Canaves Epitome Hotel in Oia, Santorini

Essentials
• Location: Secluded location north of Oia, not on the caldera but with sunset views
• Map
• The hotel website lists further details.
• Hotel phone: +30 22860 71453
• Inspect pricing for Canaves Epitome

Hotel Review

Canaves Epitome – A luxurious boutique resort with an infinity pool, spa facilities, upscale dining options, and villas and suites that have private pools.

Canaves Epitome offers individual suites and single or dual bedroom villas, all containing heated, outside plunge pools or swimming pools on private patios and sunset sights over the Aegean Sea (not the caldera). The signature champagne breakfast highlights a diverse menu everyday, while the hotel’s bar and dining areas offer modernized versions of Greek and Mediterranean cooking utilizing nearby, seasonal ingredients. What sets Epitome apart is its privacy: the suites and villas are spaced out from each other within the property, and the hotel itself sits just outside of Oia village, away from the bustling pathways, yet readily accessible.

See Also

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

Canaves Epitome – Location

• Location: Secluded spot northwest of Oia village, just a brief walk to Ammoudi Bay (dining, cruises, swimming, and cliff diving), the Byzantine fortress ruins (most popular sundown viewpoint), superb restaurants, and upscale boutique shopping. The hotel provides complimentary shuttle service to Oia several times per day.

• Access: The lodging lies on a side street just outside the town about halfway down the slope toward Ammoudi Bay – simple to arrive at by vehicle or taxi, but somewhat of a haul if walking there from the bus station with baggage. It is around 18km from the Athinios ferry port and the Santorini Airport to the hotel, though they are in different directions.

Transportation services like buses are consistently waiting at Santorini`s ferry port for each ferry arrival, as well as buses leaving periodically from Santorini Airport. However, there are no direct buses from the port or airport to Oia; buses from both spots travel to Fira first, where passengers must board another bus to reach Oia – the total trip from the port or airport to Oia takes at minimum one hour and costs around €5 altogether. Tickets can be purchased directly on the bus using cash only. From the Oia Bus Terminal, it`s a 17-minute walk along a gently downward sloping route to arrive at the hotel.

Transportation services like taxis can also pick you up from the port or airport, though only around 25 taxis serve the whole island, resulting in often having to wait; reserving a ride ahead of time through a private transportation service can prevent this (I personally used and recommend Welcome Pickups). Taxis on Santorini do not use meters, so be sure to agree on a cost with the driver before departing. A taxi from the airport to Canaves Epitome will typically cost about €35 to €40. A taxi from the ferry port will cost around €35 to €40 as well. Booking through a private service will cost just a bit more – about $60 (or €50), but is worth it to avoid waiting and for the convenience of pre-paying.

For those who prefer self-driving, we recommend renting a vehicle either upon arrival at the airport, or in Fira. The road from the port is steep and narrow, with many tricky turns, large trucks, and buses traveling frequently. Leave navigating that section to the locals. We strongly advise reserving transportation ahead of time, particularly if an automatic vehicle is needed. Upon arrival at the hotel, Canaves Epitome offers free parking in their onsite lot (a definite plus).

Near attractions: Ammoudi Bay, Byzantine Castle Ruins, Oia Bus Terminal.

Map of Canaves Epitome

Canaves Epitome – The Basics

• Ages: Canaves Epitome welcomes guests aged 6 years and above. There are no amenities or facilities for children, though all suites and villas offer a sofa bed. Most guests are couples celebrating a romantic occasion, though summer months are popular with families.
• Beach: The closest spot for swimming (though not a proper beach) is Ammoudi Bay, the port immediately below Oia, 600m down. This popular swimming and cliff diving place is too rocky and small for much lounging. Ammoudi Bay serves as Oia`s main port and features several spectacular seafood restaurants. It`s a steep trek down and back up again, but relatively easy to catch a cab at the bottom to return up the hill. (Purchase a snack at one of the restaurants and the waiter will happily call one for you.)
• View: Each suite and villa boasts an unblocked sunset vista over the Aegean, though none face the caldera.
• Private Pools/Jacuzzis: All suites have their own private, outdoor, heated plunge pools or swimming pools.
• Parking: Canaves Epitome offers complimentary parking in their on-site lot.
• Amenities: Guests enjoy plenty of privacy along with extra-large suites/villas all including private verandas, private pools, bathtubs in the villas, complimentary champagne breakfast, shuttle service to Oia, a spa room, gym, complimentary cocktail upon arrival, complimentary bottle of wine and fruits upon arrival, 24-hour reception, 24-hour room service, twice-daily housekeeping, multiple pillow options, robes, and slippers.
• When to Book: The hotel operates from early April until late October/early November. Reserve no less than 5 months in advance (7 months is better) for stays during the high season from June through September, and about 4 months in advance for the low and shoulder seasons.
• How to Book: Booking.com will likely offer the most competitive rates.
• Phone: +30 22860 71453
• Contact: [email protected]

Website: canaves.com

Canaves Epitome – Amenities

• Pool: Spacious infinity pool with bar and beverage service, encircled by deck chairs and parasols, with immediate sunset seaside perspectives over the Aegean and toward Thirassia Island.
• Spa: Small spa area on site; spa treatments can be carried out here or in the suites/villas.
• Fitness Center: Small gym equipped with new, high-quality machines. Personal training and yoga sessions can be arranged upon request.
• For Guests With Disabilities: As the hotel is not located within the caldera, it has a flatter layout compared to most others and contains fewer flights of stairs, however there is no elevator. All suites and the majority of one-bedroom villas are situated on a single level; two-bedroom villas are spread across two floors with a bedroom on each. While the hotel is not fully wheelchair accessible, it is suitable for those with mild to moderate mobility challenges. Selecting a suite or villa on the main floor helps reduce needs to navigate staircases.
• For Families: Canaves Epitome comfortably accommodates guests aged 6 and up. Accommodations provide sofa beds to sleep larger groups, and the spacious two-bedroom villas house up to 5 people. Unlike cliffside hotels, Epitome has level terrain with no steep staircases, so families with young children can navigate easily.
• Activities: The hotel`s experienced concierge team can organize any pursuits on the island, like wine tours, caldera cruises, archaeological excursions, and more. The complimentary shuttle service makes it easy to visit all the highlights of Oia.

Canaves Epitome – Food and Drink

• Dining options: Elements is Epitome’s signature fine-dining restaurant, available from 6:30 to 11 pm. The Greek menu spotlights local ingredients in conventional dishes, ready with a modern twist. Wine pairings are exceptional, as are the sunsets. – The Lounge Bar & Restaurant offers Greek and Mediterranean main entrees, snacks, and light fare with a casual atmosphere from 11 am to 7 pm. The bar serves outstanding cocktails until late, usually around 1 am.
• Breakfast: A complimentary signature champagne breakfast is served daily in the Lounge Bar & Restaurant or delivered directly to each suite between 8 am to 11 am. The menu changes daily drawing inspiration from different regions of Greece.
• Room Service: Available at all hours every day.

Canaves Epitome – Rooms

• Room Types: Deluxe Suite with Private Pool • Honeymoon Suite with Private Pool • One Bedroom Pool Villa • Two Bedroom Pool Villa • Aqua Retreat Two Bedroom Pool Villa • Epitome Pool Villa
• Smoking Rooms: Canaves Epitome does not allow smoking in any of its rooms. Smoking is permitted on the private, outdoor terraces and in the outdoor common areas of the hotel.
• Best Room: All suites and villas here are remarkable, but the best option for couples is the Epitome Pool Villa. At 55 sqm, this is the largest of their one-bedroom villas, featuring a king-sized bed, spacious living room, outdoor dining area, heated swimming pool, and panoramic view of Thirassia Island, the Aegean Sea, and sunset from the roomy private veranda.
• For Families: The lodging permits guests ages 6 and above. There are no amenities or facilities for children. The best room for families is the Aqua Retreat Two Bedroom Pool Villa. This novel 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom villa is partitioned into 2 floors with 1 bedroom per level: the top floor bedroom overlooks the pool facing the sea, while the bottom floor includes a glass wall with a view directly into the pool. The Aqua Retreat sleeps up to 5 visitors with 1 king-sized master bedroom, a second bedroom with 1 king or 2 twin beds, and 1 sofa bed. Both the bathrooms feature rain showers, and there is 1 bathtub.

Canaves Epitome – Local Transport

• Walking: The accommodation is situated northwest of Oia on a hillside heading down to Ammoudi Bay within a 7 to 18 minute stroll of remarkable dining, shopping spots, and magnificent caldera views. Ammoudi Bay is accessible via a steep and winding path, simple to go down yet quite the trek upwards; most individuals taxi back up. The heart of Oia, with its fine eateries, high-end boutiques, and a few bars is just a 13-minute walk (750m) from the lodge, while the Byzantine fortress ruins are only 15 minutes (900m) away.
• Bus: From Canaves Epitome it’s a 17-minute walk to the Oia Bus Terminal. Coaches here serve all the significant villages and beaches on the island. Routes to Imerovigli, Firostefani, and Fira are direct, while all routes to the beaches, harbor, airport, or other villages require a change of bus in Fira. Tickets are bought aboard and range from €1.80 to €2.50 per individual in daytime hours, depending on the route. Night buses (12:30 am to 5 am) run less frequently and cost a little more, from €2.30 to €3.10). Buses can grow very crowded, especially during high season, so much so that they often fill to full capacity and are not able to accept more passengers. There are only 23 public buses serving the island.
• Taxis: The nearest taxi stand can be found at Stathmos Taxi, which requires a 17-minute walk near the Oia Bus Terminal. There are typically only 25 taxis serving all travelers on the island at once (with visitors from roughly 1,000 hotels, private homes, and Airbnbs). Reserving a taxi in advance can help you avoid waiting around, and they may be able to meet you directly at the lodge. A small additional fee is usually included for advance bookings and baggage handling, usually only a couple euros. A taxi to the airport should cost about €35-€40, and one to Fira or the ferry dock should run about €35.
• Motorized two-wheel vehicles: It is best avoided, unless you are an exceptionally skilled rider. Scooters serve as the primary mode of transportation for locals here, but unfamiliar roads with changes in elevation, limited guardrails, and mostly unlit areas can make it very hazardous for those without experience navigating such terrain. The roads wind up and down hills and through narrow paths with sudden dropoffs and many areas with potholes or dirt instead of pavement.
• ATVs: This is an extremely popular means of transportation with tourists, but the locals absolutely detest them. They move too slowly and hold up traffic in an area where getting around is already difficult. ATVs with smaller engines have been banned from the roads, and a full prohibition is expected to pass soon.

Canaves Epitome – What’s Nearby?

Best Nearby Restaurants

• Restaurants by Ammoudi Bay: Each of these waterside restaurants is exceptional, offering the freshest catch on the island. The steep 10-minute walk down (600m) takes longer returning up, but staff will happily summon a taxi.
• Lotza: Basic, straightforward Greek comfort food with stunning caldera views.
• Candouni: Cozy, family-operated restaurant with live, Greek music and absolutely delicious meals.
• Roka: Authentic, Santorinian menu with solid dishes, especially the meatballs and octopus.
• PitoGyros: Undoubtedly, the finest gyros in Oia. Seating is limited.
• Melitini: Menu consisting solely of local Santorinian, Cycladic, and Greek ingredients. Cozy interior and stellar caldera perspectives from the rooftop terrace.

Best Nearby Bars and Breweries

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

Best Nearby Cafes

• Meteor: Excellent coffee and breakfast menus with expansive caldera perspectives, though somewhat higher in cost.
• Vitrin Café Creperie: Provides one of the top breakfast selections on the island, plus SPECTACULAR sunset views if you arrive early enough to grab a table.

Nearby Shopping and Cool Shops

• A prominent Greek brand offering casual linens for men and women isB.Loose
• A Greek-inspired clothing and accessories retailer
• 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.
• Bligaki: Santorinian accessories, especially attire and bags, mostly handmade.
• BLOW by Labro: Top-grade designer boutique with distinctive items.

Nearby Attractions

• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• Domaine Sigalas: Held in high regard as Santorini`s leading producer of wines, with options to tour facilities, participate in tastings and enjoy appetizers.

Nearby Markets or Grocery Stores

• Mini Market: There is a small shop up the hill at the western end of Oia near the windmills, providing drinks, snacks, and some basic things.
• Asteras Supermarket: Small but solid selection includes surprising amounts of fresh produce, prepackaged deli items, snacks, beer, wine, and some beach gear.
• Elliniki Diatrofi Supermarket: Great selection of local cheeses, wine, liquor, fresh produce, and staples. Open until after midnight, sometimes as late as 2 am.

Canaves Epitome – The Hotel