Review: Domes Novos Santorini, Autograph Collection
- Business
- Luxury
- Intermediate
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Jonathan Riverin is a Milesopedia contributor, avid traveler passionate about luxury hospitality and photography. A specialist in Aeroplan and Marriott Bonvoy programs, he shares his stay at the Domes Novos Santorini, booked with points, during a trip to the Cyclades with his parents.
During a trip to the Cyclades, I had the opportunity to discover the Domes Novos Santorini, which joined the Autograph Collection in 2024. Already charmed by this brand, I had high expectations, and they were met. I was traveling with my parents and wanted to discover a different Santorini, away from the buzz of the most frequented areas, both for personal philosophy and value. It was an excellent choice.
In this detailed review, I share my complete experience: booking with Marriott Bonvoy points, arrival, Senses Bungalow room with private pool, restaurants, spa, and surroundings.
| Credit card | Annual fee | Welcome offer | |
|---|---|---|---|
| $120 |
Booking and points rates
The points cost for this hotel is generally quite high. I took advantage of an attractive promotion several months before the trip. The stay remained expensive, but for a suite accommodating three people, with a private pool and sea view, the experience was well worth it. It can also be advantageous to pay for part of the stay directly with Marriott to maximize points accumulation, particularly through the multiplier on the Marriott Bonvoy American Express card.
| Element | Value |
|---|---|
| Points Cost (per night) | 85,000 to 90,000 Marriott Bonvoy points |
| Status Level | Titanium Elite |
| Room Type | Senses Bungalow Pool, King bed, sea view |
| Occupancy | Up to 3 people |
| Chain | Autograph Collection (Marriott Bonvoy) |
Location and arrival at the hotel
Located approximately 30 to 40 minutes by taxi from the airport, the hotel enjoys a peaceful seaside location. The terrace of the main restaurant offers a magnificent view of the neighboring island, an ideal spot to start or end the day. In 5 to 10 minutes by taxi, you reach Oia, the famous postcard-perfect village that attracts most of Santorini’s visitors. I particularly appreciated this location, which allows you to enjoy the calm while maintaining easy access to other villages on the island. In 30 to 40 minutes, you can reach several less crowded areas that are just as charming, if not more so.
Check-In and Lobby
Upon entering the carefully designed lobby, a pleasant fragrance welcomes visitors and contributes to the refined atmosphere of the place. The welcome is particularly warm, with a welcome drink served upon arrival. Since our suite was not yet ready, a team member offered us a guided tour of the property, a thoughtful gesture that allowed us to discover the facilities while beginning to enjoy the experience.
Reception and common areas at Domes Novos Santorini.
The Room: Senses Bungalow with Pool
The true highlight of our suite was undoubtedly the private terrace with pool and sea view. The view could have been slightly more direct, as it was somewhat angled, and the passage in front of the terrace remained fairly frequented by other guests. That said, the experience remained excellent and the outdoor space very pleasant.
The room was spacious, elegantly decorated, and featured high-quality materials and furnishings. The extra bed for a third person had been carefully set up before our arrival, an appreciated touch. Finally, the high ceilings enhanced the sense of space and brought beautiful natural light to the room.
Bedroom, bathroom, and access to private terrace.
The private terrace with pool and sea view.
Restaurants and Dining
The dining options are well thought out and easily cover on-site meals. Three venues share the moments of the day, from breakfast by the pool to gourmet dinner on the rooftop.
Maitr & Margarita Pool Restaurant & Bar
This is where breakfast is served each morning, from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m. Lunch service is also available here, with a selection of Mediterranean dishes, salads, fish, and Greek specialties, in a relaxed setting near the pool.
Mediterranean lunch by the pool.
Maitr & Margarita Rooftop Restaurant
The rooftop restaurant offers a more refined experience, centered on modern Greek gastronomy. The terrace is one of the most beautiful spaces in the hotel, with a magnificent view of the sea and surrounding islands. The setting is particularly pleasant at sunset.
Gourmet dinner at the rooftop restaurant, at sunset.
Breakfast
The breakfast, complete and well executed, combines a buffet of pastries, baked goods, and fruit with made-to-order dishes. A great way to start the day before heading out to explore the island.
Breakfast, between buffet and made-to-order dishes.
Library Bar
Located near the lobby, the Library Bar offers an elegant setting to enjoy a cocktail, glass of wine, or digestif in the evening. Its intimate atmosphere contrasts pleasantly with the livelier outdoor spaces.
Spa, Gym, and Services
The hotel offers a spa area, with massages and wellness treatments in a soothing environment. It features a magnificent relaxation pool and sauna, perfect for extending the rest after a day in Santorini. The spa does not offer a sea view, as it is located largely in the basement, which creates an enveloping atmosphere, almost like a design cave, conducive to disconnection.
A fitness room is also available on-site. Intimate yet very well equipped, it allows you to maintain a workout routine even while traveling, with modern equipment in a clean and functional space. The whole serves an experience oriented toward comfort, well-being, and relaxation.
Around the Hotel
Oia is the main attraction easily accessible from the hotel, about 5 to 10 minutes by taxi. It is the most iconic village in Santorini, very busy, especially for its sunsets and postcard atmosphere.
For those who wish to venture further, the villages of Fira (Thira) and Pyrgos are also worth the detour, in my opinion. Accessible by taxi in 30 to 40 minutes, they offer a different experience, more authentic and less touristy, while retaining all the charm of the Cyclades. To plan the rest of your stay in Europe with points, consult our guide to traveling in Europe on a budget.
Sunsets over the Aegean Sea from the hotel.
Pros and Cons of Domes Novos Santorini
Strengths
- Remarkable architecture: successful blend of traditional Greek style and contemporary design
- Impeccable service: attentive reception, concierge, and restaurant
- Relaxing setting: superb pool, soothing spa, and magnificent sea views
- Peaceful location: away from the hustle and bustle, minutes from Oia
Weaknesses
- Variable sea view: few rooms offer a truly unobstructed view; carefully verify the category booked
- Remote location: no activities or lively village in the immediate vicinity
- High points cost: more attractive when taking advantage of a promotion
Overall impression and final rating
A stay marked by impeccable service, excellent cuisine, magnificent views, and a superb pool. The hotel stands out for its refined atmosphere and particularly successful visual setting, which weigh heavily in the overall experience.
In the immediate vicinity, there are no real activities or lively village, which reinforces the calm and secluded nature of the property. It is an excellent choice for those seeking tranquility rather than activity. The property suits couples as well as families, with a relaxing setting and an upscale experience ideal for completely disconnecting. I give it a rating of 8 out of 10.
A haven of peace away from the hustle and bustle of Santorini, supported by superb architecture and attentive service. For the tranquility and value in points, I would return without hesitation.
Jonathan Riverin, Milesopedia Contributor
To maximize this type of experience, consult our comparison of the best credit cards in Canada, and more specifically the Marriott Bonvoy cards, which allow you to quickly accumulate points for this type of stay. You can also read our review of another Autograph Collection hotel or our selection of the best Marriott hotels with spa.
Earning Marriott Bonvoy points
The best way to earn Marriott Bonvoy points and stay for free at more than 8,000 hotels around the world is to hold the Marriott Bonvoy® American Express®* Card (and/or the Marriott Bonvoy® Business American Express®* Card). You can also earn American Express Membership Rewards points and transfer them to Marriott Bonvoy.
To learn all about earning and redeeming Marriott Bonvoy points for free hotel stays, check out our guides:
- Annual fee
- $120
- Our valuationMilesopedia first-year estimate First-year valueWelcome bonus$600Total$600Plus $100 of bonus paid after the first year, not counted in this total.Rewards on your spending are not included. The calculator that adds them from your own profile is on the card's page.
- $600
- Welcome offerAfter $3,000 in 3 months
- Up to 70,000 points
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Domes Novos Santorini – Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a night at Domes Novos Santorini cost in Marriott Bonvoy points?
The points rate is generally between 85,000 and 90,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night, depending on the season. It is therefore advantageous to watch for a promotion on the points rate, as I did a few months before the trip.
Where is the Domes Novos Santorini located?
The hotel is located facing the sea, in the Tholos area, approximately 30 to 40 minutes by taxi from the airport and only 5 to 10 minutes from Oia. A peaceful location, away from the most frequented areas of Santorini.
What type of room did we book?
A Senses Bungalow Pool suite, with King bed and sea view. It offers a private terrace with pool and can accommodate up to three people with an extra bed.
Does the hotel have a spa and fitness room?
Yes. The spa, located largely in the basement, offers a relaxation pool and sauna in a design cave atmosphere, without a sea view. An intimate but well-equipped fitness room completes the wellness offering.
Is the Domes Novos Santorini suitable for families?
Yes, the property suits couples as well as families. The suites are spacious and an extra bed can be added, as during my stay with my parents.
How many restaurants are on-site?
Three venues: the Maitr & Margarita Pool Restaurant & Bar for breakfast and lunch, the rooftop restaurant for a gourmet Greek dinner, and the Library Bar near the lobby for an evening drink.
Which cards allow you to accumulate Marriott Bonvoy points in Canada?
In Canada, the Marriott Bonvoy American Express Card and the Marriott Bonvoy Business American Express Card are the two options dedicated to the program. To compare all options, see our guide to the best Marriott Bonvoy cards.