Mill Houses Elegant Suites

Mill Houses Elegant Suites blends in nicely with its neighbors on the caldera. It's built directly into the cliff face (so expect stairs, some interesting room layouts, and the occasional exposed boulder that couldn't be removed due to structural safety). The whitewashed exterior and layered sun terraces are striking, but common to what you'll find up and down the caldera. Similarly, the outdoor pool is small and the deck is furnished with a few sun loungers. Viewing decks are furnished with sun loungers, tables, and potted succulents. Kids are allowed here, but you're far more likely to share the pool with international honeymooners and couples. Guests are greeted with welcome drinks and cool towels. This is one of the few hotels that stays open year-round. 

Mill Houses Elegant Suites is located next door (on the cliff) to Cliffside Suites and it can feel like the two properties are one, thanks to a shared staircase that leads down the cliff and a similar color scheme. Look for an elegant gray donkey statue and a wooden fishing boat perched on the ledge that mark the entrance to Mill Houses. Apart from the aforementioned stairs (almost unavoidable in Firostefani) the location is completely walkable. Firostefani is the adjacent and quieter neighbor to overcrowded Fira, and it has similar souvenir stores, Greek tavernas, boutique shops, and caldera views. Skaros Rock is reachable in about a 30-minute intense hike down paved and rock steps, but it's an extremely popular spot for selfies. Walking to Fira takes about 20 minutes, or a five-minute drive or bus ride. It's about a two-hour walk to Oia on the caldera path, or about 25 minutes on the bus or in a car. Red Beach is a 30-minute drive. Expect about a 15-minute walk or five-minute drive from the port. Santorini International Airport is around a 15-minute drive. The hotel can be difficult to find, and many guests book an airport transfer for assistance with luggage and location. 

Thanks to the hotel's cliffside location, none of the 13 suites are identical as far as layout (and some have the occasional boulder protruding from the ceiling). Some rooms have little natural light, but that's common in cave-style hotels. Rooms that directly face the caldera get the most light and have the best water views. The rooms that overlook the pool don't have a direct caldera view. The suites are similarly decorated in a fresh white and gray color palette with occasional pops of blue in throw pillows. Wood and wicker accents look elegant, as do bird sculptures hanging from the ceilings. All suites include air-conditioning, a small flat-screen TV, safe, coffee machine, free Wi-Fi, and a mini-fridge. Upgraded rooms have larger TVs, kitchenettes with burners, and some private whirlpools. Bathrooms vary -- some are cramped -- and include a rainfall shower covered with a fabric curtain, single sink, hairdryer, and toiletries. 

Due to the hotel's caldera location, it's a bit limited in terms of features. The main social hub is the small outdoor pool and adjacent pool bar that serves drinks and a light food menu. Many guests choose to have their free breakfast delivered here in the mornings, or they can opt to eat in their rooms. The meal is ordered the night before (from a menu of Greek and American items) and then delivered at a pre-arranged time. Apart from free Wi-Fi, the hotel doesn't really provide additional features. However, with advance notice staff can arrange private dinners, yacht tours, wine tastings, and airport transfers. The nearest parking lot is up the cliff and across from the town square. Staff is available to assist with carrying luggage.