Hotel Kallisto

The Hotel Kallisto occupies a restored 200-year-old mansion with typical Greek architecture that includes arched doorways painted a pretty purple, domed ceilings, and plenty of sun-filled terraces. Views of the caldera below are gorgeous, and there is seating provided on every possible surface for enjoying the sun and sea. The waterfront setting, however, means that the hotel and guest rooms are a bit musty smelling. The pool is small but pristine, on a narrow deck with rows of sunbeds facing away from the pool toward the cliff views. There are a number of beach umbrellas for shade, and, as the Kallisto is small, guests will have no problem finding a spot to lounge. The pool bar is pretty, with a rugged stone base, a few stools, and a terrace furnished with armchairs and cocktail tables. Most guests are couples, but tourists looking for upscale amenities and privacy may be disappointed by the Kallisto’s lack of space and personal attention. Altana Traditional Houses, on the other hand, is known for its warm hospitality and has an all-day bistro serving dishes made with organic produce from the property's farm. 

The Hotel Kallisto is located at the highest point of the cliffs at Imerovigli, with stunning views of the cliffs and the caldera below. The immediate area includes several hotels, a convenient bus stop, and souvenir shops, but there's not much to do for entertainment nearby. The Kallisto is not as remote and peaceful as some other hotels, as it's located on a crowded tourist path, which is particularly popular at sunset. It's about five minutes' hike from the hotel to Skaros Rock. 

The capital of Fira, with sights such as the Archaeological Museum of Thera, is a 20-minute walk or five-minute drive from the hotel. The Museum of Prehistoric Thira is five minutes beyond Fira. A rental car is recommended for exploring the island sights, such as the picturesque town of Oia, about 20 minutes away. Santorini’s Old Port is a six-minute drive from the Kallisto, and the airport is a 15- to 20-minute drive. Note that the front gate is nondescript and can be difficult to find from the road -- guests suggest directing taxis to Jimmy's Santorini Car Rental, located down the street from the hotel. 

The eight rooms at the Hotel Kallisto tend to be on the small side, and in some cases the cluttered and disjointed decor only makes them feel more so. All guest rooms have outdoor seating areas, but not all of these are private; some rooms open right onto the pool deck. 

Suites feature separate living rooms, but guests report that there's not much difference between the Junior and Senior options. The Maisonette with sleeping loft that we looked at felt cramped, and the loft is just that, not a separate room in which guests can stand up and move around. Also, the ladder to the loft is steep and difficult for many to climb. Most rooms have separate seating areas with couches or sofa beds, while all have air-conditioning, small flat-screen TVs with satellite channels and DVD players, safes, mini-fridges, and sinks. Tiny marble bathrooms have narrow shower stalls with rainfall showerheads in some, plus toiletries, hairdryers, and slippers are provided. The roomy Master Suite unfortunately has a cramped bathroom, but it does have a shower/tub combo.

The Hotel Kallisto features a two-level rooftop terrace. The upper section has a small unheated pool, spa tub, sunbeds, and beach umbrellas. Down below are the rustic outdoor pool bar and seating area, where the caldera views are breathtaking. The pool bar serves drinks and light snacks throughout the day. A free breakfast is served either on the terrace or delivered to guest rooms, and includes fresh fruit and baked goods. 

The small fitness center is equipped with several cardio machines, a weight machine, and a rack of free weights. Massage is available, but should be booked ahead of time to guarantee availability. Airport and ferry shuttle services are available for a surcharge.