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National Geographic Traveller (UK) Reveals Therasia as Greece’s Best-Kept Secret

National Geographic Traveller (UK) Reveals Therasia as Greece’s Best-Kept Secret

National Geographic Traveller (UK) has featured Therasia Island and Santa Irini Retreat in an article titled “This Santorini sister island is Greece’s best-kept secret,” published on 8 August 2026.

Written by Felicity Byrnes, the feature introduces international readers to Therasia, the quiet island within the Santorini Caldera, presenting a place shaped by volcanic history, centuries-old churches, traditional settlements and a slower rhythm of Aegean life. Although the island lies only a short crossing from Santorini, the article highlights how it has preserved a distinct identity beyond the better-known routes of the Cyclades.

Santa Irini Retreat is presented as one of the island’s new generation of thoughtful hospitality offerings. Opened in 2024 by Paris Savvidis and Dimitris Kriezis on Dimitris’s ancestral family estate, the retreat comprises four individually designed, house-like suites. One occupies a carefully restored traditional building, while the other three were newly designed and constructed in harmony with Therasia’s morphology, architectural heritage and human scale. Their seamless integration into the estate creates the impression that they have always belonged to the landscape.

The feature draws attention to details that express the retreat’s understated approach to luxury: antique handwoven textiles, driftwood gathered from the nearby shore, gardens with fig trees, sunset moments by the pool and hospitality guided by the Greek spirit of philotimo. Together, they create an experience rooted not in excess, but in authenticity, tranquillity and meaningful engagement with the island.

At the heart of the estate stands the family Church of Agia Eirini, also known as Santa Irini. National Geographic Traveller (UK) recounts the historical tradition associating the church with the origin of the name Santorini—an account also found in documented historical references and treated as an important part of the island’s cultural memory.

Beyond the retreat, the article explores the wider character of Therasia: the village of Manolas, the port of Korfos, the volcanic vineyards of Mikra Thira, local gastronomy, walking and cycling routes, and the abandoned cave settlement of Agrilia. Its portrait is of an island that rewards curiosity and invites travellers to experience the Santorini Caldera from a quieter, more authentic perspective.

For Santa Irini Retreat, this feature represents meaningful international recognition of a vision centred on heritage, place and genuine Greek hospitality. It also places Therasia firmly within the contemporary conversation around slow travel and the rediscovery of lesser-known Mediterranean destinations.
International Press: Reise-Inspirationen Finds a Welcome Among Friends at Santa Irini Retreat

International Press: Reise-Inspirationen Finds a Welcome Among Friends at Santa Irini Retreat

Reise-Inspirationen, one of Germany's established travel publications, presents Santa Irini Retreat as a destination where authentic Greek island life, heritage architecture and genuine hospitality come together on Therasia Island, within the Santorini Caldera.

The feature contrasts the vibrant energy of Santorini with the slower rhythm of neighbouring Therasia, introducing readers to a place where volcanic landscapes, traditional villages and centuries-old local traditions continue to shape everyday life. Through personal storytelling, it reveals a different perspective on one of Greece's most iconic destinations—one defined by authenticity, tranquillity and a genuine connection with place.

At the heart of the story is Santa Irini Retreat, created by founders Dimitris Kriezis and Paris Savvidis, who brought together thoughtfully designed contemporary architecture with the careful restoration of a historic family building, creating a luxury heritage retreat that honours the architectural, cultural and historical identity of Therasia. The feature also highlights the historic Church of Agia Eirini (Santa Irini), located within the retreat's courtyard and closely associated with the island's cultural heritage and, according to documented historical references, with the origin of the name Santorini.

Beyond introducing an exceptional place to stay, the article presents Santa Irini Retreat as a gateway to discovering the authentic character of Therasia Island through local gastronomy, volcanic vineyards, meaningful cultural experiences and the remarkable landscapes of the Santorini Caldera. It reflects a growing international appreciation for destinations where authenticity, heritage and a genuine sense of place define contemporary luxury travel.

Read the full feature and discover why Santa Irini Retreat offers one of the most distinctive luxury heritage hospitality experiences on Therasia Island, within the Santorini Caldera, where authentic Cycladic culture, history and meaningful island experiences come together.
International Press: MDL Magazine Discovers the Authentic Soul of Therasia

International Press: MDL Magazine Discovers the Authentic Soul of Therasia

Among Greece's distinctive hospitality destinations, MDL Magazine presents Santa Irini Retreat as a thoughtful expression of Cycladic heritage, introducing readers to the authentic character of Therasia Island and its enduring connection to the Santorini Caldera.

The feature follows the vision of founders Dimitris Kriezis and Paris Savvidis, who carefully restored a historic family estate into a heritage retreat where traditional architecture, local gastronomy and genuine Greek hospitality come together in harmony. At the heart of the property stands the historic Church of Agia Eirini (Santa Irini), an enduring landmark closely associated with the island's cultural heritage and, according to documented historical references, with the origin of the name Santorini.

More than presenting a distinctive place to stay, the article explores Santa Irini Retreat as a gateway to the authentic character of Therasia Island. It highlights a destination where slow island living, meaningful local experiences, rich cultural heritage and the dramatic landscapes of the Santorini Caldera offer a different perspective on luxury travel—one defined by authenticity, privacy and a genuine connection with place.

The feature reflects a growing international appreciation for destinations that preserve their identity and traditions, introducing Therasia Island as an authentic alternative within the Santorini Caldera for travellers seeking meaningful experiences beyond the familiar.

Read the full feature and discover how Santa Irini Retreat and Therasia Island continue to shape a contemporary vision of heritage hospitality, authentic Cycladic culture and refined island living in Greece.
International Press: COMPTOIR DES VOYAGES Features Santa Irini Retreat

International Press: COMPTOIR DES VOYAGES Features Santa Irini Retreat

Through its exploration of Therasia Island, COMPTOIR DES VOYAGES introduces readers to a destination where Cycladic traditions, volcanic landscapes and authentic island life continue to define everyday experiences within the Santorini Caldera.

Among the places featured is Santa Irini Retreat, a luxury heritage retreat located beside the historic Church of Agia Eirini (Santa Irini), a landmark closely associated with the island's cultural heritage and, according to documented historical references, with the origin of the name Santorini. The article presents the retreat as more than a place to stay, introducing it as a gateway to experiencing the authentic character of Therasia Island through its people, traditions, Mediterranean gastronomy and volcanic vineyards.

From indigenous Assyrtiko vineyards and historic cave settlements to the annual Panigiri of Agia Eirini and the island's unhurried rhythm of life, the feature celebrates the enduring identity of Therasia Island and the meaningful experiences awaiting travellers seeking authenticity within the Santorini Caldera.

Read the full feature and discover how Santa Irini Retreat and Therasia Island offer an authentic expression of Cycladic heritage, cultural continuity and refined island hospitality in Greece.

 

International Press: INSIDEREI Features Santa Irini Retreat

International Press: INSIDEREI Features Santa Irini Retreat

Through its feature on Santa Irini Retreat, INSIDEREI introduces readers to the authentic character of Therasia Island, where Cycladic heritage, genuine Greek hospitality and a slower rhythm of island life continue to shape a distinctive travel experience within the Santorini Caldera.

Santa Irini Retreat is a luxury heritage retreat that offers an authentic expression of Cycladic hospitality, thoughtfully combining history, culture and contemporary comfort within a carefully restored historic family estate.

Located within the historic settlement of Agia Eirini, the retreat overlooks the Santorini Caldera, with panoramic views towards Oia and the surrounding Aegean islands. Guests experience thoughtfully restored heritage accommodation, Mediterranean cuisine inspired by seasonal local ingredients, volcanic wines and curated island experiences that celebrate the traditions, landscapes and cultural heritage of Therasia Island.

Rather than following the pace of conventional tourism, the feature presents Santa Irini Retreat as a destination where privacy, authenticity and meaningful connections define a contemporary interpretation of luxury travel rooted in place.

Read the INSIDEREI feature and discover how Santa Irini Retreat reflects the authentic character of Therasia Island through heritage hospitality, Mediterranean gastronomy and the timeless philosophy of slow island living.

International Press: Beau Monde Traveller Features Santa Irini Retreat

International Press: Beau Monde Traveller Features Santa Irini Retreat

In a recent editorial, Beau Monde Traveller presents Santa Irini Retreat as a refined expression of Cycladic heritage, where authentic hospitality, timeless architecture and the tranquil rhythm of Therasia Island define a contemporary vision of luxury within the Santorini Caldera.

The feature introduces Santa Irini Retreat as a luxury heritage retreat, thoughtfully created within a restored historic family estate where traditional architecture, genuine Greek hospitality and a strong sense of place come together to offer an authentic island experience. Located within the historic settlement of Agia Eirini, the retreat overlooks the Santorini Caldera, with panoramic views towards Oia and the surrounding Aegean islands.

Surrounded by volcanic landscapes, traditional vineyards and enduring local traditions, the article highlights experiences shaped by Mediterranean gastronomy, volcanic wines and curated island activities that reflect the authentic character of Therasia Island. Rather than following travel trends, the feature celebrates a destination where privacy, cultural heritage and a genuine sense of place define quiet luxury.

Read the full feature and discover how Santa Irini Retreat offers a contemporary interpretation of heritage hospitality, authentic Cycladic culture and refined island living in Greece.
International Press: Santa Irini Retreat featured by L’OFFICIEL

International Press: Santa Irini Retreat featured by L’OFFICIEL

Featured by L'Officiel, Santa Irini Retreat is presented as a refined expression of Cycladic heritage, where understated elegance, genuine Greek hospitality and the timeless character of Therasia Island come together within the unique setting of the Santorini Caldera.

The feature introduces Santa Irini Retreat as a luxury heritage retreat created within a carefully restored historic family estate. Located in the historic settlement of Agia Eirini, the retreat overlooks the Santorini Caldera, with panoramic views towards Oia and the surrounding Aegean islands. Thoughtfully restored heritage accommodation, Mediterranean gastronomy inspired by seasonal local ingredients and volcanic wines define an experience shaped by authenticity, privacy and a profound sense of place.

More than a destination, the article explores a philosophy of hospitality where cultural heritage, meaningful local experiences and the natural beauty of Therasia Island create a contemporary interpretation of luxury rooted in simplicity and human connection.

Read the full feature and discover how Santa Irini Retreat reflects a distinctive vision of heritage hospitality, authentic Cycladic culture and refined island living in Greece.
International Press: Posh Italy Celebrates Quiet Luxury on Therasia Island

International Press: Posh Italy Celebrates Quiet Luxury on Therasia Island

Featured by Posh Italy, Santa Irini Retreat is presented as a refined expression of Cycladic heritage, where tranquillity, authentic Greek hospitality and the timeless character of Therasia Island create an elegant island escape within the Santorini Caldera.

The feature introduces Santa Irini Retreat as a luxury heritage retreat created within a carefully restored historic family estate. Located in the historic settlement of Agia Eirini, the retreat overlooks the Santorini Caldera, with panoramic views towards Oia and the surrounding Aegean islands. Thoughtfully restored heritage accommodation, Mediterranean gastronomy inspired by seasonal local ingredients, volcanic wines and curated island experiences reflect the traditions, culture and natural beauty of Therasia Island.

Rather than following contemporary travel trends, the article celebrates a destination where privacy, slow island living and a genuine connection with local culture define a refined interpretation of luxury hospitality.

Read the full feature and discover how Santa Irini Retreat reflects the authentic spirit of Therasia Island through heritage hospitality, Mediterranean gastronomy and the timeless rhythm of the Aegean.
International Press: The Times Highlights Santa Irini Retreat on Therasia Island

International Press: The Times Highlights Santa Irini Retreat on Therasia Island

Featured by The Times among Greece's remarkable destinations, Santa Irini Retreat is presented as a refined expression of Cycladic heritage, where authentic Greek hospitality, cultural heritage and the tranquil character of Therasia Island offer a distinctive perspective on the Santorini Caldera.

The feature introduces Santa Irini Retreat as a luxury heritage retreat created within a carefully restored historic family estate. Located in the historic settlement of Agia Eirini, the retreat overlooks the Santorini Caldera, with panoramic views towards Oia and the surrounding Aegean islands. Thoughtfully restored heritage accommodation, Mediterranean gastronomy inspired by seasonal local ingredients, volcanic wines and curated island experiences reflect the traditions and natural beauty of Therasia Island.

Rather than following the pace of conventional tourism, the article presents Santa Irini Retreat as a destination where privacy, authenticity and meaningful connections shape a refined island experience rooted in history, culture and the timeless rhythm of the Aegean.

Read the full feature and discover how Santa Irini Retreat reflects an authentic vision of heritage hospitality, contemporary Cycladic culture and slow island living in Greece.
International press: Santa Irini featured by INDEPENDENT

International press: Santa Irini featured by INDEPENDENT

Featured by The Independent among the best places to stay in the Santorini region, Santa Irini Retreat is presented as a luxury heritage retreat where authentic Greek hospitality, Cycladic heritage and the tranquil character of Therasia Island offer a distinctive island experience within the Santorini Caldera.

Located within the historic settlement of Agia Eirini, the retreat overlooks the Santorini Caldera, with panoramic views towards Oia and the surrounding Aegean islands. The feature highlights thoughtfully restored heritage accommodation, Mediterranean gastronomy inspired by seasonal local ingredients, fresh seafood, volcanic wines and curated island experiences that celebrate the traditions and natural beauty of Therasia Island.

The article presents Santa Irini Retreat as a destination where privacy, wellbeing and meaningful connections with local culture define a contemporary interpretation of luxury travel rooted in history, authenticity and a genuine sense of place.

Read the full feature and discover how Santa Irini Retreat reflects an authentic vision of heritage hospitality, Mediterranean gastronomy and slow island living in Greece.
International Press: Santa Irini Retreat featured by AFAR

International Press: Santa Irini Retreat featured by AFAR

Selected by AFAR among Greece's most inspiring hotels and resorts, Santa Irini Retreat is presented as a luxury heritage retreat where the authentic character of Therasia Island, Cycladic heritage and genuine Greek hospitality create a meaningful island experience within the Santorini Caldera.

Located within the historic settlement of Agia Eirini, the retreat overlooks the Santorini Caldera, with panoramic views towards Oia and the surrounding Aegean islands. The feature highlights thoughtfully restored heritage accommodation, Mediterranean gastronomy inspired by seasonal ingredients from the estate's garden, fresh seafood, volcanic wines and curated island experiences that reflect the traditions and natural beauty of Therasia Island.

The article celebrates a destination where privacy, wellbeing and meaningful connections with local culture shape a contemporary interpretation of luxury hospitality rooted in authenticity, history and a genuine sense of place.

Read AFAR's feature and discover how Santa Irini Retreat reflects an authentic vision of heritage hospitality, Mediterranean gastronomy and slow island living in Greece.
Greek Press: Santa irini retreat featured by FNL GUIDE

Greek Press: Santa irini retreat featured by FNL GUIDE

Featured by FNL Guide, Santa Irini Retreat invites travellers to experience a unique blend of heritage, gastronomy and understated luxury. Nestled beside the historic church of Santa Irini, on untouched Therasia, the retreat offers privacy, authenticity and panoramic views of the Aegean. Conscious travellers enjoy local flavours, volcanic wines, slow mornings and unforgettable sunsets. Every meal, every conversation around the table and every walk through the island's vineyards becomes part of a deeper connection with Greece. Santa Irini is not simply a place to stay—it is a place to feel, remember and belong.

Read FNL's feature on Santa Irini Retreat and discover one of Greece's most authentic luxury hideaways overlooking the Santorini caldera.
Greek Press: TERRA  MAG is featured for Santa Irini Retreat

Greek Press: TERRA MAG is featured for Santa Irini Retreat

As Terra Mag beautifully describes, Santa Irini Retreat is a place where time flows slowly. Surrounded by the scents of herbs, homemade recipes, fresh local ingredients and the sounds of the sea, guests experience the true essence of Greek island life. Conscious travellers from the USA, Australia, Europe, Japan and Korea come here not to escape life, but to reconnect with it. Sharing meals under the pergola, tasting local wines and watching the sunset over the caldera become treasured memories. Santa Irini offers something increasingly rare in today's world: simplicity, authenticity and emotional luxury.

Read Terra Mag's feature on Santa Irini Retreat, where slow living, homemade Greek flavours and the timeless spirit of the Cyclades come together.
International Press: Santa irini Retreat featured by meltem bleu

International Press: Santa irini Retreat featured by meltem bleu

Santa Irini Retreat reveals a different Greece—one of silence, authenticity and meaningful human connection. On the unspoiled island of Therasia, conscious travellers enjoy volcanic wines, local gastronomy, breathtaking caldera views and a slower rhythm of life. It is a unique destination where luxury is measured not by excess, but by emotion, beauty and unforgettable memories.

Read Meltem's feature on Santa Irini Retreat and discover a hidden gem in Greece for conscious travellers seeking quiet luxury and authentic island life.
Greek Press: New Money featured for Santa Irini Retreat

Greek Press: New Money featured for Santa Irini Retreat

Featured by NewMoney, Santa Irini Retreat is the realization of a dream: to preserve and share the authentic beauty of Therasia with the world. Far from crowded destinations and fast-paced tourism, this unique retreat offers conscious travellers a rare opportunity to experience Greece through its people, flavours, traditions and landscapes. Guests gather around the table to enjoy farm-to-table cuisine, local volcanic wines and genuine hospitality while overlooking one of the most spectacular views in the Aegean. Santa Irini Retreat is not simply a place to stay—it is a place to belong, reconnect and create memories that last long after the journey ends."Santa Irini Retreat is where a vision became a destination, and where travellers rediscover the authentic soul of Greece."

Read the NewMoney feature on Santa Irini Retreat and discover the inspiring story behind the vision that brought conscious travellers to the hidden island of Therasia.
International Press: Santa Irini Retreat feautured by meltem blue Magazine

International Press: Santa Irini Retreat feautured by meltem blue Magazine

Featured by Meltem Magazine, Santa Irini Retreat invites conscious travellers to experience a Greece that feels increasingly rare. Set on the unspoiled island of Therasia, opposite Santorini's iconic caldera, this unique retreat blends quiet luxury, authentic Greek hospitality and meaningful travel. Guests wake to panoramic Aegean views, enjoy farm-to-table Mediterranean cuisine, taste exceptional volcanic wines and reconnect with the simple pleasures of island life. Here, luxury is measured not by excess but by silence, space, human connection and unforgettable moments. Santa Irini Retreat offers a transformative escape for travellers seeking authenticity, wellness, culture and rediscover the carefree freedom of childhood in the heart of the Cyclades.

Read Meltem Magazine's feature on Santa Irini Retreat, a unique quiet-luxury destination for conscious travellers seeking authentic Greek gastronomy, volcanic wine experiences, through slow living and meaningful connections in the Cyclades.