The island of Santorini casts a spell. Its otherworldly landscapes were created by a volcano eruption thousands of years ago, leaving a submerged caldera surrounded by dramatic cliffs. It’s here in this extraordinary setting that a new hotel will open in May not far from the ancient city of Akrotiri, a Minoan archeological site that’s remarkably well preserved, like Pompeii. (Some say Akrotiri, covered under volcanic ash and debris, was the inspiration for Plato’s story of Atlantis.)
Nature Eco Residences Santorini is the sister property to Coco-Mat Eco Residences Serifos, a hospitality concept launched by Kostas Maltezos after many years working as the general manager of the Coco-Mat brand of high-end, specialized sleeping products. (The mattresses are hand-made with natural materials.) His idea was to develop a hospitality experience that seamlessly blends into a destination’s natural surroundings. The rooms, of course, are kitted out with Coco-Mat’s mattresses.
When Nature Eco Residences Santorini makes its debut, it will show off a look reflecting the island’s traditional architecture infused with a clean, industrial, “back-to-basics mentality.” The 15 suites will be decorated with a mix of vintage decor and custom furniture in pine, teak, and chestnut crafted by local artisans. Some of the rooms have balconies, terraces, and private outdoor jacuzzis for soaking up the sea or volcano views. A highlight will be the Infinity Residence, measuring 645 square feet, built into the rock like a troglodyte house.
A member of Design Hotels, Nature Eco Residences Santorini will offer yoga, meditation and wellness sessions in an outdoor space, and Greek cuisine fashioned from regional ingredients by chef Yiannis Liokas. If you can tear yourself away from the panoramic clifftop pool, the hotel will arrange excursions to the caldera islets and excavations at Akrotiri, alongside sailing, vineyard tours, horseback riding and water sports.