3 minute read
The sun-drenched beaches, harbourside tavernas and whitewashed villages of the Cyclades, in Greece, are a holiday paradise. With 33 islands and islets to choose from the hardest part is knowing where to go!
Well, our comfortable, Solos-only hotel on the island of Santorini makes that decision a lot easier. When it comes to dazzling views and things to see and do it’s hard to beat this rugged volcanic island that rises dramatically from the Aegean. Santorini’s original settlements were built on top of the crescent-shaped caldera – where sugar-cube like houses and blue-domed churches line the lip of the caldera and drape the volcanic cliffside.
From our base in Perissa, on the east of the island, you will have access to all the sightseeing, shopping, beach swimming and water sports you could wish for.
Our excursions
There’s a lot to see on Santorini, but you’re in expert hands. From sea level a cable car slides up the mountain to the winding, bougainvillea-draped streets at heart of attractive Old Town Fira, where you can shop for hand-made jewellery, leather sandals and crisp white linen clothes and cool off with a delicious gelato. Our Tour Leader will also be able to direct you to a shaded terrace where you can soak up the views with an ice-cold Mythos beer and the company of new-found friends.
One of our excursions involves a spectacular stroll around the crescent-shaped caldera from Fira to the traditional villages of Firastefani and Oia. The views across the Aegean from this seaside path are breath-taking and Oia, in particular, is known for its spectacular sunsets. The island of Santorini is also home to the archaeological site of Akrotiri, where excavations have revealed a Minoan city buried under ash, following a volcanic eruption in the 17th century BC. For those who prefer sand underfoot there are trips by water taxi to red, white and black beaches.
You’re in great company
Our holidays are tailored by experts for people like you, who love travelling but prefer to explore in the company of likeminded people. A tour leader is by your side on every trip and will join you on excursions and for dinner at local tavernas. If you just want to relax on the beach or go for a wander in Perissa the Villa Maistrali is a short walk from town.
Your home-from-home in Santorini
At the end of a day’s touring how better to relax than with a dip in the rooftop plunge pool at Villa Maistrali? Mr Drosos and his family will give you the warmest of welcomes to their intimate family-run hotel, which is close to the shops, bars and restaurants of the Blue Flag black-sand beach at Perissa. The rooms and public areas are decorated in pretty pastels and you’ll enjoy the luxury of a room to yourself. All you need to do is pack some comfy shoes and your swim wear and go!
