Abelonas Retreat Sunset & Sunrise Lodgings

Imerovigli, Santorini, Greece

Perched high in Imerovigli, often referred to as the “Balcony of the Aegean,” Abelonas Retreat is a boutique hideaway that captures the quieter, more contemplative side of Santorini, where expansive caldera views and a slower pace define the overall experience.

The architecture follows a traditional Cycladic approach, with whitewashed walls, curved archways and stepped terraces arranged to maximise light and uninterrupted views across the volcanic landscape. The layout feels intimate and organic, with pathways, terraces and shared spaces flowing naturally around the cliffside setting, creating a sense of privacy while maintaining a strong connection to the surrounding scenery.

Staying

Studios and maisonettes are designed in keeping with this aesthetic, offering simple, light-filled interiors that prioritise comfort and outlook. Options such as the Abelonas Suite with Caldera View and Maisonette Caldera with Sea View provide elevated positions overlooking the Aegean, with private terraces that become a natural extension of the living space, particularly at sunset.

Dining

Dining is centred around a relaxed, informal approach, with breakfast served daily featuring local ingredients and Greek specialities, while the Caldera Bar provides a setting for light bites, cocktails and Santorini wines. The emphasis remains on simplicity and setting, with nearby tavernas in Imerovigli offering more extensive dining rooted in regional flavours.

Playing

The lifestyle here is deliberately unhurried, with days spent around the freeform pool, on private terraces or exploring the island at a gentle pace. Experiences such as sailing trips and vineyard visits can be arranged, allowing guests to engage more deeply with Santorini beyond the immediate setting.

Where

Located in Imerovigli, just 2 km from Fira, the retreat is approximately 8 km from Santorini Airport and 10 km from the island’s port, offering a well-balanced position between seclusion and accessibility.