What it is

A just-renovated, family-owned respite housed in 17th-century seaside wine caves.

What it isn't

Quirky. Sure, you’re sleeping in a former cave, but this is Grecian splendor at its best.

What we think

Even the most basic 270-square-foot room here would be worthy of Aphrodite herself, with a private plunge pool, Hermès toiletries in the rain shower and a sunwashed, stone walled terrace lofted above the glimmering Aegean. But it’s the welcoming feeling you have upon stepping foot on the property that makes you feel like a Grecian god—the signature Canaves Oia cocktail they hand you, gratis; the bottle of wine and fruit awaiting in your room; the fact that they’ll go so far as to print out your boarding pass for your return flight for you, 24-hours a day, not that you’d ever want to leave! When you learn that the hotel is still owned by the Chaidemenos clan (now run by the founder’s sons, Markos and Alexandros), who helped kick-start this fishing village’s tourism industry in 1985, it all clicks. If you’re staying here, you’re οικογένεια (family).

You're here because

They combine the best of the old (ceremonial wine tastings in the wine cellar) and new (iPod docking stations in each room).

The Moment

After a dip in an infinity pool so turquoise it looked like a puzzle piece cut from the Aegean below, you hit the candlelit Caviar & Oyster Bar, slung on an intimate terrace overlooking the sunset. You’re not sure what’s more delicious: the feta on your fork or the expanse of blue currently alighting the horizon line. Ah...Greece.

Restaurants & Bars

- Elements Restaurant - Mouth-watering gastronomy all through the day with ocean views

- In-Room Dining - Fine-dining experience in the comfort of your private villa balcony

Location

Built on a cliffside on the northern point of Santorini Island, a ten minute walk from the village of Oia. Don’t miss the Byzantine Castle Ruins, (what remains of) a 15th-century castle with a wide panorama of the sea.