Searching for the perfect destination for a late-summer luxury getaway? Then look no further than the Greek island of Santorini. This stylish and sophisticated hideaway has become synonymous with style and opulence over recent years, and with its quaint, white-washed alleys and architecture, spectacular sunset viewing spots and all-round glamorous appeal, it’s easy to see why it is now one of the most highly sought-after destinations in Europe.
Katikies Hotels, born of a desire to combine the warm embrace of Greek hospitality with the dramatic beauty of its islands’ unforgettable landscapes, enjoy a notable presence on the island, with five hotels in total for luxury-seeking travellers to choose from.
With its domed rooftops and rich history, Santorini is a destination that every discerning traveller should visit at least once, and the esteemed hotel group’s collection of spectacular five-star hotels are the very essence of sumptuous authenticity.
Combining enchanting settings with legendary hospitality, the Katikies Hotels– which count a further two establishments in Mykonos – is the perfect choice for those looking to relax and unwind in the true lap of luxury this autumn whilst soaking in all of the charm and beauty Santorini has to offer. Here, we take a closer look at two of the most popular Katikies hotels on Santorini, where glamour and opulence are guaranteed.
Katikies Garden, Santorini
Nestled in the historic town of Fira, the Katikies Garden is an enchanting holiday retreat that is the perfect hideaway for those in search of romance, tranquillity, and all-round luxury. With a nod to the island’s rich history yet with a thoroughly modern twist, this chic hotel, built in Santorini’s old Venetian neighbourhood and on the grounds of a former monastery, takes elements of its history and fuses them with contemporary design, making for a sophisticated and opulent result that the discerning travellers certainly love.
Featuring 40 breath-taking suites in total, each enjoying their own private pools, jetted tubs or gardens and verandas, Katikies Garden exudes an air of exclusivity that doesn’t go unnoticed, and from its expansive infinity pool and blooming florals to its sparkling fountains and quaint alleyways, it’s a place to relax, unwind, and forget about the stresses and strains of life.
An excellent choice for foodies and wine enthusiasts alike, the hotel offers an impressive culinary experience at the Selene restaurant, which dishes up delectable Greek fine dining-style dishes under the watchful eye of Michelin star chef, Ettore Botrini.
With its emerald hues and rose-coloured accents, the restaurant draws on fresh, local produce to present a memorable all-round dining experience based on rediscovering and promoting the culinary treasures of the island. After dinner, you can explore the hotel’s ancient wine caves or book yourself in for a cooking and tasting class the following day – the perfect way to fully immerse yourself in Greek cuisine and wine and go away with some new skills of your own, too.
For rest and relaxation, head to the A.SPA which, with its four lavish spa suites, offers an intimate experience that aims to restore the balance between mind, body and spirit. With a choice of decadent treatments including massages, facials, and Mediterranean rituals, each with a side of Ligne St. Barth’s sumptuous plant-based, all-natural products, it’s a chance to truly unwind and find a sense of calm.
Rooms and suites are a fusion of cosy alcoves and elegantly appointed features. The Katikies Garden Pool Suite is the cream of the crop, comprising a comfortable and spacious bedroom with a separate living area and a private pool, sun loungers and garden – as well as offering spectacular ocean views that will take your breath away.
This year, the brand-new Luisa World Boutique opened its doors on site, offering eclectic and sophisticated men’s and womenswear from designer fashion houses including Saint Laurent, Valentino, Dolce & Gabbana and Celine – so those looking to restock their wardrobes and fully embrace island style will be well catered for.
Offering impeccable service at every opportunity and a range of amenities to make your entire experience stress-free, there’s no better place to base yourself for a relaxing stay on Santorini.
Katikies Chromata, Santorini
That is, of course, apart from the stunning Katikies Chromata, which is an equally excellent choice. Perched on the edge of the island’s Caldera – the most iconic sight in the Cyclades and in fact, all of Greece, this secluded hideaway effortlessly fuses glamour and luxury with heritage and history, with a range of modern amenities and highly personalized service ensuring a seamless, five-star experience throughout.
Its Imerovigli location is something truly special indeed, and views from the infinity pool look down over the azure ocean below. Meanwhile, the hotel’s rooms and suites are as opulent as you’d expect, with those who enjoy the very finest things in life able to hunker down in the signature Chromata Suite to make the most of all the best luxuries the Katikies Chromata has to offer. Featuring a sprawling, open-plan living space and a private veranda offering awe-inspiring views over the caldera below, it also includes an indoor jetted tub in which to soak away the stresses and strains of life and restore a sense of inner peace.
The Master Pool Suite and Chromata Infinity Suite offer further indulgence still, with the former including a private splash pool and sun loungers, and the latter presenting an additional walk-in wardrobe for those who like to bring plenty of options when it comes to island attire.
But it’s the Chromata Villa that offers the very utmost in exclusivity, comprising all of this but spread over two floors for complete privacy and seclusion.
When it comes to dining, you’ll be spoilt for choice. The Chroma Restaurant is one of Santorini’s newest flavour havens and can be found poolside, where guests can dine over sunset while taking in the impressive rim of the volcano below. With a focus on light and colourful ingredients with a modern twist, it offers up a mouth-watering menu of modern Mediterranean cuisine – while over at the Chroma Champagne Bar and Sushi, you can expect candle-lit dining under a canopy of twinkling stars, with an impressive menu of decadent dishes where incredible flavours and beautiful presentation are guaranteed.
For a little R&R, guests can access the A.SPA at the nearby Katikies Garden, just three minutes away by car in Fira, or at the Katikies Kirini, just a little further away in scenic Oia.
