Just in Time for Summer, Two Ultra-Luxe Retreats Debut in Santorini

Nestled beneath the bustling thoroughfare of Oia’s Nikolaou Nomikou Street and perched above Ammoudi Bay is Santo Pure, the first of three gorgeous sister properties by the Santo Collection offering globetrotters a fresh taste of the Cyclades’ most famous island, Santorini. Set against the backdrop of the Caldera, Santo Pure invites patrons to savor the island’s enchanting sunsets from the privacy of their suites or by the expansive infinity pool, negating the need to compete for a prime vantage point with the other two million tourists who visit Santorini each year. Situated west of the majority of the hotels and resorts in Oia, and removed from the clamor and commotion of its busy streets, the spacious Santo Pure resort exudes a serene ambiance that isn’t always guaranteed at a Santorini hotel.

Just in time for summer 2024, two neighboring Santo Collection properties will open, each with its own distinct charm. Santo Mine is an adults-only resort, with 37 individual suites carved into the Oia cliffs on the site of an old stone mine. Private pools and Jacuzzis adorn each suite, offering front-row seats to the mesmerizing panorama of Ammoudi Bay. The suites are serene and spacious, and, most importantly for the fashion set, feature ample closet space. The room’s interior is a minimalist’s dream, evoking a Mediterranean simplicity with khaki interior hues. Bluetooth-enabled speakers and synced TVs throughout the suite help guests unwind day or night. To be so perfectly positioned to witness the iconic Santorini sunset from the privacy of one’s own suite is an undeniable luxury.

For those prioritizing wellness while on holiday, Santo Mine offers an outdoor gym, a top-notch spa (drawing upon the accolades and success garnered by Santo Pure’s Anassa Spa), and a culinary experience centered around fresh Mediterranean delights (many vegetables and herbs served are grown organically on the Santo Collection properties). Exploring the island by foot along the Oia to Fira hike is a must, although not for the faint of heart. It is a proper hike and a great workout, so wear sneakers, bring a Stanley waterbottle, pack an energizing snack, some SPF, and avoid the midday sun. (A pro tip for vacationers interested in lower heart rate zones: a driver can drop you off in Fira, allowing a leisurely downhill meander back to the resort, perfectly timed to reach the Assumption of the Virgin Mary Chapel at sunset — you’re welcome.)

The third sister property, The Villas by Santo Collection, is a bastion of serenity and seclusion. Discreetly positioned, the two four-bedroom villas embrace Cycladic design with earthy hues, exquisite linens, and Athena Calderone–style vessels and decor. Each villa boasts a notably expansive pool, surrounded by native plants swaying in the coastal breeze. A stay at The Villas unlocks exclusive access to a personal concierge service, facilitating arrangements for private chefs and mixologists, spa services, and bespoke yacht and helicopter excursions.

While tearing oneself away from the relaxing allure of The Villas may prove challenging, the most enchanting Santorini experiences often unfold upon its crystalline waters. The concierge can arrange a driver who will (skillfully, and yet, rather hilariously) drive backwards down the side of a cliff to deposit guests at the base of the gorgeous Ammoudi Bay in mere minutes. Here, one can meet their boat charter at the quaint port, or tuck around the corner of the cliff to test out the best-loved swimming hole. As the day concludes, Ammoudi Fish Tavern beckons, where fresh Greek flavors and ever-flowing wine harmonize with yet another mesmerizing Santorini sunset.