Katikies Chromata Hotel

"The Chromata Villa consists of two-levels, with a balcony overlooking the Caldera a magnificent spot for after-dinner cocktails with the sunset. You have your own deck to work on your tan, and your own plunge pool to cool down." - Yolanda Evans

"Why book To savor those iconic Imerovigli views of Santorini’s sprawling caldera from your very own plunge pool (some that feel as if you're truly teetering on the rock face)—plus, a truly destination-worthy dining option. Rooms (and suites) situated up and down a maze of steep rock-carved steps mimic the whitewashed homes that famously hug the island's coast. While the vibe is adults-only, kids 13 years of age and up are permitted. Set the scene It's all about the view—that's what you're staying here for, after all, along with the honeymooners and groups of well-heeled Americans and Europeans looking to soak in the sunsets and wake up late after an evening out in nearby Thira and still have time to catch breakfast. This cave hotel is one of the best (if not the best, according to our Readers' Choice Awards) on the island for kicking back with a fresh inventive cocktail and taverna dishes with a twist, from traditional grilled octopus to reinvented classics, like a slow-cooked lamb with deconstructed horiatiki (Greek salad), or a succulent filet of sea bass with eggplant mousse. Whether you're relaxing over a sunset dinner with the couples or toasting ouzo at the aperitivo bar (yamas) it's an adults-only haven that the tourists passing by on their sunset walk all definitely want in on. The backstory Greek-owned and with award-winning locations across multiple islands, Katikies consists of a handful of properties on Santorini itself, from villas on sunset-famed (and truly beautiful) Oia to these volanic-rock-nestled beauties popular with honeymooners. Melding local hospitality with wisdom for an international clientele, this particular Katikies is a favorite among in-the-know travelers who value cuisine and culture as much as they do a comfortable room with a fantastic view. The portfolio of hotels it belongs to also brings an advantage; concierge are eager to book you on a winery or boat tour if you've arrived without those plans penciled in, and while there's no spa onsite you can make an appointment at the Oia property's robust spa offering for a new reason to plan around the village's bougainvillea draped alleyways. The rooms This is one of those minimalist-chic Greek island cave hotels you hear all about—and it's done right. Cliffside dwellings are all-white and domed with gleaming tile floors, simple seating areas, and mini fridges stocked with necessities (local assyrtiko, waters, soft drinks, and liquor). Bathrooms have large, open showers, and twice-per-day housekeeping ensures the space stays tidy and dry. Beds are turned down during the second cleaning visit, complete with the old-fashioned chocolates on your pillows. Following a recent renovation, some of Chromata's white-painted subterranean suites with patios have the added perk of caldera-facing plunge pools you can enjoy at any hour of day—hot tub suites are also available (and a welcome amenity on windy nights). For rooms without the private-pool perk, the infinity pool onsite (which has convenient towel service) closes around 8:00 pm nightly. Room rates start at $340 per night. Food and drink Tuck into Greek classics with a modern twist at the hotel's CHROMA restaurant—don't miss the sun-dried grilled octopus, and don't you dare skip desserts like the dark-chocolate tart cake with passionfruit sorbet. This spot attracts visitors not staying at the hotel, and is the perfect spot to enjoy the rainbow of colors a Santorini sunset brings, with a drink in hand. There's also a lounge and aperitivo bar if you can't snag a reservation at CHROMA, and breakfast, which is complete with a sprawling authentic bread basket and fresh local jams, can be taken at any of the outdoor venues—all of which overlook those never-ending Aegean blues. The neighborhood/area The highest point on the island's caldera side, Imerovigli is undoubtedly the best place to stay on Santorini; avoid the sunset crowds of Oia, enjoy arguably the most scenic views on the entire island, and still have the option to make the short drive to some of the island's best beach clubs from this central white-washed village. Thira cruise port is also a short drive (or 30-minute walk) away, if you plan to island hop by ferry, or want to enjoy the busy port area's fabulous nightlife—just remember the walk back is all uphill. The service Incredibly warm, in a genuine yet casual way—something most Greek locals seem to have mastered, but it's especially well done here. Staff are as invested in getting you to the right offsite restaurants for your taste as they are dashing your bags up or down the steep, sprawling maze of steps to your room.  Anything left to mention? Whether you're honeymooning or just want a spot to soak in the Santorini way of life on a relaxing, scenic stay, this place doesn't quite feel like a hotel, and will have you mistaking it for something more like a home away from home—one that just so happens to be on a bucket-list-worthy cliffside." - Shannon McMahon