Imerovigli 84700 Greece, Imerovigli, Greece | (888) 399-9863
Typical whitewashed Cycladic-style architecture
Set on cliff face overlooking Skaros rock
Located in charming village just north of Fira
Simple attractive rooms with flat-screen TVs and mini-fridges
All rooms have terrace areas with caldera views
Pleasant swimming pool with stunning vistas
Some terraces separated from rooms by walkway
Weak and spotty
Wi-Fi (common for area)
No spa or
restaurant on-site
Basic buffet breakfast
Lots of steps
While the Hotel Sunny Villas is a perfectly decent take on the traditional island-style property, it's really all about the views. It is set in the charming and fairly quiet Imerovigli village just north of Fira with a mixture of cave-style and more modern accommodation -- all clean and nicely presented. Although all rooms have their own terrace, some are separated by a walkway. Though there's a small pool with deck chairs, there is no restaurant or spa (not unusual for this price range). The sunsets, however, are no less stunning than at other cliff-top hotels in the area and rates are relatively good value. It's worth comparing prices with the more upscale (but sometimes not more expensive) Afroessa Hotel, however.
Disclaimer: This content was accurate at the time the hotel was reviewed. Please check our partner sites when booking to verify that details are still correct.
Scene
Typically Cycladic-style complex overlooking the caldera
The Hotel Sunny Villas deviates very little from the typical Santorini property, with gleaming whitewash on gently rounded plasterwork, the occasional exposed volcanic rock wall, and steps -- lots of steps. The hotel was constructed from a complex of century-old dwellings built in the Cycladic style into the rock and retains plenty of traditional island charm. Accommodation is a mixture of apartments, suites, and studios arranged over five floors that cascade down the side of the cliff, all looking out onto those impossibly blue caldera views. While mostly popular with couples, despite all the stairs it's also one of the more family-friendly hotels of this ilk.
Location
Cliff-side setting right opposite rock of Skaros in Imerovigli village
The hotel is off a small footpath and built into the cliff face directly opposite the once-fortress rock of Skaros in the relatively peaceful Santorinian village of Imerovigli. While its cliffside position guarantees some particularly gorgeous views over the caldera, it's also one of the breezier places on the island. The village is located just north of the island's capital, Fira -- a bustling tourist hub that's about five minutes' drive away or 25 minutes downhill on foot. The property is also around 20 minutes' drive from Santorini Airport, or nearer 30 minutes from the main port.
Rooms
Simply decorated rooms with sea-view terraces (some of which feel less than private)
The hotel has 16 units spread over five floors, including modern suites and more traditional cave-style accommodation. Decor is simple and smart with whitewashed walls and polished gray plaster; the cave units also have exposed volcanic rock and arched ceilings. Standard amenities include 32-inch flat-screen TVs, tea/coffee facilities, and mini-fridges. Bathrooms are finished in molded plaster with walk-in showers and wall-mounted hairdryers, while all rooms have terrace areas with stunning caldera views. Note that all terraces are actually attached to their respective room; some are separated by a walkway, which makes them feel a bit less private (some also face a walkway). Some suites feature heated outdoor hot tubs from which to enjoy the sunsets.
Features
Basic buffet breakfast and pleasant pool terrace
There's really not a great deal in the way of hotel facilities. Even the morning breakfast is served in the restaurant next door -- it's buffet style and includes a pretty basic selection of cheese, ham, fruits, and bread. Unlike at many competing hotels, there is no option to have breakfast on the room's terrace. The swimming pool is small and pleasant with incredible views and a line of deck chairs, though no proper sun loungers. There is also a small poolside bar area, although it's not generally manned -- guests can bring their own drinks from the nearby shop. Wi-Fi is available, though as at most properties on the island, it is slow and intermittent.
