here you can sample a modern take on traditional Greek cuisine, with three menus to choose from (dedicated to seafood) and a very decent wine list, along with cocktails.
Later, make sure you head to the upper level for a drink at their 363 bar (so named because it’s 363 metres above sea level) for signature cocktails curated by the Athens-based Baba Au Rum, one of the 50 best bars in the world. Breakfast is served by the pool, and has five stages, including eggs, pies, smoothies and dessert, different every day.
Service is impeccable and staff working there are always smiling and polite. In fact, I'd class them as a real highlight of my visit. Highly recommended.
The neighbourhood
This part of the island, Imerovigli, is a rather quiet area, making Grace Hotel an idyllic tranquil retreat. Within a small walking distance is a beautiful hike up to the Skaros Rock – once home to a Venetian castle and now to an almost 360-degree view of the Caldera. Make sure you also seek out the small church of Panagia Theoskepasti, a real beauty of Cycladic architecture – great for taking some incredible photos.
Nearby
1. Anogi: For an authentic slice of traditional Greek cuisine. Order dishes with local ingredients, like the Santorinian fava or the fried tomato balls.
2. The Athenian House: For their creative take on local recipes, and their wine list dedicated to Greek bottles(including some of the best local brands – they own one of the largest vintage collections of Santorini wines).
3. Confetti dessert boutique: For homemade gelato, delicious desserts, and anything that can cool you off on a hot summer day.
Time Out Tip
Every now and then the hotel hosts various events in its Varoulko restaurant and 363 bar. They're well worth sampling, especially the local wine-tasting nights, and the live music concerts at the sunset.