The main areas to stay in Santorini are – Thira (the capital)

– Oia and Imerovigli, small villages made up of buildings carved into the sides of cliffs

– Megalochori, a tiny rural village surrounded by vineyards is also a lovely (less hilly) option.

Oia and Imerovigli are the ‘picture postcard’ Santorini, with incredible views of the Caldera (sunken volcano), but be warned the hillsides are ridiculously steep and not suitable for anyone who has walking difficulties or is unfit! I go running two or three times a week and I was struggling at times!

In my opinion Thira was a little too busy and commercial for a relaxing holiday, so I wouldn’t opt for that, unless you’re with a group of friends and want to be in the thick of it. In truth though the island is tiny, you can see all of the main sites in two or three days, so the area you stay in doesn’t make a huge amount of difference.

I’ve been lucky enough to stay in a few incredible properties each in different areas, so I could get a real feel for the island. The beautiful boutique hotel Vedema in Megalachori is surrounded by vineyards and picturesque countryside. Mystique is a fantastic design hotel built into the side of the cliffs in Oia and The Canaves in Oia is also beautiful. My favourite of all the hotels is The Grace in Imerovigli. I love this hotel! So much so that I used the image of the infinity pool as the banner of my blog.

With an award winning chef and the most spectacular views on the island, it’s hardly surprising that The Grace is part of the Conde Nast Traveller Gold List for 2012 and was voted Greece’s best boutique hotel in the World Travel Awards 2009 and 2010. The service is impeccable and the whitewashed minimal-modern architecture is stunning. If you can afford it it’s definitely worth getting one of the rooms with its own plunge pool, its perfect for romantic special occasions. The Grace is an incredible hotel, I can’t recommend it enough.

With breathtaking sea views of the caldera, the Mystique in Oia is all about laid back luxury and style.  Incorporating driftwood and natural raw materials into the furnishings and decor, gives the 22 rooms and villas a traditional homely and rustic feel. This hotel oozes charisma and the chic poolside is divinely tranquil.

Bye Bye Santorini.