Vedema Resort – Santorini, Greece
Nestled in the whitewashed village of Megalochori, what was once, centuries ago, a winery and mansion, is now an elegant resort, exuding Cycladic style and charm. The vines still encircle it, and the sparkling Ionian glimmers not far away. Vedema has been artfully transformed, retaining all the elements of the local architecture, and combining it with minimalist décor. The interiors are cool and unfussy, and the blues and whites outside, with the odd splash of colour from the bougainvillea, are picture perfect.
Two large pools cry out for lounging by, and just ten minutes away there’s the black sand private beach and its very own bar. Spacious suites and villas, delicious food and very attentive staff just add to it all. This is a place to unwind and let Greek island living wash over you.
At A Glance
Boutique Hotel
Why We Love It:
For its position on the island, lovely bars & restaurants a short walk away & a choice of 3 pools to sit by.Style:
Cycladic village luxe.Location:
In the pretty village of Megalochori, in the south west of Santorini.Rooms:
59 spacious suites & villas.Swimming:
There are 2 swimming pools, a jacuzzi & complementary access to a private beach club.Children:
From toddlers to teens, you will find there is absolutely everything your children need to enjoy a fun-filled holiday.Accessibility:
Please speak to us for more information on their accessible rooms, common areas, or special services relating to a specific disability.Open From:
April – November.rooms
Cool whites and neutrals bring sophistication and elegance to the rooms and suites at Vedema. Each one is airily spacious, and styled with traditional Cycladic features and locally made furniture, with marble floors, traditional wooden shutters and comfortable living areas. The bathrooms are luxurious with bathtubs and rainforest showers. Set away from the resort, and overlooking the Megalochori Caldera is Nafsika, there is a five bedroom villa with its own estate, that comes with a private chef and butler.
It’s a harmonious mix of Cycladic architecture and modern design with a large terrace and pool, and mesmerising views of the volcano and Ionian.
food
With much of the produce grown in the resort’s gardens and sourced locally, the cuisine at Vedema is fresh and delicious. Breakfasts are by the pool at Pergola, with a fabulous buffet selection of cold meats, cheeses and freshly squeezed juices. Throughout the day and evening, tasty Greek and Mediterranean dishes and snacks are served here. The more formal Alati in the original wine cellars and the adjoining terrace, is atmospheric, with a very good selection of traditional dishes.
The Santorini wines are excellent and Vedema has a comprehensive choice. Try the tasting menu – a five or seven course tasting menu – with typical Santorini dishes – you’ll need to book in advance.
activities
There’s a lot to see and do on Santorini, but having said that, Vedema is a place for kicking back and relaxing. The Spa is a very serene space with a wonderful choice of treatments, and there’s a fitness centre if you’re feeling energetic. The chef runs cookery lessons, where he teaches guests the secrets of Santorinian cuisine, and the wine tasting at the resort is a highlight. The two pools have plenty of loungers, whilst the private beach at Perivelos is just ten minutes away. Order a picnic to take, or eat at the beach bar there.
The sand around the island changes from black to golden depending where you are, whilst other beaches are pebbly – there are countless that are worth visiting. Vedema can organise boat charters – always the best way to explore the coastline. At nearby Perissa Beach, the Dive Club offers PADI courses and snorkelling and there’s a huge range of water sports on offer, from windsurfing to waterskiing. Hiking, mountain biking and horse riding are popular, and Vedema has cycles guests can hire. Like all the Greek islands, there are thousands of years of history. The ancient town of Thira is just a few miles away, as is the village of Akrotiri with its impressive archaeological site. It’s easy to fill your days, and just as easy to sit with your book and a freshly squeezed juice.
family
Like everyone in the Mediterranean, the Greeks love children, and so families are welcomed here with open arms. Many of the suites can accommodate children, and there are plenty of interconnecting options too. There are special menus for children and if you’ve forgotten to bring something, it’s likely that Vedema has just what you need. Babysitting can also be arranged. It is just a short cycle or shuttle down to the private beach and close by is a playground.
Location
Megalochori, Santorini, Greece
In the pretty village of Megalochori, in the south west of Santorini – just 15 minutes from Thira airport.
