Review: Omma Santorini

Aspire checks out Epoque Collection's first five-star property

Location: Perched on the top of a hill with 360-degree views, Omma Santorini must have one of the most enviable locations on the island. It's a 20-minute drive from the airport, with the last stretch along a narrow track.

Pulling up in front of the property next to its huge infinity pool, your eyes can't help but be drawn to the phenomenal views of the caldera and its volcanic islands, made even better at sunset.

First impressions: Privacy isn't a word you often hear when talking about Santorini, where many hotels and villas draped down the mountainside sit pretty close together.

But Omma Santorini is positioned away from other properties, and despite the occasional hikers passing by, it feels as private as you can get here.

The rooms are synonymous with the local architecture, making you feel as if you' re tucked away in a whitewashed cave. Their decor is an elegant palette of white, black and grey, with a minimalist vibe.

The facts: Omma Santorini is the first five-star property from luxury hospitality management company Epoque Collection.

After its soft opening in 2019, the hotel welcomed guests from June this year. There are just 25 rooms and suites and five villas. There's a spa and fitness centre, as well as the Omma Restaurant - the seafood dishes were a stand-out - and the all-day pool bar.

My favourite spot for a pre-dinner cocktail was by the large infinity pool with sunset views over the caldera.

Explore: The town of lmerovigli is a short walk away, where you can see the famous Skaros Castle. There's also a selection of restaurants and cafes if you can be drawn away from Omma Restaurant's menu.

Just over four miles in the other direction is the village of Oia, known for its beautiful, whitewashed buildings, which draws in the crowds, particularly at sunset.

Omma Santorini can organise excursions across the island, including a catamaran cruise and trips to local wineries.

Wow: The spa, which offers an extensive choice of treatments, is one of the most impressive elements of the hotel and is designed to look like a white-stone cave.

I opted for a firm but relaxing facial massage and the results were instantly noticeable.

Book it: Omma Santorini nightly rates start from €670. Ommasantorini.com

Natalie Marsh

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