White Cellar
Blue and white, sea and sky
Converted from an old canava (wine cellar), this split-level property is an archetypal example of Santorini’s unique cave houses. Carved into the sheer cliff that spills into the volcanic caldera, these humble dwellings of smooth white plaster have no straight edges: vaulted ceilings, arched doorways, and alcoves create the sense of a calm cocoon. Naturally ventilated, the houses are wonderfully cool even in high summer.
Located on the sheltered, south-facing side of Oia, Santorini’s most picture-perfect village, White Cellar is accessible via a private entrance and relatively few stairs. Superb restaurants, clifftop cafes, and tempting shops are just steps from your front door, while a scenic footpath descends to the bay of Armeni. Right in the heart of the village, the house feels amazingly secluded. Three small terraces on different levels offer different perspectives on Santorini’s iconic landscape and architecture.
The space
The two self-contained cave houses are connected by steep outdoor stairs. On the upper level, the open-plan living area is flooded with sunlight; the simple, stripped back decor lets the stunning view take centre stage. An archway leads to a vaulted bedroom, with a built-in bed slotted into the quietly elegant space. A compact but cleverly designed kitchen, stucco bathroom with rain shower, and smattering of antiques complete the picture of harmonious simplicity.
An undulating, staircase leads to the lower level, where a secret whirlpool is tucked beneath the stairwell. There are cushioned alcoves for relaxing in the shade or soaking up the views. The spacious downstairs interior features a personal collection of vintage treasures: antique Cretan chairs in the dine-in kitchen, old scales suspended in the sun-drenched living room. The white stucco bathroom has a striking marble basin and rain shower. The vaulted bedroom, with a king-size bed, is all smooth edges in shades of white — the hallmark of Greek island style.
Location
Amenities
- Air conditioning
- Beach essentials
- Double bed
- Heating
- High chair
- Indoor dining area
- King size bed
- Nespresso machine
- Travel cot
- Two fully equipped kitchens
- Two sofa beds
- Whirlpool
- Wi-Fi
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