When it comes to the Greek islands, postcard-perfect Santorini, with its stunning sunsets, volcanic beaches, white domed houses and views of the caldera and Aegean Sea, tops the bucket list for many. As a result, it’s home to some of the world’s best luxury hotels. Perhaps, it could be argued, too many. After all, with Booking.com currently offering more than 1,400 hotels in Santorini, including outposts from global names such as Nobu and Hyatt, alongside homegrown hospitality groups like Santo and Andronis (which lays claim to no fewer than five properties on the island), it would be hard to argue that Santorini was crying out for any more. So when Domes Novos Santorini announced it would be opening its doors in April this year, I was curious to find out if it would bring something new to the island or simply add to the clutter.

The Domes Resorts brand currently boasts 11 properties across Greece, spanning Corfu to Crete, each leaning into the local heritage and cultural charm of its locale. It is perhaps this breadth of experience across Greece that has helped Domes Novos find a solid footing in Santorini. I arrived barely a week after its doors first opened expecting to find a resort still ironing out the kinks. Instead, I was welcomed to a smoothly run organisation with prompt service, chic amenities and Instagram-perfect nooks around every corner.

Separating itself from most hotels on the island, Domes Novos eschews the classic white domes in favour of a terracotta facade designed to maximise sunset and ocean views from its prime location on the northern tip of the island. The cosily-lit reception is perfumed with Domes’ signature vanilla and sandalwood scent and features a sultry bar – perfect for toasting to the start of a relaxing holiday.

Inside, an airy maze of sculptural pink walls is interspersed with black volcanic stone and fragrant gardens filled with wildflowers – destined to be handpicked by the hotel’s mixologists to incorporate into its cocktails – and cobblestone streets. 50 rooms and two villas are dotted along the winding sand-hued lanes, all of which lead to a central gathering spot – much like a traditional Greek agora – where the hotel hosts live music under the stars on warm evenings.

The serene minimalism of the architecture continues into the calming interiors of the rooms. While each has a slightly varied layout, all come with similar decor: natural surfaces rendered in a warm neutral palette, black furnishings and linen curtains. Large stone bathrooms boast spacious walk-in showers equipped with Naxos Apothecary toiletries and double marble-clad vanities. As with most luxury hotels on the island, every room comes with a private pool (although privacy isn’t always guaranteed given the resort’s open layout) and a terrace from which to enjoy the island’s famed sunsets. The overall effect is unfussy simplicity and sophistication.

The inherent Greekness woven into the hotel’s architecture also extends to its signature Soma spa. Built to feel like an underground cave, the calming space features moodily lit treatment rooms, a sauna, and a large heated indoor pool perfect for when the strong winds act up above ground. Treatments blend modern techniques with ancient Greek healing practices and use Elemis and Codage Paris products. For a post-flight reset, book the healing massage, inspired by the teachings of Hippocrates, which aims to relax, detoxify and cleanse the body, or the olive-oil infused full body massage followed by an anti-inflammatory rosemary, lemon and kaolin clay mud mask.

Of course, if it’s a truly authentic Greek experience you’re after, you’ll be on the hunt for the thing the country is most famous for: delicious food. Headed by local chef Dionysis Anastopoulos, the poolside Vatanee restaurant serves up an indulgent breakfast spread complete with thick Greek yoghurt, honey pies, pastries and freddo cappuccino. For dinner, multi-course meals are offered via a meze-inspired sharing plates concept. 

Begin with homemade sourdough served with a selection of olive oils followed by a series of dishes highlighting local ingredients – think fresh seafood, lamb, tomatoes, dill and fava beans – given an upscale twist thanks to creative plating on glass domes and pebbled bowls. While Greek restaurants traditionally offer limited vegetarian options (lamb and seafood are the centrepiece in this diet), plant-based foodies are more than accommodated for. An expansive menu of beetroot salads, cauliflower and chickpea stews, and a light and refreshing lemon pie with hints of chamomile more than compete with the traditional meat-based offering.

Of course, any seasoned traveller knows nothing beats a bit of local knowledge and, accordingly, Domes Novos has recruited a crew of Santorini natives. The concierge desk is more than happy to make recommendations and reservations at restaurants in nearby Oia – pointing me in the direction of Melitini for perfect sundowners of tapas and wine. Whether you’re planning a hearty lunch at one of Ammoudi Bay’s local tavernas or a romantic dinner in Oia proper, Domes Novos’ complimentary shuttle service is available morning and evening for convenient transport to and from the picturesque town. Elsewhere, the team can arrange excursions including wine tasting, sailing around the Aegean or exploring traditional fava and caper farming.

It seems obvious for a Greek hotel to lean into its native roots but few hotels do it as simply but effectively as Domes Novos Santorini. If you’re after relaxation coupled with premium service and a fantastic location, bookmark Domes Novos for your next Greek getaway.

From £395 per night, visit domesresorts.com

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