I love Paleokastritsa (having stayed there twice before) and wanted to make sure I got the accommodation right this time! For those that have never been, it is a beautiful and fairly quite coastal resort that has retained it’s charm by avoiding the development of places such as Kavos. If you are looking for 5* luxury, boutique shops and designer restaurants, this isn’t the place for you. This is a far more rustic affair! After much deliberation I chose the Akrotiri Beach Hotel (ABH). Having stayed there before in 2002, I knew that the location was spectacular but that the hotel was a little dated. Having looked at the hotels own website I saw that redevelopment was underway, but I wasn’t sure how much theAkrotiri Beach Hotel has changed since my last stay. If you are considering staying at this hotel on the basis of the refurbishment, this may help you decide.

What we paid: £945 for one week HB for two adults, including flights from London Gatwick, staying in a superior sea view room.Reception: Partially refitted. On arrival the hotel staff were courteous but a little utilitarian. The room: This was a superior sea view room (room 532). The room was refurbished to a good standard and the spec included an LG LCD TV (limited channels), firm but comfortable beds, a safe, small unstocked fridge, double wardrobe, couch, desk/console and air-conditioning. My disappointment was the lack of the advertised WI-FI in our room

Bathroom: My second MAJOR area of disappointment was that the bathroom hadn’t been refurbished. The contrast between the old and the new only confounded the problem. On arrival the bathroom was littered with hairs and dust, which I found very off putting Restaurant: Not refurbished/dated décor. Breakfast: This was the usual self-serve continental affair and was fine. Evening Meal: This was free for those on HB but 11/12 euros for other guests. The service was slow and confused and the food basic (2/3* standard). Bar and Terrace: This has had a major refit and was very nice. This is what you would expect from a 4* hotel. The view is amazing and the staff keen to please. A great place to have a nightcap! Drinks are reasonable prices

Pool area (inc pool bar and restaurant): This also has been refitted and looks great. It isn’t the hugest of areas, so may get congested at peak seasons. Towels are available if requested F.O.C. The new infinity pool is clean/warm and the area offers changing rooms/showers and toilets, which were all beautifully maintained. The pool restaurant/café was great for lunchtime sandwiches and light snacks (approx 4 euros for a panini style baguette or similar). A great place to sunbath and enjoy the view! WI-FI: This is available F.O.C at the bar and reception. The connection was excellent.

Verdict: Having stayed at many 5* hotels I often get annoyed by the ridiculous prices they charge for drinks/snacks and basic utilities such as WI-FI. On this basis the ABH is fabulous value and when in your room or by the pool/bar, you wouldn’t know that you weren’t in a decent 4* hotel. However, on the flip-side when you are using your bathroom or dining at theAkrotiri Beach hotel restaurant you are truly plunged back into 3* territory. I’m sure that once the hotel is totally refitted it will be really nice; my only concern would be whether it will stay that way. I noticed that even the newly refitted areas were starting to show wear and basic things such as hotel menus and information cards were poorly presented. Overall though, to stay in such a wonderful setting for such a reasonable price I really can’t complain. With exceptional hotels usually come hefty price tags and a string of overpriced restaurants and bars. At least Paleokastrista retains a rustic feel and some magic.

Restaurants: There a loads of restaurants nearby. The area is very hilly so be prepared for a bit of a walk! The food is designed for tourists and isn’t hugely innovative but is fairly cheap. We love Nereids restaurant close to the hotel as it’s a nice setting, friendly staff and good food. Expect to pay around 40 euros for a couple with wine. Car hire: Beware of huge excesses. We hired from Top Cars who offer a fully comprehensive policy and do not charge you for a full tank of petrol.
Boat Hire in Paleokastritsa area: This is available in the bay for around 40 euros per day plus fuel. This is well worth doing.

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