The first thing that caught my attention about The Museum Project was its colourful façade. Facing Oia’s main pedestrianised street, Nikolaou Nomikou, it is painted the softest peachy pink, with bougainvillea blooms cascading down it. The building has become something of a landmark, standing out from the island’s signature white-washed architecture. In fact, on a previous visit to Santorini, I had stopped to take photographs, keen to find out what was behind the door.
On this trip, I discovered that the answer is rather special. With the entrance hidden down a cobbled side street, The Museum Project feels worlds away from the crowds outside. There are just 14 rooms and suites, which can be booked as individual boutique hotel rooms, though I could not help but think it would make the dreamiest group villa. At the heart of the property is a peaceful courtyard, shaded by a grand olive tree (thought to be one of the oldest in the village) and centred around a very inviting swimming pool, with beautifully crafted chairs, a thoughtfully curated bar and a collection of design objects that nod to its heritage. It is somewhere you can happily while away an afternoon: order a pizza, take a dip, settle in and watch the light move across the arched walls.
We were greeted by the delightful TheoDora Papakatrana, who runs the hotel, with a big hug. This immediately set the tone for our stay. There is an unmistakable family feeling to The Museum Project. We were on first name terms with TheoDora and her team (Arif, Vana and Giota) by the time we left. They are warm and attentive without being overly formal, and there is a sense that they want you to soak up the local culture rather than simply tick off the usual sights. Yes please.