In the southeast of Santorini, Istoria offers its guests a refreshing perspective on the island's magical sunrises. Instead of the classic caldera view, you can expect an authentic black sand beach right on your doorstep and an in-house tavern full of Greek delicacies. A beautiful black slate pool and a huge pool bar continue the list of highlights. With only twelve minimalist suites with balconies and some with private plunge pools, the atmosphere is relaxed and unpretentious without ever becoming boring. The concierge is happy to arrange activities such as horseback riding, hiking, pottery classes, wine tastings, yoga classes, and boat trips around the island.
Each of the twelve suites has its own charm – starting with their names, which always stand for the word "story" in languages ranging from Finnish to Esperanto. All accommodations share a cool, simple design with pale walls, vaulted ceilings, a seating area, and wonderfully comfortable beds. All also offer a comfortable outdoor area – depending on the category, either a walled terrace with a plunge pool or whirlpool, or a balcony – and sun loungers. The bathrooms are equipped with double sinks, showers, and Greek toiletries. You can enjoy a particularly beautiful sea view in the largest suites of the hotel: Storia and Conte.
At the relaxed Mr. E tavern, you can enjoy modern Greek and international dishes in a chic outdoor area with sandy flooring. Breakfast is also served here or on the terrace – be sure to try the fresh smoothies, cakes, and cookies. Snacks by the pool and on the beach include delicacies such as ceviche, lobster hot dogs, and vegan burgers, while dinner offers tasty options such as typical Santorini fava, octopus carpaccio, and traditional Greek moussaka. The huge bar is located right by the pool and offers every spirit imaginable as well as innovative cocktails that are worth trying. If you prefer something more classic, the wine list features a variety of wines for which Santorini has been famous for centuries.
First and foremost, the hotel impresses with its 30-meter-long black slate pool, which, surrounded by olive trees and protective walls, is a true oasis of calm. The discreet Elios Spa also promises heavenly relaxation: treat yourself to one of the many massages, wraps, and rituals, which use only organic and regional resources. The black volcanic sand beaches of Santorini are not for everyone, which means they are rarely crowded – visit the nearby Perivolos Beach, where you can sunbathe or take a romantic ride by the water. The concierge is also happy to arrange hikes, pottery classes, wine tastings with sea views, private dinners, sunrise yoga classes, and jet ski or boat trips around the island.
Where the black sand of Perivolos Beach meets the deep blue caldera waters of the Aegean Sea lies the charming boutique hotel Istoria. Modern Greek chic permeates the entire property: structured minimalism with materials that reflect the volcanic landscape is complemented by muted colors and blue accents. Details such as black stone water troughs, vaulted ceilings, and the occasional leather bridle are reminders of the building's past as a horse stable. As a counterpoint to the cliffside hotels and sunset crowds in the northwest of the island, Istoria offers peaceful sunrises and barefoot luxury at sea level.
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