Ira Hotel & Spa

The Hotel Ira is a cozy, adult-only complex located high on Santorini’s cliffs, with phenomenal views of the caldera far below. The Ira feels like a tiny Greek village, with terraces connected by small footbridges that add to the hotel’s traditional charm. The architecture is Cycladic, with domed ceilings, archways, and multiple sunbed-lined terraces, all with staggering sea views. Buildings painted in pretty colors – yellow and light terra cotta – combine with Mediterranean blue water to accent the whitewashed portions of the property and enhance its simple style. The outdoor pool sits at the cliff’s edge, another sunny spot for enjoying Santorini’s stunning scenery. There's nothing to do here but take in the views and relax with good food and wine. As such, the vibe is easygoing and comfortable, with an emphasis on peace and quiet for the couples who tend to stay here -- in fact, no children under 16 are allowed.

The Hotel Ira is in a quiet cliffside spot in Firostefani, a small village with phenomenal caldera views. A 10-minute downhill walk leads to the island’s capital, Fira, with restaurants and bars, as well as the island’s scenic cable car. There are a few restaurants, a bus stop, and a mini-mart near the hotel entrance, as well as a car rental stand directly across the street. A car is necessary for guests who want to tour the island. The Petros M. Nomikos Conference Centre and Archeological Museum of Thera are within a 13-minute walk. White Beach is a half-hour drive from the hotel, and Red Beach is 25 minutes away by car. Fira’s Old Port (where cruise ships dock) is a three-minute ride from the hotel, and the airport is a 15- to 20-minute drive.

Guest rooms at the Hotel Ira are spacious, clean, and individually decorated in a simple, traditional Greek style, with individual touches. Some have domed ceilings and whitewashed walls, or cool cement floors, accented with antique furnishings and embroidered textiles. Romantic curtained archways may separate sleeping and living areas in some rooms. Some of the design details do appear a little dated -- like the borderline tacky oil paintings on the wall, mid-tone wood furniture, and some of the fabrics on the couches and chairs.

Rooms are divided into those with Caldera views and those with cave-style architecture that overlook an interior courtyard. All rooms have an open-plan layout and most have small sitting areas. Each has a balcony or terrace, as well, but not all are private (some are separated by partial walls). Duplex suites, including Honeymoon options with hot tubs, are also available. 

Bathrooms are moderately sized, with large open showers. While some are done in attractive mosaic tiles, other bathrooms have dark marble panels that make them look a bit less fresh. Superior Rooms and suites have hydromassage tubs as well. Slippers and toiletries are provided, and hairdryers are older models. 

There is plenty of storage in all guest rooms, including walk-in closets in the suites. All rooms are air-conditioned. Small flat-screen TVs with satellite channels and DVD players, free Wi-Fi, and laptop safes come standard. Minibars are provided, but no electric kettles or coffeemakers. There's no traffic or other noise. 

The Hotel Ira features a small spa with a treatment menu that includes massage, reflexology, aromatherapy, body scrubs, and beauty treatments. Volcanic mud treatments and holistic massages are among the offerings. The spa includes a steam room and spa tub. Outside, there's a small pool overlooking the sea, with a pool bar that serves coffee, juices, and cocktails throughout the day. There are enough sunbeds for all, with nothing to obscure the caldera views. 

A buffet breakfast is included and served daily on the terrace, with eggs cooked to order, as well as a yogurt bar with Greek yogurt and dried fruits, and homemade marmalade. The White Cave Restaurant serves a light menu all day, as well as dinner on the terrace, and wine. Dishes feature local products including fresh caught fish. 

There's a library area with books and couches for taking a break out of the sun's reach. Business services such as copying and printing are available, and Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel. Bike rentals can be arranged and there's also a tour desk. Shuttle service to the airport and ferry terminal is provided by the hotel for a surcharge.