Sun Rocks
Santorini, Greece[view map]
Local restaurants
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). Very close to the hotel are Saltsa (+30 22860 28018), for dinner only, in contemporary Moroccan style, and Akteon (+30 22860 22336), a traditional taverna next to Vanilia. 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. Highly respected 1800 (+30 22860 71485) occupies a traditional sea captain’s house of its own, on one of Oia’s narrow streets. For an early supper of sublime fresh seafood, head to the bustling fish restaurants on the beach below Oia. Our favourite is Paradiso. Another beachside recommendation is the contemporary Sea Side Lounge (+30 22860 82801), at the very end of the 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.
Special recommendation 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
Snorkelling, scuba diving and other water sports. Visits to the archaeological sites of Akrotiri, private boat excursions, and private chauffer-driven car excursions. These can all be organised by the hotel
Beach Perivolos is the nearest beach, a 15-minute drive from the hotel.
Diary
Easter If you want to see Greece taking its celebrations most seriously, visit for Greek Easter; the date varies from year to year, but it's always the most colourful event in this country's calendar. April There's a festival in honour of the country's only active volcano. September Santorini International Classical Music Festival (+30 22860 23166).