Many winding stone stairs lead up to the Dana Villas Hotel & Suites, a Cycladic-style property tucked into the cliffs of Firostefani. The route lacks handrails in places and is not suited to guests with mobility issues, but those who make the uphill climb are treated with incredible views of the Aegean Sea and Caldera along the way. The property features numerous terraces lined with white sunbeds and dotted with pots of pink flowers. A whitewashed restaurant terrace allows for al fresco meals overlooking the picturesque scenery. Hand-painted signs, rock gardens with large cacti and tropical plants, and white sofas with striped pillows all contribute to a relaxed, homey atmosphere. Most guests are couples, including honeymooners, and weddings are often held on-site. 

The hotel is located on the caldera cliffs of Firostefani, opposite the volcano, on the west coast of Santorini. There are many other hotels in this highly touristed area along with facilities for travelers on various budgets. The village of Fira, the capital of the island, is a scenic 10-minute walk from the hotel and there are many restaurants, coffee shops, and tavernas found along the way. The village of Fira offers shops, galleries, nightlife spots, and the Archaeological Museum of Thera. Visitors can arrive by ferry or cruise ship at the Old Port and take a cable car to Fira or walk the nearly 600 "Karavolades" stairs to the village. Santorini Airport is a 15- to 20-minute drive from the hotel.  

Suites at the hotel can be somewhat small, and some lack storage space, especially studios. Decor is all white and traditional, complementing the Cycladic-style architecture. Some suites could use decor updates -- the hotel is reportedly planning to refurbish rooms in October 2017. Still, suites are comfortable and have flat-screen TVs and small private balconies with wonderful views of the Santorini landscape, including the caldera and Aegean Sea. Each suite has a small kitchenette with a sink, minibar, hot plate, and dishes and glasses. Bathrooms are dated and there can be stains on the white and beige tile. There are narrow stall showers, Olivia bath products, and dated hairdryers. Larger Family Suites and Honeymoon Suites with hot tubs and updated decor are available. Wi-Fi can be inconsistent. There are no coffee-and-tea-making facilities. 

The pool area at Dana Villas Hotel & Suites is larger than most in the area and has incredible views of the sea and the volcano. Sunbeds line the deck and there is a poolside bar as well -- if sunbeds are occupied, there are other terraces for sunbathing throughout the property. The hotel also has a hot tub, however this area can be occupied by wedding parties. Up to 300 weddings are held annually at the hotel. The on-site restaurant serves a free buffet breakfast with fruit, pastries, eggs, bacon, cereal, coffee, and tea. Greek and international cuisine are served for lunch and dinner and room service is available. There is a public parking area on the opposite side of the main road from the hotel. Wi-Fi is free, but can be inconsistent. The hotel does not have a gym or spa.