Review: Domes Novos Santorini

_Location: Domes Novos Santorini sits amid the vineyards and volcanic landscapes of the island’s northern Tholos region, a 15-minute walk from the clifftop town of Oia. Guests can glimpse the Aegean Sea from across the property.

_{First impressions:} The resort instantly stands out for its design – rather than following the traditional blue-domed, whitewashed aesthetic found across the island and much of Greece, Domes Resorts has opted for a neutral terracotta hue for the hotel’s low-rise, cuboid buildings. We enjoy a glass of homemade lemonade and a beetroot cream macaron as we check in at the wonderfully fragranced reception. Staff – several of whom have grown up on the island and only recently joined hospitality – fizz with excitement about the hotel’s opening.

_{The facts:} Domes Resorts, whose portfolio now features 13 properties, opened its inaugural hotel on the island in April under Marriott’s Autograph Collection umbrella. The hotel features 50 suites and two villas. Inside, the neutral colour palette extends to pops of white and ashy greys, with lots of volcanic stone and blond oak. Every suite and villa has its own pool and terrace – a great USP in theory but one that, unfortunately, comes at the cost of privacy, with many overlooked.

The menu at Vatanee restaurant focuses on seasonal ingredients, but feels limited at times, particularly at dinner, where a choice of three tasting ‘journeys’ might become repetitive for longer stays. The impressive Soma Spa has an underground pool, gym and sauna, and offers ‘volcanic-infused’ treatments. An elevated part of the resort features an infinity pool overlooking the Aegean – perfect for sundowners. There’s also a kids’ club and free experiences such as sip-and-paint classes and wine tasting.

_{Ideal for:} Those who wish to be close to the picture-perfect town of Oia, without having to grapple with the crowds. The walk to Oia may be short but it is steep, so guests may wish to make use of the twice-daily complimentary shuttle.

_Explore: Head for Oia at sunset to watch the golden glow over the caldera as you sip on an Aperol spritz. Wander the cobbled lanes lined with restaurants, bars and boutiques and marvel at how this tiny clifftop town came to be. Don’t miss dining at a fish taverna in Ammoudi Bay, or a visit to Estate Argyros – widely considered one of the island’s best vineyards.

_Wow: It’s refreshing to see a hotel on Santorini parting with tradition and doing things differently – both the location and design of the property will appeal to many.

_{Book it:} Rates for entry-level room category Echoes Retreat with Zen Pool start from €224 in non-peak season on a B&B basis.
Domesresorts.com