Katikies Kirini Santorini

This all-suite property has the most beautiful views in Oia and a sophisticated décor that makes it a luxurious hideaway.

• The pool area, which has lots of day beds, yellow-and-white striped cabanas and beautiful views of Oia town
• The spacious spa complete with a large relaxation pool
• The breakfast spread and snack bar that is filled with cakes, chocolates and juices throughout the day

Cascading down the caldera in a blur of white—accented only by the aqua of its pool and the occasional burst of pink bougainvillea—Katikies Kirini Santorini features the traditional Santorinian architecture style (bright white buildings, cave-like structures). Opened in 2009, the elegant hotel is so well kept and stylishly designed that it feels much newer, but the skilled staff and ever-present concierge, who can be found checking in with poolside guests throughout the day, are a testament to Katikies Kirini’s status as one of the top properties in Santorini.

Set 10 minutes from Oia—far enough removed to be blissfully secluded but close enough for guests to easily walk into town for meals—Katikies Kirini has a prime location for views of the caldera and town, which is beautifully backlit each evening by the setting run. The all-suite property’s 21 accommodations range in amenities (some have plunge pools and private terraces), but all offer beautiful panoramas of the Aegean. The rooms are done in the island’s signature white, with orchids, bleached coral and cream-colored French medallion chairs adding romantic accents to the minimalist design. The bathrooms feature rainfall showers, pebbled floors and Bulgari bath products.

Days at Katikies Kirini begin with taking in the stunning morning views (Indagare Tip: plan to never take off your sunglasses, as the white landscape is very bright) and breakfast either from the comfort of one’s private terrace or at the Pool Lounge & Cocktail Bar. As a Relais & Châteaux hotel, Katikies Kirini has a spectacular culinary program, and the morning spread includes granola, Greek pastries (think sweets doused in hazelnut spread), fresh fruit, cheese and charcuterie, as well as an à la carte selection with eggs and pancakes. The lunch menu highlights traditional cuisine like Greek salads and fresh fish, whereas dinner is an upscale gourmet affair. The primary restaurant, Anthós, occupies a stunning white stucco cave that feels open and light thanks to the silver chrome orbs that hang from the ceiling, blond wood chairs and cream-and-blue cushions. The menu is Mediterranean fusion and might include such dishes as tuna tataki, watermelon and feta salad and chicken with Greek truffles. For in-between bites, guests can grab nibbles at the snack table, which is constantly replenished with baked goods, fresh fruit and dark chocolate.

The pool at Katikies Kirini is the heart of the hotel, affording sweeping views and surrounded by yellow-and-white cabanas and white daybeds. The serene area is where guests spend the majority of time on property. Additional onsite amenities include A.SPA, the pampering spa that features a large relaxation pool and uses Ligne St. Barth products. The lobby-side boutique stocks beach-appropriate products like Melissa Odabash cover-ups and tunics, sandals and Ligne St. Barth products.

Note: Katikies Kirini  guests have access to other Katikies facilities at a handful of hotels around the island. Katikies Santorini hotel is also a part of the group, and is home to three spectacular restaurants – guests should book at least one meal here.

Visitors to Santorini who value chic, contemporary décor over traditional style will love Katikies Kirini. The hands-on staff and ample on-site amenities make this hotel one of the most appealing options on the island. Note: Katikies Kirini does not accept children under 13 years old.