Loucas Hotel

Guests enter Loucas Hotel through a signed gate that leads to steps straight down the caldera. The property is spread out on different levels broken up by steep steps and terraces, that are built directly into the cliff for some of the best views in Santorini. It was originally built in the 1930s. The low-ceilinged lobby doesn't have any windows, but it does offer a built-in sofa topped with gray and white cushions. Just adjacent to the lobby is a large terrace covered with succulents, white wood furniture, and pink cushions. Children are allowed here, but the vast majority of guests are couples and honeymooners. Like most caldera properties, the steep steps and cliff drops can be a problem for little kids or those with mobility issues. 

Thanks to Loucas Hotel's long history (originally built in the 1930s) it got dibs on some of the best property in Fira. The hotel is built directly into the cliff, facing the Aegean Sea and the island's famous sunsets. It's just a one-minute walk up the stairs and around the corner to everything that Fira has to offer: boutique shops, jewelry stores, souvenirs, high end restaurants, casual restaurants, and the cable cars that lead down to the port. Further afield, it's about a 20-minute drive to the village of Oia. Plan on about a 20-minute drive to Santorini Airport and Red Beach, in opposite directions. Note that cars cannot access Fira's caldera, so guests either park in the huge public lot at the bottom of the hill and walk or arrive via shuttle and walk. Staff can assist with carrying luggage. Note that Loucas Hotel is one of the few Fira properties that stays open all winter long, though the bar and restaurant do close -- and we doubt you'll want to use the outdoor swimming pool in the cold. 

The cave-style rooms are mostly bland, but they do have one saving grace: incredible caldera views from furnished outdoor spaces. Back inside, the color scheme is muted and furnishings are mostly of the built-in variety found across the island. White walls, beige tiled floors, and simple bed linens are pretty forgettable. Some rooms add lipstick-red armchairs. Amenities include flat-screen TVs, safes, mini-fridges, air-conditioning, and free spotty Wi-Fi. Bathrooms vary, and can include jetted bathtubs and double sinks. Toiletries and hose-style hairdryers are provided. Past guests have complained about maintenance issues. 

Features seem nice on paper, but past guests have complained about the execution. A free morning breakfast with hot items like scrambled eggs and Greek pastries is served, but the quality seems to be hit or miss. Aris Restaurant offers exceptional caldera views and a solid menu of Greek favorites. Crystal Cocktail Bar has an extensive liquor list and specialty drinks, plus amazing sunset views -- it's one of the most popular bars in Fira. Note that the restaurant and bar are closed in the winter. A large and deep swimming pool overlooks the caldera and the pool deck has a handful of sun loungers for relaxing. Wi-Fi is technically free throughout the property, but the signal is weak. Like most Fira caldera hotels, parking isn't available. Staff is on hand to assist guests with luggage.