Ikies Hotel in Oia, Santorini

Essentials
• Location: In a quiet area on the caldera at the entrance to Oia
• − Reference guide
• Hotel website: ikies.com
• Hotel phone: +30 22860 71311
• Rates for Ikies may be viewed.

Hotel Review

Ikies – Boutique, luxury hotel with private jacuzzis, an elevated swimming pool, and breathtaking views over the caldera.

This intimate lodging features thirteen exceptional studios, lofts, and suites – all with magnificent perspectives of the caldera. Each accommodation is unique in size and layout as they were individually carved by hand from the cliffside to suit the natural terrain. All blending bold, contemporary décor with traditional architecture and a handful of antique furnishings. Ten include private hot tubs; nine of those ten also have steam showers. All have access to a shared swimming pool overlooking the caldera. Situated in a tranquil nook at the beginning of Oia, the hotel is within walking distance to the village’s finest dining and attractions, while remaining tucked away from the busy core for tourists. Anticipate warm, personalized care from the expert staff)..

See Also

• The Top Accommodations in Santorini
• Where to Lodge in Santorini
• Top activities and experiences in Santorini

Ikies – Location

The location is excellent on the caldera at the entrance to Oia. The hotel is within 4 to 20 minutes’ walking distance of the best restaurants, shops, and attractions in the village, but in a quiet section removed from the throng of sunset tourists.

• Method of Transport: Ikies is situated next to the main road into Oia, offering ease of access whether by taxi, personal vehicle, or public bus. It is approximately 18km from both the Athinios ferry terminal and the Santorini Airport, though in opposite directions.

There are consistently waiting bus services at the ferry port for all ferry arrivals, as well as buses departing regularly from Santorini Airport. There are no transportation that travels straight from the port or airport to Oia; buses from both places travel to Fira, where riders must then board another bus to Oia – the whole trip from the port or airport to Oia will take at minimum one hour and cost about €5 altogether. Tickets are purchased onboard, in cash only. From the Oia Bus Terminal, it is a sixteen-minute stroll to the hotel.

Ground transportation is also accessible from the port or airport on Santorini, though only around 25 taxis cater to the whole island, so there is usually a wait; scheduling a ride beforehand through a private vehicle service can help sidestep this (I myself utilize and endorse Welcome Pickups). Taxis on Santorini do not operate on a meter system, so be sure to agree on a cost with the driver before departing. A taxi from the airport to Ikies will roughly cost €35 to €40. A taxi from the ferry port will cost around €35 to €40. Booking through a private vehicle service will only be a bit more – about $60 (or €50), but is worth it to avoid the wait and for the ease of prepaying.

For travelers who prefer self-driving, we recommend renting a vehicle either upon arrival at the airport or in Fira. The road from the ferry port is steep and narrow, with many tricky turns, large trucks, and buses passing through. Locals are better suited to navigate those conditions. We strongly advise reserving a car in advance, especially if an automatic transmission is needed. Upon arrival in Oia, Ikies offers free parking onsite, a major convenience.

• Closely located to the walking trail between Oia and Fira, the Oia Bus Terminal, and the restaurants and shops at the heart of Oia).

Map of Ikies

Ikies – The Basics

• Ages: Only those 13 years of age and older. Guests tend to be couples celebrating an occasion, frequently a honeymoon or anniversary.
• A popular swimming spot located 2 km from the hotel, though not a true beach, is Ammoudi Bay, the port below Oia. This area is well-known for cliff jumping and swimming despite being quite rocky and small for lounging. As the main port of Oia, Ammoudi Bay is home to several exceptional seafood eateries. It involves a steep descent and climb but cabs can often be hailed at the bottom of the hill to provide an uphill transport back, sometimes after buying a snack from a restaurant whose staff will gladly call a taxi.
• Overlooking the caldera with excellent views, especially in October.
• Private Pools/Jacuzzis: Ten of the thirteen rooms here offer private hot tubs. The Boatman’s, Artisan’s, Captain’s, Cook’s, Antiquarian’s, Carpenter’s, Alchemist’s, and Shipbuilder’s Houses all feature private, outdoor hot tubs – as does the Winemaker’s House, whose outdoor hot tub is the most secluded of the bunch. The Collector’s House boasts an indoor/outdoor hot tub.
• Kitchen: No units at Ikies include a kitchen.
• Vehicle Parking: Complimentary parking is available in their lot, only 60 meters away.
• Additional Features: For the honeymoon suites and villas (The Carpenter’s, Winemaker’s, and Collector’s Houses), Ikies offers a premium honeymoon package for a supplemental cost. This package incorporates champagne breakfasts, rose petals on the bed upon arrival, sunset cocktails, 2 massages, a welcome bottle of Moet and Chandon champagne, an evening wine and cheese offering, and a kimono to retain as a souvenir. This package is customizable.
• Reservations:Booking.com often features competitive pricing.
• When to Book: The lodging commonly operates from mid-April until the end of November. Make reservations at least 4 months ahead (6 months is preferable) for visits amid the height of season from June through September, and about 3 months in advance for the low- and shoulder-impact seasons.
• Phone: +30 22860 71311
• Email: [email protected]
• Website: ikies.com

Ikies – Amenities

• Pool: The small, tranquil, and uncovered pool overlooks the caldera.
• Spa: On-site spa services are not available, but they offer wellness treatments, such as sunrise and sunset yoga, meditation, Ayurvedic massage, aromatherapy, Reiki, and reflexology. Treatments can be done on the private terrace or in-room.
• Health and Fitness Room: No gymnasium, but individual training, yoga, and Pilates can be organized in accommodations or on the private terrace.
• For Disabled Guests: The hotel is unsuitable for guests with mobility issues, as it situated on the caldera and filled with stairs. No elevator.
• For Families: 13 years and older only. This adult-oriented hotel does not offer amenities catering to children. Families with older kids may find rooms that sleep up to 4 people suitable.
• Activities: Spa therapies and wellness treatments upon request. Staff can arrange private boat rides, driving tours, wine tasting experiences, and additional options.

Ikies – Food and Drink

• Restaurant: There is no dining establishment onsite, but they do offer in-house private fine-dining service served to rooms from noon to 10:00 p.m.
• Lounge/Bar: No bar, but wine and cocktails can be ordered to your room.
• Breakfast: A complimentary breakfast is served to each room’s private terrace every morning at your chosen time between 8:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. The breakfasts are hearty and delicious, utilizing Greek products and made-to-order eggs along with quality coffee.
• In-Room Dining: Always for breakfast, and available for lunch, dinner, snacks, and drinks from 1:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.

Ikies – Rooms

• Room Types: Gardener`s House (studio) – Boatman`s House (studio) – Artisan`s House (studio) – Cook`s House (maisonette) – Sailor`s House (maisonette) – Fisherman`s House (maisonette) – Captain`s House (suite) – Antiquarian`s House (2-bedroom suite) – Carpenter`s House (honeymoon suite) – Winemaker`s House (honeymoon suite) – Shipbuilder`s House (1-bedroom suite) – Alchemist`s House (maisonette) – Collector`s House (2-bedroom honeymoon villa)
• Smoking is prohibited indoors but permitted on private terraces and in outdoor common spaces.
• Best Room: The Honeymoon Suites are the highest category accommodations available here, including complimentary champagne breakfasts daily and evening cocktails. The Winemaker’s and Carpenter’s Houses offer the best options for couples celebrating a special occasion, with secluded outdoor hot tubs, indoor jacuzzi bathtubs, and steam rooms for relaxation.
• For Families: Ages 13 and up are the only guests permitted. No amenities or facilities are provided for younger children. When accompanied by older offspring, several rooms accommodate around four individuals. However, the Collector’s and Antiquarian’s Houses are best suited for groups of around six. As the sole two-bedroom, two-bathroom suites on site, both comprise one king and one queen bed plus two singe mattresses. The Collector’s villa boasts heightened features like indoor/outdoor jacuzzis, steam showers offering volcanic views, and daily champagne breakfasts and evening beverages. The spacious Antiquarian’s House spreads across two floors with an exterior jacuzzi and fully stocked kitchenette.

Ikies – Local Transport

• Ambling: The hotel is situated at the entryway to Oia, merely a few paces from the trail connecting Oia and Fira. Travel fifteen minutes to the west to arrive at the core of Oia, where there is an endless selection of eateries, stores, and attractions, along with the bus terminal. Head east to encounter the traditional village Finikia, housing a couple excellent dining establishments and the Sigalas winery. The Oia Castle remnants are just twenty-three minutes away, while Ammoudi Bay is a mere five additional minutes beyond the castle at the bottom of the caldera.
• Public transportation: The hotel lies amidst two bus stations. The closer of the two is found at the entrance of Finikia village, requiring approximately a 13-minute walk east along the primary road facing Alonistra Oia Houses. The Oia Bus Terminal is 16 minutes west of the hotel. All buses passing through Finikia equally serve Oia, but the Baxedes bus to Oia does not go through Finikia. Buses here provide transportation to all significant towns and beaches on the island, usually requiring a change in Fira. Tickets can be purchased onboard and range from €1.80 to €2.50 per traveler during daytime hours, contingent on the route. Night buses (12:30 a.m. to 5:00 a.m.) run less regularly and cost somewhat more, from €2.30 to €3.10. Buses can become very crowded, particularly during high season, to such an extent that they often reach full capacity and are unable to accept more passengers. Only 23 public buses serve the island. Because of this, it’s preferable to catch the bus at the Oia Bus Terminal, which is the first stop, if venturing from the hotel to explore. Returning, disembark the bus in Finikia, so you have a shorter walk back to the hotel.
• Taxis: The closest taxi stand is located at Stathmos Taxi, near the Oia Bus Terminal. There are only 25 taxis serving the entire island from the approximately 1,000 hotels, villas, and Airbnbs with guests. It is often busy here as a wait is common. To avoid waiting, booking ahead allows the taxis to meet you directly at your hotel near the parking area. A small additional charge is typical for reservations made in advance and for transporting luggage, usually only a couple Euros. The average fare from Oia to Fira is around €20, while from Oia to the airport is roughly €35 to €40.
• Motorbikes: Locals commonly use motor scooters as transport, but unfamiliar roads present hazards. Thoroughfares zigzag steeply upwards and downwards on narrow paths sometimes without guardrails or nighttime illumination. Unpaved trails and potholes are common.
• ATVs/Quads: ATVs are an enjoyable and popular method of transportation with visitors, but for the locals required to drive behind them, they maneuver too gradually and hold up traffic in an area where moving around is already challenging. For individuals who don’t routinely ride quads (i.e. most people), they can be risky at high speeds and on turns. Crashed your ATV is a guaranteed way to ruin your vacation.

Ikies – What’s Nearby?

Best Nearby Restaurants

Inquire about rates at Andronis Arcadia
• Ritz-Carlton
• Melitini: Menu composed entirely of local ingredients sourced from Santorini, Cycladic islands, and across Greece. Cozy interior and superb views of the caldera from the rooftop terrace.
• PitoGyros: Undoubtedly, the finest gyros in Oia. Seating is limited.
• Candouni: Cozy, family-run restaurant providing live Greek music and absolutely tasty meals.
• Lotza: Basic, straightforward Greek comfort food with stunning caldera views.

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Best Nearby Bars and Breweries

• Fino Bar & Mediterranean Restaurant: The top cocktails in Santorini. Also, creative food from the region and a extensive wine selection.
• Evening Bar with Drinks and Snacks: Relaxing spot for sangria, cocktails, and appetizers near scenic sunset views (though not of the caldera).
• Marykay’s Bar/Hassapiko: This establishment is where one should go for dancing, as they frequently feature live bands and DJs.

Best Nearby Cafes

• Mes Amis: Excellent spot on a covered patio overlooking the caldera. Very casual setting, amazing views, and quality cuisine.
• Meteor: Excellent coffee and breakfast with sweeping caldera perspectives, though a little on the pricier side. Turns into a bar at night.

Nearby Shopping and Cool Shops

• BLOW by Labro: Top-grade designer boutique with distinctive items.
• Bligaki: Santorinian accessories, especially attire and bags, mostly handmade.
• A Greek-inspired clothing and accessories retailer
• A prominent Greek brand offering casual linens for men and women isB.Loose
• Steps to Art: Truly exceptional metal sculptures, replicas motivated by Akrotiri, and adornments made with volcanic sand and watch parts.
• Spilia Cave Greek Clothing: Manually crafted, leather sandals, cotton and linen Greek outfits, situated in one of the initial living caves of Oia.

Nearby Attractions

• Oia-Fira Hiking Trail: Stretching 10.5 km, this scenic trail connects the towns of Oia and Fira on the island while offering beautiful scenery the whole way. Using a mix of sidewalk, cobblestones, and dirt paths, hikers can take in gorgeous views south toward Fira from the Byzantine Castle Ruins in 2 to 5 hours. Adding about an hour more allows for a detour to Skaros Rock in Imerovigli. The trail is just a 1-minute walk from the hotel.
• The Church of Panagia of Platsani is considered the most iconic church on the island of Santorini, with an interior and exterior of notable beauty.
• Museum of Ancient, Byzantine Musical Instruments: Faithful reproductions of Greek instruments dating from the prehistoric via Byzantine eras display at this location.
• Maritime Museum: Small museum focused on Greek naval and Santorinian maritime history. Only €3 entrance fee.
• Domaine Sigalas: Considered the premier vineyard on Santorini, providing opportunities to sample wines, small plates, and full excursions.
• Castle of Agios Nikolaos (aka Oia Castle aka Byzantine Castle Ruins): The medieval fortress ruins are the most well-liked sunset outlook on the island.
• Ammoudi Bay: Best known for its fresh fish restaurants, Ammoudi is the rocky port of Oia; boats sail to Thirassia and cruise the caldera from here. It’s an incredibly popular spot for cliff diving, and is one of the best places to swim on the island.

Nearby Markets or Grocery Stores

• Perivolas Market: Small shop with a decent selection of drinks, wines, and breads.
• Village Super Market: Good selection of staples at a fair price (for Santorini).
• Elliniki Diatrofi Supermarket has an extensive choice of local cheeses, wine, spirits, fresh produce, and staple foods. It is open until late, sometimes as late as 2:00 a.m.
• Proton Supermarket: A small grocer, but often has the most affordable prices. Many locals do their shopping here.

Ikies – The Hotel