Canaves Oia Epitome
posted 3rd November 2023
CANAVES OIA EPITOME is a place of complete serenity and calm. We absolutely fell in love with it! The hotel describes itself 'as a place of the finer things in life' and that is exactly what it is. If you are looking for the most tranquil experience, where nothing is too much trouble, then this is a place to visit. Perfectly nestled with stunning views of both the sea and sunset. From the moment you arrive the attentive staff are on hand to ensure for all of your needs are catered for, making it a bespoke experience for every guest. It is a dreamy place where you are made to feel special.
The Canaves Oia Epitome is family run with customer service at the forefront. As you arrive at the hotel, you are greeted by an exceptional member of their team, who takes you through the whole welcome and check in process. With a welcome drink in hand and a seat in the very chic lounge area, you are able to indulge in the tremendous views from the moment you arrive. The whole resort has a very private, zen feeling to it which make you instantly relax.
The location of Canaves Oia Epitome is in the charming village of Oia. It is a gem, away from all of the busy streets of Oia nestled perfectly on its own side of the island, with views of both the sea and amazing sunsets from all 53 of the luxury rooms and villas. You feel like you have the whole island exclusively to yourself. It is ideal for exploring the island, with plenty of local attractions, shops, and restaurants within easy reach. The hotel also offers a shuttle service to the nearby main Part of Oia, which is a great touch.
The rooms and luxury villas are spread out with a very private feel in each one. Every room offers stunning views of the Aegean Sea. They are spacious, modern, and beautifully designed, with all the amenities one could need for a luxurious stay.
On our arrival we were upgraded to a two-bedroom villa. The villas are laid out over two floors with each having their own private pool. The entrance to the villas is through a private courtyard which you enter through your own outside door. When you open the door to the villa you really do have the wow factor, with the décor and views throughout the villa. Not only did our room have a private pool but also a viewing point from the ground bedroom where you could actually see into the pool which was very unique and mesmerising.
The grounds of Canaves Oia Epitome are vast and faultlessly landscaped showing flowers and amazing olive trees throughout. The private pools are a particular highlight, providing a perfect spot to relax and soak up the sun. The main pool, which is reached by a flight of stairs taking you up high and overlooking into the sea, is the most spectacular swimming pool. It really is a main feature of the hotel and so serine, it's like something out of a movie. Sitting by the pool taking in the views is thought provoking, it feels like total relaxation and a place to think and reflect.
The hotel also offers outstanding dining options, with a variety of delicious dishes prepared by high class chefs from both of their restaurants, the award winning Elements Restaurant and Omnia Restaurant (Please see my review on my food page). The breakfast, which also serves in the Omnia restaurant with a pool side setting overlooking the sea, is particularly impressive, containing a range of healthy and indulgent options to suit all tastes. From eggs anyway you like them, acai bowls to pancakes and crepes there is something for everyone. With views overlooking the pool as you dine, it is not a meal you want to rush.
The staff at Canaves Oia Epitome are some of the most attentive and friendly I have encountered, they certainly make your stay a special experience. They went above and beyond to ensure that my stay was comfortable and enjoyable, offering great recommendations for local activities and restaurants. The service is exceptional! it is something they pride themselves on and they have certainly got it right. Form the moment you enter to the moment you leave your every need is catered for.
The views of the sunsets from Epitome are pretty special and, in my opinion, the best place in Oia to experience them you really can sit back and relax with a cocktail in hand and take in the views. Overall, my stay at Canaves Oia Epitome was a truly luxurious and unforgettable experience. It is somewhere I would highly recommend to anyone looking for a relaxing and indulgent stay in Santorini. It is one of those truly magical places you will certainly want to return to.