Words by Jonathan Chambers
A hotel supermodel, centre stage on the most stunning of the Greek islands, Villa Bordeaux is a once-in-a-lifetime destination in a staggeringly beautiful setting. This grand yet intimate establishment is immaculately presented, boasting unrivalled views, fine dining, and one of the world’s most spectacular infinity pools. All this while catering for just a handful of guests in a limited number of ultra-exclusive suites. This hotel encapsulates the very best of the Santorini experience.
Hotel
“Everybody behind, nobody in front”; a slogan of Villa Bordeaux that neatly captures what’s unique about this hotel. The Venetian-style, recently renovated villa building stands out proudly in striking Terracotta and cream; against the grain of the surrounding establishments all dressed in the traditional white limewash. It’s perched marvellously right at the front of the volcanic cliffs, giving unequalled views. All competing properties are well out of eyeshot as you gaze out; It’s just you, the beauty of the Santorini caldera and nothing else.
The villa, located in central Fira, is certainly imperious but with a graceful form, having been thoughtfully restored from an historic 19th-century structure to give its present-day neoclassical look. The architects drew inspiration from the island’s Venetian past, and that air of refinement and superiority translates into the design. The windows to the views beyond are the most eye-catching artwork in the lobby. Indoor and outdoor spaces flow seamlessly and the restaurant’s herb garden will entice you down to the lower levels where you’ll find the signature, panoramic infinity pool: the envy of all hotels within view and quite possibly the best on the island. Service is immaculate as befits a hotel of this status.
Rooms
This is a super-boutique hotel and there are just four suites on offer here. Each has been given its own individual character through bespoke minimalist design and art pieces to suit each room layout. The abundant hotel amenities are tucked away behind wooden panels and all have state-of-the-art environment control with the press of a touchpad in any room.
The most sought-after suites have views directly over the caldera and the lower floor suites have private plunge pools. Hidden lighting and underfloor heating give a cosy warmth to the stonework that might otherwise feel a little cold and unhomely. Other notable features include rainwater showers, huge backlit vanity mirrors and Bang & Olufsen speaker systems. Additionally, all the suites can be connected for the ultimate, enormous private villa rental.
Food and drink
The origin of the Villa Bordeaux name is perhaps perplexing at first but is in fact connected to the exclusive restaurant that it hosts: La Colline, the only fine dining restaurant on the island that’s rooted in classical French cuisine. Head chef Jerome Coustillas has global Michelin-starred experience that he poured into La Colline’s sister establishment in Moscow of the same name. The hotel’s owner identified Coustillas as the perfect man to found the new restaurant here and the hotel was christened to reflect their love of French cookery and wine.
The menu hasn’t simply been lifted from a Parisian salon however, there is a strong Mediterranean influence inspired by the native cuisine: a variety of traditional ingredients grown on the islands make their way into the dishes. Expect virtuosic creations that reflect the surrounding landscape, including the EU trademarked ‘volcano’ dessert! The al fresco seating along the front of the dramatic pool also gives an other-worldly experience at sunset.
To do
Santorini is well known as a lovers’ retreat and seemingly the number one activity is to gaze back and forth between your partner’s eyes and the vista beyond. There are however a few cultural activities conveniently on the doorstep: The old port, with a charming little harbour and taverna-style restaurants, sits directly below, down 500 winding ancient steps. Additionally there is a cable car or you can take a (controversial) donkey ride. This is the starting point for many private cruises and boat tours of the Caldera, including visits to the natural hot springs and sunset charters.
Fira, being the central capital town, is best placed to get around Santorini. The most famous blue domes of Oia are a 20min taxi / bus trip away. Alternatively, you can set off on a beautifully scenic three-hour hike along the cliffside trail, which gives a rare moment of privacy on this crowded island. The international airport and main ferry port (for onward travel to the other Cyclades) are also similarly nearby.
We strongly recommend visiting at the beginning or end of the season (late spring/early autumn) as the crowds in the height of summer are infamous and do detract from the special experience of the island.
In a nutshell
Villa Bordeaux is the perfect destination for a Santorini stay that is unsurpassed when it comes to luxury and exclusivity.
Factbox
Suites start from around £725 at the beginning of the holiday season (May to October).
Address: Villa Bordeaux, Agiou Mina, Thira 847 00, Greece
Phone: +30 22868 88018
Email: info@vbs.gr
Website: vbs.gr
