Sun Rocks
From the moment you step through the discreet entrance, you’ll appreciate just what a special spot Sun Rocks is. Below, carved out of a steep hillside, a maze of narrow stairs and pathways snakes down between layers of tiny white-washed buildings - like sugar cubes with rounded-off edges - to the invitingly blue freeform pool at the bottom. It’s a particularly chic example of Cycladic architecture, but even so, it can’t compete with the breathtaking backdrop: a panoramic view of Santorini’s caldera, dotted with rocky islands, and the endless azure sea beyond.
That spellbinding vista is the focus of this tranquil and intimate retreat. You can drink in its misty morning softness from your room without getting out of bed. It’s there in its dazzling middle-of-the-day brightness every time you look up from your poolside lounger. And it’s particularly mesmerising in sunset colours when its ephemeral beauty will distract you from that evening cocktail and perfectly pitched dinner. If you don’t already have one, it will be the reason you rush to set up an Instagram account, so that you can wow your friends with shots of you in your floatiest kaftan gazing out from your white-walled private terrace as if you were a Hollywood superstar or much-followed influencer.
Thanks to a stylish revamp in 2021, the 17 rooms and suites are as whitewashed and minimalist on the inside as they are on the outside, with vaulted ceilings that look as if they have been carved out of the rock and a neutral, restful palette. There are sea views from all of them, even the cosy Superior Deluxe. We think it’s worth upgrading to one of the suites, though, especially for a special occasion. Experience Suites have a bathtub in the bedroom next to the huge picture windows; Luxury Suites have particularly stylish decor; while the Honeymoon Suite has a custom-made indoor whirlpool bath to die for. For the ultimate treat, there’s the Sun Rocks Suite with Private Pool, where you can chill out in the large living room or laze by your own little patch of shimmering turquoise water.