9 Muses Santorini Resort

From the outside, 9 Muses Santorini Resort is quite breathtaking. For one, the buildings feature Cycladic architecture, boxy, white or mauve adobe-like structures that are generally found in the Greek islands. They sit among lovely arid grounds with pathways through sandy and rocky areas filled with Mediterranean trees, shrubbery, flowers, and palm trees. As for the interiors, some are dated -- like the gym -- while others are elegant, such as the lobby where cream, brown, and mauve colors were used to create a calming effect. Glossy floors covered in seating areas are just as lovely as the Doric columns and glass chandeliers. The same color schemes can be found in the restaurant areas, though the outdoor restaurant is more laid-back in design with tables covered with red and white checkered table cloths and white chairs that create a rustic style. As the resort doesn’t have an overwhelming amount of kid-friendly amenities, most guests are couples on vacation. 

The resort feels more secluded than it is, as it’s only a six-minute walk to Perissa or Perivolos Beach on Santorini. As far as dining options go, most line the beach front, so they take about six to 10 minutes to reach on foot. Families will appreciate that Santorini Water Park is an 11-minute walk away. For history buffs, Ancient Thira is only a 30-minute drive from the hotel, while Akrotiri takes 17 minutes to reach by car. Expect a 25-minute drive to Fira, and 45 minutes to Oia. It’s a 24-minute drive to the Santorini Airport. 

This resort has 90 rooms and suites outfitted in a contemporary style with cream and black colors that complement the blond wooden floors and white furniture. Balconies among the rooms are furnished and offer lovely spaces to relax outdoors, though don’t expect ocean views. Some of the upper-level rooms have access to large upstairs terraces. Suites and Maisonettes are more spacious than rooms, but still have the same amenities: flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges, safes, and air-conditioning. All rooms lack coffee- and tea-making facilities. While Wi-Fi is supposedly free and available, guests note that its not reliable or generally available in rooms. Bathrooms are modern with shower/tub combos partially covered by glass. Toiletries are provided, but hose-style hairdryers could use an update. Guests have noted cleanliness issues in rooms. 

The outdoor swimming pool is the central highlight with a children’s section and hot tub, all serviced by a pool bar that serves drinks and snacks. Guests can work up a sweat in the spacious, but dated, gym or on the tennis or volleyball courts. It also features a sauna and massages are available upon request. Travelers can take advantage of a free Greek-style breakfast, though keep in mind that it’s simple fare and the food gets repetitive for long-term guests. For lunch or dinner, there are a la carte options at the two on-site restaurants, as well as half-board menus. There’s another bar that offers a variety of drinks. Overall, the food and drinks receive poor reviews. There’s one meeting room. Wi-Fi is limited in speed and is of poor quality in most places.