The Vasilicos, Caldera Heritage Suites

"Beyond the snap-happy visitors and undulating whitewashed walls of Imerovigli village lies a boutique hideaway that’s a masterclass in Cycladic simplicity. Where subdued and serene design takes a backseat to the show-stopping caldera views. Owner Daphne Valambous spent her childhood summers in this house, and apart from the addition of several plunge pools and a professional kitchen, not much has changed since her father built it in the 1980s. Although by no means child-friendly, The Vasilicos is one of the few Santorini hotels that don’t have an adults-only policy, making it an ideal option for families traveling with older kids. For couples, check in to the Efta suite, a quiet cocoon slotted into the cliffside that’s completely secluded from view, and don’t miss sunset aperitifs at the two-table guests-only restaurant. —Timothy O'Grady" - Lauren Burvill

"The Vasilicos retains its heritage as a former private home of an avid art collector. The boutique property offers stunning views of the sea, private hot tubs, plunge pools, and candlelit dinners prepared by an in-house chef." - Travel + Leisure Editors

"Almost every building overlooking Santorini’s sunken caldera has been converted into a luxury hotel. I’ve stayed at dozens of them, but surprisingly few live up to those famous views. The Vasilicos is a cut above the crowded competition for several reasons. All seven suites are spacious and secluded, their terraces cascading down the hillside with wide-open views of the infinite blue. Even when the island seems to be sinking under the weight of its popularity, serenity reigns at this former summerhouse. Designed for sun-drenched gatherings with family and friends, it was built in the 1980s by Vassilis Valambous, a Greek art collector and bon viveur, from a cluster of collapsed yposkafa—the island’s unique cave houses. The atmosphere still has the warmth, intimacy, and personality of a home. From the capsule library (curated by legendary local shop Atlantis Books) to the custom-made beach towels, every thoughtful detail bears the personal touch of the elegantly understated owner, Daphne Valambous. Her brother Yannis has transformed the vineyards he inherited from their father into Vassaltis, one of the most exciting wineries on Santorini. If I’m traveling solo, I like to pop a bottle of its sparkling pet nat to toast the sunset, an almost otherworldly experience that is never the same twice (the wines can also be paired with a personalized tasting menu at the sublime two-table restaurant). Open since 2015, The Vasilicos is already a timeless classic. Like most loyal guests, I’d almost prefer to keep this very private hideaway hush-hush. Doubles from $420. —Rachel Howard" - CNT Editors

"Daphne Valambous and her brother, Yannis, inherited both properties from their father. She oversees the hotel with a thoughtful eye — the cave rooms, built into the cliffside, are stocked with fresh flowers and Greece-centric literature — while he looks after the wine making." - Travel + Leisure Editors