Krokos Villas

The reception for Krokos Villas, shared with the neighboring sister hotel Gorgona Villas, is certainly one of the more tricky to find. The property is also divided into three different sections, most of which follows the charming Cycladic-style architecture of gleam white plaster and volcanic rock walls. Accommodation is a mixture of traditional cave-style houses hewn into the cliff and more modern-looking suites, some of which can feel a little far from the reception and bar area. This together with a lack of true swimming pool or proper restaurant means the place can feel a little disjointed -- though there are still plenty of furnished terraces from which to soak up those iconic caldera panoramas. Most guest are couples, though families might appreciate that the Cave Suite can fit five and that all rooms have basic kitchenettes. 

Only accessible via a pedestrian path, this hotel is set in the thick of the rambling maze of properties that overlook the sea in the center of the mostly peaceful village of Imerovigli. While its position guarantees some particularly gorgeous views over the caldera basin, its setting does also mean it can be prone to windy evenings. The village is located just north of the island's capital, Fira -- a bustling tourist hub and about five minutes drive (or 35 minutes downhill on foot). The property is also around 20 minutes' drive from Santorini Airport, or nearer 30 minutes from the main port.

The hotel has 16 units spread around the property, which all open to sea-view terraces. Categories range from the cave-style Studios (sleeping two) to Junior Suites (with partially separate sitting areas, sleeping three) to the Cave Suite (sleeping five). While interiors are generally well-presented, especially those that have been more recently renovated, there are some units awaiting a 2016 makeover and are looking rather tired. All rooms are air conditioned and have flat-screen TVs with satellite channels, and basic kitchenettes with mini-fridges, sinks, cookware, and tea and coffee facilities; most have a couple of hobs, though the Superior Studio we saw seemed to lack them, despite having a pot and pan. None have microwaves or ovens (that we saw). Simple bathrooms have showers, but not necessarily curtains or walls.

A homemade buffet breakfast of fresh pastries, cakes, and pancakes is available each morning, while preordered breakfast can also be arranged for delivery to the room. Snacks and Greek dishes are also served during the day in the Food & Wine bar, though there's little else in the way of on-site facilities. While a mini pool/jacuzzi is advertised, it's near the Honeymoon Suite at sister property Gorgana Villas and some find that it can feel intrusive to use it. It's possible to use the pool at sister property Regina Mare, a 10-minute walk away. Guests can also use spa facilities at another sister hotel -- Avaton Resort -- but they're on the other side of the village (also a 10-minute walk). Wi-Fi is free of charge though can be intermittent. Free parking, however, is available nearby.