Review of Heliades Apartments

Every other review has mentioned the view, I’m sure. They are probably all spot on: it’s unbeatable. If you’re looking for that stereotypical Santorini experience—the view, the sunset, the quaint, white, barrel-vaulted villas—bingo; this place nails it. But it’s everything else that makes it the place to stay. For starters, Olympia was so helpful from minute one. She booked us on a catamaran cruise (a must-do) and handled everything. We were maybe a little wary at first, as sometimes hotel owners send you to their friends and you aren’t really getting the best deal. But the company she recommended was half the cost of what we were finding online and the experience was unbelievable. (Check out my review of Spirikados Sailing Cruises. ) Olympia also recommended and booked an ATV rental for us (again, slightly cheaper than what we were finding online), and that was an equally enjoyable experience. Breakfast daily is lovely and more food than you really need. There could be more coffee and a better device to keep it warm, but that’s a minor complaint. There is a kitchenette, but you really can’t cook a meal as there are no pots or utensils, so it’s really for aesthetic value only. The fridge and nearby market is handy since you’ll need to keep a supply of drinking water on hand. The bed—at least in our apartment—is in a loft that is low on the sides causing a head-bumping hazard the first time you go up there. And if you’re nervous about climbing a ship’s ladder to get to your bed, then choose another place. It’s slightly sketchy or uneasy feeling at first, but we found it a minor thing. When I’m in my 60s and unsure I might start thinking twice about it. We love finding unique and wonderful places to stay on vacation, and this is among the best we’ve found.