Hey Wanderlusters!
Bec and I plan several trips each year, but last year we had set our sights on a trip to London to watch our beloved Chicago Cubs play baseball. We planned to follow this with a scenic drive around Ireland to take in the beautiful green landscapes. However, a few months before our trip, we received an email from Luxury Escapes featuring an irresistible deal for a 3-night stay at Radisson Blu Zaffron Resort in Santorini. It included breakfast and dinner and boasted stunning visuals of a private pool. Naturally, we pivoted our plans, skipped Ireland for this trip, and booked our first visit to Greece. The resort blew us away, and I can’t wait to share it with you.
First Impressions
From the moment we stepped into the Radisson Blu Zaffron Resort, we knew we were in for a treat. The staff welcomed us with such warmth and hospitality that we immediately felt at home. The resort itself is a stunning blend of modern elegance and traditional Cycladic architecture, with iconic whitewashed walls and blue accents that make Santorini so special. The only slight drawback was the lack of onsite parking. While street parking was available, it was a bit challenging to reverse park on the opposite side of the road without a reverse camera and sensors (we are privileged that our standard cars have these features).
The grounds were amazing, with a central pool surrounded by rooms and the pool bar area. The lobby was also impressive, and the staff were great. The sunsets over the pool were incredible, and there were plenty of lounge chairs available throughout our stay.
Our Room
We stayed in a Junior Suite with a private plunge pool, and it was pure bliss. The suite was spacious and beautifully decorated, providing the perfect space to relax out of the summer heat. The bed felt like sleeping on a cloud, and the modern amenities made it easy to unwind after a day of exploring. Having our private pool added an extra touch of luxury, perfect for a refreshing dip anytime we wanted. Our room also backed onto the main pool area, which was convenient for walking out to the pool, bar, or dinner whenever we were ready.
Our room had plenty of space, with its own little seating area and a patio out front, as well as a wooden deck/patio next to our plunge pool. The room opened straight out to the main pool area but still felt private. The shower and whole bathroom were amazing, and the air conditioning was also incredible.
Dining Delights
The food at Radisson Blu Zaffron Resort was nothing short of amazing. Breakfast was a buffet-style feast with a vast selection of fresh local fruits, delicious pastries, and hot dishes that catered to every taste. We sat outside in the sun, overlooking the pool while the sound of running water made breakfast a relaxing and enjoyable start to the day.
We dined at the main restaurant, Belloni Trattoria, for two nights, enjoying varied dishes like pizza and other Italian specialties. On our third night, we had an extraordinary experience at Zeffirino Ristorante. Founded in 1939 in Genoa, Italy, the restaurant remains family-owned. We ordered a burrata salad, which was dressed to perfection in front of us. The waitress explained that the salad was a family recipe started by the founder’s grandparents. Watching her replicate the hand-breaking of the salad (now done with gloves) was awe-inspiring. We followed it with their specialty pesto pasta, also a family recipe, and learned that the pesto had been blessed by the Pope. The serving of the pasta was a performance in itself, and the storytelling added to the experience. We sipped wine while watching the sunset over the mountains, making our dining experiences at this resort truly unforgettable.
The main restaurant’s menu changed daily, and the food was great—not Michelin star quality, but really good. Breakfast offered a really good selection.
Resort Amenities
The resort has everything you need for a perfect getaway. The infinity pool is a dream, offering stunning views and a serene atmosphere. Although we were busy exploring the island, the resort also features a well-reviewed spa with available treatments. For those who like to stay active, the gym is well-equipped, and there are plenty of activities and excursions you can book through the concierge. The only downside to the resort not being on the beach was the short walk to the beach, where there was an area roped off for resort guests. However, this allowed us to explore the town of Kamari.
The pool area was amazing, with a pool bar offering great views over the pool and the sunsets. There were outdoor showers near the pool area, and although the resort wasn’t huge, it was perfectly sized for an amazing stay. While there was no onsite car parking for guests, there was plenty of street parking nearby. The beach was only a 5-minute walk away, and there was a private beach area for hotel guests.
Exploring the Area
Radisson Blu Zaffron Resort is located in Kamari, a fantastic spot on the island. The black sand beach is just a short walk away, and it’s a beautiful place to relax and soak up the sun. Kamari offers great restaurants and bars right along the beach, as well as cute shops to browse. If you’re in the mood for more shopping or nightlife, the vibrant town of Fira is easily accessible. For history buffs, the ancient ruins of Akrotiri are nearby and definitely worth a visit. We found having a car gave us so much flexibility in exploring not just Fira but also Oia and other smaller towns and beaches on the island.
Final Thoughts
Overall, our stay at the Radisson Blu Zaffron Resort was exceptional. The luxurious accommodations, delicious dining options, and stunning views made it an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway or just need some solo time to recharge, this resort has everything you need.
If you’re dreaming of Santorini, Radisson Blu Zaffron Resort is the place to be. Until next time, happy travels! For more travel stories and tips, check out Atlas & Wander.
