Situated in the 'trendy' mediaeval hilltop village of Pyrgos - benefiting from direct sunset views - Spiti Stelios originally served as an old artisan house and winery dating back to the early 18th century. This traditional building with truly beautiful caldera and island views, has been restored and converted into a simple and friendly family holiday home. Teams of local artisans have used traditional crafts, techniques and materials to restore this comfortable Santorini 4 bedroom dwelling.
Approached via an uphill footpath with unique breathtaking views across the island and aegean beyond, the entrance to Spiti Stelios leads into a large authentic cobblestoned courtyard with outdoor dining area and barbecue. Spiti Stelios has a large 80 sq. mtr. sunbathing terrace with direct views of the island, ideal for relaxing with a glass of local wine and enjoying the spectacular sunsets which are [almost] guaranteed on the island. On a clear day it is possible to make out more than 10 different islands in the distance including Ios, Sikinos, Folegandros, Milos, Amorgos, Naxos, Irakleia, Christiana, etc.
Inside, the spacious living room features two traditional Santorini couches, scattered with plenty of cushions. At the rear is an arched alcove which we use as snug/TV area; this used to be the tread for the white grapes in years gone by. The well equipped kitchen helps make preparation of breakfast/meals easy, with lots of utensils, modern appliances including a dishwasher. Adjacent to the kitchen is the first single bedroom (bed 130cm x 190cm) with breathtaking views across the island. An arched passage, from the kitchen, leads to a central hallway which retains some of the original architecture of the old red grape tread that used to be there. This leads to the other 2 bedrooms and family bathroom with its 'loo with a view' (perhaps unique on the island!). The master bedroom (bed 180cm x 200cm) is light and airy, with breathtaking caldera views and double doors opening onto a second enclosed courtyard. Adjacent to the master bedroom is the other single bedroom (bed 90cm x 195cm). In total there are one master bedroom and two single bedrooms on this level.
Spiti Stelios benefits from an authentic 'yposkafo' double bedroom (bed 150cm x 190cm) downstairs with en-suite wet room; this is dug out of the rock. This benefits from having its own independent entrance from the street (through the second enclosed courtyard) as well as being accessed from the master bedroom and the double doors to the courtyard. This double en-suite 'yposkafo' is carved out of the rock in authentic Santorinian style and served as the workshop where cheese and other artisan products were made in years gone by. The rear courtyard also has an outdoor shower, which can be used to rinse after returning from the beach!
The beautiful sugar-cube village of Pyrgos is one of the prettiest places on the island, built around the remains of the venetian castle, in a charming mixture of winding lanes and white-washed churches with distinctive blue domes. Pyrgos is centrally located with access to multiple beaches and places of interest.
Beaches
There are at least 2 beaches which are only 15 min drive from Pyrgos (1. Kamari and 2. Vlychada). In addition, there are Perissa and Perivolos beach within a 20 min drive from Pyrgos. While public transport is available from the village square it can get very busy in the summer months and is unreliable, therefore renting a car is strongly recommended.
On the other [East] side of the island there are several beaches, most notably Vourvoulos, Baxedes, Pori and Cape Columbo all worth exploring. Cape Columbo is somewhat secluded and a perfect location if you are looking for peace and quiet. It is reputed to 'sit' on a series of mini volcanic craters deep under the sea bed.
Walks
You can walk along the cliffs from Fira to Oia, about 11 km. Start out in the morning when it's cool and be sure to take along plenty of water, a snack, sun cream, sunglasses and a hat!
There is a hiking trail between Perissa Beach and Kamari Beach that passes by the archaeological site of Ancient Thira at the summit of the mountain. The Perissa side is a dirt trail. The Kamari side is a paved road with steep switchbacks. Not counting the time you spend exploring Ancient Thira, the hike will take you about 2 hours.
There is also a trail which starts at Vothonas village, winds up through Pyrgos and continues on to Profitis Ilias (some 567 meters above sea level). From there, the trail continues to Ancient Thira and then on to Perissa. This trail provides spectacular views of the island, and will take 2 – 2.5 hours plus the time you spend at Ancient Thira.
In addition, there is a hiking trail between Pyrgos and Mesa Gonia that passes through Mesa Gonia village. The trail is a bit dusty but most of the walk is very nice. The Mesa Gonia end of the trail really gives a different view of the island, taking you back in time 50 years or more perhaps.
Restaurants
In the village, there are several local restaurants and tavernas (Rosemary, Cava Alta, Penelope's, Mythos, etc) all within a short (3-7 min) walk from Spiti Stelios. We are also conveniently situated near one of the best restaurants the island has to offer: Metaxi Mas. a mere 15 min walk from the house.
