Family Escape at Domes Novos, Santorini

View from the bungalow

Domes Novos is a new addition to the Domes Resorts collection, and it feels like a hidden gem on Santorini. Unlike the cliffside hotels in Oia and Imerovigli that come with hundreds of stairs and limited space, Novos is set on a more open, airy part of the island. This gives guests incredible sea views with easier access—a game-changer for families, multigenerational groups, or anyone who wants Santorini without the hassle.

Bungalow Room

Bungalow bathroom

Lobby bar

All 50 rooms have a private plunge pool that the kids loved, while the interior design struck that ideal balance between modern Cycladic minimalism and warm comfort. Waking up to the Aegean and ending the day with a sunset swim made it unforgettable. The villas are well thought out—lots of space for everyone to spread out.

Bungalow plunge pool

One of the highlights is the on-site dining. The food is fresh and creative, blending traditional Greek flavors with a contemporary twist. Breakfasts were generous and beautifully presented, while the poolside snacks and cocktails set the tone for long, lazy afternoons. There’s also a concierge team ready to arrange excursions—from catamaran cruises to wine tastings—which I highly recommend taking advantage of.

Rooftop restaurant

Domes Novos feels both luxurious and approachable. Couples will love the romantic privacy, but families like mine will be surprised at how easy it is to feel comfortable here. It’s a property that truly redefines what a Santorini stay can look like—stylish, memorable, and inclusive of all types of travelers.

Main pool

Spa pool

• Transportation: A car or arranged transfers are helpful, since the property is not in the heart of Oia or Fira—but that’s part of its charm. Currently, the hotel offers free shuttles to Oia in the day and evening, and walking downhill, back to the hotel from Oia is totally doable.

• Best rooms: Retreats, bungalows, and villas all have a private plunge pool. It elevates the experience and gives you extra privacy and space.

• Food highlights: Don’t skip the hotel dining—it was a standout of our entire trip. The restaurant leans into local specialties and fresh ingredients, and the meals here far outweighed anything else we ate in Greece. From beautifully prepared seafood to modern takes on Santorini classics, every dish felt thoughtful and memorable.

• Families: Unlike many Santorini properties, Domes Novos is a great choice for families. Book early if traveling in summer, as larger villas are limited.

• Excursions: Plan at least one day to leave the villa—a catamaran cruise around the caldera is a must. A tour of the island is also a highlight, from the black sand beach in Perissa, to the ancient city of Akrotiri, and a view of the entire island from the monastery at the highest point of the island, it's easy to see so much of the island in just a half-day.

• Timing: Sunset views here are beautiful, but they’re different from Oia’s famous “sunset crowd” scene—quieter, and honestly more enjoyable.

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Santorini page.