The property, originally built in the late 1800s, boasts bioclimatic architecture in a very unique manner: it represents Santorini’s traditional cave dwelling dug into the volcanic rock. This in itself keeps the six studios and suites cool in summer and pleasant in winter, an effect that’s enhanced today by modern insulation techniques and eco-friendly pumice stone, taking the local cave-dwelling concept into the 21st century.

Local island breakfast and flavors

There’s no better way than to start the day with a deliciously healthy Greek-island breakfast with the Zen view of Santorini’s volcanic caldera. You’ll be treated to local goodies including Santorini’s famous tomatoes, wild oregano, eggs from local producers, thick Greek yogurt, savory pies and a delicious range of products from nearby Crete such as fresh fruit and traditional rye rusks. Santorini’s exquisite wine, of course, is enjoyed any time of the day! You also have little kitchenettes to whip up light meals, fresh salads and trays of fresh fruit, thanks to the little grocer and market just a couple of minutes away by foot. For lunch and dinner, there are several excellent options of restaurants and “tavernas” all over the town of Imerovigli that serve Cycladic cuisine at its best, ensuring a Mediterranean gastronomic experience only a short walk away.

Eco adventures galore

You’ll be excited to know that Santorini offers a world of eco-friendly activities, both indoors and outdoors. Aeolos works with an eco-friendly diving club (Aegean Divers who conduct beach/sea cleaning activities) that can take you on some spectacular diving trips. Sailing and catamaran excursions by Caldera Yachting are also an excellent eco activity that are on offer. For those who hunger for good gastronomy, there are food and wine trips around the island that will reveal a whole world of healthy eating, while the Galatea’s organic pottery and art shop on the island offers a soulfully creative experience.

In parallel, gorgeous hikes from Santorini Walking Tours will unveil some of the island’s best spots by foot, while a cycling business, Ecobike, offers bikes to rent, complete with an optional guide and full sunset tours if you want well-informed locals to show you around. Lastly, the overworked donkeys of Santorini are now being well treated and part of a much lighter, better experience for visitors. It is interesting to interact with these gentle animals, and we have been assured that their welfare is very much looked after. Ask the management about this experience as well.

Green practices

We’re happy that the Aeolos collects rainwater and stores it in the building’s original water cistern, part an important element that still survives in the island’s traditional dwellings. In parallel, wastewater is treated and has its own septic tank, which luckily means only clean water seeps into the ground and never into sea. The management has drastically minimized the use of chemical cleaning products and cleans using high-tech ultraviolet equipment, while recycled pool water is used to clean the grounds. All wall paint is environmentally friendly as well, meaning you can breathe easy when indoors.

In parallel, the bioclimatic architecture combined with double glazing helps conserve energy and reduce the need for air-conditioning, while energy-efficient appliances (all A++) such as washing machines, fridges and ovens, along with LED lighting everywhere, contribute to the property’s green philosophy. Energy consumption is monitored, an important step in sustainability, and the staff is informed about respecting green practices, including the towel/sheet reuse program.

A new stricter recycling program was introduced to Santorini in 2020, and the property contributes to recycling plastic and other waste. Old appliances and equipment are also sent for proper recycling. Even leftover food, in true Greek fashion, goes to the owner’s dogs and cats.

Lastly, in addition to its green credentials, the property’s staff is proud to have conducted health and hygiene training from the Ministry of Tourism, along with first aid and pool safety certificates.