The Mediterranean lifestyle has gained a lot of traction in the last few years mainly because people from that region are living longer due to having the one of the world’s healthiest diet which includes lots of olive oil, antioxidant-rich fruit, vegetables, fish and of course the odd glass of wine. As well as this being great for our insides, apparently it’s also the secret to naturally glowing skin.
Hoping to add a few more years to my lifespan, I headed off to Santorini, Greece, to immerse myself in the Greek culture.
Following an early morning flight from London Gatwick and a short 15 minute drive from the airport I arrived at the stunning Carpe Diem hotel which is an ultra-private complex, with only ten lavish suites each complete with individual plunge pools. On arrival I was greeted with a chilled glass of champagne as well as canapés made with local greek ingredients such as smoked eel and aubergine paste.
As the hotel is nestled in Santorini’s highest village, Pyrgos, I was able to take in the incredible 270-degree panoramic views as I sipped my champers by the infinity pool before heading to my room to unpack.
About 30 minutes away is Oia (yep, the pretty white and blue buildings you’ve seen all over the ‘gram). Not ever one to miss out on getting some fresh air as well as a picture opportunity, we set sail on a semi private boat to get there. Along the way, we sailed along the beautiful coastline reaching the Red Beach, the White Beach, and the big Light House we even got to dive into the hot springs where the vibrant essence of the sea really awakens your body and soul. We were also treated to a delicious lunch spread which consisted of fresh king prawns, mussels, tzaziki and of course a classic greek salad, the crystal blue waters providing the perfect backdrop.
Post-boat trip, I was able to unwind in the althea boutique spa back at the hotel for some much-needed ‘me time’. The spa has been designed specifically for those seeking seclusion and relaxation. It’s a known fact that the ancient Greeks were lovers of all things beauty using natural ingredients such as honey, greek yoghurt, olive oil and Mediterranean sea salt as part of their beauty routines and the spa really embraces this with all treatments inspired by nature, using exclusively Hellenic herbs, plants and fruits to create an unforgettable experience.
Being the beauty geek that I am, I stumbled across a Greek brand called Apivita who champion natural ingredients of a Greek nature. The Wine Elixir range really stood out to me as it actually uses molecules from Santorini vine leaves to reactivate skins youth.
Speaking of wine, it wouldn’t be a real Mediterranean experience without trying some would it? We headed to Santos Wine to sample the local delights; it also happened to be the perfect location to watch the sunset. With the warm sun beating on my back, I couldn’t think of a better way to end the day I could really get used to this Mediterranean lifestyle.
Carpe Diem is a private hotel and guests are able to experience the hotel starting from 179 euros per night, minimum stay of two nights.
For more info on Caldera Yachting Company visit here
For more info on Santo Wines visit here
