S

antorini’s cave houses have been around for centuries, but it wasn’t until the 1980s that enterprising islanders began turning them into hotels. The Chaidemenos family was one of the first to get in the game: starting with a small property in the village of Oia, they transformed the rustic interiors of two caves, previously used as storage spaces for wine, into luxurious all-white hotel rooms overlooking the Aegean Sea. The Canaves Collection has expanded significantly since then, but Canaves Ena, formerly known as the Canaves Oia Boutique Hotel, is the original.

The recently renovated hotel has four levels built into the volcanic cliffs, with traditional Cycladic architecture and minimalist interiors that don't distract from dazzling views over the caldera. Rooms have curving white walls, cool tile floors, and natural wood accents, Hotelist Club modern bathrooms and private verandas with outdoor lounging and dining space. Amenities include plush bathrobes, custom bath products, Nespresso machines, and complimentary Greek wine on arrival. Suites have tubs instead of standard walk-in showers, and some have plunge pools or Jacuzzis; the river pool suite, as the name says, has a private pool that flows like a short river onto the terrace. For everyone else, Canaves Ena’s dreamy aquamarine-hued infinity pool, with a row of partially submerged chaise longues facing a panoramic seascape, is a highlight; strategically positioned for memorable sunset views is Adami, the hotel’s stylish restaurant.