Volcano View Hotel - Santorini
My long-held affection for Greece, with its many islands, architecture, history, and natural beauty, has always had a special place on my destination list. It would be amazing when I finally saw any of this in person. I recently realized one of my dreams by traveling to the volcanic site of Santorini (officially known as Thira) with its blue-domed churches and smooth-edged sun-bleached houses on both sides of narrow streets and alleys. With no prior experience, my anticipation was high. I especially looked forward to viewing the ancient landscape of Santorini's Caldera formed from volcanic eruptions which produced steep rocks and massive cliffs 3500 years ago, making it the most well-known and famous Greek island surrounded by the Aegean Sea.
Everyone is anxious about finally getting back to vacation traveling. Going on distant journeys can have challenges. I was checked through at my airport and waited in my seat, trusting to take off on time for the overnight flight to Athens. But then came the announcement of a weather delay! Ok. It should pass quickly, I thought. Then another and another. Nuts! Knowing I'd miss the connection to Santorini with a three-hour delay, I had to take it in stride as a well-traveled person should.
Fast forward. Finally landing in Athens, I ran to (hopefully) catch the small connector plane. Nope. It didn't happen. But, with excellent customer service at the Athens International Airport, I was on the way with a new reservation. The next stop is Santorini, and my accommodation of choice is the Volcano View Hotel! I couldn't wait to check-in and start my vacation!
Finally, I've arrived! This luxury hotel is the largest on the island. It is perched high on the impressive Caldera cliffs, overlooking the cerulean Aegean Sea. Ranked as one of the island's best location hotels, it combines absolute serenity and tranquility. I discovered that immediately as I walked down to my room on winding stairs, gazing in awe at the view before me. It took my breath away! I could see why this is the perfect respite for travelers wanting to escape their busy lives. The few nights I stayed were not enough when I would've happily stayed a week or more. Also, the Hotel's guests have access to a shuttle bus which provides easy transportation to the capital, Fire, and all the sights and attractions of Santorini.
I admire the most exemplary Cycladic architecture used in traditional cave houses. The Hotel's owner used this distinct design style to construct the Volcano View Hotel, adding modernity while using minimal decor throughout its 85 rooms and adjoining seven luxury villas with private pools. I felt immersed and couldn't wait to discover more of the many amenities. Included was every night's gift of watching amazing and colorful sunsets as they glowed over the expansive view of the volcano.
If you love a relaxing spa experience as I do, book the private outdoor covered space overlooking the bright blue Aegean pre-sunset. It was easy to surrender and be pampered with an aromatic oils massage. I was lulled asleep by the soft breezes making their way up the cliffs. But waking up to chilled champagne, I happily lingered long enough to enjoy brilliant shades of the sunset's orange and scarlet rays!
Relax with a beautiful candlelight dinner on the property at the Caldera Restaurant. Fresh catch, like grilled octopus, pink sea bream, or sardines (a personal favorite), is available to enjoy. I never passed up having Greek salad (aka Horiatiki, which means Village Salad) made from uncomplicated fresh and seasonal ingredients. Consuming creamy feta cheese, tasty tomatoes, virgin olive oil, cucumber, red onion, and Kalamata olives sprinkled with dried Greek oregano was a dish I looked forward to daily. #HEAVEN! The traditional breakfast each morning was a treat as well. A large variety of full flavors, delicacies, and healthy eating choices was a fantastic way to jump-start my day by touring the villages or lazing around the beautiful hotel setting at one of the three pools bathed in abundant sunlight.
What makes the Volcano View Hotel a delight to stay at, and a significant reason I'll return is the high-quality service provided by the professional staff. Honestly, I felt like a family member almost immediately from checking in to leaving. I tend to make friends in most places I travel to for complete immersion; here was no exception. Many of them were inspirational in conversation, making me aware of the many natural surroundings of this setting.
They included viewing and hearing stories of the ancient volcano. I became blanketed at breakfast in the cool misty morning fog, which was exhilarating, watching it roll in from distant islands. Seeing the town's white-washed buildings up in the hills highlighted by the glowing sun's rays invited me to explore and shop. Also, I was invited outdoors to enjoy impressive wines from area vineyards, mesmerized each night by glowing sunsets. The knowledgeable staff is available to organize daily excursions, including catamaran cruises. I booked a private guided tour with Charis Eleftheriadis, who took me around the island and taught me more than I would've learned by myself. I discovered he is also a professional actor/musician, performing nightly in "A Greek Wedding." And, of course, he is now a new friend!
The Volcano View Hotel is an inspiring quiet destination on its own, or use it for returning to each afternoon after enjoying the bustling fun-filled sections of beautiful Santorini. The timeless panorama of natural beauty from the Caldera's cliffs will encompass you in the sea's overwhelming rejuvenation and the volcano's overwhelming power. You'll find it incredible to be perched here for as long as possible!
Note: In season, which is mid-March through mid-October, the staff here and throughout the islands work a nonstop seven-day-a-week schedule. With tourism as the #1 industry throughout Greece, you'll feel welcomed with open arms inviting you to enjoy all the islands offer. Remember, showing grace, kindness, and respect as a traveler will open the world, making your trip more special and memorable!
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