The Dahlia & Jasmine Collection by Angel Studios

Angel Studios is owned by two Greek cousins and it's obvious they've put a ton of time and attention into their boutique hotel. The beige-colored structure is decorated with painted arches and surrounded by well-tended maturing olive trees. A small courtyard offers a whimsical place to relax among garden gnomes, a water fountain, and palm trees. A chair swing and wicker seating provide places to sit. The other side of the hotel grounds hold a bell-shaped swimming pool surrounded by sun loungers. Though the location isn't on the caldera in Fira, it does have more space and privacy than anything you'll find on the cliff. The owners live on-site and are available to offer dinner suggestions or book tours. Guests here range from families to honeymooners to singles, who spend most of their day exploring the island or lounging quietly by the pool. Note that while most hotels in Santorini close seasonally, Angel Studios has an exceptionally short season and is closed from the beginning of October to the end of May. 

Finding the Angel Studios can be a bit of a headache, since there are two entrances and no sign. Look for the slightly rundown gas station Moto Bafi off the main road near the bus stop, and the hotel is the singular two-story building just down a small hill just behind it. For travelers who prefer to stay off-the-beaten path and away from the crowds, the location is ideal. Katerina's Restaurant, the bus stop, a coffee shop, local bakeries, and a grocery store are all within a five-minute walk. But for those who want to spend all their time in Fira and Oia, it might be better to book on the caldera.

• 15-minute walk to Fira's caldera (down a busy street and up a hill)
• 15-minute drive to Santo Winery
• 15-minute drive to Santorini Airport
• 16-minute drive to Athinios Port
• 22-minute drive to Red Beach
• 30-minute drive to Oia

Each of the 12 rooms at Angel Studios are individually decorated and named after flowers and herbs. Most of the rooms tend toward a more romantic and (some might say) frilly look. Think: purple or pink canopies over the beds and vanity tables, bird-framed art, small hand-painted dressing tables, and lampshades with fringe. One exception to the design rule is the Edelweiss, which is done in a muted color palette and mostly dark wood furniture. The Edelweiss Room is lofted with an additional bed. All units come with free Wi-Fi, a mini-fridge, air-conditioning, and a small flat-screen TV. Bathrooms vary and some are quite small with shower cabins covered by clingy fabric curtains. The Violet bathroom is larger and looks recently renovated with contemporary fixtures that include a glass-enclosed shower with a fixed showerhead. Toiletries and hairdryers are provided. Some units have furnished balconies that are either semi-private or private and can overlook the pool or the courtyard. 

Features at Angel Studios are as lovely as the rooms and owners. Each morning guests are treated to a hot breakfast buffet that's set out in a small indoor dining room by the reception desk. The spread changes regularly and includes a variety of Greek and Western hot and cold items. On our visit, there were even chicken nuggets. Guests can dine indoors, but most choose to sit at a large table on the pool patio or in the courtyard. Staff serves each table a huge plate of freshly cut fruit, which is a nice touch. There's a bell-shaped (unheated) swimming pool surrounded by sun loungers; pool towels are self-serve. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property. A parking lot is available for those with cars or ATVs. The affable owners are generally on hand to offer restaurant suggestions and book tours.