Santorini, GreeceImerovigli
The Vasilicos
Art-collector cave guesthouse
Art-collector cave guesthouse
The property began as a collector's private summer residence, and it still runs like one, filled with personal art, antiques, and books.
What it’s good at
Notable
Architect Makis Kostikas sculpted pre-1956 hyposkafa cave ruins into seven tiered cliff dwellings.
Notable
Candlelit dinners served on private terraces, with breakfast plated on Burleigh tableware.
Notable
Caldera-edge tastings pour crisp Assyrtiko wines produced at the family's nearby Vassaltis Vineyards.
What they say
Michelin Selected
Michelin
The Vasilicos comprises just seven suites, each one of which is among the finest on the island. Their design goes beyond rote Cycladic formula, incorporating contemporary gestures and colors as well as eclectic artworks and antiques.
Somewhere quiet
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
The cobblestone trail outside links the property to Skaros Rock, with Fira an easy walk along the caldera rim.
1 of 4
The rooms
Four cave suites have private heated plunge pools cut into the rock. Three others open directly onto the caldera-facing swimming pool.
The pool
Bring a swimsuit.
The heated outdoor pool looks across the caldera toward Thirassia and Skaros Rock from a stone-paved sun deck.
At the table
Terrace tables look straight over the caldera for daytime mezze and evening dinners of fresh seafood and handmade pasta.
How it began
Vassilis Valambous rebuilt the collapsed cave ruins in the 1980s as a summer home, later opened to guests by his children.
Santorini
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Our shorthand
How we rate hotels.
The medals
Gold
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Silver
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
Bronze
They did this well. You’ll notice.
Listed
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Design
Built around a vision. Even the door handles have a designer.
Luxe
Cared for at every turn. The bath is drawn before you ask.
Local
It could only be here. You wake up knowing where you are.
Social
Where the city goes out. The bar is full and the night is young.
Heritage
A building with a story. Once a palace, a monastery, a station.
Wellness
You leave feeling new. Rest, sweat, soak and sleep like a stone.
Classic
The city grew up with it. Same rituals, same regulars, same bar.
Resort
A world of its own. Something to do from breakfast to nightcap.
The scene
Lively
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Central
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Quiet
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
Secluded
A place apart: the property is the destination.