Where to stay, explore, and relax.
In recent years, Santorini has become as famous for being overrun with cobblestone lane-clogging tourists as it is for its blue-domed churches and sensational sunsets. So much so that some Aegean island-hoppers might be inclined to skip it entirely. But the Cycladic jewel has a sophisticated new hideaway that makes it easy to enjoy Santorini’s beauty without compromise or crowds—even in high season. Below, here’s a Santorini guide for 2025 that offers the beauty and culture of this prime destination with plenty of relaxation to boot.
STAY
The secluded Sandblu resort, which just opened for its first full season in April, is situated on the outskirts of the charmingly small village of Kamari. Only 15 minutes from the airport, it feels worlds away. The property’s geometric, all-white Rockwell Group-designed villas cascade down a rocky hillside abutting Mesa Vouno, at the top of which are perched the ruins of Ancient Thera. The aesthetic is minimalist and instantly calming; wander amongst the resort’s groves of olive trees and fuchsia bougainvillea and feel your cortisol fade. Most of the rooms boast private plunge pools, and all have terraces offering vistas of incalculable shades of blue—perfect for enjoying an al fresco cocktail at day’s end.
Foodie? You won’t need to leave the property. Sandblu offers several dining experiences, including its signature restaurant Nectar, where creative takes on seafood are served under the stars, and Plateia, where you can enjoy modern Mediterranean dishes while overlooking one of the property’s two swimming pools (do not miss the mezze). There’s also a wine bar, Aroma, where the house sommelier will wax rhapsodical about Santorini’s viniculture, especially the Assyrtiko grape, which is the secret sauce in the island’s distinctively mineral and crisp white wines.
TO DO
Soak in Centuries of Culture
No trip to Santorini is complete without a visit to the postcard-perfect village of Oia. Its serpentine streets snake along the cliff tops overlooking the island’s famous volcanic caldera, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As for the tantalizingly picturesque paths, they wind down the mountainside past stark white former fisherman’s homes that have been converted into boutique hotels and holiday rentals. Follow the main drag to the northern tip of the island and feel as though you are floating in the sky.
Take a Hike & Explore
Up for a longer ramble? Boot up for the 6-mile hike from the city of Fira to Oia, which takes you through the scenic village of Imerovigli (less busy than Oia, and just as pretty) and past Skaros Rock, a dramatic natural formation studded with the ruins of a 16th-century Dominican monastery.
Antiquity lovers should not miss the Museum of Prehistoric Thera, which houses treasures plucked from Akrotiri, an ancient city destroyed by a volcanic eruption in 1600 BC (the site of the city itself is a separate attraction, also worth visiting). Known as “the Greek Pompeii,” Akrotiri was preserved by the volcanic ash that buried it, and excavations have revealed astonishing artifacts from Bronze Age Santorini—pottery painted with delicate swallows, dolphins, and flowers; strikingly modern-looking furniture; and a mysterious gold ibex. Perhaps most awe-inspiring are a series of frescoes that depict blue monkeys, flowering papyrus, Minoan women gathering saffron flowers, and young fisherman. Though they are nearly 4,000 years old, the colors remain vivid and gazing upon them may be the closest any of us can come to time traveling.
Staying at Sandblu? A concierge service can book yacht day trips around the caldera, horseback riding excursions, and more.
RELAX
After a day of adventures, return to the peaceful environs of Sandblu. Swim a few laps in the Aurora Spa’s heated indoor pool, sweat out last night’s Assyrtiko in the steam room and spa, then indulge in a 111 Skin Celestial Black Diamond Facial to reverse any sun damage you might have accrued. There is also a special water “journey” with multi-temperature H2O showers activated by movement, and a full menu of customizable massages. Can’t decide? Purchase a spa package and get a different treatment every day. If you still want more, your villa’s mini bar is stocked with celebrity-favorite 111 Skin sheet masks. Try the De-Puffing Cryo Mask when you first arrive, and wave jet lag goodbye.
