Canaves Oia Hotel, Santorini, Greece

The hotel is made up of dozens of whitewashed rooms tumbling down Oia's cliffside, on the northern tip of Santorini Island. Divided in two sections by the blue-domed Cathedral of Oia, with breathtaking sunset views from the caldera-side. These 17th century Canaves houses carved into the rock, have been transformed into suites with an impressive view to the Caldera. 

Location

This is the romantic Santorini that everyone dreams about, with uninterrupted views over a puzzle of whitewashed buildings dropping dramatically down over the caldera - the volcanic crater now partially submerged in the Aegean sea that makes the island’s landscape so instantly recognisable. The hotel has been built into the rocky cliffs in the popular village of Oia, meaning each room, pool and restaurant has direct sightlines over the water, but it’s the height that you find yourself at that makes the setting so dizzyingly beautiful.

You can explore the winding streets of the village from your doorstep, with a pedestrianised marble pathway leading into the centre; it’s barely more than a two-minute walk. For sunset though, you’re best to return to the hotel where you won’t have the endure the tourist jostle as the sky turns a majestic dusty pink. It’s also less than 15 miles to both the airport and the port, and transfers in an air-conditioned shuttle can be easily arranged.

Accommodation

Forty-four light-filled, adults-only suites and villas (some carved out of the cliffside) have plenty of windows (unusual for caldera properties). The décor is all white, broken up by details including intricately carved mirror frames and beige throws on beds and sofas. From big fluffy towels and bathrobes to the Italian Aqua de Parma toiletries, there are plenty of luxurious details.

Superior and Honeymoon suites have plunge pools. Iconic River Pool suites are smaller than in the photos, but the combination whirlpool/plunge pool is a big highlight: steps from the bathroom lead into the pool, which winds between cave-like walls, spilling out into a small plunge pool on the terrace

Dining

Breakfast is served on a terrace with spectacular caldera views, or to the terrace of your room (no charge). It's an à la carte offering: a good selection of hot dishes and cold cuts; specialities like the Canaves crab sandwich; strong coffee served in pots; fresh juices, yoghurt and honey.

Dinner is in Petra restaurant, which is on two floors: the best views are from the top floor near the pool. They serve tasty international fare: try the spare ribs with the chef’s own Jack Daniels barbecue sauce, or the Ladotyri, local cheese served with a caramelised fruit sauce. Don’t miss the desserts, which are excellent.

Facilities

Canaves Oia's Spa with a view offers guests the opportunity to indulge in high-end wellness and beauty services in distinctive luxury. Embracing the principles of holistic luxury and well-being, Canaves Oia's Spa treats guests with a luxurious sensual awaking through a sensational selection of rejuvenating spa treatments, in-room massage sessions and spa massage therapies while enjoying the breath-taking views of the caldera and the volcano.