Santorini, an island synonymous with breathtaking sunsets and iconic whitewashed villages, continues to evolve its luxury offerings for discerning travelers. I’ve been researching the latest developments in high-end hospitality on this Cycladic gem, and the Santo Collection by Metaxa Hospitality Group presents a compelling new dimension to Oia. It’s an experience designed to immerse you in the island’s natural beauty while providing exceptional comfort and personalized service. For those planning a visit to Greece, understanding these new luxury sanctuaries can significantly enhance your itinerary.
Discovering the Santo Collection
This season marks an expanded offering from the Metaxa Hospitality Group, deepening their commitment to Santorini’s Oia. The Santo Collection, which began with Santo Pure, now includes the newly launched Santo Mine and The Villas. This curated group focuses on sustainable luxury, aiming to provide guests with unforgettable experiences that truly capture the essence of Santorini. I find this dedication to sustainability particularly important when considering a family trip; it ensures that the beauty we enjoy today is preserved for the future.
Santo Pure Cycladic Elegance
Santo Pure sets the tone for the collection, offering pure Cycladic charm. Nestled on the edge of Oia village, it’s within easy walking distance to the main hub, yet provides a tranquil retreat. The property has expanded to include 83 suites and two villas, designed to evoke the timeless aesthetic of the island. I imagine the feeling of serene seclusion here.
The resort is thoughtfully laid out like a traditional Cycladic village, with several neighborhoods featuring beautiful gardens and an array of pools. Guests can choose from Luxury Villas or select from three distinct suite types: Sunset, Cave, and Sea-View. Each accommodation promises a level of comfort and privacy that is essential for a truly relaxing holiday.
Every suite and villa at Santo Pure is equipped with a heated jacuzzi or a private pool, allowing for intimate relaxation at any time. The facilities include the Allios Ilios restaurant for dining, the Akratos poolside bar for refreshments, and the Anassa spa for rejuvenation. A fitness center is also available, alongside private parking, a business center, and a library. The group emphasizes tailor-made experiences, a detail I always appreciate for customizing a trip.
A special note for those seeking an intimate dining experience: Santo Pure offers the opportunity to transform your private veranda into a personalized five-star dining venue. This is the kind of thoughtful touch that elevates a stay from memorable to extraordinary. I can see myself enjoying a quiet dinner here, perhaps imagining how my daughter Sofia would delight in the romantic ambiance, even at her young age.
Santo Mine Barefoot Luxury for Adults
Santo Mine introduces an adults-only concept, carved directly into the cliffs of Oia. It occupies the site of an old stone mine, offering a unique setting just above the scenic Ammoudi bay. This resort is designed for those seeking a more laid-back, barefoot luxury experience, blending minimalist design with the raw beauty of the Cycladic landscape.
The resort features 37 premium suites, each designed to provide an exclusive sanctuary. A key feature of each luxury suite is the private swimming pool or jacuzzi, offering direct views of the expansive Aegean Sea. The sophisticated design ensures a seamless connection between the stylish interiors and the dramatic natural surroundings.
Dining at Santo Mine is highlighted by the Alme Fine Fish Dining restaurant, promising exquisite seafood. The Rhoe Cocktail & Wine Bar is an ideal spot to unwind, complemented by an array of choices from the wine cellar. Guests also have access to a spa and an outdoor gym, alongside practical amenities like private parking, a business center, and a library. Like Santo Pure, Santo Mine also offers bespoke experiences tailored to individual preferences.
Santo Mine’s suites cater to different needs, available in seven categories that can accommodate two to four guests. The largest, the Majestic Suite Sunset & Sea View, spans 63 m2 and includes a separate living area and a private terrace with unparalleled sea vistas. This level of space and privacy is ideal for a romantic escape.
An interesting connection for guests: Santo Pure and Santo Mine are linked by an underground passage. This ingenious feature allows guests to seamlessly move between the two properties, experiencing the full spectrum of what the Santo Collection has to offer. This connectivity enhances the flexibility and richness of your stay.
The Villas Ultimate Luxury Living
Launching in May 2024, The Villas by Santo Collection represent the pinnacle of luxury living within the group. These are two expansive, four-bedroom king-size private villas, each spanning between 233-257 sq.m. with generous exterior spaces of 316-389 sq.m. Perched on a secluded cliff, they offer breathtaking panoramic sea views.
Located in the western part of Oia, these villas, named “Icon” and “Lush,” are designed for ultimate privacy. They are ideally suited for couples seeking seclusion, groups of friends traveling together, or families desiring ample space and luxury. The modern design of both interior and exterior spaces harmonizes beautifully with the island’s distinctive character.
Each villa boasts private pools, outdoor jacuzzis, a BBQ area, a dedicated fitness room, and a sauna, ensuring all the amenities for a truly indulgent stay. I find having a private fitness room a significant advantage, allowing for workouts at any time. For larger groups, the two villas are interconnected and can be combined to form an extraordinary eight-bedroom residence, covering 490 sq.m. of interior space and 705 sq.m. externally, accommodating up to 16 guests. This offers an unparalleled option for destination weddings or significant family reunions.
Guests staying in these private villas can access a range of bespoke services, available at an additional charge. These include comprehensive wellness experiences like spa therapies and yoga sessions, as well as essential services such as babysitting and butler assistance. For those planning special events, dedicated wedding and party services are also available. To enhance your exploration of Santorini, private yachting tours can be arranged, offering a unique perspective of the island from the sea.
The gastronomic possibilities are equally impressive. Guests can pre-order groceries and fresh organic produce from local suppliers, hire a private chef for an exclusive dinner or BBQ, or engage a mixologist for a personalized cocktail experience. These customized culinary options ensure that every dining moment is exceptional. I can already imagine the ease of planning social gatherings with such services available, making entertaining effortless.
A New Era of Luxury Hospitality
The Santo Collection is committed to a sustainable future for Santorini, integrating eco-friendly practices across all its properties. From sourcing local, farm-to-table ingredients to implementing zero-waste initiatives, the aim is to ensure that every guest’s stay is both luxurious and responsible. This focus on environmental stewardship is a crucial aspect of modern luxury travel planning, especially when considering the impact on such a precious destination.
The group’s dedication to genuine Greek hospitality is evident in every detail, from the architecture and design to the personalized services offered. Each property aims to be more than just a place to stay; it’s designed to be an integral part of the Santorini experience. Finding accommodations that prioritize both comfort and conservation resonates deeply with me as I plan for future family adventures.
These new investments in Santorini are part of the Metaxa Hospitality Group’s broader strategic expansion. Having been active in hospitality since 1975, the group’s portfolio already includes well-regarded properties on Crete, demonstrating a long-standing commitment to quality and guest satisfaction. I believe this extensive experience translates into a consistently high standard of service across their destinations.
What authentic experiences are available?
The Santo Collection offers a curated selection of over 30 indoor and outdoor experiences designed to help guests connect with the meaningful aspects of Santorini. These range from culinary journeys to explorations of the island’s unique culture and natural beauty.
These experiences are crafted to provide you with authentic encounters, allowing you to discover the soul of Santorini beyond the typical tourist paths. Details on specific activity bookings would typically be available through the hotel concierge.
How can I experience Santo Collection dining?
Each property within the Santo Collection features distinct dining options. Santo Pure boasts the Allios Ilios restaurant and the Akratos poolside bar, while Santo Mine offers the Alme Fine Fish Dining restaurant and the Rhoe Cocktail & Wine Bar. For The Villas, guests can opt for private dining arrangements with pre-ordered groceries or a hired chef.
Reservations for the restaurants are recommended, especially during peak season. For villa guests, advance notice is essential for arranging private dining services and grocery provisions. For more information on curated dining opportunities across Santorini, explore Santorini’s exquisite dining scene.
What are the accommodation options?
The Santo Collection provides a range of luxury accommodations. Santo Pure offers 83 suites and two villas. Santo Mine is an adults-only resort with 37 premium suites. The Villas by Santo Collection includes two four-bedroom private villas. Guests can choose based on their preferences for atmosphere, privacy, and group size.
Each option prioritizes comfort, elegant design, and stunning views. For a comprehensive overview of places to stay, including these luxurious havens, consult our guide to the best accommodations.
As I reflect on these developments, I find myself drawn to the thoughtful integration of luxury and sustainability. The Santo Collection presents a sophisticated approach to experiencing Santorini, one that I believe many families, including my own, would appreciate. I often consider how places like this could provide enriching experiences for children, even in a luxury setting. I imagine how Julien might enjoy the historical aspect of Santo Mine, and how Sofia might be captivated by the expansive sea views from The Villas, even if she’s too young to fully grasp the luxury.
