Ftelari Villa, a villa rental in Greece

The Perfect Santorini Escape

Designed with love and with respect for local traditions, but constructed with contemporary materials, this villa for rent in Santorini offers guests the opportunity to experience timeless Cycladic architectural style in an unforgettable location.

The island owes its dramatic natural beauty to a powerful eruption that took place over 3,600 years ago, and this home allows you to take in the wonder of what was created at that moment in time. Sitting on the rim of the island's famous caldera, it offers spectacular views across the Aegean, whether you're inside, lounging by the lovely kidney-shaped pool, or soaking in the hot tub.

Interiors are bright and simple, with great bursts of color, from the traditional whites and blues to citrus hues of green and yellow. The owners offer modern comforts and first-class service, honoring the Greek tradition of philoxenia, which literally means "friend to the stranger."

Around

Santorini has great appeal to all types of travelers, from those who want to explore by hiking or kayaking, to archaeology enthusiasts, beach lovers, foodies, and wine connoisseurs.

Take a guided tour through one of the most significant archaeological sites in Greece, the excavated Minoan city of Akrotiri, frozen in time by the volcanic eruption. Round up your historical experience by visiting the museums in the main town of Fira: the Archaeological Museum and the Museum of Ancient Thira (the original name for Santorini), where the brightly-colored wall frescoes that survived the destruction of Akrotiri are displayed.

There are marked walking and hiking trails that run alongside the caldera and offer magnificent views by day and breathtaking sunsets as the nights close in. Owners can arrange a wide range of activities including scuba diving, canoeing, water-skiing, windsurfing and stand-up paddling.

Don't miss the chance to explore Santorini from the sea on cruise boats, sailing-yachts or tailored excursions on private motor-yachts. You will be safely navigated to secluded bays, mineral hot springs or the volcanic rock island Nea Kammeni.

There are numerous great restaurants, from award-winning venues to local tavernas serving fresh fish and traditional dishes, and Santorini has a wine tradition that dates back to ancient times. Ask about taking a tour of the island's vineyards and indulging in some wine tasting.

Insider’s tip: Try to come in spring time, during the Good Friday celebrations of Greek Easter, when the picturesque village of Pyrgos is lit up by hundreds of self-made beacons placed on the rooftop of every house in the village.