Heliotopos Hotel

The Heliotopos Hotel is a particularly fine example of the gleaming white traditional-style architecture common to Santorini island. Constructed on the foundations of three old caverns, the property was opened in 1990 and has been run by the same family since. Typical of such buildings set on the edge of the cliff face, there are lots of stairs that connect the hotel's apartment-style accommodation and terrace areas. Common areas are dotted with terra-cotta urns and potted cacti, while the hotel's grotto-like wine bar is hewn from the volcanic rock. The ambience is peaceful and the vibe chic, while the setting provides arguably some of the most stunning sunset views on the island. 

The hotel is located just off a small cliff-side road in the relatively serene village of Imerovigli just north of the island's capital, Fira. While Imerovigli has a reputation as one of the more windy spots of the island, its height also guarantees some of the best caldera views. There may not be many restaurants in the immediate vicinity, but Fira's eateries are a five-minute cab drive away, or a 30-minute walk downhill. The property is around 20 minutes' drive from Santorini Airport, or nearer 30 minutes from the main port. 

Heliotopos Hotel has 10 individually styled suites and studio apartments, all of which are bright and fresh with splashes of color and playful artistic touches. Rooms are more spacious than most for the price and provide a good range of amenities including large flat-screen TVs, coffee/tea facilities, and even simple kitchenettes. Both wired and wireless Internet is available free of charge, and robes and slippers are provided. While all rooms open to lovely sea-view terraces -- unlike at the nearby Astra Suites -- none have private plunge pools. Book higher level rooms to avoid having to climb too many stairs. Two suites have duplex layouts. 

The hotel does provide a hot and cold breakfast buffet -- including a selection of home-made specialties -- each morning that in included in the rate, though it's not the most extensive of spreads. The hotel's main highlight is the wine bar, an atmospheric space cut from the rock that opens out to spacious sea-view patio and offers an impressive selection of wines -- many locally produced. Snacks and light dishes are also available though no proper meals. A square pool provides impressive panoramas, though is small even by local standards. Free parking is available just outside the hotel.