Kamariou Mesarias, Fira, Greece | (937) 315-4602
Cliff-side setting with breathtaking caldera panorama
A 10-minute walk from Fira's bustling center
Relatively big swimming pool with poolside bar
All rooms have sea-view terrace or balcony
Some rooms have hot tubs for two
Buffet breakfast included in the room rate
Free Wi-Fi throughout (though can be spotty)
A couple rooms
are very small
Some furnishings
a little dated
Lots of steps and no
elevator
Tzekos Villas occupies a gleaming, white, traditional Cycladic building cascading down the side of the western cliff face of Fira, the capital of Santorini. Rooms range from small to spacious, though all have superb caldera-view terraces or balconies, and some even have private hot tubs. While the swimming pool is one of the area's largest, getting to it from most levels requires lots of stairs so this hotel is not suited for those with mobility challenges. It is also a little dated in part, but overall the rates are surprisingly reasonable for an upper-middle-range hotel with one of the finest vantage points on the island.
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Scene
Impressive example of multi-storied Cycladic architecture
A steep cobblestone footpath leads to the spiked iron gate that opens into Tzekos Villas -- a traditional example Cycladic architecture, with a glimmering facade whitewashed to resemble a typical Santorinian village. Although housing just 22 rooms, the hotel still feels grander than most, with its six floors perched impressively against its cliff-side promontory. As is common with such properties, there is no elevator and visitors must navigate lots of stairs, especially to access the pool terrace -- though super-friendly staff are always on hand to help with luggage. Caldera views are also some of the most expansive panoramic vistas to be found on the island, especially from the hotel's rooftop breakfast area. While mostly popular with couples, the hotel also draws plenty of vacationing families.
Location
Cliff-side setting on outskirts of Fira's bustling center
The hotel is located on a cliff-top on the outskirts of central Fira -- Santorini's capital and most popular tourist hub. The setting, away from traffic and a five- to 10-minute stroll to the touristic center, means that the hotel is peaceful and relaxing while also walkable to plenty of local restaurants, galleries, and chic boutiques. Its position also guarantees spectacular views over the the volcano and Aegean sea, while Santorini Airport is around a 10-minute drive away.
Rooms
All room have sea-views terraces or balconies -- some have hot tubs
The hotel has 22 air-conditioned rooms, all of which are decorated in simple, breezy styling with traditional touches -- though a few of the furnishings feel a little dated and some rooms are small. Every room has a furnished terrace or balcony with breathtaking sea views, while bathrooms -- some of which are tiny -- are finished in mosaic tiling and polished limestone. Standard amenities include free (though spotty) Wi-Fi, mini-fridges, and flat-screen TVs with a few satellite channels, though no tea/coffee facilities or bottled water. Some upgraded rooms have hot tubs where guests can also enjoy the vistas.
Features
Relatively good-size pool with plenty of sun loungers and poolside bar
A decent buffet breakfast is served each morning on a rooftop terrace overlooking the caldera, and though the selection is fairly limited it is included in the price. Though not huge, the swimming pool is a good size given the number of rooms and lined with plenty of sun loungers. There's no on-site but a poolside bar serves drinks and snacks through the day. Massage services can be reserved in advance.
