Perivolas

Santorini

The volcanic island of Santorini is totally different but no less famous than its animated Cycladic cousin, Mykonos. Here, wild nights, sequins, spangles and partying jetsetters are totally absent. This calm and discreet island that rose up from the sea is ideal for contemplation, with its deep blue water, its villages suspended on the edge of the caldera and its gleaming whitewashed houses. This archaeological treasure liberated from the volcanic ash has made Santorini an idealized representation of the beauty of the Cyclades archipelago and the Aegean Sea. Whereas Mykonos owes its reputation to the party like and glamorous atmosphere, Santorini is romantic and thrives on a calm and gentle way of life. On the north coast of the island, the small village of Oia stretches over the heights of the cliffs surrounding the crater. As night begins to fall, this haven of serenity is filled with a very special air of melancholy. Soon after, the streets of the main city of Thira become lively as the local tavernas get ready to receive their evening guests.

A jewel of gentleness and serenity

As if suspended on the edge of the ancient volcano’s crater, the troglodyte rooms of the Perivolas, carved into the rock, reveal their sensual charm and the immaculate whiteness of their facades. Twenty-five years ago, these ancient traditional dwellings were converted into a hotel for visitors in search of rest and relaxation on the banks of the Aegean Sea. This jewel of serenity is kept up by its creator Kostis Psychas, who fulfilled the dream of his parents. The young man redesigned the shape of these 300 year old caves by digging into the volcanic rock and giving the interiors their curves and volume. The white colored suites pay tribute to Cycladic architecture. The gentle arches, hidden alcoves and the conserved freshness create a calm cocoon like atmosphere embellished in certain areas by little touches of lavender and fuchsia. The pride of the hotel is its infinity swimming pool which seems to prolong the azure water of the Aegean Sea. It’s the ideal, almost heavenly place to put one’s feet in the water and contemplate the magnificent colors of the sky at sunset.

Many celebrities have chosen the Perivolas as their Aegean retreat including Johnny Depp and French singer Vanessa Paradis. After shooting the film, Heartbreaker, the former couple decided on a family vacation on the volcanic island, after falling in love with this very special hotel.