The Fais Group is set to make its grand entry into hospitality in Santorini, on April 18, 2022, combining one of the most world’s premium travel destinations with the authentic 5-star hospitality synonymous with the international flag of Radisson Blu.
Located in a discreet and serene setting, a few steps away from Kamari, the most characteristic beach of Santorini, Radisson Blu Zaffron Resort is a luxurious oasis that harmoniously combines the exotic, boho-chic atmosphere with the timelessness of Cycladic architecture.
Taking its name from the rare and delicate saffron flower that still blooms in some parts of the island, Zaffron aims to make Santorini a 'good life destination'.
Zaffron is the first lifestyle resort of the Fais Group, giving a clear picture of its approach: authentic hospitality with pillars of unique design, exclusive events and unforgettable experiences for visitors.
Through the elegance and vibes of its 103 suites and expansive facilities, the resort incorporates elements of the island's lifestyle both through design and through a range of experiences, events and collaborations with international brands. It is worth noting that it is the only hotel on the island with an exclusive guests-only beach.
This significant investment amounting to 20 million euros marks the foray of the Athens-based Fais Group in the field of hospitality, with next steps being the expansion to Corfu and Crete.
Zaffron is a prized addition to the already huge portfolio of luxury, fashion and sports brands of the Group, which includes the likes of Tod's, Hogan, Salvatore Ferragamo, Philipp Plein, Princess Yachts, KIKO Milano, Under Armor, Adidas, Puma and Technogym.
"With Zaffron, our goal is to present our sui generis approach to hospitality in a way that respects the island's heritage,” says Manolis Papadakis, General Manager of the Hospitality Division of Radisson Blu Zaffron Resort.
“At the same time, we want to introduce a new idea where the experience of our visitors is enriched and upgraded through dynamic collaborations of international brands and various exclusive events.”
Responsible for the concept design and master plan of Zaffron are Greek architects Arc-Set.
Wanting to create a relaxing and unique resort, while respecting the landscape of the island, Arc-Set spent two years in the design phase the ensure that the finished result "tied" ideally with the raw beauty of Santorini.
The elegant domes and arches of the lobby pay tribute to Santorini's dominant architectural theme, extending as a design element within the 103 rooms, suites and villas - from the superior room with king-size bed to the presidential suite with private pool.
The combination of natural materials such as wood and stone, creates an atmosphere with "earthy" elements, ideal for the relaxation of the visitor.
Under close supervision of Designteam / Nikos Theodorakopoulos the resort's carefully thought out interior design creates a serene environment with the use of tactile materials, rich textures and a neutral colour palette, framed by premium brands of furniture and household items such as Ethimo and Pols Potten.
Sustainable wooden surfaces are complemented by linen and cotton fabrics, while the walls are decorated with black and white photographs that capture the stunning beauty of Santorini. Keyless entry and amenities such as Nespresso coffee machines and Korres toiletries are small but essential touches contributing to the overall sense of luxury.
The resort is designed in such a way to allow for the calming element of water to be present everywhere. In addition to the beach, jacuzzi and heated private pools are available in almost all rooms, while Zaffron also has two central heated pools, 220 and 138 m2. The main pool is the heart of the resort, with its impressive, black and white meander magnetising visitors.
An ideal setting for both leisurely lunches and unforgettable evenings, the pool bar will host internationally renowned guest DJs and many more prestigious themed events, including those in collaboration with the leading international modelling agency Elite Model Management London.
Zaffron harnesses the power of international partnerships to offer a unique concept and a range of authentic gastronomic experiences.
The resort's Zeffirino restaurant is a name with glamor and world fame since its establishment in Genoa in 1939, attracting a multitude of famous visitors: Sofia Lauren, Frank Sinatra, Eros Ramazzoti, Luciano Pavarotti, Mohamed Ali , Pope Francis and Pope John Paul II, and many more.
Against the backdrop of stunning views of Santorini, Zeffirino offers guests an authentic, Italian dining experience using local products and popular recipes from the Zeffirino Belloni family cookbook. From home-made pasta to the specialities of the day not to mention the secret yet world renowned family recipe 'Pesto Genovese', Zeffirino's menu is polished off with an elaborate wine list that incorporates local Greek as well as Italian labels.
In a more relaxed setting, Trattoria Belloni offers a selection of classic Italian dishes and comfort food, or guests also can enjoy sushi and cocktails while enjoying the ambiance at the Blu Pool Bar.
The exclusive guest only section of the Blue Flag awarded Kamari beach, provides an oasis of enjoyment and relaxation for the patrons of Blu Zaffron.
Clear blue, crystal clear waters, with the white foam of their waves creating the complete contrast with the black volcanic sand.
Unbeatable 5-star service including pre dinner drinks, relaxing melodies, as well as events such as DJ sets and creative dinners, in collaboration with the leading international modelling agency Elite Model Management London.
As always in Greek culture, art is also an important part of the Zaffron experience. In collaboration with the world-renowned Magnum Photos, the resort will offer its guests the opportunity to participate in unique photography workshops led by award-winning photographers.
At Zaffron’s spacious SPA, guests can benefit from wellness treatments that utilise the healing properties of ingredients taken directly from Greek nature. SPA uses Korres skin and beauty care products exclusively, made from natural ingredients, with references to the rich tradition of Greece.
Finally, the exclusive setup would not be complete without touches of comfort and practicality. From the moment of arrival, guests can pick up luxury and environmentally friendly electric cars, while they can also enjoy the feeling of an escape to the beauty of the Aegean with a trip by private yacht or sailboat.
The Marketing Director Communication Hospitality & Gastronomy Division of Fais Group, Georgia Dodou, speaks of the overall experience offered to the hotel visitor, saying, “The unique exclusive, guests-only beach, will host international events that will create unique emotions and unforgettable memories for our guests, highlighting Santorini in a quality destination where events and tailor made experiences will have a primary place along with gastronomic Zaffron Resort identity.”
In view of the post-COVID era and the recovery period of the tourism product locally and globally, the Fais Group invests significantly in its newly established Hospitality & Gastronomy Division. In addition to the reconstruction of the Modiano Market and the opening of the luxury 5-star Radisson Blu Zaffron Resort, the Group has also undertaken the revival and development of the emblematic Castello Bibelli tower in Corfu.
The Hospitality & Gastronomy Division has also included the Bufala Gelato ice cream chain, which has been a successful part of the Fais Group for five years. The specific business projects are added to the general brilliant course of the Group, which includes an impressive portfolio of international luxury, fashion & sports brands.
The aim of the Group through the operation of its hotel complexes, gastronomic and other activities, is to remain consistent in its commitments for the adoption of sustainable and environmentally friendly practices, as well as for the support of the local community, its strengthening. local production and products, as well as the creation of job opportunities.
Typically, 450 new jobs are expected to be created -300 in the Modiano Market and 150 in the 5-star Radisson Blu Zaffron Resort- simultaneously with the implementation of the Group's strategic plans.
Radisson Blu Zaffron Resort Santorini, T.210 7101100, Apollonos and Makedonias, Kamari, Santorini
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