Where the black volcanic sand of Perivolos Beach meet the midnight blue caldera waters of the Aegean Sea in Santorini, one finds the sublime Istoria

When was the last time you felt truly inspired? If it has been awhile, a voyage to the 12-suite Istoria Hotel may be just what it takes to invigorate the stirrings of passion in design, in wanderlust and in creating the next chapter of your story. Situated quietly on Cycadean Island in Santorini, Greece, this stunning resort is a member of Design Hotels, and adds both romance and poetry to Perivolos Beach, which resembles a piece of artwork in its surreal beauty. 

Captivated by the epic life of socialite, Christina Tassou, hoteliers, Antonis and Kalia Eliopoulos engaged Athens based Interior Design Laboratorium to create a barefoot retreat. A departure from whitewashed hotels, the design of Istoria is reinforced by a stripped-down ethos which allows the original stone structure – and wilderness – to dominate. Sourcing a collection of old and new furniture from the Mediterranean, the designers chose a decidedly modern style that complements terracotta, natural wood, and classical decorative touches. These harmoniously blend with modern furniture with clean lines, such as marble tables and low-hanging ceramic chandeliers. In the bright sculptural suites, impressive arched openings guide guests towards introspective terraces where one finds relaxing moments of utmost privacy and breath-taking views. All the spaces in the hotel are intended to make guests feel as if they are living in an authentic, refined Santorinian mansion.

Elements of the original estate can be found in the interiors of the 12 suites, such as old wooden roofs and preserved stone columns, thick stone construction and mosaic floors, creating a spectacular combination of original and contemporary features. Private outdoor hot tubs or pools, present in most of the suites, complete the luxurious dreamy scene. The name of each suite, ranging from 430 to 538 square feet in size, is named after a different language meaning ‘story’, tying in the core theme of the hotel. Says Kalia Eliopoulos, “Istoria is actually a house of stories where we expect guests to create their own experiences, making it an ongoing story.” 

The remnants of time are visible from Perivilos Beach with black sand spanning three kilometres – a mysterious form striking a pleasing contrast to the clear blue ocean, so soaking up this scene is entertainment enough. Enjoy leisurely moments, coupled with local characteristic species: ancient olive trees, vanilla and aloe vera, the natural and pure environment and hand-crafted design, that amalgamate to dissipate warmth abound. 

Facilties wise, the hotel itself has an infinity pool and a restaurant, with Alexandros Tsiotinis at the helm to craft a unique culinary journey. The chef—who made his name in the Michelin-starred kitchens of Noma in Copenhagen and Le Bristol in Paris—is influenced by Santorini’s epicurean traditions and its abundance of fresh seafood. The Spa meanwhile has been transplanted from Bali, with two treatment rooms for relaxing rituals using organic, local oils.

Nowadays, the modern traveller focuses not only on the quality of accommodation, but most are eager to learn about the local customs and culture. Therefore, Istoria makes it a focus to learn and connect with local stores and designers to provide their guests with truly authentic experiences. Enjoy the blissful scenery along the way, or do some cycling and horse-back riding. Nature’s paradise combined with some fine design has never been more inviting.