Santorini Princess

Built in 2004 outside of the main Imerovigli village, this stylish and upscale hotel blends traditional Cycladic architecture with updated touches. Stark white walls radiate alongside dark stone accents, black and white marble floors, and occasional bushes or flowering succulents. As the caldera view is one of the hotel’s best attributes, much of the property’s space is dedicated to outdoor viewing, and even the indoor restaurant has a floor-to-ceiling window stretching across one wall so diners never miss a sunset.

The vibe is upscale and stylish, where discerning couples or groups of friends gather to relax in a quiet and secluded space. Outdoor lounge spaces can be found in almost every nook and cranny populated with white wood or wicker furnishings and modern art sculptures. With sheets of sunlight bouncing off white walls, be sure to pack sunglasses -- and sunscreen.

The Santorini Princess is located in the caldera-clinging village of Imerovigli, a place so famous for its sunsets that it is referred to as a “balcony” to the Aegean Sea. The only hotel built directly into the rocky rim of the caldera, this isolated and quiet property hangs off the rim’s highest point -- nearly 1000 feet above the sea’s sparkling water -- and is sheltered from island winds. Guest can reach Skaros’ castle in about 20 minutes by foot. The towns of Fira and Oia, to the south and north respectively, are short drives away, and guests are able to reach Santorini Airport in less than 15 minutes.

The Santorini Princess is an all-suite hotel featuring two-, three-, and four-bedroom “apartments.” The decor is all white, immaculate, and elegant. Cool marble floors are the base for each room, while walls and entryways sport traditional cut-out arches and display areas. Bedside tables are built into the walls and mounted lights dramatically brighten curtains draped above the beds. Distressed wooden furniture mimics black and white marble floors while contemporary-styled chairs -- more for looks than comfort -- replace sofas.

Bedrooms have mounted flat-screen TVs, and all units come with a minibar, wine glasses, and air-conditioning. Large marbled terraces are outfitted with lounge sofas and table and chair sets. Modern marbled bathrooms with vessel sinks and toiletries, though no hair conditioner, are equipped with stand-up showers behind glass doors.

The hotel’s medium-sized pool is designed more for dipping and cooling off than swimming. While the property could do with a few more sun chairs, a unique patio extension provides both shade for pool-goers and an elevated level for sunbathing. Guests can take in the tremendous views while sipping a cocktail or enjoying a snack at the poolside bar, outdoor cafe, or open-air lounge. Inside, on the highest level of the Santorini Princess, an a la carte restaurant serves hotel specialties and an excellent Greek-style buffet breakfast with made-to-order omelets. The tiny on-site, full-service spa also contains a sauna and hot tub. Tours and excursions can be arranged; transfers are available for a fee and are cheaper than a local taxi. Business services are offered as well as free Internet access and parking.