Get your zen on in Santorini

Let's be honest, adulting is hard. We're constantly stressed, tired and desperately trying to juggle a work-life balance. So why not treat yourself, put your out of office on and head to Santorini for some much needed R&R. 

Famed for its Insta-worthy white washed, blue-domed buildings and stunning sunsets, Santorini is the wonky croissant shaped jewel in Greece's crown, with over two million tourists flocking to the island every year.

Whilst it may seem like a hectic tourist hotspot, the island does offer a more peaceful escape and MTV headed to Carpe Diem Santorini for a long weekend of living our best life and feeling chilled AF.

Suite sensations

Nestled on the islands highest village of Pyrgos and boasting 270-degree panoramic views, Carpe Diem is an exclusive adult's only, five-star boutique resort offering understated island luxury and privacy away from the crowds.  

Winner of the world's best relaxation retreat 2018 (Boutique hotel awards), Carpe Diem is the epitome of holiday luxe and THE coolest retreat to escape the ordinary and unwind in one of the ten stunning ultra-chic minimalist style suites (the largest in Santorini), all with private plunge pools that could of come straight out of a Cribs episode. 

The staff at Carpe Diem leave no whitewashed stone unturned in the quest for your comfort. From pillow menus to walk-in closets, spa days with Ying Yang Jacuzzi’s to butler service, the attention to detail is so crazily good, you’ll never want to leave.

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Gastronomic heaven. Nom

You can't visit Santorini without gorging yourself on the most delicious fresh local cuisine the island has to offer.

At Carpe Diem, hotel guests can experience GAIA fine dining under the stars, a truly unforgettable gastronomic experience, where influential executive chef Vassilis Zacharakis will take your taste buds on a heavenly mouthwatering journey through Santorini's culinary heritage featuring only the finest local produce. No plate smashing required.

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Whilst it may be hard to imagine dragging yourself away from your luxury lare, it is worth heading out to explore more of the island's gems and the Carpe Diem team will happily curate a bespoke itinerary for your stay.

After all, the champagne on ice and plunge pool will still be waiting upon your return.

Hidden gems

Discover the charm of Pyrgos, the former capital of Santorini and best preserved medieval settlement on the island, where you can mooch around the village at leisure taking in the achingly cool architecture and laid back vibe whilst stopping off in the quaint pine tree lined square to sample the local cuisine. You'll leave feeling contented and with a belly full of baklava. 

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Volcanic wine

Thanks to its rich volcanic soil, Santorini is renowned for its delicious local wine with over 100 varieties available.  Head to Santo winery, the largest wine producer of the island dating back to 1947, for a wine tasting tour where you can kick back on their dreamy terrace with a glass and take in the breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea whilst chasing the sunset.

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Boat life

Boaty McBoatface eat your heart out. Here in Santorini they do boat life a little differently. Cruise the turquoise Aegean seas aboard a luxury Catamaran with Caldera Yauchting, where you can relax and take in views of the Caldera, red and black beaches and take a dip in the hot springs of Palia Kameni.

Santorini was once circular but a pesky volcanic eruption over 3,000 years ago caused the centre to sink leaving a caldera (or crater) and towering cliffs along the east side, which explains the island’s trademark croissant shape and cliffside landscape.

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Do it for the gram

Of course, no trip to Santorini would be complete without a trip to Oia, the catwalk queen of the island.

Thousands of tourists and honeymooners flock to the village every year to be seduced by the infamous sunsets set against a backdrop of gorgeous sun bleached, white washed cave houses carved dizzyingly high up into the clifftop overlooking the Caldera.

It certainly does hit the Insta sweet spot but be prepared for the crowds during peak season as it can get a tad congested.

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MTV Travelled with… Carpe Diem Santorini. Please visit www.carpediemsantorini.com for more information.