Kapari Natural Resort

SANTORINI, GREECE

PERSONALITIES

Romantics, architecture aficionados, slow travelers, and design lovers searching for a serene, cliffside sanctuary away from Santorini’s heavy tourist paths.

MOMENTS

Watching the sun sink behind the volcanic caldera directly from your private terrace jacuzzi. Sinking into the cool, organic curves of a 300-year-old whitewashed cave suite. Waking up to the golden morning light reflecting across the sapphire expanse of the Aegean Sea.

BEST VISITING MONTHS

May to October offers long sunny days and warm sea temperatures, while the shoulder months of April, May, September, and October provide a quieter, more tranquil island atmosphere with crisp views and mild weather.

COST

WHY STAY

Perched 380 meters above sea level on the highest cliffside point of Imerovigli, Kapari Natural Resort occupies a breathtaking vantage point in one of Santorini's most picturesque villages. Located on the edge of the famous volcanic caldera, the property offers unobstructed, sweeping views across the Aegean Sea, the historic Skaros Rock, and the volcanic islands. Its position provides complete peace and seclusion while remaining just a short drive from the bustling streets of Fira.

The resort features a collection of 14 restored luxury cave suites and residences carved directly into the cliff face. Spanning intimate studio spaces to expansive multi-level suites, each room retains its traditional subterranean layout, featuring soft, molded walls, smooth archways, and natural stone finishes. Many suites include private or semi-private outdoor hot tubs, indoor jacuzzi alcoves, and private sun decks suspended over the caldera.

Originally a group of 300-year-old traditional Cycladic cave dwellings, the property was originally rescued after the 1956 earthquake by Rena and Takis Adamidis as a family sanctuary. Years later, their son Philip Adamidis transformed the estate into a luxury resort. The architecture blends historic restoration with smart-home innovation, utilizing traditional lime-wash techniques, smooth organic curves with zero sharp angles, and state-of-the-art climate control systems designed to maintain optimal air quality without losing the authenticity of cave living. Wellness centers on an intimate cliffside infinity pool, peaceful outdoor lounge terraces, and private in-suite spa services.

WHY WANDER

Imerovigli is known as the balcony of Santorini, offering direct access to some of the island’s most iconic scenic trails. Guests can step right out of the resort onto the famous cliffside hiking path that connects Fira to Oia, tracing the highest rim of the caldera for unforgettable panoramic views.

A short trek down the rocky peninsula leads to Skaros Rock, the site of a medieval Venetian fortress that once served as the island’s principal stronghold. Hikers can explore ancient stone ruins and reach the tiny, remote Chapel of Panagia Theoskepasti tucked on the hidden outer side of the cliff edge face.

Beyond the immediate village, guests can charter private boats or mini yachts to sail across the volcanic caldera, explore the thermal hot springs around Nea Kameni, or discover the island's unique volcanic coastline, including the striking Red Beach and Black Sand beaches of Akrotiri and Perissa.

INDULGE IN

Fresh, Mediterranean-inspired dining at the resort's Kapari Wine Restaurant, where local Aegean ingredients are paired with fine Santorinian wines like Assyrtiko and Vinsanto. Enjoy elevated Greek cuisine, fresh seafood, sun-ripened local tomatoes, fava purees, and artisanal cheeses, served against the backdrop of world-famous volcanic sunsets.

GETTING THERE

Kapari Natural Resort is located approximately a 20-minute drive from Santorini International Airport (JTR) and about 25 minutes from the Athinios Ferry Port. Private transfers or car rentals can easily be arranged to navigate the island.

WILD INITIATIVES

Kapari’s restoration prioritizes cultural heritage preservation and eco-conscious engineering. The resort was constructed using traditional local materials and techniques to maintain the authentic vernacular architecture of the island. Beneath its historical facade, the property uses high-tech smart meters to monitor energy consumption, geothermal heat pump systems to drastically minimize hot water and electricity usage, and eco-friendly water conservation practices. Recognized as a former National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World, Kapari emphasizes sustainable tourism, low-impact operations, and the preservation of Santorini’s delicate architectural landscape.

*Images property of Kapari Natural Resort