Elysian Hotel in Oia, Santorini

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By Santorini Dave

Essentials
• Location: Along the winding footpaths of Finikia village, just south of Oia.
• Hotel website: elysian-santorini.com
• Hotel phone: +30 22860 71434
• Check prices for Elysian

Elysian’s large infinity pool has lovely Aegean Sea views.

Hotel Review

Elysian – Spacious, family-friendly, luxury villas with jacuzzis or plunge pools in quiet Finikia village.

Gorgeous villas in a Cycladic style, with lava rocks, rich wood, and pressed concrete, blended with contemporary, minimalistic furnishing. Villas all have one or two bedrooms with sunset views over the Aegean Sea (not the caldera). Each villa boasts its own private pool or jacuzzi, plus there is a large, shared infinity pool (one of the largest on the island) with excellent views. The location in quaint, traditional Finikia village is incredibly peaceful; removed from tourist crowds, yet still accessible to Oia’s caldera sunsets, fine dining, and luxury shopping.

See Also

• The Best Hotels in Santorini
• Where to Stay in Santorini
• Best Tours & Things to Do in Santorini

Elysian – Location

Elysian’s 2 villa complexes are located along the winding footpaths of Finikia village, one of the very first medieval settlements on the island. The area is very traditional and charming, but may feel a little remote for some. There are a handful of restaurants within 3 minutes of the hotel, while a 10-minute walk gets you to the closest restaurant with a caldera view. Most of Oia’s best-known attractions are within a 20-minute walk.

• How to Get There: The villas are situated on the pedestrian path in Finikia, just south of the village of Oia. It is approximately 18km from the Athinios ferry port and the Santorini Airport to the hotel, though they are in different directions.

There are always buses waiting at the ferry port for every ferry arrival, as well as buses departing hourly from Santorini Airport. There are no direct buses from the port or airport to Finikia, however; buses from both locations go to Fira, where you must then board a different bus to Oia – the entire trip from the port or airport to Oia will take at least an hour and cost about €5 in total. Tickets are purchased on the bus, in cash only. From the Finikia bus stop on the Fira-Oia route, it is a 9-minute walk downhill to Elysian.

Taxis are also available from the port or airport, though there are only about 25 taxis serving the whole island, so there is often a wait; schedule a ride through a private car service in advance to avoid this (I use and recommend Welcome Pickups). Taxis on Santorini are not metered, so be sure to agree on a price with the driver before setting out. A taxi from the airport to Elysian will cost roughly €35 to €40. A taxi from the ferry port will cost around €35 to €40. Booking through a private car service will cost only a bit more – about $60 (or €50), but is worth it to avoid the wait and for the convenience of paying ahead.

For those who prefer to drive themselves, we recommend renting a car either at the airport on arrival, or in Fira. The road from the ferry port is steep and narrow, with many tricky switchbacks, large trucks, and buses. Leave that for the locals to navigate. We strongly recommend reserving a vehicle in advance, especially if you require automatic transmission. Upon arrival in Finikia, it is about a 5-minute walk from the Finikia parking lot to the hotel.

Whether arriving by bus, taxi, or driving your own car, staff will meet you at the Finikia Parking Lot to assist with luggage and guide you to your villa.

• Handy to: Mes Amis (the closest restaurant with a caldera view), Domaine Sigalas winery, Church of Panagia of Platsani.

Elysian – The Basics

• Ages: All ages are allowed at the hotel, though about 80% of guests are couples celebrating a romantic occasion.
• Beach: The closest beach is Baxedes, about 2 km north of the hotel, but Ammoudi Bay, the port immediately below Oia, is the must-see “beach” in the area. Located about 2.5 km away, it’s not much farther and well worth a visit. This is a popular spot for swimming and cliff diving, though it’s too rocky and small to do much lounging. It’s a steep trek down and back again, but it’s relatively easy to catch a cab at the bottom to bring you back up the hill. (Buy a snack at one of the waterside restaurants and the waiter will be happy to call one for you.)
• View: All villas have views of the Aegean Sea and sunsets, though not of the caldera.
• Private Pools/Jacuzzis: Most villas have a jacuzzi, plunge pool, or swimming pool. Most are on an exterior terrace or rooftop, though a few have an indoor cave pool.
• Parking: Public parking is free in the Finikia parking lot. This is a tiny lot, so it fills up often. If it is full, head southwest and park up the hill in the free lot at the Desalination Plant. It only adds about 5 minutes to your walk to park there versus parking in Finikia.
• Extras: Welcome bottle of wine, cell phone to reach staff, wedding and event planning.
• When to Book: The hotel operates from April 1 to October 31. Reserve at least 3 months in advance (4 months is better) for stays during high season from June through September, and about 2 months in advance for the low and shoulder seasons.
• How to Book: Booking.com will have the best rates.
• Phone: +30 22860 71434
• Email: elysian.santorini@gmail.com
• Website: elysian-santorini.com
• For Families: There are no special amenities for kids or families, but they do offer several villas that sleep up to 4 guests, all with private pools or jacuzzis, and with 1 large, shared, infinity pool.

Elysian – Food and Drink

• Restaurant: There is no restaurant onsite; this is a self-catering hotel.
• Breakfast: Hearty, complimentary breakfast served to each villa every morning. The menu changes daily, but all items are prepared fresh onsite in their kitchen.

Elysian – Rooms

• Room Types: Luxury Cave Villa (1 bedroom) • Executive Villa (1 or 2 bedrooms) • Elysian Villa (1 or 2 bedrooms)
• Smoking Rooms: Smoking is not allowed inside any of the villas. Smoking is allowed on the private terraces and in outdoor common areas.
• Best Room: The 1 and 2-bedroom Elysian Villas are the top tier villas, all with outdoor swimming pools (heated in the winter), and the best views. Amenities are similar to those of the other categories, but the furnishings are all unique and of finer quality. The 2-bedroom Elysian Villas are the largest onsite, up to 83 sqm over 2 stories.
• For Families: Most of the villas here are suitable for families, sleeping up to 4 guests. The best villas for families are the 2-bedroom Elysian Villas (56 to 83 sqm, 2 king beds, private swimming pool heated in winter), and the 2-bedroom Executive Villas (55 sqm, 1 king and 1 double sofa bed, private plunge pool).

Elysian – Local Transport

• Walking: The hotel is located along one of the maze-like footpaths of traditional Finikia village, just a short walk from a handful of charming restaurants. Walking 10 minutes south leads to the edge of the caldera, while walking 15-minutes west leads to the entrance of Oia, where you’ll find an endless choice of restaurants, shops, and attractions, as well as the bus terminal. The Oia Castle ruins are 30-minutes away, while Ammoudi Bay is just 5 more minutes past the castle at the bottom of the caldera.
• Bus: The Finikia Bus Stop is uphill at the entrance to Finikia village, a 9-minute walk southeast on the main street in front of Alonistra Oia Houses. Most buses that serve Oia also serve Finikia, except for the Baxedes bus which takes the northern route around. Buses here serve all of the major villages and beaches on the island, often with a change in Fira. Tickets are bought on board, and range from €1.80 to €2.50 per person in the daytime, depending on the route. Night buses (12:30 a.m. to 5:00 a.m.) run less frequently and cost a little more, from €2.30 to €3.10. Buses can get very crowded, especially during the high season, so much so that they often fill to capacity, and are unable to take on more passengers. There are only 23 public buses serving the island.
• Taxis: The nearest taxi stand is at Stathmos Taxi, near the Oia Bus Terminal, 22-minutes from the villas. There is often a wait here as there are only 25 taxis serving the entire island (with guests from about 1,000 hotels, villas, and Airbnbs). Book ahead to avoid the wait, plus you can have them meet you at the Finikia Parking lot, much closer. There will be a small surcharge for advanced reservations and for carrying luggage, usually just a couple of Euros. The average rate to Fira is €20, and to the airport runs about €35 to €40.
• Scooters/Motorcycles: Scooters are the main mode of transportation for the locals, but if you’re unfamiliar with the terrain, it can be very dangerous. The roads here are zigzagging, hilly, narrow, and have sheer drop offs with no guardrails and no street lights in most areas. Lots of dirt roads and potholes.
• ATVs/Quads: ATVs are a fun and popular mode of transportation with tourists, but for the locals stuck driving behind them, they move too slowly and hold up traffic in an area where getting around is already a hassle. For those who don’t ride quads regularly (i.e. most people), they can be dangerous at high speeds and on turns. Crashing your ATV is a sure-fire way to ruin your vacation.

Elysian – What’s Nearby?

Best Nearby Restaurants

• Meze Meze: Friendly Greek restaurant ideal for a casual, romantic night out or a hearty lunch away from the crowds of Oia. Great sunset views from the terrace (over the Aegean, not the caldera).
• Lefkes: Cozy, romantic restaurant in a converted wine cellar in the charming Finikia village.
• Anemomilos Restaurant: Located next to the hotel of the same name; refreshingly local vibe, not touristy at all. Great food, friendly atmosphere.
• Domaine Sigalas: There is a wonderful, al fresco restaurant at the vineyard, serving tapas and wine by the glass or flights.
• Melitini: 100% Greek menu, using local Santorinian, Cycladic, and Greek ingredients only. Quaint, cozy interior, and stellar caldera views from the rooftop terrace.
• PitoGyros: Hands-down, the best gyros in Oia. Seating is limited.
• Candouni: Cozy, family-owned restaurant with live, Greek music and absolutely delicious food.
• Lotza: Simple, honest Greek comfort food with stunning caldera views.
• Ammoudi Bay Restaurants: Each of these waterfront restaurants is phenomenal, offering the freshest fish on the island. The steep 30-minute walk down takes longer coming back up, but your waiter will be happy to call you a cab.

Best Nearby Bars and Breweries

• Fino Cocktail Bar & Restaurant: The best cocktails in Santorini. Plus inspired Mediterranean food and an extensive wine list.
• Sunset Sangria Bar: Chill spot for sangria, cocktails, and tapas with excellent sunset views (though not of the caldera).
• Marykay’s Bar/Hassapiko The only nightlife in Oia, this is where to go for dancing, as they regularly host live bands and DJs.

Best Nearby Cafes

• Mes Amis: Amazing little spot on a covered patio looking over the caldera. Super casual, fantastic views, and great food.
• Meteor: Excellent coffee and breakfast with sweeping caldera views, though a little on the pricey side. Turns into a bar at night.

Nearby Shopping and Cool Shops

• BLOW by Labro: High-end designer boutique with unique pieces.
• Bligaki: Santorinian accessories, especially jewelry and bags, mostly handmade.
• It’s a Beautiful Day: Greek-designed clothing and luxury-brand accessories.
• B.Loose: Greek-made, casual linens for men and women.
• Steps to Art: Truly unique metal sculptures, replicas inspired by Akrotiri, and jewelry made with volcanic sand and watch parts.
• Spilia Cave Greek Clothing: Handmade, leather sandals, cotton and linen Greek clothes, located in one of the original living caves of Oia.

Nearby Attractions

• Oia-Fira Hiking Trail: One of the top attractions on the island is this scenic 10.5 km hiking trail connecting Oia and Fira. A mix of sidewalk, cobblestones, and dirt trail, this route boasts gorgeous vistas the entire way. Hiking south to Fira, the full length of the path from the Byzantine Castle Ruins takes from 2 to 5 hours; Add about an hour for a detour at Skaros Rock in Imerovigli. 10-minute walk from the hotel.
• Church of Panagia of Platsani: The most iconic church in Santorini, beautiful inside and out.
• Museum of Ancient, Byzantine Musical Instruments: Faithful replicas of Greek instruments dating from the prehistoric through Byzantine eras.
• Maritime Museum: Small museum focused on Greek Naval and Santorinian seafaring history. Only €3 to enter.
• Castle of Agios Nikolaos (aka Oia Castle aka Byzantine Castle Ruins): The medieval castle ruins are the most popular sunset viewpoint 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

• Mini market: Near Santorini Mou Tavern.
• Perivolas Market: Small store with a decent selection of drinks, wine, and bread.
• Village Super Market: Good selection of staples at a fair price (for Santorini).
• Elliniki Diatrofi Supermarket: Great selection of local cheeses, wine, liquor, fresh produce, and staples. Open until after midnight, sometimes as late as 2:00 a.m.

Elysian – The Hotel

This is the entrance to Complex 1 of Elysian, where the first group of villas is located.

Beyond the arch is a small reception office, with friendly staff available all day to answer any questions.

And a small outdoor reception area, too.

Inside Complex 1, designed after the traditional village where it’s located and featuring plenty of Santorinian elements: little boxy houses, arched roofs, lots of stairs, and lava rocks.

Views from here are over the farmland and vineyards to the wide, blue Aegean Sea.

The 1-bedroom Executive Villa features an open plan layout, with the living area in front and bedroom in rear. The architecture is traditional, while the furnishings are modern and minimal.

Facing opposite, notice the traditional, pressed concrete built in shelves and the arched ceiling. There is also a little counter space with a mini-fridge and espresso maker in the living room.

A closer look at the king bed.

The bathroom is adjacent to the bedroom with separate rooms for the shower on the right and the toilet on the left.

The shower is designed in Cycladic cave style…

…with mood lighting.

Outside the villa is a private terrace with two sunbeds and a jacuzzi.

Complex 2 is a few minutes away, along one of the picturesque cobblestone footpaths of Finikia.

Complex 2 follows a similar architectural style as the first.

Here, you’ll find the culinary garden and the kitchen where breakfasts are prepared, with a village view above.

Pass the kitchen to find the infinity pool. At 22 meters long, this is one of the largest pools on the island. And because every villa has its own pool or jacuzzi, it’s usually super quiet here…

…with uninterrupted views to the Aegean Sea.

The Luxury Cave Villas are all in Complex 2. This is the smallest villa for 2 guests. The Cave Villas really play up the traditional, local architectural elements.

Facing toward the living area and the wet bar.

Closer to the bedroom; the bathroom is on the left.

In the bedroom, facing the living area.

The bathroom features a classic cave style shower…

…and even a cave style sink.

Outside, the villa has a huge patio with a little seating area. The stairs on the left lead to the rooftop.

The rooftop terrace boasts a jacuzzi with a sea view…

…along with a couple of sun loungers and an umbrella.

Village view from the roof. Check rates and availability: Elysian