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I am never ashamed to admit this. Oh mom It was one of my favorite movies in high school. Beach parties. Pure crystal water. That Love Island energy. It was all like that. A dreamer. Once traveling was safe again, there was only one place I wanted to be: relaxing on a Greek beach – and feeling like number one.
My teenage dream came true on a recent vacation to beautiful Santorini, the supermodel of all the Greek islands. Located in the Aegean Sea, Santorini is famous for its sun-bleached buildings, ‘gram-worthy pink bougainvillea and stunning panoramic views. The island has amazing beaches, nightlife and (of course) food. Think: fresh feta drizzled with olive oil, juicy tomatoes bursting with flavor and crisp white wine.
There is paradise and then there is Santorini. For ELLE Escapes I’ve rounded up some of my favorite places to eat, drink, stay and experience the magic of the island. There’s a reason they did it. Mamma Mia 2—Once you visit Greece, you will definitely want to come back again.
Symposium Cultural Center
The virtually untouched (car-free!) village of whitewashed houses and mysterious wooden doors, Megalochori is a hidden treasure for those interested in Greek mythology. Housed in a vintage wine shop, the Symposium Cultural Center is an immersive experience that blends ancient storytelling and music. At the symposium you can visit a live band, a traditional artisan workshop, a beautiful garden and a cafe serving local wine and beer.
Catamaran pleasure boat
The best way to see Santorini? Of course by boat. Santorini sailing offers unique access to the island’s most popular spots without having to run through the crowds. Hop aboard one of the catamarans, snap a photo or two, and your blood pressure will drop in no time as you cruise the red sand beaches and volcanic islands in the middle of the caldera. While on board, the crew cooks a delicious local lunch, Greek salad, homemade tzatziki and freshly baked bread, so come hungry.
Agios Nikolaos Church
The dusty road to Agios Nikolaos It’s treacherous and steep – but well worth a visit with proper footwear. The humble church, built into a rocky cliff, has the traditional bells you see all over Greece. Turning down to find Agios Nikolaos (and it can be difficult to find the right warning) you pass a cobblestone step and on the right there is a hole in the white volcanic ash that looks out to sea. . The cut is called “Heart of Santorini”. Two amazing attractions, one hike.
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Always
Dinner in a 400-year-old wine cave? Not wine! (Sorry, had to.) Alati is a Mediterranean restaurant with fantastic fresh fish and local libations. With an innovative seafood menu, Alati offers a unique (and very romantic!) dining experience by candlelight. Try the grilled white fish and Greek salad made with the island’s famous cherry tomatoes. The carefully selected wine list features selections from local vineyards, and don’ts not at all Skip the dessert. Pavlova will change your life.
Lur restaurant
Helmed by celebrity chef Olivier Campanha, Lure is like a restaurant experience. Nestled on the stunning hillside of Oia, the heartbeat of Santorini, Lure is an upscale Greek restaurant that is, without question, the most romantic spot on the island. Here’s the receipt to prove it: During a recent dinner at Lure’s, I saw a beautiful proposal being dropped on a nearby table.
Rakhi
For a casual lunch spot, consider Rakhi in Megalochori Village. To get there, you’ll walk under the famous bell tower of the Church of the Virgin Mary and pass locals playing card games on picnic chairs. In Megalochori’s main square, Raki stands out for its outdoor tables set under spectacular bougainvillea curtains. The staff treat me like I’ve been here for years, and the traditional Greek food is some of the best on the island—especially the feta with honey and sesame. Wash it all down with a shot of oz.
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Gavalas Winery
The Gavalas Family Winery is one of the oldest and most famous wineries in Santorini, specializing in the region’s unique bottlings. Gavalas is also the only winery in Santorini that certifies rare indigenous varieties such as Katsano and Voudomato. The result is a clear, airy and fragrant Greek wine. Gavalas offers intimate tastings and tours, with a staff member explaining the unique process of making each variety. Self-guided, the experience takes about an hour, and reservations must be made in advance.
Franco’s Bar
A celebrity hotspot, Franco in Fira is one of the best places to watch the famous Santorini sunset. The bar, which plays classical music on loop, has a spectacular terrace view over the Aegean Sea. Skip the food and opt for something from Franco’s long list of creative cocktails and aperitifs instead. The ouzo daiquiri is a standout.
Theros Wave Bar
Theros Wave Bar on Vlichada Eros beach has been voted one of the best beaches in the Mediterranean – and for good reason. Far from the crowded beach clubs, you might think Santorini is the ultimate place to hang out in paradise—with a drink in hand.
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watch out
While many of Santorini’s luxury hotels cling to the cliffside, Vedema is tucked away in the medieval village of Megalochori. Less popular than Oia and Fira, Megalochori has fewer tourists and all the charms. During a recent visit to the property, Vedema’s manager told me that celebrities like Beyoncé choose Vedema for their Santorini stays because of its quiet location. In addition to personal luxury, Vedema offers free parking, a shuttle service, and a helipad—plus several pools, bars, and restaurants. Front desk agent Pavlos is the perfect guide, helping with boat trips and reservations at traditional pubs.
confidential
The Mystique is a luxury hotel in Oia that features two sparkling pools, a spa and the amazing on-site restaurant Lure. If you are looking for a romantic getaway, Mystique is it. The retreat offers unparalleled—and unobstructed!—private ocean views. Additionally, most rooms have private jacuzzis, pools, or both.
Adronis Concept Wellness Resort
Located in Imerovigli, Andronis boasts private terraces and infinity pools overlooking the Aegean. What sets this property apart from other hotels is its focus on health and wellness. Guests have access to a yoga floor and world-class spa with private rooms, Tibetan body treatments and massages.
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Corrus Santorini Wine Velvet Skin Drink
Get a makeup bag essential for your trip. A lightweight and hydrating serum with resveratrol (an antioxidant found in grapes and red wine!) that works overtime to improve texture and complexion. Use as both part of your skincare routine and as a primer before your makeup.
Who says Santorini blue has to be only for the domes in town? Get inspired and grab this cobalt polish with gray notes for your vacation mani.
Want to make your eyes really shine? Invest in a quality white eyeliner like this one from Glossier. The buildings of this beautiful city are white and alive, and now your lids are too!
Rose is a senior editor at ELL covering features and projects on women’s issues. She is a skilled and compassionate narrator and editor who excels at finding unique interviews and extracting compelling features.
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