More than a hotel or resort, staying at Perivolas is like having an historical, cultural, culinary and lavish experience all in one visit. With an inspiring land and seascape, the Perivolas Lifestyle Houses is ‘the ultimate in relaxed and elegant simplicity of island living’. With breathtaking food, outstanding views and warm, friendly service, this is one resort you do not want to miss out on.
First Impressions
As we arrived we set eyes on the landscape of the magnificent whitewashed Cliffside, with the vibrant blue sea crashing below, and contrasted against this was the black stone terraced of the hotel Perivolas. This hotel stands proud in Santorini, staking it’s claim in the Grecian countryside with the fish markets, ancient houses and the magnificent wineries which also reside here. We did not know what treats our stay would bring, but upon first impressions we knew that our visit would be one that would stand out in our minds for a long time.
The Room
The rooms are carved out from old caves, and are adorned with whitewashed walls, smooth, arched ceilings and skylights. These light rooms are colored with small patches of fuchsia and lilac, injecting warmth and vibrancies into the room. We stayed in the Deluxe Suite. The Deluxe Suites have their own private Jacuzzi, perfect for relaxing after a long, hard day of wine tasting. Other great rooms are the Lifestyle Studios, which are perfect little getaways- one with large sea facing windows, the other with it’s original bread oven.
However, the star of the show is the Perivolas Suite, with a private pool spreading from the cave out onto the terrace, a steam room and an indoor hot tub big enough for a party of ten, making it perfect for family or friend getaways.
The Food
We were led to the restaurant, which is a converted wine cellar. This former wine cellar is dressed in crisp linen and lit by the warm glow of candlelight. The ceilings are arched, and the terrace here is poolside. Unlike some other hotels, the restaurant caters specifically for guests, serving up fresh local seafood- octopus Carpaccio, grilled seabass and langoustines, alongside hearty meat dishes such as lemon-braised lamb. These contemporary Greek dishes are made with only the finest seasonal ingredients, and served up in a simple, delicious manner. For the best views dine on the poolside terrace and watch the sun go down.
The Drink
Drinking here is as relaxed as every other activity, and there is no need to get dressed up to the nines to enjoy a tipple from the well-stocked bar. Instead, assemble your friends and gather around the candlelit poolside to indulge in a cocktail or glass of local, vintage Santorini wine under the starlit sky.
The Surroundings
If you are an early bird, then wake up early to take in the view from Perivolas and watch the sun rise over the sparkling sea. Then take a boat charter to nearby areas for horseback riding, hiking or scuba diving. Nearby, you can also visit Koloumbos and Baxedes beaches with astonishing landscapes and serene swimming spots, and the island of Ios has picturesque windmills and legendary archeology sites- (Homer is rumored to be buried there!).
For some at home relaxation, visit the gym, steam room, sauna, outdoor Jacuzzi or infinity pool with Aegean views. Also take a trip to the 60square meter spa, carved into the Cliffside. We each tried a couple of different treatments here, and have to say that the spa left us feeling so refreshed and rejuvenated! Try an anti-fatigue eye mask, detoxing body wrap, sea-lavender-infused facial or holistic massage.
The Facts
Rooms: 20, all with a sea view.
Rates: Double rooms from $357.09, excluding tax at 12 per cent.
Extras: Rates include Mediterranean breakfast buffet.