Athens’ award-winning Baba Au Rum bar will be opening its doors at the Grace Hotel in Santorini on April 15, marking the beginning of a unique and exciting summer season.
Thanos Prunarus and the team of Baba Au Rum, a leading multi awarded Rum & Cocktail bar in downtown Athens, are getting ready to introduce local and international visitors to 363 Bar by Baba Au Rum- redefining the fine drinking scene in the Cycladic islands, by creating an exclusive range of cocktails for their guests to enjoy while overlooking the famous Caldera.
Baba Au Rum’s Signature Cocktails
“One of the best bars in the world travels to the Cycladic island overlooking the Caldera to elevate evenings with premium cocktails, curated by the spirit connoisseur himself and offering a fantastic experience in the Cyclades’ most beloved Grace Hotel Auberge Collection,” announced management at the Grace Hotel.
Along with the opening of 363 Bar, Grace Santorini also welcomes the exciting launch of Varoulko Santorini, with Michelin star chef Lefteris Lazarou getting set to serve his famous dishes including the exquisite squid with pesto Genovese, an emblem of Lazarou’s creativity, as well as the humble monkfish.
Grace Hotel is an exclusive boutique hotel in Santorini, perched above the world-famous Caldera with breathtaking views and breathtaking sunsets. Innovatively refurbished rooms and suites showcase a contemporary style, combining cutting edge, bespoke design alongside traditional handcrafted pieces whilst the luxurious bathrooms offer double vanity units with marble carved basins and spacious rain showers with mosaic feature walls.
Sporades Islands became increasingly popular right after the release of ‘Mamma Mia!’. You see, the fictional Greek island of Kalokairi with the turquoise waters and the bleached-white beaches that viewers fall for is nothing else than a curated concoction of scenes from Skopelos island and from Damouchari beach in Pelion.
But while Skopelos is the centre of the action, the visitability of the neighbouring island of Skiathos increased as well, all the more so because it lies just half an hour away and tourists can kill two birds with one stone by visiting both of them even within the same day.
Skiathos is a romance-infused destination mirrored in the number of weddings and honeymoons that take place here culminating in August each year. The island combines everything newlyweds are looking for in a honeymoon: secluded beaches, luxury hotels, fine dining and lots of romantic spots to enjoy the sunset. It is quite possibly the ultimate couple’s destination without breaking the bank!
Here’s our guide for a romantic getaway to Skiathos!
Welcome drinks at Bourtzi
Start married life and set the tone of your visit to Skiathos with a few drinks at Bourtzi. Bourtzi is an old fortress set on a small peninsula that extends into the sea between the old and new port of Skiathos Town. It was built in the 13th century and has since saved the island many times against its enemies and pirates’ attacks. Nowadays, Bourtzi hosts one of the best bars in town. It has great cocktails and nibbles to eat and it also offers the best airplane spotting and sea views. Don’t forget to take a selfie in the toilet mirrors (hint: there are no mirrors just endless sea views, something visitors adore about this place!).
Agios Nikolaos Church and Clock Tower
Getting to Agios Nikolaos Church just before sunset is one of the best things to do when in Skiathos. To get there you climb around 100 steps through century-old alleyways, past jasmine-filled gardens and the occasional stone-built bar that has bougainvillea-covered walls. It is all worth it though as once you are on top you have the best panoramic views of the town, new and old port.
Romantic dinner at Scuna restaurant
Scuna is the place to go for a romantic dinner by the seaside. We visited on our second night on the island, after a long tour around the beaches on the north side of Skiathos. We were ravenous and eager to find a quiet spot for dinner and this place did not disappoint! The food was exceptional, there was a chef’s touch in every dish and the whole restaurant vibe was full of Greek aromas with dried oregano bouquets hanging from the ceiling and Greek wine bottles on display.
Visit Skiathos Kastro
Not everyone wants to relax on a sun lounger for their honeymoon. Why not do something different and visit one of the oldest and most historical sites on the island, instead? The Kastro (castle) of Skiathos are the ruins of a medieval fortified site on a rocky setting lying on the northern side of the island. It was founded in the 14th century and its main purpose was to save the locals from pirate raids. From the day it was built, it was occupied by Venetian and Turkish rulers before it was given back to the Greek people in the 19th century.
Unfortunately, Kastro has been abandoned and left to its own fate for many centuries and as a result, nowadays only two churches have been saved (Gennisi tou Christou and Agios Nikolaos).
A visit is well worth it, any time of the day as you get the best views of the sea waves crashing on the rocks and the vastness of the Aegean Sea.
Walk around the port
Skiathos has a long port that is divided into three different areas: there is the old port, the Municipal Port and the Paraliakos port with the best views of Chora!
Explore the old port, which is located right next to Bourtzi, and have a few drinks at the local bars while watching the travellers chatting to the organisers of the island hopping day trips. Here, is also the place to book your tickets and take a boat to go to Lalaria beach is accessible only by sea.
The Municipal Port is basically the main port and the one you see when arriving on the island from the Greek mainland. This is the base for the lifeguard and also where the majority of the island’s restaurants are located. All ferries depart from here and this is where ferries to Skopelos depart from.
Last but not least, is the Paraliakos Port which is basically a stretch of the Municipal Port. As it is on a curve, it offers fantastic views of the main port and Chora.
Papadiamanti street
Papadiamantis Alexandros was an influential poet and Skiathos native. His work tells the story of people in 19th-century rural and urban Greece with adventures set around the Mediterranean and rich plots involving captivity, war, pirates and diseases.
His house (turned into a museum) is on the main cobbled street of the island, which locals in his honour have now named after him. Being the Highstreet of the island there is a good selection of clothing stores, bars and souvenir places to explore. On a night out, the street is so crowded, that you will potentially stumble upon people over and over again so it’s best to visit during daylight.
The island beaches
Just like any other Greek island, Skiathos has plentiful stunning beaches to visit but there’s no doubt that the most beautiful ones are on the northern side of the island. Somehow, these are the less-visited ones, too, making them ideal to visit if you prefer something quieter and less touristy.
Renting a motorbike is something that I highly recommend before you go on a beach exploration pilgrimage as some beaches are difficult to get to by public transportation or even a car.
Even though the most famous beach on the island is Koukounaries, closely followed by Lalaria beach, we opted for the less-visited ones like the magnificent Troulos, Kanapitsa and Krifi Ammos. Try having breakfast at Troulos beach with the pair of swans greeting tourists every morning as they swim in the sea, a truly unforgettable experience!
Iera Moni Evangelismou tis Theokotou
This monastery is a must-see when visiting Skiathos. The impeccable views of nature and tranquillity of the place will make you feel relaxed and content regardless of your religious beliefs. Try visiting in the afternoon when there are not so many visitors and enjoy the company of the monastery cats giving you a tour of the place!
Shopping in Skiathos
Skiathos has plenty of seasonal, summer stores that sell anything from hand-knitted scarves to white linen dresses and handmade olive soaps. Allow yourself to get lost in the cobbled streets and have a look around the shops. Don’t forget to say ‘hi’ to the locals, they are always up for a chat.
Skiathos nightlife
Any antonym of the word ‘boring’ would describe Skiathos nightlife! There are nightclubs, bars, beach bars and late-night tavernas scattered all over the place offering the best in music, entertainment and cocktails. If you are indecisive just go for a walk through the old port, pick up a place with the comfiest seats and order a drink! The views of the port, attentive staff and sea breeze will make you fall for it.
Some extra tips:
-Book your accommodation as early as possible. Unlike the other Sporades, Skiathos Island had only one town, Chora, with not so many places to stay on the rest of the island.
-Rent a motorbike, the best way to explore the island and get the best experience.
-If you are staying for more than a week, then consider a day trip to Skopelos with the ferry boat. It’s a short ride and totally worth it.
Assouline’s new hardcover book brings the Greek Islands to life using glorious colourful photography and text that gives a real sense of nostalgia.
Curated by Athens-based businessmen/ art collector/ restaurateur Chrysanthos Panas, and photographer/ travel writer Katerina Katopis-Lykiardopulo- the latest book in Assouline’s collectible travel series captures the unique spirit and mythology of the Greek islands.
From the Cyclades to the Dodecanese, the new hardback book celebrates the beauty, serenity and diversity of the Greek islands- showcasing a range of stunning beaches, natural landscapes, rich history, and friendly locals- making it a lovely gift for those who escape to the Aegean at every opportunity.
Beautifully presented, readers are invited to explore over 300 pages that are filled with authentic architecture, ancient ruins, cliffside monasteries, volcanic rims, striking azure waters, and a laid-back Greek island vibe- depicted in the striking images and carefully chosen words that will have you mesmerised for hours.
“Venturing on an Odyssey of their own, the author and the photographer boarded a traditional Greek sailboat and set out to capture the calming atmosphere, quintessential characters and breathtaking architecture of these gems of the Aegean. A spectacular journey re-created in the pages of Greek Islands,” says the publisher.
We take a look at some of the best Easter holiday destinations around Greece that you really shouldn’t miss!
Lamb on the spit, folk music, free-flowing wine and plenty of good “parea” and “kefi” -add to that a beautiful location with interesting Easter traditions and you have yourself a wonderful trip to look forward to!
Patmos
Greece’s holiest island, where St John the Evangelist wrote The Apocalypse, is especially ideal at Easter for fans of Greek Orthodoxy. In the picturesque Chora you can see the local re-enactments of the Last Supper and Washing of the Disciples’ Feet; during the liturgy, a priest from the monastery of St John the Theologian, who re-enacts the role of Jesus, disperses water droplets on the legs of two monks, representing Christ’s disciples, after which there is a procession through the town. On Easter Sunday on the Dodecanese Island, it’s well worth attending the atmospherically rich Second Resurrection church service, during which the gospel is read in seven languages.
Leonidio
Leonidio, a seaside town in the eastern Peloponnese, carries out the unusual tradition of releasing hundreds of balloons into the sky at midnight on Holy Saturday, as soon as the priest chants ‘Christ has risen’ (Christos Anesti). The tradition, which began in the late 19th century, is vibrant and colourful, offering a unique experience that even schoolchildren are involved in preparing from the start of the year. The town’s Epitaphios (the funeral bier of Christ, containing a large icon depicting the burial of Christ and heavily decorated with flowers) processions are also very scenic, as locals decorate streets with thousands of bitter oranges (between 2-3,000) that have been hollowed out and lit from the inside with candles. On Easter Sunday Leonidio holds the Feast of Love ceremony in its main square with Tsakonian dances and more balloons released into the sky.
Monemvasia
Also in the Peloponnese is the magical seafront fortified town of Monemvasia, where on Good Friday the epitaphios procession passes through the medieval cobblestone roads past candle-lit chapels and houses, including the once governor’s mansion (during the Venetian era) Ardamis Guesthouse. Throughout the Easter period, in Monemvasia, you’ll hear the echoes of church liturgies echoing through the streets. On the afternoon of Easter Sunday, the town carries out a tradition of re-enacting the burning of Judas, usually in a captivating ambience.
Image by Polina Paraskevopoulou
Rhodes
The island of the Knights has an Easter tradition that involves tree stumps being gathered and stacked into a huge pile of wood that is set alight on Holy Saturday, a few hours ahead of the Insurrection ceremony. Called ‘Kalafunos’, this ritual represents the burning of Judas.
Kalamata
Not for the faint-hearted, Kalamata’s ‘Saitopolemos’, a ‘war’ of lit cardboard tubes filled with gunpowder- is famous Greece-wide for how loud it gets, how long it goes on, and how many people choose to participate despite annual accidents and even deaths. Thought to date back to the end of the Ottoman occupation and honouring Greeks who fought in the War of Independence, the event is certainly polemical. In Kalamata the burning of Judas tradition is actually a blowing up of Judas and takes place in the areas of Avramogiani and Rachi.
Corfu
Famous for their clay pot-breaking tradition, Corfu’s locals annually enjoy (often joined by Greek and foreign tourists) throwing their water-filled vessels, decorated with red ribbons, off balconies onto the street, where they smash into smithereens. The custom, thought to have begun during the Venetian occupation, is followed by a musical procession by the Ionian island’s brass bands, with a performance of a musical piece titled ‘Fear Not, Greeks’.
Hydra
One of the jewels of the Saronic Gulf, Hydra makes a great Easter getaway. The island enjoys a unique tradition of having the epitaph enter the sea on Good Friday in the fishing village of Kaminia, which is 10 minutes from the main port. This tradition is a way of blessing the waters and the seafarers. After the procession, people gather around to eat seafood in nearby tavernas and houses.
At a tranquil bay on the island of Patmos, you will find a breathtaking 19thCentury beach house that’s been beautifully restored and designed for guests to unwind, relax and take in the stunning sea views.
Within steps from Merikas Bay, the seafront villa “Merikas” is ideally located- as it’s just a three-minute drive from the island’s port and 10 minutes away from Chora, allowing guests to easily explore the island.
Inspired by the traditional architecture of Patmos, this exceptionally designed house offers guests privacy, tranquility, and all the modern comforts- without losing its authentic and traditional charm.
With respect to the island’s rich history and culture, the beach house has been carefully restored using mostly local materials and the chic interiors and decor (designed by the talented Studio Krokalia in collaboration with Studio Pale) include boho style furniture and decor pieces custom made by local artisans.
The holiday villa features one bedroom, two bathrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, a dining area and a separate living area that opens up to a beautiful terrace- where guests can enjoy the majestic views of Merikas Bay and Skala harbour.
Upstairs is where the spacious bedroom is found, with an ensuite and a private balcony. There are also two sofa beds in the living room- sleeping four guests in total.
The property also offers an outdoor garden dining area, BBQ, private parking; as well as WiFi, laundry, and a fireplace for those who wish to stay here in the cooler months.
Combining simple elegance, tradition, comfort, and privacy, this holiday home is perfect for a summer stay in Patmos.
Rhodes, the largest Dodecanese island, officially launched the tourism season for 2022 on Sunday March 27, with the first charter flights landing at Rhodes International Airport “Diagoras” and hotels opening their doors to welcome international visitors.
Nine flights were scheduled for Sunday bringing tourists from Frankfurt (Germany), Bristol (UK), Bergamo (Italy), Stansted (UK), Charleroi (Belgium), Manchester and East Midlands (UK) and finally, the last charter arrived from Bologna (Italy).
A total of 38 charter flights are expected to arrive on Rhodes in the last few days of March while many flights are scheduled to arrive in the month of April.
Rhodes is one of Greece’s most popular all-year-round destinations thanks to its beautiful beaches, clear waters, castles and ancient civilisations, as well as its gourmet restaurants and traditional tavernas serving local delicacies.
Home to one of the best-preserved medieval settlements in the world, the Old Town of Rhodes has been declared a Unesco World Heritage Site; as well as the Colossus of Rhodes- a statue of the Greek sun god Helios, erected in the city of Rhodes in 280 BC- it is one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
Greece’s leading carrier Aegean Airlines currently has three direct flights from Athens per day to Rhodes, and there is one overnight ferry route from Athens to Rhodes, which is a 16.5-hour trip.
This spring the stunning island of Spetses will be filled with a retro vibe during a long weekend featuring vintage adventures, a nostalgic atmosphere, and special tweed appearances.
From the 15th to the 17th of April 2022, Spetses island will welcome guests- from all around the country and the world- for a unique “Weekend in Tweed”. The special event, run by the Poseidonion Grand Hotel in collaboration with the Hellenic Bicycle Museum, is a celebration of classic English glamour- with participants filling the hotel and village square with their retro bicycles and vintage attire.
Paying homage to old-world charm and traditions, Spetses is the ideal destination for this unique event, as the stunning island is renowned for its aristocratic feel and cosmopolitan aura.
And with the sweet spring weather being the perfect time to enjoy such an occasion- plus the all-time classic character of the Poseidonion as a backdrop- visitors are invited to enjoy a three-day event dedicated to a whimsical journey through time- full of evocative activities and memorable moments.
Over the weekend, guests will be able to hop on a classic bicycle and enjoy a leisurely ride around the island; stop off for a charming picnic in the blossoming nature, and experience afternoon tea at the Poseidonion Grand Hotel- all while parading in their elegant outfits and tweed attire.
The long weekend will also include plenty of delicious delicacies and famous signature dishes from Poseidonion; plus a range of surprises including a beauty pageant highlighting the best dressed, an atmospheric party, and special awards.
About the Hotel
Poseidonion Grand Hotel first opened its doors in 1914. This stunning building has become a famous landmark on Spetses island, a favourite spot for affluent Athenians and international jet-setters. The striking hotel occupies a prime seafront position and is one of the first things you spot as you arrive on the Saronic island.
Details
If you would like to dress in your best vintage/ tweed outfits and take part in this charming journey through time during “A Weekend in Tweed”, contact Christina Lagkadianou on-
Rhodes, Symi, Kos and Leros are some of the Dodecanese islands that are included in a new 42 million euro project for the protection and preservation of their archaeological sites and historical monuments that date back to Medieval, Byzantine, and Ottoman times.
The Greek Minister of Culture and Sports Lina Mendoni announced the new project, that will be financed by the Recover Fund, during a recent visit to Rhodes’ Medieval Town.
“Care for our smaller islands is of utter importance. Apart from the 16,800,000 euros that we secured for the restoration and reopening of the National Theatre of Rhodes, there are now many other projects that we have secured for the Medieval City, which will be of huge benefit not only for Rhodes and the Dodecanese,” said Minister Mendoni.
Medieval Town of Rhodes
Works will be completed in Rhodes, Kos, Kalymnos, Leros, Symi, Halki and Agathonisi.
“The cultural project that’s being launched today on all our islands is unprecedented. In the first phase, works will be completed in Rhodes, Kos, Agathonisi, Leros, Kalymnos and all the other islands will follow after that with prioritisation and above all abundance of interest and care,” said Regional Governor of the South Aegean, George Chatzimarkos added.
Projects include the creation of an integrated historic centre in the Medieval settlement of Rhodes, as well as the development of an open-air museum at the Medieval port, and the maintenance and restoration of the Rejep Pasha mosque.
Kos will see a restoration of the Neratzia Castle and the early Christian baptistery of Agios Ioannis; as well as works on the Defterdar mosque and the Purification Fountain, plus reconstruction of an Italian arcade and the creation of an open-air sculpture gallery at Nerantzia Castle.
In addition, Kalymnos’ Venetian windmills will be restored; Leros will see a former hotel in Lakki restored; Symi will have its bell tower at the church of Agios Ioannis Prodromos restored; whereas the Panagia Horiani Church and Archaeological Museum in Halki will have works done.Lastly, works will also take place at Agathonisi’s Thematic Archaeological Museum.
Greece is blessed with a multitude of therapeutic mineral-rich thermal springs, most of them in magnificently scenic natural locations. We list them here so they can be included in your travels, because who doesn’t want to enjoy the many and profound benefits of these waters?
Treating illnesses by soaking in mineral springs, known as balneotherapeutic was first recommended by ancient Greek physician Herodotus. The therapeutic practice was later confirmed by Hippocrates, who fastidiously studied the qualities of different types of water and their healing properties. Upon discovering the benefits of hot springs, the Romans made the thermae a life art, creating beautiful bathhouses and elaborate rituals.
Lake Vouliagmeni, Attica
Just 45 minutes (25km) drive from the centre of Athens you’ll find Lake Vouliagmeni, a popular swimming spot where the waters are at 22-29 degrees C year-round. With loungers (and in summer umbrellas), a café-restaurant, playground and scenic views, this is a great place to enjoy the curative benefits of hot springs (which emerge from 50 to 100 m depths). TIP: Be aware of the little «Garra Rufa» fish in the lake, which may offer wonderful peeling action but that some swimmers find bothersome!
Pozar Thermal Baths, Pella
In Macedonia, the birthplace of Alexander the Great, the Pozar Thermal Baths are immersed in naturally beautiful surroundings. Go there for the therapeutic hot springs, natural pools and rivers with thermal waters – at 37C (98F) – plus a network of natural and artificial waterfalls. Here you can choose between outdoor springs and numerous indoor private baths as well as spa facilities, a hammam and jacuzzis. The waters here are particularly popular among sufferers of rheumatic, respiratory, gynaecological, circulatory and dermatological ailments. Near the baths, you’ll find plenty of places to stay, eat and entertain yourself. In winter you can combine the steamy springs with skiing on nearby Mt Kaimaktsalan.
Methana
Widely unknown, this volcanic peninsula not only has 120 types of orchids growing naturally there but is also where you’ll come across white-turquoise waters found in the village of Vromolimni (literally translating at the stinky lake) enriched with sulphuric hot springs and steam geysers near the old inactive crater. Pausanias, the ancient Greek traveller, wrote that these warm springs appeared after a volcanic eruption near Methana during the third century BC.
Krinides, Kavala
A popular spa destination since Byzantine times, Krinides has a beautiful blend of thermal waters and clay mud, offering the ideal beauty and health experience. Averaging at around 29C, the water here is thought to help treat or alleviate rheumatic, dermatological, musculoskeletal, gastrointestinal and urinary problems, and visitors are encouraged to meet with the on-site physician before dipping so that a proper course of action can be advised. On-site, you’ll also find a hammam and massage therapies.
Agia Paraskevi, Halkidiki
Soak in a large indoor-outdoor pool or individual bathtubs with lovely open views of the sea at the Thermal Spa Agia Paraskevi in Halkidiki where the combination of sea and spring waters are at around a soothing 38C and thought to be curative for psoriasis, and urinary problems, joint inflammation, neck and back problems and the respiratory system. On-site, you can also enjoy swimming pools, saunas, Hammam and hydromassage.
Loutraki, Corinth
Known as Thermae during ancient times, Loutraki is a seaside town that has never ceased to be a major thermal springs destination. There, you can enjoy thalassotherapy, spa treatments and more.
Lesvos
The volcanic island known for its petrified forest, Aristotle, the poet Sappho and delectable Kaloni salt-baked sardines among many other admirable features has a rich variety of coastal and in-land hot springs such as Thermi, Panagia Kryfti, Eftalou, Geras and Polychnitou, which have been used for their many healing properties since ancient times. It’s worth visiting all of these places to get a full thermal waters healing experience.
Edipsos
A spa destination from the times of Plutarch and Aristotle until today, this coastal town is where you’ll find around 80 mineral-rich springs (especially high in magnesium, calcium and iron and at a temperature of 30-70C). For a more luxurious and medically sophisticated experience head to the Thermae Sylla Luxury Hotel & Spa where there are large indoor and outdoor pools with thermal and sea waters as well as numerous spa treatments using the curative waters and mud.
Ikaria
One of the reasons that Ikaria was listed as one of the world’s four Blue Zones is because of its radon-rich thermal springs that have been known about since the 1st Century BC. Visit the salt-water springs at Therma, reputed to have the highest radon concentration, absorbed into the body through breathing its vapours), as well as Lefkada, Spileo, Asklipios and Kratsas, where the waters are at a temperature of 38-40 degrees C. The waters in Ikaria are believed to help treat dermatological problems, respiratory ailments, gout, gynaecological issues and chronic fatigue.
Limnos
Not easily accessible by boat, and thus not heavily touristic, this volcanic, northeastern Aegean island famous for its beautiful beaches and wines is where you’ll enjoy the springs of Therma Ifaistou, located in a lush landscape and known since the Homeric period. During the Ottoman occupation by Hassan Pasha in 1770, a Hamam bathhouse was constructed. The water is at a temperature of between 39-43 degrees C and is thought to help treat issues such as spinal problems, osteoporosis, rheumatic pain, arthritis and kidney stones.
Kamena Vourla
Head to Maliakos Bay where the town has several springs such as the Springs of Aphrodite and in the rock pools at Koniavitis. The therapeutic salt waters (at a temperature of 38-40C) have been enjoyed since the 1920s for their high levels of radon and minerals. The waters are reputed to help treat respiratory, rheumatic, spinal, arthritic, joint, dermatological, gynaecological and prostate problems as well as to help alleviate migraines, insomnia, lethargy and depression. Visit the springs at beachfront Galini Wellness Spa & Resort and Hotel Violetta for a more pampering experience, where spa treatments are also available.
Boasting uninterrupted views of the Aegean Sea and the beauty of the surrounding landscape, this stunning holiday villa in Serifos is the perfect getaway for those seeking privacy and tranquility.
Located in Kalo Ampeli, the property is just 200m from the sea, and a short drive and walk to a beautiful sandy beach that’s considered one of the best on Serifos island.
The elegant stone villa, which also has two smaller guest houses, is built on the cliff and sits poised over the sea overlooking the gulf of “Kalo Ampeli.” Offering maximum privacy and complete Cycladic ambiance – the villa and houses can be rented separately or together upon request.
The villa, which is a perfect mix of traditional and contemporary architecture features open and airy spaces with an array of windows that offer natural light and provide breathtaking views from each room. The master bedroom leads onto a terrace with panoramic views of the Aegean Sea.
Inside, the holiday home is adorned with stylish, modern furniture and appliances. The lounge is the ideal place to unwind after a day in the sun- with a comfortable sofa and a fireplace. There is also a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, and WiFi throughout. The kitchen is very well equipped, allowing guests to prepare breakfast, lunch or dinner at their leisure- and the dining table seats eight.
Outside on the large rustic chic balcony, guests can dine alfresco, or relax with a glass of wine in hand, as they enjoy the evening sunsets – or the majestic sea views in the morning.
The holiday home is in a fabulous position for summer getaways as Kalo Ampeli beach is close by and is one of the best protected beaches on the island; other wonderful spots for swimming include Ganema, Vagia and Psili Ammos, which has previously been named one of the best beaches in Europe (20 minute drive). Guests can also visit some nearby museums, old mines, sea caves and in 15 minutes you will arrive at the island’s centre, the Hora, and the Livadi village, where you’ll find a range of shops, restaurants, cafes and bars.
The home is ideal for both adults seeking a quiet and relaxed vacation, or for large groups of friends who want to enjoy quality time together while exploring all Serifos has to offer.
Qatar Airways has announced it will launch flights direct to Santorini, starting June 7, 2022- just in time for the peak summer season.
This famous Greek Cycladic island will be Qatar Airways’ third Greek route along with Athens and Mykonos. The airline will also relaunch its seasonal flights to Mykonos during the same week.
The three flights per week will operate every Tuesday, Saturday, and Sunday.
“We are pleased to add Santorini to our global network in 2022, with this exciting new destination joining Athens and Mykonos to become our third gateway to this beautiful country. This expansion will further solidify our relationship with Greece,” said Qatar Airways CEO, Akbar Al Baker.
The Qatar flights will be operated by Airbus A320 aircraft, with 12 seats in Business Class and 132 seats in Economy Class.
The schedule is as follows:
Saturday and Sunday – Doha (DOH) to Santorini (JTR) – departs: 7:50 arrives: 12:20
Born and raised in Santorini, George Sigalas, owner of Above Blue Suites and Amber Light Villas welcomes thousands of guests from around the world each year to his island home. Here he shares his favourite places to eat and drink in Santorini- where visitors can experience great hospitality and taste fresh produce from all around the island!
Your favourite places to eat out?
There are many good spots but I would recommend Kira Katina in Ammoudi for seafood, Anogi in Imerovigli for traditional island dishes, and also Metaxi Mas in Pyrgos, for the famous Rakomelo.
Metaxi MasAmmoudi Bay
Best brunch spots?
In the morning I like to head to TERA NERA in Perivolos as well as GaliniCafe Restaurant.
Finest gelato on the island?
For ice cream- Chill Box in Fira and Lolita’s Gelato in Oia.
Lolita’s GelatoTerra NeraGalini Cafe
For an aperitif or a cocktail?
In Fira, you will find the famous Enigma and Mamounia bars, where you can enjoy a drink and music, as well as PK and Tango Bar.
Coolest beach bars in Santorini?
Wet Stories and Yalos– you can’t go wrong at either!
YalosWet Stories
Finally, must-try local dishes/delicacies?
Santorini Fava, Domatokeftedes, a traditional Santorini salad (with local wild capers), and fried white eggplant. Tip: don’t leave the island without having a glass of Ouzo, while enjoying fresh, local seafood by the sea.
