6 Best Hotels in Ia, The Cyclades

Santorini's traditional Cycladic style is married with contemporary design through the use of natural materials and textures in this relative newcomer. Rooms are simple, spacious and luxurious and all come with their own pool but it is the location that is spectacular; Armenaki sits between Ia's two blue domed churches and has awe inspiring views. Meticulous attention to detail and flawless service elevate this establishment above its neighbors.

A travel magazine favorite, Perivolas lives up to the hype and then some—that infinity pool still makes you gasp and the rest of the hotel is no slouch. The 23 suites and villas have been converted from old wineries and stables in archetypal yposkafta (vaulted cave) fashion, with clever nooks for beds, sculpted walls, and sumptuous bathrooms; all are simply but handsomely furnished with handmade wooden pieces and weavings. Quietly glamorous and very private, you will start to fantasize about living here forever.

Even more exclusive and guaranteed to unleash your inner rockstar is the hideaway from the same owners across the water in Thirasia, only accessible by helicopter or boat. Like the lair of a James Bond baddie, it is utterly stunning.

At this welcoming collection of sparkling white, arch-roofed cave houses that spill down the side of the caldera, homey suites and studios all have cozy sitting areas, well-equipped bathrooms, and a private, view-saturated terrace overlooking dark cliffs and turquoise seas. Rooms are furnished with traditional wooden pieces with bright fabrics and supremely comfortable mattresses. A romantic dining terrace serving a choice selection of well-prepared island favorites clings to the side of the cliff, a sparkling half-cave swimming pool is carved out of the rock, and a path descends toward the beach and fish tavernas at Ammoudi.

The Canaves Oia brand seems to open a new property every season, but this is the original development and still one of the best—a recent refurbishment has resulted in a collection of beautifully furnished suites, all done in crisp whites and handsome fabrics, enjoying uninterrupted caldera views and private pools in every room. While the sophisticated surroundings and setting in the center of Ia lend an international air, the owners and managers are a local family who ensure a very high standard of traditional island hospitality. The infinity pool with partially submerged loungers and private cabanas is great place to soak up those volcano views.  For the ultimate romantic meal book the Panorama Terrace—only one table and one seating per night.

A perch at the far eastern end of Ia provides inspiring views of the village as well as the caldera, which can be enjoyed from the private terraces of the handsomely furnished cave houses that were once used as workshops to repair and store fishing nets. Nowadays, minimalist luxury is the byword with most of the rooms having their own whirlpools. The center of Ia is a 15-minute walk away, keeping the crowds at a distance.

Sumptuously furnished, this immaculate white cliff-side complex layered on terraces offers ultimate luxury and sleek modern design, with bright fabrics, and handsome furniture—chic as the surroundings are, though, the barrel-vaulted ceilings and other architectural details also lend a traditional air to the place. Suites and villas are contemporary and private; all have terraces that overlook the caldera and are luxuriously appointed. Toast the sunset with lobster and Champagne from the Fleur de Miraval Bar, or better still, retreat to Botrinis for exquisitely plated Greek dishes.