Csky Hotel

On the tiny volcanic island of Santorini, space is in short supply and the hillsides are crammed with hotels jostling for a caldera-view position. The CSky Hotel is set apart from the main resort towns, and as a result, it's advantage is real privacy. Set just off the main road, the hotel is a pretty whitewashed building that looks every bit traditional. Cobbled walls blend seamlessly into its rocky backdrop. The shared deck has fantastic views out over the Agean Sea and a chilled vibe, with an infinity pool and loungers cooled by the mountain-top breeze. An adjoining terrace has a pool-bar, comfy sofas and shaded restaurant seating. Hidden up another set of stairs is another secluded pool with loungers that's perfect for a private hilltop swim. While there are high-end extras here, like a helipad, the style indoors is homey and even a bit dated. The place is favored by couples of all ages and families looking for a little more space, seclusion -- and fewer steps -- than offered by other hotels on the island.

CSky Hotel sits between Fira and Oia, just off the main road that runs up the west coast of Santorini. It's a secluded spot away from the crowds, and there's not a lot nearby in the way of shopping or dining. However, it's only a 10-minute drive to either town. There's a scenic hiking trail that hugs the coastline nearby and it's about an hour either way along this to Oia or Fira. You can also follow the path through Oia and down the steps to the charming fishing bay of Ammoudi, which is popular for its crystal clear swimming spots and fresh seafood. The nearest bus stop is a two-minute walk from the hotel along the main road and you can pick up connections from Fira to the main villages and resorts on the island, as well as the airport and ferry terminal. It will take about 40 minutes to reach the ferry terminal by taxi, and it's a 20-minute drive to the airport.

Suites at the CSky Hotel are larger than is average locally, and come in two forms -- two-story villa-style Senior or Deluxe Suites, and roomy Honeymoon or Executive Suites, which feature their own private outdoor pools. In contrast to the island's many hillside hotels whose cave-like rooms tend to have an uber-modern style, the suites here have a more traditional Greek feel, that includes faux-antique furniture and tiled flooring. Unfortunately, the look is a bit dated and -- in some cases -- mismatched. Large windows maximize the superb views, and all rooms feature a private terrace with loungers. Standard amenities include flat-screen TVs, air-conditioning, free Wi-Fi, minibars, and safes. Senior and Deluxe Suites have a sitting area and en-suite bathroom downstairs, plus an upstairs room accessed by a spiral staircase, with either twin beds or a dining space. There's also a second bathroom and a rooftop terrace with loungers and a hot tub. The Honeymoon and Executive Suites have a more open layout. Bathrooms are large and modern throughout, with terra cotta color tiling, large shower stalls, hairdryers, and stylish vessel sinks. Honeymoon and Executive Suites have a jetted bathtub in the main bathroom, and a separate jetted shower.

The CSky Hotel has a large infinity pool with loungers, plus a separate pool on a higher level, both with loungers. The main pool has an adjoining bar and restaurant area with shaded table seating and sunny sofa area, all with uninterrupted views over the caldera. There's a helipad on the highest point, which guests can use to transfer to and from the hotel. The restaurant serves fresh, local dishes for breakfast and dinner, and will cater for any requests made. Other useful features include a laundry service, free parking at the hotel, and free Wi-Fi.