Canaves Oia Hotel Greece
Set out on foot to explore Oia’s maze-like streets. Just steps from the hotel, the marble-lined pedestrian area stretches out to the very tip of the island, a prime spot for watching sunsets if you don’t mind the crowds that flock there from all over the island. Spend an afternoon browsing the upmarket boutiques and designer jewellers wedged between souvenir-touting stalls, and leave some space in your luggage for the spoils. (+30 6) is a charming hobbit-hole of a bookshop; pick up letterpress prints, limited-edition Platos and novellas light enough to replace a postcard. The hotel’s knowledgeable staff will happily suggest interesting walks in the area or around the capital, as well as helicopter tours, diving excursions and horseback rides for the more adventurous. Experience the caldera in style with a private catamaran cruise to the nearby islands; Canaves’ sister company has eight waiting to whisk you away.
Local restaurants
There’s no shortage of eateries on Oia’s winding streets. Just off the main drag, unpretentious Skala (+30 2) serves traditional Greek food on a bustling terrace; for a laid-back meal, order a selection from the mezze menu and feast on local smoked trout, silky fava and aubergine purées, and moreish pine nut and onion pies. Dressed in crisp white linens, ’s tables are set on two terraces facing the caldera (+30 2286 071413). This fine-dining destination makes the most of Santorini’s sun-kissed produce in dishes such as veal mille-feuilles, delicately grilled sea bream and truffle-infused shrimp risotto. Snatch a table on Petro’s second-floor terrace for startling sea views (+30 3); the spectacular lobster linguine and simply grilled meats are worth the effort too. After sunset, walk down the steep path hugging the cliffside to Ammoudi Bay, where +30 2286 071606) serves some of the best seafood in town in a cheerful waterfront taverna. Unless you’re fit enough to tackle a post-prandial climb, be sure to book a taxi for the return trip.
Local bars
For a taste of hedonistic island life, head to the capital Thira, a 15-minute taxi ride away. Sleek and minimalist (+30 697 449 8206) is a good spot for Mediterranean cocktails and late-night conversations. See and be seen at (+30 0), which hosts international DJs spinning everything from soul and jazz to house and electro.
