Hommage Villa Collection

Hommage Villa Collection, a Michelin Key Selected property in Santorini, Greece, offers a collection of distinctive villas and suites known for their breathtaking caldera views, elegant design, and prime locations across the island. The general consensus among guests is overwhelmingly positive, often describing their stays as exceptional and memorable.

1. Overall Rating & Sentiment

The Hommage Villa Collection generally garners very high praise, with many guests rating their experience as "Exceptional" or "Wonderful." On Booking.com, for example, the property holds an average score of 8.8 out of 10 based on numerous verified reviews. The overall sentiment highlights the stunning views, excellent location, and the helpfulness of the host as key factors contributing to a fantastic stay.

2. Key Highlights

Guests consistently rave about several aspects of the Hommage Villa Collection:

• Awe-Inspiring Views: The unparalleled caldera and sunset views are frequently cited as the property's most significant draw. Guests enjoy these panoramic vistas from their private terraces and hot tubs.
• Prime Location: The villas are strategically located in desirable areas such as Firostefani, Fira, Oia, and Megalochori, offering both convenience and tranquility. Firostefani, in particular, is noted for being a quieter alternative to bustling Fira, while still providing easy walking access to shops, restaurants, and attractions.
• Luxe & Minimalist Design: The properties showcase a luxurious and stylishly minimalist take on classic Santorini architecture, featuring iconic Cycladic white-on-white aesthetics and, in some cases, distinctive cave-style designs.
• Private Amenities: Many units boast private hot tubs, a highly cherished amenity for relaxation and enjoying the views. Some villas also offer private pools.

3. Room Quality

The rooms and suites at Hommage Villa Collection are generally described as spacious, well-equipped, and beautifully designed.

• Variety and Design: The collection includes various suite types, such as Deluxe, Executive, and Junior Suites with Caldera View and Hot Tub. Villas like Ioli and Anastasia are noted for their distinctive cave-style architecture and romantic ambiance.
• Comfort and Amenities: Standard in-room amenities typically include air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, a tea/coffee maker, refrigerator, hairdryer, and free toiletries. Some apartments also feature fully furnished kitchens with a microwave, toaster, and kitchenware.
• Minor Inconsistencies: A few guests have noted that some rooms, particularly those with indoor cave pools, might have a strong chlorine smell that could cause eye irritation. There was also an isolated comment about a room not appearing exactly as depicted in online pictures for the same room class.

4. Dining Experience

It is important to note that the Hommage Villa Collection properties in Santorini are strictly self-catering, and no meals, including breakfast, are provided on-site. While the broader "Hommage Hotels" group may feature renowned gourmet restaurants in other locations, this collection on Santorini focuses on villa-style accommodation without integrated dining services. Guests are encouraged to explore the abundance of local restaurants and cafés, which are easily accessible from the villas. The absence of breakfast as an option was a point of disappointment for some guests.

5. Service & Staff

The hospitality at Hommage Villa Collection receives mixed but generally positive feedback:

• Exceptional Host Communication: The host, often referred to as "Boggi," is consistently praised for being incredibly helpful, responsive, and providing excellent travel tips and suggestions, often going "above and beyond."
• Minimal On-Site Service: Some guests have reported a more hands-off approach after check-in, noting a lack of an on-site concierge for immediate needs like ice or assistance with luggage, especially on steep pathways.
• Housekeeping Concerns: There have been criticisms regarding the absence of cleaning services during the stay, as well as towels, tea, and coffee not being replaced or refilled for longer stays.

6. Location & Accessibility

The Hommage Villa Collection boasts an enviable location on Santorini, with properties spanning across Fira, Firostefani, Oia, and Megalochori, covering the island's caldera-facing arc.

• Firostefani Advantage: The Firostefani location is particularly appreciated for its quieter atmosphere compared to Fira, while still being within walking distance of Fira's vibrant center, main attractions, shopping, and dining options.
• Proximity to Attractions: Key landmarks such as the Archaeological Museum of Thera, Megaro Gyzi, and Skaros are within a 13-minute walk of some properties. Santorini International Airport is approximately 4.3 miles (7 km) away.
• Transport & Activities: A paid shuttle service and car hire are available. Boating and scuba diving opportunities are also available in the surrounding areas.
• Accessibility Note: Guests should be aware that the characteristic architecture of Santorini often involves steep steps, which might pose a challenge for luggage or those with mobility issues, and luggage assistance is not always readily available.

7. Value & Pricing

Guests generally perceive the Hommage Villa Collection as offering good "value for money," with a rating of 8.5 on Booking.com. The luxurious nature, stunning views, and prime locations contribute to a feeling of an "exceptional stay." Given the high demand for premium accommodation in Santorini, particularly properties with caldera views and private amenities, the pricing is reflective of a luxury experience. Exact room rates vary significantly based on dates, specific villa chosen, and seasonal demand.

8. Common Complaints

While overall reviews are positive, some recurring issues and criticisms have been noted:

• Limited On-Site Service: The most frequent complaint centers around the minimal service after check-in, specifically the absence of an on-site concierge for incidental requests like ice or help with luggage on steep paths.
• Housekeeping Infrequency: For stays longer than a night, some guests were disappointed by the lack of daily cleaning, towel replacement, and replenishment of tea/coffee supplies.
• Hot Tub/Pool Temperature: Several guests reported that the private hot tubs sometimes did not reach a comfortably hot temperature, feeling more like a swimming pool.
• Indoor Pool Issues: In villas with indoor cave pools, some guests experienced a strong chlorine smell and eye irritation.
• Water Quality & Noise: Isolated complaints include a strong iron smell and taste from shower water and a loud ventilation system during the night.

Sources

1. booking.com
2. booking.com
3. michelin.com
4. tablethotels.com
5. booking.com
6. hommage.gr
7. greece-santorini-hotels.net
8. hommage-hotels.com
9. trip.com
10. trip.com