Around Imerovigli
Discover Imerovigli - The Balcony of the Aegean
Imerovigli is not simply a place to stay in Santorini. It is a destination in itself — and arguably the finest vantage point on the entire island. Perched on the highest point of the caldera rim, about 2 km north of Fira, it offers some of the most dramatic panoramas of the volcano and the Aegean Sea. In fact, the very name Imerovigli originates from the word vigla, meaning “viewpoint” — because in centuries past, its elevated position allowed villagers to spot approaching pirate ships from afar.
Today, those same cliffs that once served as a watchtower offer guests something far more pleasant: uninterrupted sunsets, crystalline sea air, and a pace of life that the rest of the island can only dream of. Unlike Oia, which attracts enormous crowds, or Fira, which has more of a party atmosphere, Imerovigli is a quiet clifftop village with fabulous caldera views — a peaceful alternative that still delivers everything that makes Santorini extraordinary.
The Fira–Oia Caldera Trail
At the heart of Salvatore lies our stunning pool, perfectly positioned to offer one of the most extraordinary views on the island: the vast volcanic caldera, the shimmering Aegean Sea, and — as day turns to evening — the legendary Santorini sunset painting the sky in layers of gold and crimson. Whether you prefer to swim unhurried laps, float peacefully while watching clouds drift above the volcano, or simply sit by the water’s edge with your feet dipped in and a drink in hand, this is a place you’ll find very hard to leave
Skaros Rock
The highlight of Imerovigli is Skaros Rock — the remains of a medieval fortress that once protected the island. This dramatic volcanic promontory juts out over the caldera and is one of the most iconic sights in all of Santorini. The trek rewards visitors with panoramic views of the Aegean Sea and the surrounding landscape. Along the way, you will pass the charming Church of Panagia Theoskepasti, clinging to the cliffside below the rock. Adding a side trip to Skaros Rock to the Fira–Oia hike adds at least one hour to the journey — but it is an hour very well spent.
Sunsets Without the Crowds
Imerovigli sits higher on the caldera than Oia and faces directly west, offering unobstructed views of the sunset — and from here, you can also see Skaros Rock and Oia in the distance, which is truly magical. While the sunset at Oia attracts enormous numbers of visitors, Imerovigli offers the same golden spectacle with a fraction of the crowds. From our Sunset Lounge and pool deck at Salvatore, the evening sky becomes your private theatre.
Local Churches & Architecture
Imerovigli’s lanes look like something out of a fairy tale, dotted with blue-domed churches, whitewashed houses, and hidden courtyards that invite exploration. Notable landmarks include the Church of the Resurrection of the Lord (Anastasi) and the lovely chapel of Agios Georgios with its fantastic caldera panorama. Take a slow morning walk through the village’s narrow alleys — there is beauty around every corner.