Situated in the northern region of the Greek island of Santorini, Santo Maris has become a popular choice for those seeking a resort-style getaway. The five-star hotel, which consists of spacious white-washed villas and serene suites, is a relatively new property in the area, having opened its doors in 2016, yet it has developed a following with those looking for some poolside Santorini sun (of which there is plenty), not to mention the area’s famous sunsets.
Occupying the bustling village of Oia, where visitors will find a variety of little boutiques and restaurants, Santo Maris is positioned away from the crowds, offering a secluded place to rejuvenate. Following an hour or two of retail therapy, shortly after our arrival, the hotel offered some much-needed respite.
Junior Deluxe Suite
Junior Deluxe Suite
Separated into five distinct areas, this is a sprawling resort, sharing the ambience of private apartments, rather than one central hotel. Decorated in a serene palette of creams and beiges, with lush bedding and cosy furniture, each of the 65 suites and villas come equipped with its own kitchenette and living room, as well as a private heated jacuzzi, so you can truly keep yourself to yourself. It did feel particularly indulgent to be able to have a dip at any point in the day, without needing to take more than a few steps from the comforts of our accommodation.
Deluxe Suite
Most recently, the hotel has introduced the Santo Wellness Junior Suites, a new offering that seeks to highlight the powerful healing qualities of nature. This is wellness for those guests who may want to explore self-care options in a gentle way, without feeling restricted. Starting with the rooms themselves, guests will be offered amenities, such as carefully-curated healthy snacks and scented essential oils, which will be accompanied by a programme of specialised spa treatments and outdoor activities.
These new suites have been curated in partnership with Onolla, the natural health and beauty online platform (with a London store) founded by beauty journalist Suzanne Duckett, who advocates for the transformative power that nature can have on our mental, as well as physical, wellbeing. The suites were inspired by traditional “yposkafo” cave-style architecture, staying true to the hotel’s local history, and the cool and calming suite we experienced felt as though it was truly merging with nature, due to its unique structural properties.
Private Sunset Villa
Santo Maris Healthy Breakfast
Continuing with the wellbeing ethos, during our visit we experienced energetic early morning poolside yoga classes, as well as rejuvenating massages in the property’s spa. Although compact, the spa is a success due to its wonderful therapists who are all highly experienced and experts in the field. Anassa Spa has won several awards over the years and, going by the treatments we underwent, it’s easy to see why. The Ancient Greek and Worship My Body massages were, as the names probably suggest, utterly alluring, with the therapists combining different pressures and techniques.
Alios Ilios at Santo Maris
Alios Ilios at Santo Maris
For some Greek-inspired gastronomy, head to Alios Ilios, the hotel’s luxurious al fresco restaurant which looks out onto the sea, offering splendid views as well as super dinnertime dishes. We tried the six-course tasting menu, which allowed us to sample some innovative plates of food, including tender herb-infused lamb (tsigariastó), the famous artichoke à la polita (made with local olive oil and lemon) and a delicious milk chocolate version of the traditional Greek cookie, moustokouloura.
And for that famous Santorini sunset, head over to the poolside terrace with a glass of Greek wine (something from the local Artemis Karamolegos winery, perhaps?) and take in the stunning view.
by Derby Jones
Wellness Suites from €518 per night with a minimum four-night stay. Pool Front Suites from €293 per night.