Grace Santorini

A stylish and indulgent hotel in a gloriously romantic setting on Greece's most photogenic island

Grace Santorini hugs the cliffside on the island's west rim, overlooking the sea-filled crater and lava islets, with the turquoise Aegean all around. Sparkling and new, it has honeymoon written all over it - heart-stopping views, private plunge pools, amazing sunsets. It’s set in Imerovigli, a gloriously Cycladic village sprinkled with white sugar-cube houses; far enough from busy Fira to feel secluded, yet within walking distance. We’d stay put though. Directly below you is the caldera, the underwater basin of an ancient volcano; facing you is the plug of Skaros, topped with Venetian castle ruins. And forget grappling with tourist crowds at Oia - you'll get perfect sunset views from your terrace.

As with sister hotel Grace Mykonos, bedrooms are stylish and sexy - pure white décor, kingsize beds, sumptuous towelling robes and Apivita toiletries. Most have a private terrace and plunge pool for 2; one even has its own hammam. We’re always loath to use the word 'luxurious', but with champagne breakfasts and moonlit dinners, it’d be churlish to pretend this is anything but.

Highs

• Every room is perfectly positioned for a sunset view, and most have private plunge pools and terraces
• Excellent staff, led by host couple Martina and Joseph, who know when to pamper and when to be unobtrusive
• Fabulous décor throughout
• Infinity swimming pool with loungers and a slick bar selling cocktails
• Concierge service to book restaurants, hire cars, charter catamarans or park your helicopter

Lows

• At 22 rooms, it's larger than when it first opened, though with private plunge pools and dining "cubby holes" it still feels intimate
• Santorini island has become very commercialised and the caldera rim is lined with hotels - though this one is set slightly apart
• A few rooms are small, others are right by the path to Skaros (so rather public)
• Steep steps make this unsuitable for anyone with limited mobility