Sea Captain’s House
Santorini, Greece[view map]
Local restaurants
Sitting on the caldera, Archipelagos (+30 22860 23673) has stunning views out to the volcano and islands. It is one of Fira’s best restaurants, and does tasty Greek/Med food. Ask for a sea view. A Mr & Mrs Smith favourite is Vanilia (+30 22860 25631), located opposite the old church high on the cliff in Firostefani. Sit downstairs for intimacy, and upstairs for the view. There are good Santorinian wines on the well-chosen wine list; Nikteri was our favourite). Highly respected 1800 (+30 22860 71485) occupies a traditional sea captain’s house on one of Oia’s narrow streets. For an early supper of sublime fresh seafood, head to the bustling fish tavernas at the Ammoudi port below Oia. Our pick of these is Kyra Kantina. Another beachside recommendation is the contemporary Sea Side Lounge (+30 22860 82801), at the very end of the Perivolos beach, on the right-hand side. A classic family restaurant is Nikolas (+30 22860 24550) tucked in one of Fira’s back streets, next to Enigma nightclub. Be prepared to queue for the privilege of eating with the locals. On the road to Kamari you’ll find barbecue heaven. Taverna Kritikos is famous for its lamb chops; just don’t expect luxury. Depending on what time you visit, you’ll be surrounded by Greek families, local farmers and their wives, or glamorous professionals.Worth getting out of bed for
A daytime or sunset catamaran-sailing excursion, including barbecue and transfers to and from the marina. The hotel can arrange for a shared sailing trip, or your private own private charter. The best beaches on this small island are Perivolos and the ‘naturist’ beach at the Baxedes area, called ‘Kolombos’. Party beach is the Perissa area.