Grace Hotel hugs the cliffside on the island's west rim, overlooking the sea-filled crater and lava islets, with the turquoise Aegean all around. Sparkling and new, it has honeymoon written all over it – heart-stopping views, private plunge pools, amazing sunsets. It’s set in Imerovigli, a gloriously Cycladic village sprinkled with white sugar-cube houses; far enough from busy Fira to feel secluded, yet within walking distance. We’d stay put though. Directly below you is the caldera, the underwater basin of an ancient volcano; facing you is the plug of Skaros, topped with Venetian castle ruins. And forget grappling with tourist crowds at Oia – you'll get perfect sunset views from your terrace.
Bedrooms are stylish and sexy – pure white décor, kingsize beds, sumptuous towelling robes and Apivita toiletries. Most have a private terrace and plunge pool for 2; one even has its own hammam. We’re always loath to use the word 'luxurious', but with champagne breakfasts and moonlit dinners, it’d be churlish to pretend this is anything but.
Highs
- Every room is perfectly positioned for a sunset view, and most have private plunge pools and terraces
- Excellent staff, led by host couple Martina and Joseph, who know when to pamper and when to be unobtrusive
- Fabulous décor throughout
- Infinity swimming pool with loungers and a slick bar selling cocktails
- Concierge service to book restaurants, hire cars, charter catamarans or park your helicopter
Lows
- At 22 rooms, it's larger than when it first opened, though with private plunge pools and dining "cubby holes" it still feels intimate
- Santorini island has become very commercialised and the caldera rim is lined with hotels – though this one is set slightly apart
- A few rooms are small, others are right by the path to Skaros (so rather public)
- Steep steps make this unsuitable for anyone with limited mobility
Best time to go
The best times for reliable sunshine, without the heatwaves or crowds of midsummer, are spring (April - May) and autumn (September - early October).
Our top tips
One of my favourite spots on Santorini - the chapel of Theoskepasti - is a short but spectacular hike away from the hotel. Follow the footpath round to the left of Skaros rock (the big volcanic plug in front of the hotel) and perched on the far side is the whitewashed church, hanging between cliff and sea. It is only 20-30 minutes' walk from the crowds of Imerovigli, but feels a world away. The name, which means "covered by God", comes from a story about a huge rockfall which crashed down all around the chapel but left the building (and the faithful few within it) unharmed, as if protected by an invisible shield. You can walk back the same way, or (slightly tougher) go straight up from there to the ruined Venetian castle atop Skaros rock.
Location
Grace Hotel, Auberge Resorts Collection is set in the village of Imerovigli, on the sea-facing caldera (crater edge) of Santorini in Greece's Cyclades Islands. It's a short hop by plane from Athens.
By Air
Santorini (15km - restricted flights) or Athens, then take an internal flight. 2km from the capital Fira, Grace is 8km from Monolithos Airport and 10km from Athinios Central Port.Click on the links below for a list of airlines and more information.
By Boat
Alternatively you can take a boat or hydrofoil from Athens' port Piraeus to Santorini. Departures are regular and it's a lovely way to arrive (between 4-8 hours).
From the Airport/Port
The hotel can arrange shared or private airport transfers. If you want to hire a car see our car rental recommendations.
Detailed directions will be sent when you book through i-escape.com.
More on getting to Greece and getting around
Airports:
- Santorini, Thira 15.0 km JTR
Other:
- Beach 3.0 km
- Shops 0.2 km
- Restaurant 0.1 km