Grand View Hotel

Guests access the Grand View Hotel through a large, paved parking lot and then walk a short distance to the elevated reception room, set with comfy living room furniture and a few nautical accents. Across from there is the contemporary breakfast room, which has huge corner windows that overlook the Aegean Sea and world famous Caldera. Downstairs is the outdoor sophisticated swimming pool terrace, that includes a long table and high back chairs, all facing the views. Most of the rooms surround the pool on two floors. We didn't see any children on our visit, and the majority of guests were couples and honeymooners who spent the day after breakfast exploring and returned in the evenings, usually to catch the sunset with a cocktail before heading out again for dinner. 

The hotel is built on a sheer cliff, to take advantage of Caldera and Aegean Sea views which are especially beautiful at sunset. That said, there's little to see or do within immediate walking distance, apart from a few neighboring hotels and restaurants. Most guests depend on a car to get them to the atmospheric Megalochori Village square, a three-minute drive. Venetsanos Winery is also a three-minute drive away, for sunset views and wine tastings. Red Beach is about a 10-minute drive. Thira Airport is about a 15-minute drive from the hotel. Plan on at least a 35-minute drive to the tourist-friendly village of Oia. One note, we had trouble finding Grand View Hotel in many apps and map search engines. It might be easier to look up neighboring Artemis Suites for directions. 

The rooms are divided into five categories that vary wildly in terms of space, views, and decor. The most economical Pool Double Rooms are directly next to the pool, which is nice for swimming access, but means lots of noise and little privacy (anyone by the pool or bar can see into the rooms if the curtains aren't closed.) The room itself is a bit cramped for two people and features a double bed, flat-screen TV, free Wi-Fi, mini-fridge, free bottled water, and a bathroom with a clingy fabric shower curtain. Toiletries and towels are provided. Spending a bit more money can improve things significantly. Standard Double Rooms provide more floor space and a private balcony with pool and Caldera views, but the same small bathroom and shower layout. The Jacuzzi Suite features modern decor in bright white with pops of blue, and clean-lined furniture. Heated whirlpools on private balconies with Caldera views are ideal. The nicest option is the Private Pool Villa, built on the second floor and complete with two bedrooms, two bathrooms, and an open-plan kitchen and living room. As the name suggests, the villa has a private pool and Caldera views. 

Features here are thoughtful. The free breakfast goes above and beyond with homemade items beautifully presented on a buffet. Offerings include fried bread, scrambled eggs, cakes, cheese, charcuterie, fresh bread, sliced cucumber and tomatoes, Greek yogurt, and cheese pies. Fresh, ripe fruit, freshly squeezed orange juice, and real coffee (not imitation) are bonuses. The self-serve meal is served in a second-story breakfast room overlooking the Aegean Sea.

The small pool bar serves a la carte light fare throughout the day and into the late evening. Items include pizza, salads, and burgers. Blended drinks, cocktails, and wines are also available. Staff will deliver items to rooms on request. The swimming pool itself is chilly (likely a good thing in the hottest summer months) but most guests simply lounge on body cushions and wicker loungers near the water. Some of the chairs look a bit worn. Club-style music adds ambience and the sunset views are incredible.

Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel and the signal is reliable. There's a large and free parking lot. Massages and babysitting services can be arranged with 24-hour notice.