You’ve seen the photos. Those impossibly white cave houses clinging to the volcanic cliffs of Santorini, looking out over a sea so blue it feels photoshopped. Usually, when people talk about the Amaya Selection of Villas, they’re talking about that exact dream. But honestly? Staying in Oia—especially at a property split across two different ends of the village—is a lot more nuanced than just "luxury and sunsets."
Most travelers book a villa here expecting a traditional hotel lobby and a uniform experience. That’s mistake number one. Amaya isn't a single building; it is a "selection" of distinct properties. Some are tucked near the entrance of the village (the Perivolas side), while others are right up against the Byzantine Castle ruins where the sunset crowds gather like a migration. If you don't know which one you’re getting, your morning coffee view might be very different from what you imagined.
The Reality of the Amaya Selection of Villas Layout
Let’s get the logistics out of the way because they matter. The Amaya Selection of Villas isn't a gated resort. It’s a collection of cave houses and a converted windmill spread across Oia.
Basically, the property is divided into two main clusters. One group of villas—including the Amaya Windmill Maisonette, the Amaya Harmony Villa, and the Amaya Serenity Villa—is located at the entrance of Oia. This area is generally a bit quieter. It’s easier for luggage transfers because you aren’t dragging suitcases through a mile of cobblestone stairs.
The second cluster sits near the Byzantine Castle. This is "Sunset Ground Zero." Villas like the Amaya Sentiment, Sensational, and Castro are right in the thick of it. You’ll have the iconic view, but you’ll also have thousands of tourists nearby during the golden hour. It’s a trade-off. Privacy in Oia is a currency, and you have to decide how much you’re willing to spend.
The Cave House Architecture: Charm vs. Function
The "villas" are actually traditional Santorinian cave dwellings. Historically, these were built into the volcanic rock to keep residents cool in the summer and warm in the winter.
Today, they are minimalist masterpieces. Think arched ceilings, smooth white plaster, and built-in beds.
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- The Vibe: Authentic, cozy, and very "Instagrammable."
- The Catch: Because they are literal caves, humidity can be an issue. Some guests have noted that the rooms can feel a bit damp if the AC isn't running. Also, the "windows" are usually just the front door and maybe one small opening.
- The Space: Sizes vary wildly. The Amaya Bliss Villa is around 50 square meters, while the Amaya Serenity Villa is a massive 300 square meter estate with a private pool.
Why the "Private" Hot Tub Isn't Always Private
Every single unit in the Amaya Selection of Villas comes with a private outdoor hot tub. This is the big selling point. You imagine yourself sipping Vinsanto wine while soaking in the bubbles as the sun dips below the horizon.
Here’s the thing: "Private" in Santorini usually means "only for your use," not "hidden from view."
Because of how Oia is built—villas stacked on top of each other—people walking on the paths above can often see right into your terrace. If you are looking for total seclusion where you can walk around in a bathrobe without a care in the world, you might be disappointed. However, compared to a big hotel pool where you’re sharing space with 50 other people, having your own tub is still a massive upgrade.
The Amaya Serenity Villa is the outlier here. It’s the only one with a full-sized private pool. Most of the other units rely on the heated jacuzzi-style tubs. If you’re visiting in the "shoulder season" (March or November), these tubs are a lifesaver because the Aegean is way too cold for a dip.
Navigating the Service and the "No Front Desk" Situation
One of the most common complaints you'll see in reviews about the Amaya Selection of Villas involves the check-in process.
There is no traditional front desk.
You can’t just roll up to a counter and ask for your key. You have to coordinate your arrival with the staff—often via WhatsApp or email—so they can meet you and guide you through the labyrinth of Oia.
The staff, led by hosts like Ezeni, are generally praised for being proactive, but if you don't communicate your arrival time 48 hours in advance, you might find yourself wandering around with heavy bags.
What's included in the stay:
- Breakfast delivered to your door: This is a highlight. You choose your time, and they bring a spread of Greek yogurt, honey, pastries, and eggs directly to your terrace.
- Porter service: Do not try to carry your own bags. The stairs in Oia are brutal. The Amaya team has "bell boys" who are basically superheroes; they’ll carry your heavy luggage on their shoulders up and down the cliffs.
- Concierge help: They can book boat tours or winery visits. Honestly, do the boat tour. Seeing the caldera from the water is a completely different experience than looking down from the villa.
The Different Villas: Which One Should You Pick?
Not all villas in the Amaya Selection of Villas are created equal. Depending on who you’re traveling with, the choice matters.
For Couples on a Honeymoon:
The Amaya Windmill Maisonette is arguably the most unique. It’s a literal windmill. It’s split over two levels and offers a 360-degree view that’s hard to beat. It’s tiny, though. If you want more space, the Amaya Sentiment Villa is a classic cave style that feels very romantic.
For Families or Groups:
The Amaya Harmony Villa and Amaya Horizon Villa can fit up to seven people. This is actually pretty rare in Oia, where most places are "couples only" adults-only retreats. Amaya is one of the few places that is relatively child-friendly, though you still have to watch kids around the steep drops and unfenced tubs.
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For the Ultimate Splurge:
It’s the Amaya Serenity Villa. Private pool, heated jacuzzi, sauna, and a hammam. It’s basically a private spa. It’s located near the village entrance, so it feels more like a private estate than a hotel room.
Practical Advice for Your Stay
If you’re planning to book the Amaya Selection of Villas, keep these things in mind to avoid the typical tourist pitfalls.
Watch the "Google Maps Trap"
Google Maps is notoriously bad at navigating the walking paths of Oia. It will tell you a villa is "2 minutes away" when it’s actually a 10-minute climb up 100 stairs. Trust the instructions the host sends you over the GPS on your phone.
Dining Logistics
Most of these villas have well-equipped kitchenettes. While you'll probably want to eat out at famous spots like PitoGyros (which is just a 5-minute walk away and arguably the best cheap eat in town), having a fridge and an espresso maker is great for late-night snacks. There are local supermarkets like Melitini nearby where you can grab supplies.
The Winter Reality
If you visit in January or February, keep in mind that Oia becomes a ghost town. Most restaurants close. The views are still there, but the "vibe" is very different. On the plus side, the prices for the Amaya Selection of Villas drop significantly during the off-season.
Actionable Next Steps:
- Check the Location: Before hitting "book," message the property to ask which cluster your specific villa is in—the "Entrance" cluster or the "Castle" cluster.
- Book the Porter: Always, always confirm your arrival time so they have someone to help with your bags. Your knees will thank you.
- Pack Light: Even with porters, navigating these villas with massive hard-shell suitcases is a headache.
- Download WhatsApp: This is the primary way you'll communicate with the concierge for breakfast orders and taxi bookings.
Ultimately, the Amaya Selection of Villas offers that quintessential Santorini experience, but it’s a "living" accommodation, not a sterile hotel. If you go in expecting a bit of an adventure with your luxury, you’ll find it’s one of the most memorable places to stay in the Cyclades.