Canaves Oia Suites - Small Luxury Hotels of the World

We recommend Canaves Oia to honeymoon or anniversary couples seeking absolute privacy with uncompromised views. It's an address for 30- to 60-year-old travellers accustomed to discreet luxury, who prefer staying in their suite rather than touring the island. Families with young children will find the terraces and private pools stressful, better to book elsewhere.

The suites occupy former captains' houses dug into the caldera in the 19th century, restored respecting Cycladic architecture. Barrel vaults, 80 cm-thick walls, natural limewash renewed every spring. Contemporary minimalist interiors: lava stone floors, driftwood, white linen, a few Aegean blue touches. Each suite spans several levels connected by staircases carved into the rock, surface between 45 and 120 m² depending on category.

The Canaves Sunday restaurant serves a Mediterranean menu on a panoramic terrace, Santorini produce and daily fish. Breakfast served in suite or on communal terrace, with Greek yogurt with thyme honey, local cherry tomatoes, homemade pastries. The Cave wine bar occupies a former vaulted cellar, selection of Greek vintages and champagnes. Room service available 24/7, simplified but careful menu.

Canaves Oia stands on Main Street, the pedestrian artery traversing Oia village in north Santorini. The Byzantine castle ruins are three minutes' walk away, the sunset viewpoint five. Oia remains the island's best-preserved village, less touristy than Fira, with art galleries and designer boutiques. Santorini Airport 17 km away, private shuttle included, 25-minute drive. The Ammoudi port below (300 steps) offers fish tavernas feet in the water.