Greece

Greek architecture is shaped by light. On Santorini, houses are carved into the volcanic cliff above the caldera, their white walls and blue domes stacked one above another, with terraces that look out over the water towards the islands. Oia, at the northern tip, is known for its sunsets; staying a little apart from its busiest lanes gives the evenings more space.

Crete is a different scale altogether: a large island of mountains, olive groves and long beaches, where a house with its own kitchen and a pool gives the days a looser rhythm between swimming and shade. Attica, around Athens, combines a long coastline with inland hills and villages; from there it is possible to reach quieter bays or the temple at Sounion.

Accommodation in Greece in our selections includes stays for two on Santorini, family villas and larger houses for groups of friends. Many of them share the materials of the place – whitewashed walls, stone and Aegean light – and the slower pace of a Greek day.