Radisson Blu Zaffron Resort, Santorini: The Stylish Sanctuary That Should Be On Your Honeymoon Wish List | The Escape
A well-appointed resort with a focus on authentic hospitality and opulent design, this newly opened adults-only hideaway is the perfect spot for newlyweds, says Bazaar Bride editor, Nina Catt
Dressed in its finest white and blue, Santorini strikes a pose like no other. Especially at sunset. And if your idea of romance is defined by strolling cobblestone pathways with jaw-dropping views, hand-in-hand with your soul mate, pop the picture-perfect island to the top of your wish list, stat.
Renowned for shimmering black-sand beaches as a result of a volcanic explosion over 3,500 years ago, spending time in Santorini is a photography aficionado’s dream come true – whether you’re of the professional ilk or simply treat your Instagram account as a pictorial travel diary.
Perched on the east coast of the island, moments from Kamari Beach is where you will find Radisson Blu Zaffron Resort, Santorini. Nestled in a quiet area surrounded by homes belonging to locals, the resort bestows a feeling of tranquillity and seclusion – a completely different experience compared to some of the hotels located in the more well-known towns of the island, where hordes of international visitors swarm in droves.
103 luxurious rooms, suites and villas, many with terraces and Jacuzzis or private pools, are dotted around the resort’s heart – the main pool deck. Designed by Greek architects Arc-Set, the modern aesthetic pays homage to the cultural heritage of the Cyclades through classic design features such as Greece’s iconic arches and domes.
White-washed walls create a serene ambience while statement interiors crafted from natural wood and stone provide a warm and welcoming touch. Opt for a villa with terrace and private pool to really immerse yourself into island life. Set across two floors the chic and spacious abode is perfect for honeymooners dreaming of sun-drenched lazy days and room service deliveries.
The chic design ethos flows into the resort’s dining venues. Effortlessly curated in airy spaces decked out in neutral tones, all three of the culinary options overlook the main pool which sparkles under the moonlight come nightfall.
Visit Zeffirino for an elevated dining experience based on its sister outpost in Genova – the family run restaurant where VIPS including Sofia Loren, Frank Sinatra and Luciano Pavarotti have frequented over the past five decades. Serving fine Italian fare utilising recipes created by the family of Zeffirino Belloni, expect to be taken on a culinary flight to Italy alongside a bespoke beverage list.
For more laid-back moments, Trattoria Belloni offers a less formal experience with a large menu featuring classic Italian dishes alongside Greek favourites. Ask for a table by the pool at dinner time. Over at Blu Pool Bar, pre-dinner sundowners accompanied by live musicians will serenade you under the stars.
If you can tear yourself away from the serenity of the resort (don’t forget to visit the spa for a treatment or two), turn right at the front gate to spend the day beneath a straw umbrella at Kamari Beach.
Elsewhere, first time visitors should hire a car or quadbike to zip around the 76.19km2 island. If hot springs, volcanic craters, rolling vineyards, chic boutiques and pretty towns set upon clifftops light up your life, there’s so much to see and experience at this petit slice of paradise.
Rooms from Dhs1,275 per night including breakfast; Zaffronresort.com
What To Pack…
Dress, Dhs580 Never Fully Dressed. Earrings, Dhs590, Caroline Svedbom. Bag, Dhs5,900, Miu Miu at Farfetch. C.E.O Afterglow Brightening Vitamin C Cream, Dhs250, Sunday Riley at Sephora. Kiss Kiss Bee Glow Lip Balm in Peche Glow, Dhs190, Guerlain at Ounass. Umbra Tinte Physical Daily Defense SPF 30, Dhs150, Drunk Elephant at Sephora. Sunglasses, Dhs1,840, Lapima. Sandals, Dhs1,345, Paloma Barceló
Resort images courtesy of Radisson Blu Zaffron Resort, Santorini