Splendour Resort

The Splendour Resort provides a serene vibe from the moment guests enter the beautiful vaulted lobby, a former wine cellar with floor-to-ceiling rustic stone. In the rest of the six-building complex, the structures are whitewashed, inside and out, and decorated with bland, streamlined light wood furniture and filmy white curtains. The pool deck spans two levels and is lined with blue mosaic tiles, but it's not huge, sits near the parking lot, and lacks sea views. Guests also complain of sunbed shortages. The pool bar is both relaxed and sophisticated, featuring a simple cement bar lined by white stools, and a shaded area with stone floors and white linen tablecloths. The resort aims for “celebrity-style service,” but the reality is far more mellow, particularly without amenities such as massage or gourmet dining. It's close to Fira’s entertainment district, so guests interested in exploring the island’s restaurant and club scene may find the hotel a good base. The three-pearl property is best suited to couples, as there aren't many facilities to keep families with children occupied. 

The Splendour Resort is on the border of the village of Firostefani with an eastern view of the Aegean Sea, but no caldera views. It's a short walk from a trail leading to the capital, Fira, in 10 to 15 minutes, with a number of restaurants and coffee shops along the way. There aren't any nightclubs or pubs in the immediate area, but Fira has more to offer in that regard, along with sights such as the Archeological Museum of Thera. The walking path also leads to Oia, which is about a two-hour hike from the property. For a shorter hike, it's only 10 minutes to Skaros Rock. 

The hotel runs a free beach shuttle, but guests planning to explore the island will probably want to rent a car; there's a car rental shop just outside the hotel's front gate and free parking is provided. Guests arriving by cruise ship to the Old Port can plan on a 10-minute drive to the resort. The airport is about 20 to 25 minutes away by car and the hotel operates a shuttle for a fee.

Guest rooms at the Splendour Resort are spacious but sparsely decorated in bland light or dark wood furnishings with the occasional yellow or Mediterranean-blue accent. Some rooms have charming features such as domed ceilings, stone floors, and wrought-iron beds with curtain canopies. The understated vibe allows the natural beauty outside to take precedence, but some guests might find it too underwhelming. All rooms have terraces or balconies, but views can vary quite a bit, so it's worth asking before booking. 

Standard amenities include sitting areas, air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs with satellite channels, minibars, and safes. Suites with spa baths are also available, but the highest category options are Junior and Superior Suites with their own pools -- each with a pair of sunbeds shaded by a straw umbrella. However, the pools are lined up side-by-side and separated only with partitions, so they're not very private.

Bathrooms either have older shower/tub combos and dated fixtures, or more modern mosaic-tile showers with rainfall showerheads. Toiletries, bathrobes, and slippers are provided. Connecting rooms are available upon request. Wi-Fi is free but not reliable. 

Facilities at the Splendour Resort are few, but there's a two-level pool surrounded by sunbeds and canvas umbrellas, as well as a poolside bar that serves fresh juices, cocktails, and light food throughout the day. There is a separate (small) children's pool. The on-site restaurant serves international cuisine for breakfast and lunch, with half-board options available. The breakfast buffet is extensive and includes hot and cold options, such as fresh fruit and eggs, and is served poolside every morning. There is free Wi-Fi but the signal can be spotty, which is a common problem in the area. The hotel can arrange for bike rentals, and offers faxing and photocopying services. The hotel does not have a spa or fitness center.