Santorini's caldera has no shortage of luxury hotels, but finding one that offers both the iconic view and genuine space is a perennial challenge. Canaves Oia Epitome, the newest addition to the Canaves collection, solves this problem with a refreshing lack of compromise.
Design & Architecture
While most Santorini hotels are carved into the cliff in the traditional cave style, Canaves Oia Epitome takes a different approach. The villas are above the caldera edge, meaning each one has a private infinity pool with an unobstructed view of the volcano and the Aegean beyond. The design is contemporary Cycladic — clean lines, white plaster, pale oak, and splashes of deep blue that echo the sea.
The property comprises just 24 villas, each with a private pool or hot tub, creating an intimate atmosphere that larger resorts cannot match.
Rooms & Suites
Our Sunset Villa was 65 square metres of understated luxury. The private pool, at 25 square metres, is large enough for genuine swimming. The interior features a king-size bed dressed in Frette linens, a marble bathroom with walk-in rain shower, and a tablet-based smart home system that controls lighting, climate, and entertainment. The minibar is complimentary and restocked daily — a touch that larger, more corporate resorts often miss.
Dining & Gastronomy
The on-site restaurant, Anthós, serves modern Greek cuisine with a focus on local ingredients. We had an exceptional sea bream carpaccio and a lamb dish that showcased the quality of Greek produce. The breakfast, served on your private terrace, is a genuine highlight — fresh pastries, local cheeses, and champagne, should you desire.
Spa & Wellness
The spa is compact but well-appointed, offering treatments using Greek organic products. The couples' treatment room with caldera view is particularly sought after — book it in advance. There is no gym on-site, but the hotel provides a map of running routes along the caldera path.
The Destination
Oia is Santorini's most photographed village, and Canaves Oia Epitome occupies a privileged position at its quieter edge. The famous Oia sunset is visible from your villa terrace, which means you can enjoy the spectacle without the crowds that gather at the castle ruins each evening. The hotel's concierge can arrange private catamaran cruises, wine tastings at nearby Assyrtiko vineyards, and guided hikes along the caldera.
Canaves Oia Epitome is perfect for: couples on a romantic escape who want the Santorini experience without the sacrifice of space or privacy. It is a worthy new addition to the island's luxury landscape, and we expect it to become a fixture on our Top Rated list in the years to come.
