Cocoon Suites

Sculpted into high-perched cliffs, there is indeed a cocooned feel to this 2016-opened property, where cave-like suites feel sheltered from thick Cycladic stone, and views are jaw-dropping. Many steps stagger three levels of smooth white-plastered buildings, and they dazzle against the Aegean Sea's blue waters. Limited features here are testimony to the hotel's greatest asset: the views, although not having a communal pool, spa, or restaurant on-site isn't for everyone. Innovative solutions to this include in-room whirlpools or plunge pools and massages, and room-delivered meals. Outside of the humble lobby are outdoor terraces with dining tables to sit and take in the views. Romance-seeking couples here make the most of luxury in-room perks, although they'll venture out to peruse dining scenes in nearby Imerovigli and Fira. Note, the adult-only hotel (no kids under 18) can be hard to locate at first, and it's only open April through October (common for Greece).

Sequestered and quiet, the property is set back from Imerovigli by many steps, although the village's restaurants and churches are within a five-minute walk. Imerovigli is quieter than buzzing Fira, a 20-minute walk or quicker drive, while Oia is a 22-minute drive. Dusk sees the village's whitewashed houses lit up for a twinkling effect -- not surprising that dinners on terraces overlooking them and the caldera are a favorite. The 1207-dated castle remnants at Skaros Rock are a 17-minute walk, and there's more history in Fira's museums. Beaches are a half-hour drive, and cruise ships departing from Fira's Old Port are five minutes by car. Santorini Airport is a 16-minute drive.

Stylish suites with private whirlpools blend Cycladic tradition with modern touches. The 301-square-foot (28-square-meter) Junior Suites rise to larger Executive and Honeymoon Suites, while the largest 753-square-foot (70-square-meter) Grand Cave Suites have terrace loungers and private plunge pools. They have a cave-like feel thanks to thick stone arches in the dominating white palette. Beds have memory foam mattresses and muted-gray linens, and trendy accents vary between rooms. They include back-lit inlays, focus-point wall hangings in swirl or wire-frame motifs, or rustic driftwood fixtures. 

Phones, flat-screen TVs, iPod docks, Nespresso machines, seating areas, and minibars come standard, as do hairdryers, safes, and AC. Guests will need to venture through grotto-like walkways for private terraces, where camel-toned parasols shade rustic wood seating and circular tables, and views are magnificent. Upgraded Suites with kitchenettes have loungers here.  Wood-accented bathrooms with bowl sinks and large walk-in showers can be humid, but they're swish, with Korres-brand toiletries, slippers, and robes. 

Features are limited at this small property, but quality is high-end. Included in some bookings and best enjoyed on room terraces, breakfast cards are filled out the night before. Made-to-order eggs accompany beautifully presented fresh bread and pastry baskets, fresh fruit platters, Greek yogurts with honey, and hand-crafted coffees, teas, and fresh-squeezed juices. At a fee, locally sourced organic room service ranges from club sandwiches to risottos and salads, and staff lighting candles on room terraces make for romantic dinners. Coffees, cocktails, and soft drinks are also served on main terraces. White-cushioned loungers here are elegant amid tables and chairs in light woods, and whitewashed stone soaks in the Greek sun. The lack of a pool may feel marked to some, but most guests don't mind, since the in-room hot tubs or plunge pools offer more-intimate alternatives. The 24-hour concierge can arrange laundry service, sailing trips, excursions, and vehicle rentals (all at a fee). No parking is offered on-site, but street parking is free. Pets are not permitted. Wi-Fi is free throughout.