New Luxury Lifestyle Resort Opening in Santorini This April

Radisson Blu Zaffron is set to become Santorini’s first lifestyle destination resort – where authentic hospitality is elevated by opulent design, a beach area reserved only for guests, exclusive events, and unforgettable bespoke experiences.

Strategically located near Kamari Beach, the new 5-star resort (which had a soft launch in July 2021, and is officially opening its doors on April 18, 2022) features an exotic, boho-chic ambience with a quintessentially Cycladic architecture. Offering relaxed elegance in an all-suite environment- its unrivalled cuisine, discreetly luxurious accommodation and boutique experiences, allow guests to enjoy an intimate getaway in Santorini, one of the most beautiful islands in the world. 

Featuring 103-rooms, the resort brings a strong lifestyle element to the island via an eclectic mix of experiences, events, and international brand collaborations, as it marks the first luxury hospitality offering from Fais Group; an Athens-based distributor of a vast luxury, fashion and sports brand-portfolio – with world-renowned brands such as Tod’s, Hogan, Salvatore Ferragamo, Philipp Plein, Princess Yachts, KIKO Milano, Under Armour, Adidas, Puma, and Technogym (to name a few).  

Design & Character 

Responsible for Zaffron’s concept design and master plan are Greek-based architects Arc-Set, who wanted to respect the rugged landscape of the island, and at the same time create a relaxing and warm, softly textured haven.

The lobby’s elegant domes and arches, a gentle nod to Santorini’s prevalent architectural theme, are combined with natural materials such as wood and stone, providing an earthy ambience that makes guests feel instantly welcome. The use of domes is also apparent in the interior of the generously spaced 103 rooms, suites, and villas that range from a superior room with a king bed to the presidential suite with a private plunge pool.

Overseen by Designteam | Nikos Theodorakopoulos, the interiors boasts a serene and calming environment with the use of tactile materials, rich textures, and a neutral colour palette. Sustainable wood surfaces are complemented by linen and cotton fabrics, while the walls are adorned with black-and-white photography that captures Santorini’s breathtaking beauty.

Food & Drinks 

With two restaurants and a bar on site, Zaffron utilises gastronomy, international collaborations, and a smorgasbord of authentic experiences to deliver a one-of-a-kind core concept. The fine-dining eatery Zeffirino is set against the backdrop of Santorini’s spectacular views and offers guests an authentic, Italian experience with the use of local produce and much-loved recipes created by the family of Zeffirino Belloni. From homemade, fresh pasta to catch-of-the-day fish courses and the signature Pesto Genovese secret family recipe, Zeffirino’s menu is expertly complemented by a curated wine list that includes local and Italian labels.

For more laid-back moments, Trattoria Belloni offers a choice of classic Italian dishes and comfort food, while the Blu Pool Bar is the place for sushi and signature cocktails. Being a few steps away from the sea, Zaffron also features a beautiful beach setup, with sunset parties as part of its entertainment programme.

Bespoke Experiences 

International partnerships are at the heart of the resort, including a series of DJ events and creative dinner parties in collaboration with leading modelling agency Elite Model Management London. Art is also an important part of Zaffron, where a partnership with world-renowned agency Magnum Photos will include immersive workshops with their award-winning photographers for the hotel’s guests.

At the resort’s spacious spa, guests can benefit from wellness treatments that tap into the healing properties of Greek nature. The spa uses exclusively Korres skincare and beauty products made from natural ingredients inspired by homeopathic remedies and rooted in tradition.

The ultimate indulgence setup features a range of bespoke touches of comfort and practicality, from the moment guests are picked up by luxurious and environmentally friendly electric cars. The switch to pure escapism mode continues with island hopping in the Aegean through private yachts and tailor-made sailing trips into endless sunsets.

Radisson Blu Zaffron Santorini 

A: Apollonos & Makedonias Street, Kamari, Santorini 

Greece’s First Nobu Hotel and Restaurant to Open in Santorini

Nobu Hospitality, the premier luxury lifestyle brand founded by renowned chef Nobu Matsuhisa, actor Robert De Niro and film producer Meir Teper has announced its first hotel and restaurant project in Greece- the Nobu Hotel and Restaurant Santorini- set to open this spring. 

Located on Santorini’s stunning Imerovigli, Nobu Hotel and Restaurant Santorini will, of course, feature the signature Nobu Restaurant, as well as a luxurious spa, fitness centre, two-level infinity pool, and five pool villas that each boasts breathtaking views of both the Caldera and Aegean Sea from its clifftop perch.

The hotel that focuses on unique Nobu food experiences will boast a modern design and stunning spaces inspired by its calm and picturesque Cycladic surroundings. The interior and poolside design will feature minimalist and sleek décor- with a touch of Japanese tradition- that is synonymous with Nobu properties worldwide.

The hotel is 20 minutes from Santorini (Thira) International Airport and sits along the famed hiking trail that runs between Oia and Fira, Santorini’s capital.

With hotels in Ibiza, London, Las Vegas, Los Cabos, and Malibu, the property in Santorini will become the 26th Nobu Hotel worldwide and the tenth in Europe.  

Nobu Hotel 

Images by Christos Drazos | Courtesy of Nobu Santorini