One of the most famous destinations in the world, everyone knows about the views, the volcano, and the sunset, but this is only the tip of Santorini. Discover the culture, explore the island, taste the food and savour the wine. And then, sit back, breath deep, and enjoy the view. That view.
The ruins of Ancient Thira at Akrotiri are remarkable remnants of the Minoan civilisation; the only ones to be found outside Crete. The 1967 excavations revealed an entire city, complete with squares, streets and buildings, sometimes three-storeys high, and with it pottery, artwork- including some extremely well-preserved frescoes – and a highly developed pipe and drainage system with hot and cold running water.
There are a number of Museums narrating Santorini’s history and traditions, ranging from the Museum of Prehistoric Thera, to the Naval Museum and the Museum of Wine. A number of cultural spaces have been created over the past few years by the wealthy families on the island, where temporary exhibitions and performances are held.
Discover the inaccessible parts of the Caldera and the surrounding islands, swim in the hot springs, snorkel and dive off the coast of neighbouring Aspronissi. Enjoy lunch on board, visit the island of Thirassia for coffee, and return home just in time for the sunset. Santorini at its very best.
Long walks in the island’s countryside or along the Caldera cliff will give you a chance to take in the breathtaking views, admire the spectacular geologic features, and photograph the picturesque towns and extraordinary architecture that makes use of the volcanic rock and its properties. You can choose to be walked and talked through any of these aspects of the island, or simply escorted in silence.
Arid yet fertile, Santorini boasts a number of local ingredients such as the renowned sweet cherry tomatoes, the round and very sweet courgettes, and the local aubergines, white and much sweeter than the usual purple ones. Santorini is also the homeland of fava beans, which make a delicious hummus-type dish, and capers, which are so abundant you can even see them grow in nooks and crannies all over the island.
Vineyards and wineries are scattered across the island. Cultivation of the vines has been adapted to the arid climate, making local wines remarkable. A wine tasting tour of the island, or simply a special visit of our sister winery, Vassaltis Vineyards, is the best way to understand this extraordinary terroir. Alternatively, go for the energy-saving version and enjoy a wine-tasting session at The Vasilicos.
Local festivals, panigiria, are held by villages, and even remote churches, year round. Naturally all stages of the wine-making process are also marked and celebrated: the end of the harvest, pressing the grapes, and tasting the first wine are always joyous occasions. Traditional dishes contributed by local housewives, live music, and traditional dancing are enjoyed, as the villagers come together to celebrate.
No matter how active you are, the essence of a holiday at The Vasilicos is to sit quietly and admire the majestic silence. Let us take care of you while you unwind from your busy reality. Dolce far niente, the sweet bliss of Mediterranean inactivity.
Little thank you presents for booking directly with us*:
*applicable for stays over 2 nights
Direct bookings help us finance our project A Tale of Two Houses, which supports the Honorary Hospitality Programme run by the Benaki Museum at the legendary Leigh Fermor House in Kardamyli.
