Gold Suites

The Gold Suites doesn't break the mold when it comes to design or architecture: expect the same whitewashed Cycladic architecture seen throughout Santorini. However, the hotel is obviously upscale. It utilizes luxe finishes and is kept carefully maintained. The small lobby has a fresh, light scent and guests are welcomed with either lemonade or sparkling wine. A white couch sits in front of a purposefully distressed coffee table. There are stairs that lead down to the pool and rooms, but it's a level path from the parking lot to the lobby, which is almost unheard of in Santorini. The chic pool deck is set with white parasols and sun loungers. From here, guests can enjoy almost uninterrupted views of the Caldera, Aegean Sea, and Skaros Rock. 

Gold Suites has one of the best locations in the village of Imerovigli (also the highest point on the island of Santorini). The hotel has easy access to parking and a straight shot to the front door without climbing steps. Then, at the back of the hotel there are gorgeous views of the Caldera, Aegean Sea, and Skaros Rock that so many other hotels require steep steps to admire. Imerovigli is no less breathtaking than its neighboring and more well-known villages of Oia and Fira, but it has fewer restaurants and shops. Avocado restaurant is an island favorite, and it's just across the parking lot from the hotel. Imerovigli is also home to the world famous Skaros Rock, made famous in "Mamma Mia!" It's a moderately difficult walk out to the rock on lots of steep steps, but the views are worth the trouble. There's also a hilly pedestrian path that leads to Fira (about a 30-minute walk) and all the way to Oia (about a two-hour walk). Donkeys are available for the Oia leg of the journey, or there's a city bus that runs regularly on the road across from Imerovigli square. It's about a 20-minute drive to Santorini International Airport. 

Gold Suites houses 14 lovely suites (Junior, Superior, Deluxe, and one Grand Suite) and each is decorated with understated elegance that allows the almost uninterrupted views of the Caldera from furnished outdoor spaces to truly shine. Traditional whitewashed smooth walls and rounded corners are punched up with gold accents in mirrors and chandeliers. All suites include minibars with alcohol, espresso machines, electronic safes, free Wi-Fi, and flat-screen TVs. Junior Suites are the most simple and smallest, with an open plan layout that's still large enough for a queen-size bed and a living room. Superior Suites add a heated outdoor whirlpool and Deluxe Suites upgrade to an outdoor plunge pool. The Grand Suite has an indoor whirlpool and an outdoor plunge pool. Bathrooms feature rain showers, dual sinks, and a large selection of toiletries. All Suites overlook the Caldera. 

Features at Gold Suites are as well thought and upscale as the design. Room rates include a free hot breakfast. Guests choose their selections the night before and the meal is delivered to their room (either indoors on the balcony) at a pre-determined time. The spread includes hot items like pancakes and Greek specialties. For lunch, dinner, and room service, the Gold Dinner Restaurant provides a customizable menu. Located next to the pool, the restaurant has just four tables and a bar that overlook the Aegean Sea. The communal pool sits on a lovely deck with sun loungers and pool towels are provided. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property. There isn't a spa or fitness center, but in-room massages can be arranged. Free parking is available in a public lot near the hotel's entrance.