Pegasus Suites & Spa

While following the island's charming architectural template -- whitewashed plasterwork on flowing and gently rounded walls cascading down the volcanic cliff in steep tiers -- Pegasus Suites & Spa stands out as slightly grander and more spacious than other Santorini properties. While other hotels are also immaculately presented, Pegasus Suites & Spa has a particularly polished and effortlessly chic vibe -- a Champagne welcome drink for all guests certainly sets the tone. Add numerous sun terraces from which to take in the signature caldera views of the volcano, rocks, and the sea, and it's no surprise this property is particularly popular for weddings and honeymooning couples -- even the occasional marriage proposal has taken place here. 

The hotel overlooks the Aegean Sea in the small and relatively peaceful village of Imerovigli, just north of the island's capital. While the outskirts of the bustling tourist hub of Fira are within walking distance, the hotel sits off one of the less-busy cliff-top footpaths that service the local area. This makes for a more peaceful setting but with fewer restaurants nearby. It's about a 20-minute drive to Santorini Airport, or about 30 minutes to the island's main port.

Pegasus Suites & Spa has 18 beautiful suites and villas, all of which are decorated in the signature whitewash and molded plaster. Most are carved out from the cliff, but are not prone to mustiness. All suites feature a range of luxury touches, such as goose-feather pillows, scented oil vaporizers, slippers and robes, and satin bedclothes, as well as the standard free Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs, tea- and coffee-making facilities, and minibars. Higher-end suites get seriously upscale, with private sea-view pools and indoor hot tubs, some with plexiglass panels to cut down on the humidity. All units open to furnished balconies with spectacular views. Bathrooms, carved out in pale-gray stone, have decorative sinks, and include toiletries; entry-level suites have Venetian stucco rainfall showers but no tubs. Be aware that in-room Wi-Fi can be patchy, and water can be slow to heat up. 

An extensive choice of breakfast items, included in the room rate, is offered (from the American Champagne breakfast to a Greek menu); selections are made the evening before and delivered to private balconies the following morning. There's a large (for Santorini) restaurant with indoor and outdoor tables with caldera views where romantic candlelit dinners can be booked. While not one of the biggest, the pool has a large sun terrace and a poolside bar. There's also a spa with sauna, hammam, and hydrotherapy pools, as well as a small fitness center with modern cardio- and weight-training equipment. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout, but the signal can be patchy, especially in rooms.