Markezinis Suites

The Markezinis Suites is an unusual pick for Santorini, as it's removed from Fira's crowds and world-famous calderas. Instead, traditional settings here are homey, and what the hotel lacks in views, most guests feel it more than makes up for in decor and service. Losing the island's stereotypical stuccos, architecture here has commanding grandeur, although the property can be hard to locate amid Mesaria's quaint, cobbled walkways. Pillar carvings, vaulted ceilings, wrought irons, and salmon-stone exteriors hint at the establishment's mansion history, and beautifully restored features remain fit for former resident, Prime Minister Markezinis (from whom the hotel draws its namesake). 

The place is small at just five suites, a lobby, and charming outdoor terrace, but the feel is elegant. A pebbled, patterned terrace  with wicker seating is a popular spot for al fresco breakfasts, but guests will have to venture out for other meals or pool-centric leisure activities. In addition to pools, the sister properties located a 20-minute walk away provide stunning caldera views. Note, steps stagger levels throughout, making it troublesome for those with mobility issues, and kids under 12 aren't allowed. Also be aware that the hotel is only open April through October.

The hotel occupies a quiet spot in Mesaria, a peaceful inland village with beautiful squares and aristocratic mansions. A small selection of Greek restaurants, shops, and a pharmacy are within a five-minute walk, as is a major intersection. Busses from here run all over the island, including Fira (for stunning calderas, nightlife, and museums), Oia (for sensational sunsets), and major beaches. Fira is a seven-minute drive, with Oia closer to half an hour by car. The only of its kind open to the public in Santorini, 19th-century Argyros Mansion is a one-minute walk. Santorini Port is a five-minute drive, and it's 10 minutes by car to reach Santorini Airport.

The five individually decorated suites are outfitted in bright, pleasant decor. They have hardwood floors, vaulted ceilings, and soft palettes in pastel pistachios, blues, or off-whites. Painted trim or ceiling details are sophisticated in some, while poster or canopied beds in others are romantic. The 323 to 377 square foot (30 to 35 square meter) Double Suites rise to 431 to 484 square foot (40 to 45 square meter) Markezinis Suites, and these categories have sofa-equipped living areas in mostly floral motifs. In-room comforts include down duvets, feather pillows, and classy artwork adorning walls.

Phones, desks, satellite flat-screen TVs, minibars with organic snacks, free Wi-Fi, and AC come standard, but don't expect any tea- or coffee-making facilities. Sadly, rooms lack balconies, although village views of blue-domed churches are mostly charming. Sconce details in rooms continue in large marble-accented bathrooms with ritzy copper-mosaic floors. They have huge whirlpool tubs with rainfall or handheld showerheads. Toiletries and hairdryers are provided, alongside slippers and robes. Note, upper-level rooms and some bathrooms are reached by steps.

Features aren't extensive here, but guests rave about quality. Ordered the night before and included in some bookings, sumptuous made-to-order breakfasts are served in-room, or on outdoor terraces. A la carte (but all-you-can-eat) fresh eggs, bacon, and gourmet Greek options accompany continental choices, fresh-squeezed juices, tea, and coffee. The breakfast terrace sits amid the property's pillared stone backdrops, and black wickers under white umbrellas feel chic on patterned, cobbled decking. Draped sofas around period-style coffee tables offer a place to relax indoors, but Santorini travelers are here for the outdoors. Fortunately, access to the Petit Palace Suites Hotel and Volcano View Hotel Santorini widen amenities. Guests can use pools here, and are welcome at the hotels' restaurants. Again, limited features here mean no gym. Pets are not permitted. On-site parking and Wi-Fi throughout are free.