Conde Nast Traveler’s Gold List of the best hotels in the world, which is based on the experiences of CNT’s editorial staff all over the world, featured a Greek hotel in 2022: The Vasilicos, on Santorini.

“Almost every building overlooking Santorini’s sunken caldera has been converted into a luxury hotel. I’ve stayed at dozens of them, but surprisingly few live up to those famous views. The Vasilicos is a cut above the crowded competition for several reasons,” read the motivation from Rachel Howard, a Conde Nast Traveler journalist. All seven suites are spacious and secluded, with terraces offering open sea views, and “even when the island seems to be sinking under the weight of its popularity, serenity reigns at this former summerhouse,” she explains. 

The hotel was built in the 1980s by Vassilis Valambous, a Greek art collector and bon viveur, who renovated a series of damaged cave houses to create a gathering place for family and friends. Its atmosphere still has the warmth, intimacy, and personality of a home, much thanks to the details and personal touch of the owner, Daphne Valabous, from the small library to the specially made towels for the beach. Her brother Yannis has transformed the vineyards he inherited from their father into Vassaltis, one of the most exciting wineries on Santorini. 

“Open since 2015, The Vasilicos is already a timeless classic. Like most loyal guests, I’d almost prefer to keep this very private hideaway hush-hush,” the motivation ends.

Find the complete Gold List of the best hotels in the world from Conde Nast Traveler here.

This article was previously published in Greek at moneyreview.gr.