We love visiting islands for the simple way of life they offer. That couldn’t be truer of Greece’s islands, where the biggest satisfaction can be found on the golden beaches lapped by waves glittering in the warm sunshine. Even the locals live life the uncomplicated way, finding the greatest of joys by catching up with friends and family in a local taverna or picking fresh herbs off the hillside. You’ll be too busy admiring the gorgeous views every island boasts, whether it’s the volcanic beauty of Santorini or the rugged core of Crete. The luxury hotels here embody their eye-popping natural surrounds – here are some of our favourites…
St. Nicolas Bay Resort Hotel & Villas, Crete
Overlooking the glorious Mirabello Bay (Mirabello is Latin for beautiful viewpoint), St. Nicolas Bay Resort Hotel & Villas has ensured every room is angled for the perfect view. If you can tear yourself away from your balcony or terrace for just a second, a stroll around the resort is like a wander around a traditional Cretan village, thanks to its little lanes and understated atmosphere. There’s even an art gallery that showcases the best local art. But in truth, it will be the spectacular sea views you won’t be able to take your eyes off of.
Crete Sunshine Offer
7 nights in a Classic Junior Suite
Half board
Including international flights and transfers
From £1,595 per person
Katikies Chromata, Santorini
There are few things that will hold your gaze for as long as a Santorini sunset. If you want to know the best place to witness one from, your answer is Katikies Chromata. Perched at the island’s highest point, a stay here is like having a front-row view of the crimsons, oranges, yellows and pinks that are splashed across the sky every evening. The word Chromata itself is the Greek for ‘colours’ and while the resort is bathed in pure white, it’s a nod to those legendary sunsets that will take your breath away.
Santorini Sunsets Offer
7 nights in a Standard Double Room
Bed and breakfast
Including international flights and transfers
From £2,765 per person
Katikies Mykonos
Blurring the boundaries between the timeless allure of the Cyclades and the classy vibes of Mykonos, Katikies Mykonos’ sugar-white buildings tumble down the cliffside and look as if they’re going to fall into the spectacular waters of the Aegean. It offers the best of both worlds in Mykonos: a calm cocoon overlooking the golden Agios Ioannis beach but just minutes away from the cool beach clubs the island is known for.
Mykonos Summer Sun Offer
7 nights in a Superior Double Room
Bed and breakfast
Including international flights and transfers
From £3,095 per person
Istoria Hotel, Santorini
Some of the best stories revolve around our travels and the Istoria Hotel (Greek for story) is no different. The former home of a Greek socialite who, thanks to her father’s job as horsekeeper for Greek royalty, had a particular fondness for horses, Istoria isn’t your typical Santorini stay of whitewashed cave-like buildings and stunning views over the caldera. Instead, the resort sits plum on a black-sand beach, a legacy of the island’s volcanic history. The charcoal-hued landscape is reflected in touches across the resort, while several equine references add charming character.
Santorini Beach Escape Offer
7 nights in a Saga Suite
Bed and breakfast
Including international flights and transfers
From £1,399 per person
Katikies Santorini
Unlike Istoria Hotel, Katikies Hotel Santorini Oia sits front and centre in the island’s limelight. It sits right in the heart of Oia, Santorini’s most glamorous address and a whitewashed village you’ll most likely have seen on Instagram. We have good news for you: it looks even better in real life and many believe, with its luxury boutiques and smart cafés, Oia is Santorini’s answer to Knightsbridge. The hotel itself is just as glamorous and it excels with its stupendous sea views, sunset position and its trio of infinity pools.
Santorini Sunsets Offer
7 nights in a Double Room
Bed and breakfast
Including international flights and transfers
From £4,195 per person