The Andronis Arcadia hotel in Oia, Santorini has just opened this summer. Sophia Wilson visits the Greek resort and gives a review of its brand new Evexia spa.
Where is the Andronis Arcadia hotel?
Trickling down the hillside on the edge of the romantic town of Oia, in Santorini, Andronis Arcadia offers sublime sunset views from every one of its 53 sugar cube suites. While tourists wielding selfie sticks line up on the cobbled streets of the town above for views over the steep slope of the caldera you can recline by your private pool for uninterrupted sea views as the sun slowly dips beyond the horizon.
Why visit Andronis Arcadia hotel?
Arcadia is the latest in Andronis Exclusive’s portfolio of uber-luxe hideaways on Santorini. Having opened this summer its minimalist ascetic, laid back vibe, vast central infinity pool and endlessly Instagrammable private plunge pools, have made it an instant hit with the well-heeled millennials. Its suites are simple but luxurious, with neutral tones, low-slung platform beds and locally-sourced woods and artefacts. The icing on the cake for this hot new opening is its cavernous Evexia spa, which is the largest on the island.
What to have?
The spa was developed in partnership with the founder of luxury skincare brand ila, Denise Leicester, and Dr Zulia Frost, who pioneered the non-invasive hair profiling test. The latter means that in just 20 minutes with a single piece of hair you can have a full wellness screening that can used to build a programme for your stay, including nutritional and lifestyle tips based on your stress levels.
If you are just seeking instant relaxation opt for the Beat the Blue Back massage, which is designed for “emotionally exhausted souls”. The Ancient marma therapy uses warm herbal poultices which are massaged into the back of the body to help release tension from the base of your spine. After your treatment recline with a herbal tea in its open air relaxation area – filled with local flowers and linen drapes – and watch the odd moped struggle up the steep incline into Oia.
Where to dine at Andronis Arcadia hotel?
The hotel is also pushing boundaries when it comes to cuisine, especially at its dinner-only Opson restaurant. The menu is designed to showcase ancient Greek food and diners are encouraged to follow one of its tasting menus. Paired with locally produced wines, dishes include a marinated egg yolk in sweet pea puree, red mullet flavoured with Greek saffron and lamb with artichoke and ancient grains. The restaurant’s roof top setting also means you can enjoy spectacular sunset views while you find you feast on the dishes inspired by the cuisine that would have been enjoyed by Plato and Aristotle.
How to visit Andronis Arcadia hotel by yacht?
Leave your yacht at anchor in either Athinios Port or Skala Port on the west side of the island and enjoy the scenic coastal drive to the hotel.