3 Best Hotels in Firostefani, The Cyclades

Stunning decor and earthy Cycladic charm blend into what is truly Santorini splendor; think sparkling white cubes with volcanic stone trimmings surrounding an 18th-century mansion. Interiors are picturesquely dotted with domes, skylights, and interior windows, and the decor is a fantasia of Chippendale armchairs, ancient amphorae, Byzantine icons, Corfiot mariner's chests, Picasso ceramics, and gilt-framed engravings; the glowing color schemes were cooked up by legendary British designer David Hicks. The showpiece is the "House of the Winds," where the grand, double-height, cathedral-roofed living room shimmers with elegant antiques and robin's-egg-blue walls. The elegant communal terrace overlooks the caldera, but many choose to enjoy dinner on their own terraces. A splendid cliff edge villa has been added to the collection.

Agali may only be a 10-minute walk north from the center of Fira but it feels like a world apart—a village-style setting with handsomely furnished, arch-roofed houses that tumble down the cliff side on a series of dramatic terraces is a quiet enclave. A large swimming pool is at the center, though all accommodations, some with cozy sleeping lofts, open on to private and generous outdoor spaces, many with shady alcoves and all with spectacular views.

Only the suites and the roof terrace have caldera views, but everything about the whitewashed and tiled surroundings in this former family home makes for a charming and relaxing island getaway. Arched interiors are done in rich cream colors and bright fabrics, with handsome traditional furnishings, and many rooms surround a courtyard and pool; several open on to private terraces. The Fytros family is on hand to look after your needs and provide advice on enjoying the island—nothing is too much trouble here.