Santorini’s reputation as the home of outstanding white buildings, blue-domed churches and unparalleled views over the Caldera has made it one of the world’s most popular destinations.
Millions of visitors arrive every year to see this unique Aegean island with its distinctive geography and vivid history. But popularity has its price and finding the place to stay in Santorini that suits your needs can be a real challenge. When two or more cruise ships are moored at the same time in the little port bellow Fira the hordes of tourists that populate the narrow streets during the day make for a very congested and stressful experience. To recapture the magic and the calm that made the islands of Greece so special is just a matter of making the right choice as to where to stay.
Nestled in the east coast of Santorini, the village of Vourvoulos has long been a favorite of those seeking to enjoy the island without having to contend with the crowds that fill up the caldera’s edge. If the western part of the island receives the majority of the attention, the center of Vourvoulos and its environs have a more authentic character, offering a wealth of traditional Cycladic architecture, vineyards, farmlands and unique local restaurants.
Staying in Vourvoulos insures that you will experience Santorini the way many locals do, having a spectacular view of the sea as your background, while at the same time being a short drive away from any of the island’s highlights.
A stay at Venus Sunrise will allow you to maximize your time in Santorini. Located on the eastern edge of Vourvoulos, our suites boast unrivaled panoramic views of the Aegean Sea. Unlike other Caldera-side hotels with private balconies facing the center of the island, which are usually crowded with people taking pictures, at Venus Sunrise you will have the entire sea landscape to yourself, while enjoying the utmost privacy.
Knowing when to do what in order to make the most of your experience in Santorini is key. As most day-trippers and excursions will only manage to spend a day or two in Santorini, the most crowded periods are usually between late morning and late afternoon. While these are the best times to see the unique scenery centered around the Caldera, by staying at Venus Sunrise you will be able to capitalize on the alternative and less busy periods. You will be able to enjoy a leisurely and private breakfast on your private balcony in Venus Sunrise while taking in the magnificent views of the Aegean. Then, and until the peak hours pass, you can explore some of the island’s fascinating archaeological sites with plenty of time to spare. As soon as the next morning comes you can relax at the hotel and enjoy some well-deserved free time during the busier hours.
When it comes to accommodation, the best place to stay in Santorini is without question in the region of Vourvoulos. Unlike most other parts of the island where only restaurants and souvenir shops can be found in the village, in Vourvoulos you will find a more authentic side of Santorini with a unique flavor.
The local produce from Santorini’s volcanic soil, including cherry tomatoes, white eggplants and local wine can be found in abundance in the region. A local tavern will welcome you with traditional Greek specialties made with ingredients from local farms. The spectacular views of Santorini can be enjoyed from sunrise to sunset facing the Aegean Sea.
When it comes to choosing where to stay in Santorini many people make the mistake of thinking that the only way to enjoy the island is from a caldera-side hotel. While these have their charms, they also entail long and tiring walks along the main thoroughfare to the village in the evening.
Panagiotis Inglesis is the co-owner and General manager of Athina Luxury Suites, along with his wife Mrs.Artemis Argyrou. Together they had a vision to create one of the best boutique hotels in Santorini and today they continue their vision…Athina Luxury Suites is considered one of the top hotels on the island.