Whether of Orthodox or Catholic creed, Easter in Oia is an exhilarating religious experience in reverence and devoutness.  in touch with God, in peace with oneself.  The holly prevails in the churches, orthodox and catholic and the powerful, yet serene ambiance.

The orthodox traditional Cylcadic church in Oia is called Panagia (virgin Mary) Platsani and is located in Oia’s central square. The Catholic Church is located in the island’s capital Fira.

Easter week in Oia is of particular religious sentiment. In Greek tradition the faithful fasten and attend daily services in the church that recreate the Devine drama. The mass of crucifixion on holly Thursday, the epitaph on Holly Friday with a candle procession through the village lanes, is time for reflection in reverence.

Resurrection on holly Saturday is celebrated with red eggs and fireworks  and the famous “magiritsa” soup. Lamb skewed and roasted over open charcoal fire is the delicious meal for Easter Sunday. Restaurants, shops as well as entertainment are open and available during Easter. Taverns offer traditional gourmet appetizers like octopus,  etc,  with Ouzo and wine. Night entertainment, especially after resurrection goes on till dawn.

Of course, a delicious traditional roast lamb meal, the famous “magiritsa” soup or a meal in the recipe of your choice, will be prepared for you by the cook at Oia Mansion during your Easter stay. For those who enjoy a cool swim, the water temperature is quite pleasant and the hot volcanic springs are a must.

The sweet winter climate of the Aegean, the colors and landscapes, occasionally even covered with snow, the absolute peace and tranquility, the fierce elements of nature, the smell of the earth, produce an experience unknown to the wider public. Fascination at your own pace. Whereas, most hotels operate only in summer, Oia Mansion is a fully functional house operating all year round. It is warm and cozy, ideal for a winder stay. Even the open air Jacuzzi is heated. Paint, write, hike or take walks, indulge in endless conversations, see the ancient town and the museum. Talk to the locals and enjoy the exquisite fresh fish, plentiful during autumn, winter and spring as the water temperature cools.

If you dare, jump in the steaming hot volcanic springs of the Caldera at “Palaia Kameni”: a mars like natural basin, surrounded by huge black lava rocks, features water at 32o C and therapeutic mud. The winter beauty with touches of melancholy and calm reflection as well as the Mansion’s sweet hospitality offer the sophisticated romantics the setting of choice for a very special wedding, honeymoon, proposal and exchange of vows.  It is an equally powerful experience, internal and private, away from the summer crowds.

Whether of Orthodox or Catholic creed, Christmas in Oia is an exhilarating religious experience in reverence and devoutness.  In touch with God, in peace with oneself.  The holly prevails in the churches, orthodox and catholic and the powerful, yet serene ambiance.

The orthodox traditional Cycladic church in Oia is called Panagia (virgin Mary) Platsani and is located in Oia’s central square.

The Catholic Church is located in the island’s capital Thira.

A delicious traditional turkey meal, or a meal in the recipe of your choice, will be prepared for you by the cook at Oia Mansion.