18 Best Hotels in Santorini with Private Pools

Timos Tsoukalas

Having a private hotel pool sounds like one of the ultimate luxuries? Especially if it overlooks the incredible caldera of Santorini’s flooded volcano. That’s what I thought when one of our Gurus brought this article idea to me! But it turns out that this is a luxury that many visitors to Santorini can afford, because there are plenty of properties with a number of rooms with private plunge pools — including a number of family-friendly villa hotels, and some great value options. So it turns out that the best hotels in Santorini with private pools aren’t just for honeymooners, the very well off, or those seeking privacy, it’s a luxury open to all!

For the Album

• Grace Santorini in Imerovigli is a classic collection of all-white rooms, suites and villas, splendidly overlooking the caldera from an idyllic spot cut into the edge of the cliffs. Each of the 22 ‘rooms’ has a private terrace or balcony, and most (even entry level) have private plunge pools or hot tubs as well. For the ultimate in relaxation visit Grace’s comprehensive spa. There’s also an award-winning Mediterranean restaurant.
• Also in Imerovigli, Chromata has the kind of infinity pool you could spend an entire holiday wondering at, but don’t let yourself get too distracted by the spectacular caldera views, because it’s pretty stunning inside too. Converted from historic cliff-cave dwellings, Chromata’s 25 rooms and suites offer white-on-white minimalism at its finest, with plenty of natural light from large windows, which also frame the view. The restaurant is pool-side, making the most of the views again, and serves excellent Mediterranean cuisine. For your own private pool you'll need to push the boat out and book the Master Pool Suite or better!

For the Views

• The Andronis Luxury Suites sit atop Oia’s cliffs, offering spectacularly caldera views — especially from the infinity pool, and restaurant, which is perched out over the water surrounded by its own rock garden. The rest of the hotel’s 33 rooms and suites are carved into the cliff-face, in the traditional, white-on-white, Cycladic style, but have contemporary features, like brushed concrete floors and bathrooms. The fancier rooms have their own hot tubs or plunge pools — all with a view, and there’s a sleek, luxurious spa to share. No kids allowed.
• The Perivolas Lifestyle Houses were built about 300 years ago, cut into the cliff-face at Oia, a beautiful white jumble of cave-homes overlooking the volcanic caldera, now converted into 21 modern apartment villas. One of the things our Gurus love most about this property is the variety – some of the villas are large, with private pools and lush gardens, while some feature hot tubs, and vast vaulted ceilings. This is an adults only property, and all of the rooms are romantic and intimately laid out. There’s also a shared garden, a fancy spa, and a contemporary Greek restaurant, which is private for hotel guests.

For an Island Retreat

• Just five suites make up the accommodation options at the Kirini Suites & Spa, so that’s a lot of spa to share between just a few guests, and even guests staying in the suites without a private plunge pool will almost have the hotel’s infinity pool to themselves. Built in the traditional Cycladic style, but with chic, European-feeling decor, each suite has incredible views — as do the pools and excellent seafood restaurant. And the beautiful spa has elegant relaxation ‘pods’ cut directly into the cliff-face.

For a Special Occasion

• Sun Rocks is incredibly positioned on the clifftop of Thira, overlooking the spectacular caldera from numerous terraces and balconies, and from the restaurant and pool deck. Its 18 rooms and suites are decorated with stylish minimalism, but plenty of luxurious detail — most of them are super romantic, but if it’s a special occasion you might want to upgrade to a suite with a private plunge pool or hot tub overlooking the water. There’s a fine dining restaurant, and a chic pool terrace bar onsite, but you’re within a stroll of lots of places to eat and drink.
• Canaves is another spectacularly beautiful white hotel, converted from traditional buildings cut into the cliff-face, and featuring vaulted ceilings and uniquely shaped rooms and spaces — this time perched atop the cliffs at Oia. What sets Canaves apart for our Gurus is the variation in the size and shape of their 18 rooms and suites — while they all have their own private terraces, they don’t all have a private plunge pool or hot tub.

For Romantics

• Homeric Poems is a sophisticated cliffside hotel with 20 rooms and suites, a lovely pool and numerous sun terraces. There are beautiful views from almost everywhere. Its cave-style rooms are creatively decorated, and vary from room to room, but all feel fresh, stylish and spacious. Suites sleep up to four, and these are the ones to book if you want a private plunge pool or hot tub. There’s no restaurant, but there is a bar, and they serve snacks and breakfast on your private terrace — next to your plunge pool — or in the bar.

For Privacy

• Santorini Secret Suites & Spa is a collection of 17 suites and private villas, based around a collection of traditional Cycladic cave buildings on the cliffs of Oia. Each suite and villa has its own private terrace, with a plunge pool or hot tub and incredible views, while inside the traditional style gives way to a more contemporary look. In addition to your private pool the hotel has a beautiful infinity pool, and a gourmet Greek restaurant.
• Esperas is a traditionally built complex right on the cliffs in Oia, with a range of accommodation that includes rooms, studios, suites and whole villas. They all have kitchenettes and private terraces, and the suites and villas have private plunge pools.

For Families

• The De Sol Hotel is a smart, family friendly hotel complex outside Thira, with fantastic facilities, and a range of contemporary style accommodation that includes family suites and private villas, with their own pools. The whole complex is arranged around a central lagoon-style pool complex, with some shallower pools suitable for kids, plus a spacious spa, with an impressive spa treatment menu, and a playground. The location is excellent, at the top of a hill between the east and west of the island, and about two kilometres from Thira — there’s a shuttle bus. The Mediterranean restaurant has a charming terrace and a family-friendly menu.
• The Astra Suites offer 27 Cycladic-style rooms and suites, decorated in traditional white on white with splashes of blue. There’s a great variation in the size of the rooms and suites, which is why this is one of our family picks; some have private terraces, some come with with plunge pools and hot tubs, and the family suites sleep four. The hotel also has a spa and steam room, a lovely Greek restaurant, and a beautiful pool area with a stylish bar and lounge.

For Fabulous Facilities

• The Santo Maris Oia Suites is the largest hotel on this list, with 65 rooms and suites. It offers a stylish, contemporary take on the traditional Cycladic style, with white shapes accented with dark volcanic stone, all the mod cons and chic, modern decor. It’s certainly luxurious, especially the suites, which all have private, sea-facing hot tubs or plunge pools. There’s also a stunning pool and cocktail bar, and an impressive restaurant which serves gastronomic Greek cuisine, and spills out onto a terrace. And the hotel’s scale means that it has one of the largest, and most lauded, spas on the island.

For a Private Villa

• Aenaon Villas is a collection of seven villas, built into a peaceful stretch of cliffside between Oia and Imerovigli. Each of the villas has its own outside space, and some have plunge pools or hot tubs on their private terrace. There’s a gorgeous infinity pool to share as well, with a fantastic ocean view. Inside, the villas are stylishly decorated, with white furnishings against white walls.
• There are just three villas making up the Vino Houses complex, idyllically located in the countryside about 30 minutes walk from Oia, and ten minutes from one of the best black-sand beaches on Santorini. Each villa has classic Cycladic features: whitewashed walls, vaulted ceilings and big windows. They also have self-catering facilities, and private terraces with plunge pools or hot tubs. There’s no restaurant, but you will be brought a large breakfast in the morning, which is a nice touch. Expect clean, unfussy interior design with stylish soft furnishings.

For Cycladic Charm

• The Vasilicos has just seven suites, all simple and chic, but individually designed to make full use of each room’s traditional charms — though with gorgeous contemporary bathrooms. All have private terraces, and most have either a private hot tub or a plunge pool. There’s a larger hotel pool too, plus a bar, and an in-house chef known for championing local produce, and happy to tailor menus to guests' individual tastes.

For Great Value

• Guests of the Pegasus Suites & Spa are treated to their own private terrace complete with plunge pool, or hot tub (except the most basic smart suites and junior suites). And they all have fantastic caldera views. The hotel’s gourmet restaurant has incredible views too, with the wonderful ‘sugar cube’ architecture of Imerovigli in the foreground. Inside, the rooms offer smart white simplicity in typical Cycladic style. And there’s a wonderful spa, complete with hammam, sauna and a range of treatments. This is definitely the kind of hotel you don’t need, or want, to leave.
• The Remezzo Villas are a stylishly converted collection of typical, 18th century Cycladic villas. Their vaulted ceilings, white walls and cave-like details have been updated with colourful floors, mid-century furnishings and elegant finishes. Several of the 12 rooms and suites have their own plunge pools or hot tubs, on private terraces, with incredible views, and there’s a beautiful hotel pool — also with a view. There’s no restaurant, but there is a terrace bar, and you’re within a charming stroll of plenty of places to eat and drink.

Still not sure where to book?

• You could expand your search to include all the best places to stay in Santorini
• Refine your search by location to just the best places to stay in Thira or the best places to stay in Oia
• You could consider our Guru's recommendations for the best luxury hotels on Santoríni or the best hotel pools on Santoríni
• Or you could contact one of our friendly Gurus for personalised advice.

  • De Sol Hotel Thira, Santoríni 45 rooms from AU$326

    
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    Families  -  As well as Family Suites, the deluxe villas offer spacious multi room accommodation and private pool

    Spa  -  Offering a wide range of massages and therapeutic treatments plus a large hot tub, sauna and hammam

    Views  -  Lovely views to the East of the island over Pyrgos Village and surrounding vineyards

    Swimming Pool  -  Heated outdoor pool. Suites and villas also feature private heated outdoor pools

    

    A smart new family friendly five star property on the outskirts of Thira. The rooms are elegantly done with a soothing neutral colour palette and private balconies. Book a suite or deluxe villa for private pool and spa bathroom. Plus there's an outdoor heated pool and Mediterranean restaurant. See More

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  • Vino Houses Oia (Santorini) 3 rooms from AU$375

    
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    Groups  -  These spacious villas, which can sleep up to 4 people, are a great option for those travelling in larger groups

    Country Escape  -  Located in the beautiful Oia countryside, these private villas offer the perfect base for a country retreat

    Families  -  The self-catering facilities and private pool make these villas popular with families

    Cooking classes  -  Brush up your Mediterranean repertoire with a cooking class; enquire with the hotel for details

    

    Recommended by  -  I Escape

    Vino Houses consists of just 3 private villas each with a hot tub in the quiet village of Finikia just outside Oia. Chic interiors, views onto the vineyards, private parking, 10 minutes from the best black beaches in Santorini and just a 30 minute walk from Oia. Great for families. See More

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  • Homeric Poems Fira (Firostefani) 20 rooms from AU$473

    
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    Local exploring  -  Homeric Poems is a ten minute walk from the centre of Fira so you can easily get out and about

    Views  -  Epic views over the caldera and Aegean Sea

    Swimming Pool  -  Freshwater pool; book one of the Grand Suites or the Honeymoon suite with private pool for your own pool

    Private Hot Tub  -  The Honeymoon suite not only has a plunge pool, but an outdoor hot tub too!

    

    Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith

    A sophisticated cliffside hotel all in white with views over the Aegean Sea. Spacious terraces, luxurious rooms and suites, all the mod cons, lovely pool and splashes of modern art. A fabulous spot for couples, honeymooners and families with older children. See More

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  • Aenaon Villas Imerovigli, Santoríni 7 rooms from AU$734

    
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    Chic  -  Beautifully stylish interiors manage to honour the traditional architecture whilst offering the smartest of stays

    Romantic Break  -  Stunning all-white interiors, outstanding location, views to die for and some villas with private pool...

    Outstanding location  -  Cliffside location right on the edge of Santorini's Caldera, on the path between Oia and Imerovigli

    Views  -  Panoramic views over the Aegean Sea and caldera, plus unbeatable sunsets

    

    Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith, Fodors

    A cluster of white villas house seven ultra-chic all-white rooms with huge private terraces offering a seamless blend of tradition and contemporary luxury. Dreamy sea views from its clifftop site, and a gorgeous infinity pool. Ideal for honeymooners, couples, and families with older children. See More

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  • Sun Rocks Fira 18 rooms from AU$815

    
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    Romantic Break  -  This adults only paradise screams romance from every pore with its glorious views and sleek modern style

    Local exploring  -  Ideally located in the centre of Thira, so it's easy to get around from here

    Views  -  Fabulous sea and sunset views

    Swimming Pool  -  Outdoor pool; the Sun Rocks suite has a private pool

    

    Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith, Small Luxury Hotels

    A gorgeous hotel with wonderful day areas and terraces dotted around. Spectacular views, lovely restaurant, and creamy rooms. Intimate, very romantic, and oh so chic. A great spot for couples and honeymooners. See More

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  • Canaves Ena Thera, Santoríni 18 rooms from AU$836

    
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    Romantic Break  -  Beautifully stylish luxury accommodation with breathtaking views; book one of the top end suites for a private pool

    Local exploring  -  A perfect base to explore Oia's winding cobbled streets with local bakeries, art galleries and artisan shops

    Restaurant  -  The Infinity Modern Bistro & Bar is open all day for classic Greek cuisine

    Swimming Pool  -  Outdoor infinity pool; and several suites have their own pools too

    

    Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith

    In a picturesque village, this luxury hotel seems surreal. Perched on a cliff side, beautifully designed with white on white keeping in mind the traditional Cycladic style, rooms offer private terraces. The suites come with a private pool and the restaurant serves great food. Super romantic. See More

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  • Perivolas LIfestyle Houses Oia (Oia) 21 rooms from AU$937

    
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    Romantic Break  -  With a wide range of luxurious accommodations, many with private pool, superb views and delicious food this is very romantic!

    Hideaway  -  Set in 300 year old caves this stunning seaside property feels a-million miles away from everything.

    Restaurant  -  Serves contemporary Greek cuisine using locally sourced ingredients, exclusively for the hotel guests

    Sailing  -  Take a boat across the lava islands for magical views of the sulphur exuding caldera.

    

    Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith, I Escape

    A collection of lifestyle houses converted from 300 year old caves, built into the hillside. Spectacular views and complete tranquility meets laidback luxury and style. Stunning infinity pool, beautiful terraced gardens, and superb contemporary Greek cuisine. A wildly romantic destination. See More

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  • Grace Santorini Imerovigli 22 rooms from AU$1048

    
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    Romantic Break  -  Beautiful all white accommodations, most with private plunge pool, superb views and award winning dining

    Views  -  Panoramic sea views

    Swimming Pool  -  Wonderful infinity pool with stunning sea views - the largest of its kind on Santorini

    Restaurant  -  Seaview restaurant specialising in Mediterranean cuisine

    

    Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith, Tablet, I Escape

    A hotel cut from the cliff's edge with wow factor views and indulgent surroundings. All white rooms, suites and a palatial villa with fabulous private balconies and hot tubs. Lovely Mediterranean restaurant and extensive spa. Truly romantic and luxurious. See More

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  • Andronis Luxury Suites Oia (Santorini) 33 rooms from AU$866

    
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    Romantic Break  -  Couples love the amenities at this hotel, particularly the adult focus and the possibility of a private hot tub or pool

    Beach Life  -  With beautiful sea views from the hotel, and easy access to local beaches, this is a great base for seaside break

    Honeymoons  -  Make yours a luxury honeymoon by booking a suite with a private infinity pool

    Sights nearby  -  Take an impressive helicopter trip from the hotel across the Aegean to some of the most renowned Greek islands

    

    This seafront luxury hotel in Oia offers stunning vistas across the Aegean. The suites have classic interior design with stonewashed bathrooms and nautical colours; the best lead onto a private infinity pool overlooking the sea. Don't miss the clifftop restaurant and sleek spa. A breathtaking hotel. See More

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  • Chromata Imerovigli 25 rooms from AU$595

    
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    Honeymoons  -  Sun, sea in a wonderously romantic honeymoon suite with private terrace, secluded hot tub and sleek modern interiors.

    Sailing  -  Sail around the island and take in the stunning white villages and deserted beaches.

    5* Luxury  -  Chromata is undoubtedly one of the most luxurious hotels on the island

    Restaurant  -  Poolside Chroma Restaurant serves elegant modern Mediterranean cuisine

    

    Recommended by  -  Tablet, Small Luxury Hotels, Mr & Mrs Smith

    Tradition meets contemporary cool on the most spectacular island in Greece. A series of cave houses in the cliffside, with white on white decor broken with stylish aztec bed throws. Impossibly perfect infinity pool and an intimate poolside restaurant both boast killer views. Ideal for honeymooners. See More

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  • Katikies Kirini Oia from AU$815

    
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    Total relaxation  -  With a serene coastal setting, excellent on site cuisine and deluxe spa, it's ideal for a relaxing holiday.

    Romantic Break  -  Luxurious suites and a heavenly location combine to create the perfect place for a romantic getaway.

    Sights nearby  -  Visit Santorini's volcano and Thirasia Island just three miles away.

    Swimming Pool  -  Outdoor pool and the top end suites come with private pool

    

    Recommended by  -  Relais & Chateaux, Tablet

    Fantastic, five-star hotel facing out over the Aegean Sea. Fastidiously designed in line with Cycladic style, the suites are elegant and luxurious with crisp, whitewashed decor. The deluxe spa feature relaxing pods carved into the cliff and the restaurant serves delicious seafood. A clifftop wonder. See More

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  • Esperas Oia 17 rooms from AU$595

    
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    Romantic Break  -  Romantics will love the views, private hot tubs or pools and great Greek cuisine

    Families  -  With some accommodation units sleeping up to four this is a good family pick

    Views  -  Stunning sea and caldera views

    Swimming Pool  -  Small outdoor pool and the best suites come with their own plunge pool

    

    Recommended by  -  I Escape

    All white rustic chic accommodation ranging from studios to suites to separate villas overlooking Oia's coastline. Charming rooms have splashes of art, kitchenettes, private balconies and spectacular views. Beautiful, romantic, family friendly too. See More

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  • Santorini Secret Suites & Spa Oia (Oia) 17 rooms from AU$750

    
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    Beach Life  -  Set on the coast on the picturesque island of Santorini, book this hotel for a luxury seaside getaway

    Romantic Break  -  The laid-back, romantic atmosphere at this adults-only hotel is well suited to a couples' holiday

    Hideaway  -  With a spa, restaurant and pool onsite, there is no need to leave this boutique hideaway hotel

    Sights nearby  -  Visit the Akrotiri archaeological site – one of the Aegean’s most important prehistoric settlements

    

    Recommended by  -  Small Luxury Hotels, Tablet

    This stylish bolt-hole offers luxurious villas and private suites in Oia on Santorini. Classic Cycladic exteriors give way to contemporary suites with a splash of colour in the designer fittings. For romantic sunset views, dine on the terrace at the hotel's gourmet Black Rock restaurant. See More

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  • Astra Suites Imerovigli 27 rooms from AU$443

    
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    Romantic Break  -  Romantics will love the higher-end suites which either come with private hot tub or pool

    Families  -  Family suites are perfect for two adults and two children

    Views  -  Panoramic views of the caldera and the Aegean Sea

    Restaurant  -  Five Senses Restaurant offers Greek and Mediterranean fine dining cuisine

    

    Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith

    Wonderful boutique hotel with funky rooms and suites. Splashes of bright colour throughout all white rooms, all with private balconies, some with private hot tubs or pools. Lovely Greek restaurant and swimming pool lounge area. Great for romantic getaways and family holidays. See More

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  • Pegasus Suites & Spa Imerovigli (Santorini) 18 rooms from AU$489

    
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    Views  -  The property has incredible view's over Santorini's caldera

    Swimming Pool  -  Heated outdoor pool with stunning views, plus an indoor hydrotherapy pool in the spa.

    Spa  -  The "Heaven Spa" features a hammam, and sauna and offers a range of treatments.

    Private Hot Tub  -  Several suites have a private hot tub either on the terrace or in the room

    

    A grown up, all suites property with breathtaking views over Santorini's famous caldera. Built in typical Cycladean style, smart all white suites offer every luxury and many come with either private hot tub or plunge pool or both! Gourmet restaurant and spa too. Romantic heaven! See More

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  • The Vasilicos Imerovigli (Thira) 7 rooms from AU$663

    
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    Romantic Break  -  Peaceful surroundings, chic accommodation and spectacular views — perfect for a romantic getaway

    Total relaxation  -  Spend your days lounging by the pool sunbathing or book yourself in for a massage to truly unwind

    Great walks  -  Join one of the various walking tours around the island to truly explore the area's beauty

    Private Hot Tub  -  Most rooms come with either private hot tub or plunge pool

    

    Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith, Kiwi Collection

    The Vasilicos is located in the viIlage of Imerovigli, high in the mountains of Santorini. Boasting spectacular sea views, the hotel offers seven simple chic suites which all feature a spacious terrace. Choose your own menu and enjoy a private candlelit dinner for two at sunset! A stunning spot. See More

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  • Santo Pure Oia Suites & Villas Oia 65 rooms from AU$756

    
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    Honeymoons  -  Honeymoon heaven with sumptuous suites and private villas boasting outdoor hot tubs overlooking the stunning Aegean Sea.

    Foodies  -  Having been lauded for its authentic Greek gastronomic cuisine, foodies will love it here

    Restaurant  -  Alios Ilios serves authentic Greek cuisine and is widely regarded as one of the best restaurants in the country

    Spa  -  Anassa Spa is one of the largest on the island and offers a wide range of revitalising treatments

    

    A magnificent five-star hotel overlooking the sea. A modern, stylish take on the traditional Cycladic style, with rooms maximising on comfort and luxury. It's the perfect place for a relaxing, indulgent romantic break, with an extensive spa and a stunning setting looking out to sea. See More

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  • Remezzo Villas Imerovigli (Santorini) 12 rooms from AU$350

    
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    Romantic Break  -  Beautifully simple rooms and suites the best with private hot tubs and sensational views

    Boutique  -  Simply done in typical Cycladic style with beautiful white on white decor and luxurious bathrooms

    Private Hot Tub  -  Several of the suites come with their own outdoor hot tub

    Views  -  Terraces with panoramic views over the caldera

    

    Nestled on the cliffside, the restored 18th century villas have classic Cycladean features: white washed walls, vaulted ceilings & curved edges. Spacious suites and rooms with private balconies for enjoying the jawdropping views. No restaurant but a short walk from local eateries. Totally romantic. See More

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Written by Kat Parr Mackintosh

posted Wednesday, 1st June 2022