Ikies - Santorini, Greece |
Monday, 16 July 2007 |
Unlike the tourist-tainted landscapes of neighboring Greek Islands; Santorini, Greece provides a seemingly untouched backdrop of
white hills, red beaches and blue seas.
A gem of Santorini, the Ikies Traditional Houses,
sits high atop the archipelago of islands in the village of Oia
(pronounced E-ah). Ikies houses are divided into studios (one bedroom),
maisonettes (loft bedroom), and suites. Each lodging has its own intriguing
name – presumably derived from local occupations – such as artisan, boatman, collector and antiquarian.
The eleven luxury dwellings
are carved out of pumice and designed to blend in with the surrounding
architecture – hence “traditional houses”. Highlighting the theme of bright white, the blue windows, roofs and shutters create a
mesmerizing effect when paired with the Aegean’s cerulean waters and red
clay cliffs.
Ikies makes brilliant use of their surroundings by perching their
apartments on these cliffs, and expanding the space even further with
private patios, Jacuzzis and pools, all of which are carefully crafted
for viewing of Oia’s famous sunsets.
Beyond the intricately
detailed infrastructure, Ikies has become renowned for its obsession
with service. One satisfied review read, “Their staff lives for nothing
more than to refill your cocktail.” Continental breakfast, light fare
and cocktails are all served to your room (or terrace or pool area).
For the romantically-inclined, Ikies also offers a full service
honeymoon package, with champagne breakfasts, flowers, satin sheets and
the works.
With its full-service amentities and uncomparable landscape, Ikies is a
prime example of what this region has to offer. Stay tuned to Coolhunter to learn the ins and outs of the best places to vacation in
Santorini, Mykonos, and Athens as we will be reporting live in
September. By L. Harper
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