Aghios (Agios) Georgios North - Corfu
Belle Helene Hotel - Agios Georgios
Operator and Date: (Thomas Cook Direct) Thomas Cook 15th - 29th September 2006
Opinion submitted in October 2006 by : Paul & Mary Clark - Monkswwod Gwent ( 47 & 47 )
Resort Rating: Excellent
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Review:
Booked this hotel of the web after finding the resort last year when visiting Corfu and hiring a car. The hotel staff & management can't do enough for you. The hotel is clean and tidy and you are treated as a guest not just a room number. Continental breakfast and your evening meal is a fixed dish, but if you don't want it they will cook you an alternative meal.
The resort is still greek, what a blessing, as to some resorts we have visited over the last 2 years. No bars selling all day english breakfast or showing Sky Sports all day. No loud music or rowdy crowds about, in fact for some people it may be too quite, not for us, its heaven. The beach is excellent and NOT crowded, and Yannai the beds and parosol man on the central part of the beach will ensure that you will relax and have a plesant stay.(Bit of a local character).
For car hire visit St.Georges car hire on the central part of the beach, 90 euro's all in for 3 days.
The only downside to the holiday is that it is the fasted 14 days of the year and you are on your way to the airport before you know it. If you read this review please don't pass the information on as it may end up like the rest of the resorts in Corfu.
Would we go back TRY KEEPING US AWAY !!!
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Belle Helene Hotel - Agios Georgios
Operator and Date: independant
Opinion submitted in May 2005 by : Anne Kearley - Southampton (39,38)
Resort Rating: Excellent
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Review:
I love it. I have been going to the resort for a couple of years and always stay at the Belle Helene. The accommodation is very good, with good sized rooms and excellent bathrooms. The management and all staff are friendly and will make you very welcome. There is just a small road to cross to get to the sandy beach. The hotel has a good sized pool with sun beds and adjacent to the pool is a terrace with a bar where you can sit and have a drink or lunch and look at beach. The hotel also has ten pin bowling, pool tables and you can also hire a car.
There are plenty of other taverna's for you to sample in the resort, and watersports are also available on the beach.
This reaort and hotel are ideal if you are looking a nice restful holiday, if you want to go clubbing every night you will need to go elswhere.
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Costas Golden Beach - Agios Georgios
Operator and Date: Thomson Holidays
- June 2007
Opinion submitted in June 2007 by : McWilliams 42, 34, 3
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
Just got back from the Costas Beach Hotel with my wife & young son. The hotel is situated in a wonderful location right on the beach. Agios Georgios North has a superb beach and is set within a breath taking setting. The hotel itself is geared towards the more mature market, my son was the only child for the majority of the week.
The rooms are clean but small especially if you are trying to get three people in them. Sky tv is provided and rooms are airconditioned. No bath, it is shower only.
The entertainment was very basic. Karaoke twice and a pool competition. Dimitri was the resident DJ / Hotel owner played music to cater for his mature guests. Meals are buffet style ,hot breakfast available for an extra charge. The food is adequate although for a true taste of greece try the local tavernas. We visited the fish restaurant over the far side of the beach and it was stunning.
We hired a car using The Belle Helena hotel next door as it was 30
euros cheaper than Thomson Holidays
s. We booked it for three days and visited
Arillas, Paleokastritsa and Acharavi. The driving was pretty hairy
through the mountains however the reward was breathtaking views. Arillas
was definately more geared towards famillies and if we were to return to
Corfu, this is where we would go. Paleokatritsa was stunning and well
worth a visit. The beach was beautiful although swimming maybe
unsuitable for a small child it was very stony under the water. Invest
in some rockpool shoes!
Overall,
Overall I would say the hotel is more suited for the mature visitor, certainly if you visit during term time. We were repremanded several times by Deena, once for walking into the hotel from the beach. This was on our first day and she told us not to walk through the hotel but use the trademens entrance. We were not wet, we had only been for a stroll! Not a great start to the holiday and she appeared to hold this against us for the remainder of the holiday. We barely saw a smile from members of the staff, they all seemed to either be exhausted or totally disinterested. Or was it because we dared to walk through the reception and upset the hoteliers wife???? Whatever it was a black mark was firmly marked next to our names as all the other guests raved about how friendly the staff were. Shame we never got to see it. So whatever you do, dont use the main entrance if you have been to the beach for a stroll!
One final piece of advice, you go on a big coach from the airport to a drop off point where you join a small mini bus. They did not say this was for Aghios Georgios guests, they said those going to San Stefanos get off. There was no rep on board to advise us to get off, it was pure luck my husband asked the coach driver as having previously visited Corfu before, he recognised that this was the way to our resort.
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Theo's Hotel - Aghios Georgios North
Operator and Date: Thomson Holidays
July 07
Opinion submitted in August 2007 by : Ann-Kev Warks 44,41
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Opinion:
Just come back from a week at theo's thoroughly enjoyed it,would go back.not much in the resort itself but the hotel made up for it.
We made friends with two other couples in the hotel and had some memorable nights.
The only thing I can complain about was not a lot of choice with food every restaurant the same.
Also be aware there is no bank in agious georgios.the nearest is in the next village which is agros.
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Theo's Hotel - Aghios Georgios North
Operator and Date: (Thomson Holidays
Direct) Thomson Holidays
may 2007
Opinion submitted in May 2007 by : mel and paul 21,30
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Review:
we have just arrived back from hotel theo this morning and we liked it that much we are already booking next years.
the owners thoe and elena welcome u in to their lovelly home like u were a part of the family not a guest. u get the warmth and caring from these 2 excellent people as soon as u enter their home.
theo and elena have got on display 13 years of Thomson Holidays
gold awards,
thats proof in its self how good the hotel is.
there is a large pool to the back of the hotel, and a sandwich bar and drinks bar at the side too.
the rooms are quite small but for a bed and breakfast what else would u expect, although they do have all u need. and the furniture is in very good condition,
you also have a phone in ur room and calls to the uk are very very reasonable.
the rooms are cleaned every day and the bedding once a week. fresh towels are supplied every day even if u didnt use the ones provided the day before. they are still replaced.
the breakfast is continental. but still very nice.the reserant staff are a huge credit to the hotel, the food is fantastic value for money. and tastes excellent.
the beach is a 10 min easy walk down, the hill is a bit steap at the bottom on ur way back up though.
u can go in to corfu town but there is only 1-2 buses a day, so plan to make a day of it, u wont be back till tea time.
there are some very nice resteraunts around the hotel, the moonlight is a must. the meals are huge for what u pay and they are exellent. and u have to visit the internet cafe just to see how big their bacon sandwiches are, u wont belive it u see it for ur self.
the little mini super market near the moonlight bar just 3-4 mins from hotel is the best 1 to go to, the one on the sea front is a bit expensive.
if u have not been here before then u dont know what ur missing....if u have u know exactly what we are saying..... u will not be dissapointed.... its peacefull, in lovelly surroundings, fantastic hospitality, amazing views, lovelly food, excellent hosts and lovelly owners.... what more could u ask for????????????????????
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Theo's Hotel - Aghios Georgios North
Operator and Date: (Thomson Holidays
Direct) Thomson Holidays
Sep 2006
Opinion submitted in February 2007 by : Dennis and Pat Midlands (60+)
Resort Rating: Excellent
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Review:
Another great time at this lovely friendly hotel. How pleasant to be able to relax instantly. One 1st-timer who travels a lot with his job to many different countries said he had never stayed in a hotel with a bar atmosphere like it. He said there was so much happy chatter among the guests and several local people also popped in to enjoy a drink or a meal.
The rooms were as spotlessly clean as usual as were the linen and blankets.
For anyone not wanting to eat Theo's superb Greek home-cooked food I would very much recommend the Moonlight Restaurant just down the road. The food and service are excellent !!
The resort is quiet and laid back with no noisy teenagers and early hours rowdyism.
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Theo's Hotel - Aghios Georgios North
Operator and Date: (Thomson Holidays
Direct) Thomson Holidays
- Jun 2006
Opinion submitted in July 2006 by : Kath and Keith Worth - Darlington (44)
Resort Rating: Average
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Review:
We were moved to this hotel for air conditioning (5euros a day but well worth it).
The room was perfect, just the right size to sleep, beautifully clean linen, soft towels. The rooms are cleaned daily and linen changed once a week.
The food served was anglo-cized unfortunately, chips or roast potatoes with nearly everything but there was a good choice, veg is a little over cooked but the meat was always lovely and tender! Service was fab!
Theo and Elena are very friendly, little Elena even carried one of our heavy cases up 2 flights of stairs!
The pool is fabulous, take plenty of mozzie spray Im still suffering with the bites!
The resort itself is very quiet, not much in the way of tempting restaurants - do not go to the Moonlight - I ordered tomato soup (what??)it came with froth on the top and bits of dried soup floating, when I didnt eat it I was asked why and I said its packet and not prepared properly only to be told 'its Knorr'!!
There are a few nice craft types shops but best of all is the beach, the sea is cold when you get in but if you perservere its lovely! Not over crowded either! 2 beds and an umbrella were 6 euros;beware of the man selling fruit, he rips you off!
I would certainly go back to Theos but would hire a car next time. We did venture to Corfu Town on the bus, 2.90euros each way. Takes 40 mins and doesnt go very often each day, you do have to perservere again as the timing is typical GMT;Greek Maybe Time! The old town with its many shops were lovely!
Definitely recommend this hotel but with car hire!
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Theo's Hotel - Aghios Georgios North
Operator and Date: (Thomson Holidays
Direct) Thomson Holidays
June 2005
Opinion submitted in Feb 2006 by : John -- Warwickshire (66, 60)
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Review:
One of the best small hotels we have ever stayed in and in a lovely position too.
The atmosphere was so friendly from the owners, the staff and even the other guests that it was like being in a happy private house.
The rooms and furniture were standard for the C rating. The
cleanliness of the rooms, the hotel, linen etc was excellent. The hotel
has won Thomson Holidays
s Gold Award every year for 12 years based on guests
reports and gets full throughout the season.
The resort is beautiful and a lovely place to relax or walk and some teenagers love it. It is not commercialised and does not suit club-lovers or those wanting all-night music / drinking.
The beach is one of the best in Corfu and there are plenty of tavernas and restaurants.
Definitely a good choice for a chill-out holiday with good company and beautiful Greek countryside.
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Theo's Hotel - Aghios Georgios North
Operator and Date: (Thomson Holidays
Direct) Thomson Holidays
June 2005
Opinion submitted in June 2005 by : 45/46/17/13
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Below Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
The resort is set in a lovely, quiet, sandy bay. There are a few bars and tavernas. It was not an ideal location for my teenagers who found it lacking in people and nightlife!! It did however have a small internet cafe on the beach front.
Whilst the Hotel staff very friendly the Hotel was a hugh disappointment. The rooms and beds were small and cramped. The mattresses were very uncomfortable as the springs were pushing through the surface. The bathroom was so small that it was almost impossible to sit on the toilet due to the close proximity of the sink. The sink was badly cracked and the furniture basic and tired.
It was fairly cool in the evenings so it was necessary to use the blankets, these did not appear to be very clean, having said this, the rooms were cleaned daily.
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Theo's Hotel - Aghios Georgios North
Operator and Date: (Thomson Holidays
Direct) Thomson Holidays
July 2004
Opinion submitted in July 2004 by : Clare London-34,35
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Review:
we have just arrived back from hotel theo and i can honestly say its been the nicest eleven days holiday we've ever had.
The staff at the hotel are so friendly and helpful. The pool is really clean and there is never a crowd up at the pool. The beach is about a ten minute pleasant walk and is so quiet and relaxing. The restaurant at the hotel serves excellent food and it would be hard to find better value for your money. The fact that it is a smaller hotel means that the service is ten times better than other places we've stayed. If you have a holiday booked here then you are very lucky. We shall certainly be going back.
you must bring jungle formula mosquito repellant otherwise you will be eaten alive by mozzies.
The resort is quiet but so relaxing and it made such a change to get away from everything.
the rooms are basic but spotless
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Yiannis Apartments - Aghios Georgios North
Operator and Date: Independent - May 2006
Opinion submitted in March 2007 by : James and Maria - West Midlands (60s)
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Review:
We found Yiannis Apartments at Agios Georgios north to be all that we wanted on our 1st visit to this lovely island.
We booked a last minute break after finding the web-site for Yiannisplace on the Internet. We were attracted by the lovely gardens and secluded character of the rooms.
Although we had always been very nervous about picking and booking overseas accommodation on the Internet we felt re-assured in this case by the full information given by the web-site and a few words on the telephone with the owner, who speaks good English.
It was easy to book over by phone and yiannis arranged for a taxi to collect us at the airport. It was all effortless.
The resort of Agios Georgios is sublime if you enjoy peaceful beautiful places but might be a bit quiet for some people.
We loved the beach and sea-front tavernas but above we enjoyed the relaxed atmosphere of the place...no hustle and bustle, no touts, no pushy shopkeepers...just friendly local people. Above all we liked the walks.
We had some nice meals in the Moonlight Restaurant and also at Theo's Hotel but enjoyed our visits to most tavernas.
Yiannis and Eleni keep the apartments spotlessly clean everyday. It was so nice just sitting on the balcony reading with the only sound being the singing of birds in the trees. The apartments are in a lane about 10 minutes from the beach.
We will definitely go back !
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Agios Innanis - Corfu
Corfu Village Hotel - Agios Innanis
Operator and Date: (Thomas Cook Direct) Thomas Cook - September 2004
Opinion submitted in Aug 2004 by : Jim Tudor - Ayrshire (40, 54)
Resort Rating: Good
Accommodation Rating: Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
The hotel is of a reasonable standard but not 4 star as advertised on some sites, more like 3 star, I thought the food was quite good though my girlfriend who's a little more choosy than me described it as 'OK'. The rooms are very basic but clean, usually with single beds. The climb up to the rooms is extremely steep, but we thought it was worthwhile for the views that we got from the balcony, really terrific. The hotel staff are all very friendly and helpful.
The resort is very quiet, a couple of tavernas and shops is all but there is a bigger town 5 minutes drive or bus ride away. A good holiday for couples who want to have a quiet week and are fit enough to manage the climb. Though there is a road up to the rooms if you are hiring a car.
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Agios Ioannis - Corfu
Aqua Land Village - Agios Ioannis
Operator and Date: OnTheBeach/Med Hotels -July 2007
Opinion submitted in July 2007 by : Mrs J.P. Family - Essex (41,14,12,3)
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: No rating
My/Our Holiday Review:
This holiday could of been so much better...
Stansted to Corfu, 3 hrs flight a good start I thought- Arrived about 3.15am - it's 2 hrs in front of our UK time.
I didn't book the coach transfer with the holiday as it seemed cheaper to do it myself and get a Taxi from the Airport once we arrived- 25 euros max at that hour of the morning...10-15 min transfer.
Haha....
Got our cases and headed for the taxi's...but only to see our name and some other families names on a board...(Med-Hotel) All these people go to Lord Travel Office...
All were told that there was a problem with Aqualand Village Hotel and we have to go down South to Kavos (an hours drive away) much better Hotel they said "The Cavo Bianco,"it had it's own beach too but forgot to tell us about the P*ss head clubbers wondering round the hotel lost.
Also had to pay more for the transfer too:-(
All we got from Med-Hotels/Lord Travel was speak to your rep in the morning and she'll tell you what's going on....great we thought????
Well anyway.... we arrived at Cavo Bianco Hotel about 5.30am only to be asked why are we here and there's no room for you..... by 7am a room WAS found, my 3 kids were shattered and fed up just hanging around waiting and worrying.
Got our heads down finally at 7.00am had a quick sleep, up for breakfast at 8.30am and then tried to sort out this mess. I got charged for every call I made BUT good news by 1.15pm a coach arrived and took us back to the the Airport then a taxi from there to to Aqualand Village Hotel.
Our location of our room was great (2205) right opposite the restaurant, close to pools and reception area and evening entertainment and not noisy. Nice enough rooms-proper little kitchen with fridge/freezer, cooker and microwave very handy for my little ones milk at night. Nice little lounge area pull out-sofa with dining table, a 2/3 partion wall seperating the two areas with MY double bed leading out to patio area:-) (Sheets could do with abit of lenor in there washing).Good working air-con and FREE, nice multi power-shower, towels got changed once in the week, extra money for the safe.
Food.......Needs improving not a great choice nor a great deal of thought went into it- twice a week they have a very boring show cooking display which you also get smoked out. More setting area needed unless you like being elbowed in the side or drinks poured down your back by the little people. Shoes and shirts to be worn in restaurant at all times. Ice-cream by pool bar all day long almost. They do nice Ice-cream shakes and there free too. Pool bar closes at 6pm and roof top and main reception bars STOPS at 11pm on the dot for AI-you can still buy them after then thow.
They need more sun beds as a lot are broken, pool area not cleaned very well sticky under foot for the day before spilt foods and drinks.... Plastic glasses not cleared out of the pools from the kids playing with them.
Entertainment could do with abit of a boost, watergym in the afternoon was ok-not forgetting the CLUB DANCE....hehe!!!
There's no lift to roof bar and thats where there evening programme was held each night.
WATER PARK......Absolutely brilliant so much fun all the family and Meeeeeeeee:-) All you to do is pick up a new coloured wrist band every day from the front entrance. Show your room key fob and you'll get in FREE!!!! Wave pool was great too.
Hiring a car is a must I'd say if you got a few kids it'll be much cheaper and easier then you can visit anywhere on the Island as it's small. All you need is your photo part full driving license.
We had a problems heading home too. Waited for our coach to come and pick us up at 3.00am as our check in was 3.15am..........We waited and waited 45 mins later I asked the guy that was sleeping at the reception deck what should we do as the coach was late or not coming " he said it will come as you have your ticket"
There's nothing I can do "so he said do..... BUT told me that I could order a taxi- which i did and paid another 25 Euros. Only just made check-in they had all gone through... not queuing which was handy.
WOULD I GO BACK............???? Maybe if they improved on there hygiene and food.
REALLY............It was ok so don't worry to much, if you've booked or haven't found to many good reviews- we never went hungry.
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Aqua Land Village - Agios Ioannis
Operator and Date: Freedom direct July 2007
Opinion submitted in July 2007 by : Nicola May - Birmingham
Resort Rating: No rating
Accommodation Rating: No rating
My/Our Holiday Review:
We had booked this holiday in October 2006 . It was to be a surprise 16th Birthday treat for our daughter.
We arrived at the hotel to be told by the incredibly rude reception staff that they had overbooked the hotel and we did not have a room. They told us we would have to transfer to Kavos in the south of the island.
I explained (or tried to explain to the receptioinist in between her walking off , talking to other customers returning to me and staring at me!) that we had booked this for a birthday treat, but to be honest she really was not interested. Instead she continued to issue other guests with their rooms. I asked her why we could not have a room as we had arrived before the other guests , she told us "You just can't".
I asked to speak to the manager but was told he wouldn't arrive until 7pm, it was lunch time when we arrived.
I spoke with Med hotels who instructed her to give us a room but they would not.
Eventually she offered me to speak with the manager 1/2hour after she told us he wasn't there!
We spoke with the manager and was told "It was just one of those things" we again explained the situation to him about the water park being the reason we had booked so he offered a place at Sidari village because it had a waterpark, he said we would get free entrance in it and it was in easy walking distance!
WHAT A JOKE - The "waterpark was a pool with 2 slides and was free to enter anyway.
We had to hire a car to drive to the waterpark at aqualand because they would not pay for a taxi or put on a coach.
We are not the only family this happened to, another family slept in the foyer and waited 14 hours until the manager gave them a room.
If anyone is going to this hotel be prepared for complete rudeness .
Not recommended.
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Aqua Land Village - Agios Ioannis
Operator and Date: Thomas cook - june 2007
Opinion submitted in July 2007 by : colin stewart - airdrie 50
Resort Rating: Excellent
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Review:
just returned yesterday 09/07/2007.
Had an excellant holiday at the aqualand hotel complex.Flights bang on time both ways Corfu airport small and unorgainisied.Transfer to complex about 12 mins by taxi cost 18 euros.
Hotel check went like clockwork.Apartment great better than expected in Corfu.Place was spotless,cleaners in everyday except sunday.Pools and sunbathing areas spotless.Best of all was the free entry to the waterpark for all inclusive guests.
Hotel staff was very freindly and the entertainment team really tried very hard to get everyone who wanted join in the games involved.At night the entertainment was good for the kids and ok for adualts.
All said we had a great time. would go back here.
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Aqua Land Village - Agios Ioannis
Operator and Date: Booked Own - Oct 2006
Opinion submitted in October 2006 by : Blanche & Dave (41,38)
Resort Rating: Average
Accommodation Rating: Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
We have just returned from Corfu where we stayed at the Aqualand
Village Resort 7km from the airport. We arrived on a morning flight
booked from Thomson Holidays
fly, which was a good flight with no delays or
issues, out of Glasgow.
Corfu Airport Arrival
The baggage hall at Corfu airport is very small with only 2 belts for up to 4 flights at the same time, it is very disorganised and not much room. Be prepared for a long wait, we were an hour to get our bags. There were a lot of reps and coaches awaiting the package holiday customers, we had booked separate flight and accommodation so were sorting out our own transfers.
Transfer to resort
The taxi rank is outside the arrivals hall on the left as you look at the coaches across the road, it is split in to two by a blue painted hand rail, the side farthest away from the airport is the cash side and unless you have pre-booked your cab this is where you hail. Agree a price before getting in, if you think it is too much haggle, if not you are on your way to your resort.
We paid 20 euros for our transfer; I would expect to pay between 15 to 20 euros, but not any more than this. The taxi journey was an experience, be prepared for a hair-raising experience as they like to drive fast, pull out in front of other drivers then slam the brakes on!
We did not hire a car at this point so cannot tell you about this at the airport
I cannot express enough how disorganised the airport is, it is not very well organised for the number of flights it has and is one of the smallest I have ever seen for the people traffic received and this was not the height of the season.
Aqualand Village Resort
Check in
Our initial impression of this hotel/resort was not like the reviews we had previously read on this and other sites, the staff were very friendly and helpful and we were happy with our check in procedure.
Room
Our room was a part of a block of one up one down apartment with the upper floor being the bigger apartment. Typical room bed, seats, tv, fridge, microwave, aircon etc
Restaurant
There is just the one restaurant, we found it to be quite cramped and the seating very close together, the food was certainly not the best we have had, there was not a good choice of food and this was the same case for the snacks served at certain times through the day, the only decently consistent food was the ice cream which was delicious.
Bars
There were three bars in which to get drinks (though not all open at the same time, except the one at reception area and the one upstairs where the "entertainment" was held, the reception bar opened at 6.00pm when the pool bar closed, and the upstairs one opened at 9.00pm.
There was a decent choice of drinks including cocktails; the strange thing we found was that they did not serve diet coke etc! The bar service was quick and efficient and they did not seem to mind how many drinks you got, there is also a self service hot drink machine which served an assortment of hot drinks. All inclusive drinks served up to 11.00pm after that you have to pay.
Entertainment
Well, there is not much to say on this, there is some children's entertainment
And some very amateurish "family entertainment" in the evening, it got boring and we ended up going back to the room with a few drinks thankful for the portable DVD player we had brought with us
Pools
The pools were lovely and clean, the wave pool was brilliant and lots of fun. Kids pool suitable for the kids
Aqualand (Water-park)
Aqualand was absolutely fantastic, we did not realise until we went to pay to get in and asked about a discount, that guests staying at this hotel just gave their room numbers and were given free admission. This was one of the highlights of our holiday and was a right mixed bag of people of all ages having a great time, lockers available for an additional charge if required, you cannot go to this hotel and not visit, you would be missing out on a great time.
Car hire (In resort)
We hired a car through a desk at the Hotel with a company called Olympus, we only used them as there was nowhere else in the vicinity to hire a car from, bearing in mind this hotel is in the middle of nowhere so it was them or nothing. They were doing a special deal i.e., 3 days hire for the price of 2.
We hired a grade C car which was a Seat Ibiza with air con and radio, unfortunately the air con did not work, the exhaust was blown and the drivers door lock was faulty and we had to crawl over the seat to get to the drivers side, we handed this car back at the end of the first day and were given a Peugeot 206 which was a slight upgrade, the power steering did not work to well, but we ended up just keeping it anyway for the other two days.
The price we paid for the two days plus free day was 110 euros, we also paid 5 euros per day for full insurance which covers windows, tyres and any excess costs, the roads are very bad over in Corfu and the standard of driving pretty bad, this extra insurance is a must for the small extra cost. Having the car was one of the highlights you can get out and about and see a lot more of the island.
Maid Service
The maid service was actually very poor, the room was never cleaned that well, I spilt coffee on the floor and the stain was there the whole week, there seemed to be a problem with the towel change, one day we ended up with just one hand towel between the two of us, after complaining to reception we eventually got more towels, this happened on more than one occasion, the hotel itself was always clean and tidy.
Check Out
Very smooth, no problems here, you got to stay in your room until midday.
Airport Departure
This was organised chaos, because of the size of the airport you end
up queuing outside, as we had booked separate flights and accommodation
we did not realise until we had been standing in the terminal for about
an hour that you had to wait on a Thomson Holidays
rep putting up a sign outside
telling passengers to queue up, I spoke to the rep and said that we had
booked the flights ourselves and were not part of the package deal but
she said that we would not be able to get checked in until we queued up,
be warned!
Summary
Corfu was a nice place to visit, one thing to know, which I wish I had known before we went was that the place is full of wasps, they land on you, in your drinks and in your food, I have never seen as many grown men get in such a state, a lot of them were worse than the women and children! If like me you hate wasps you may want to think twice about Greece. There is always mixed reviews about hotels etc, the one we have given is as we see it,
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Aqua Land Village - Agios Ioannis
Operator and Date: Medhotels-Aug 2006
Opinion submitted in September 2006 by : Telford, 41, 38,11,9
Resort Rating: Average
Accommodation Rating: Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
Could not find any current reviews on this hotel, however as place looked good we took a chance .
We arrived at the resort on a Tuesday to find out the apartment we had booked was not available - instead we were given one room with 4 single beds and a horrible bathroom . The hotel manager informed us we could not move until Saturdayso we just had to pit up with the room for 5 days . The hotel is right next to Aqualand - free entry to hotel residenst whHRC was a plus. We used o go to the park ever day when it opened at leave once the coaches started arriving as by then you had to queue for the popular rides.In the actaul hotel grounds was teh wave pool whHRC was open to the waterpark visitors from 11.00am .In addition the hotel also had a large swimming pool . To get a sun bed around the pool your towels had to be out early . if you wanted to sit around the wave pool taht wasnt so bad - about 9.00am .The food was ok - always pasta, rice , chips , and a couple of meat dishes/fish with vegetables. Good selection of salad and sweets.The all inclusive drinks were ok - you would have to drink fair few to get drunk. Mu husband said the beer was ok. The cocktails all tasted the same - very sweet.
The weather when we arrived was quite cloudy and then we had two big thunderstorms which lasted all day and night. The only thing to do then was to sit in reception and play cards etc.The resort is only 20% English, mainly Dutch and Belgium. Daytime entertainemnt the normal things - water polo ,darts etc.The evening entertainment was terrible . Firstly a kids disco from 9.00-9.30 pm then bingo for anothe 30mins - repeated in 5 diff languages. Prizes - plates , 2 bottle of champayne !!! Then a show put on by the entertainment team - words fail me how bad it was- Grease ,Mr Aqualand, comedy sketch all the same -badly mimed and no one can actually sing or dance . The problem is that the hotel is so remote so there is no where else to go - no little bars or tavernas up the road . We did go to Corfu town one night on the bus and that was ok.
In summary we did have a good holiday dont get me wrong. We met some lovely english people the second week .
Would I stay here again - no too remote for us . It you just want to relax then I would say yes especially if you have chldren .
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Aqua Land Village - Agios Ioannis
Operator and Date: Independant - 2005
Opinion submitted in July 2005 by : David Grace -Warrington (42,38,5 )
Resort Rating: No rating
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Review:
Aqualand village is an excellent venue for those that require peace for the adults and things to do for the kids.
The accomodation is good,well maintained,clean and tidy.Rooms are well presented ,all with air con,and good facilities.All have either a patio or balcony with pool views.
As for facilities, this for one does not lack them.As well as the normal expected,there is huge water park ,offered at a discount to residents,ideal for all the kids.With this comes a large wave pool which comes free of charge to residents, and is close to perfect for kids ,young and old.
All inclusive is offered at the accomodation,which although choice of venues is slightly limited on the sight.I think it offers good value for families,with kids at £8 per day,and adults £15 ,for all food,drinks and snacks ,such as ice cream.
Overall a good venue.
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Iberostar Regencey Beach - Aghios Ioannis
Operator and Date: First Choice July 2005
Opinion submitted in July 2006 by : Sandra & John Guilfoyle Manchester 51,55
Resort Rating: Excellent
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Review:
Just arrived back from the Regency Beach.Had a brill time. Food & drink fab and the rooms and bathrooms are all new.The drinks are on tap and help yourself. Staff very helpfull and friendly. The downside is that there is nowere near by to go so if you are going for 2 weeks then I would suggest you hire a car for a few days. The entertainment let the hotel down a bit but the children that were staying there enjoyed it.Also nothing at all for teenagers. But if your a couple looking for a quiet chilled holiday then this is the place. The sea is warm but pebbley need shoes for swimming.
Would go again.
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Louis Regency - Aghios Ioannis
Operator and Date: Holiday Nights - Sept 2004
Opinion submitted in Sept 2004 by : C.Whittaker - Sussex.
Resort Rating: Good
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Review:
Have just returned from a weeks all inclusive holiday at the Louis Regency. What a fantastic week, the hotel was lovely, the staff so friendly and the food was amazing. I have never been all inclusive before, and was well impressed. Will definitely be returning.
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St Louis Regency Beach - Agios Ioannis
Operator and Date: Oct 2005
Opinion submitted in Jan 2006 by : Tina Lavelle, 38, 42, 14, 10, 8
Resort Rating: Average
Accommodation Rating: Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
We booked this holiday last minute for the half term holidays. The weather wasn't very good for the first three days (torrential rain), but it improved from the Monday onwards.
The hotel is clean and the staff are very friendly. However, I would not say that the bedrooms were 4*....they were very basis and were in need of updating. The bathrooms on the other hand were obviously brand new and very stylish.
If you go to this hotel then ask for a sea view, we had a garden view which wasn't much of a garden.
This is an AI hotel and the food was quite nice, even the children liked some of it.
Beer was a 'help yourself affair' in the upstairs bar, roof bar and beach restaurant. The wine and non alcoholic drinks were also on tap in the beach restaurant. Please watch out for the wasps as they were out in force daily, milling around the drinks machines and regularly ended up in your drinks.
Water was replaced daily in the fridge in your room, and the towels and sheets were changed regularly.
There was the free use of the canoes and pedaloes although you had to book with the life quard first.
The only draw back with this holiday was the time of year we went....everywhere had closed or was in the process of closing. The hotel started to run out of beer, soft drinks, ice cream the day before we left.....other holiday makers had several days left there so I don't know how they got on. The reps had all left as well and the rooftop entertainment area had closed.
The entertainment team were very poor, but we were forced to stop and watch as there was no where else to go!!
I would not recommend this hotel to families who are looking for a break in the October half term as there is nothing for the kids to do.
The pools were freezing cold and the kids could not use them. The mini golf was not in use, although there was a small park and tennis courts up a very long and steep hill.
The beach, if thats what you want to call it, was pebbles and you couldn't walk on it without shouting out in pain. Shoes are definately a must here.
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St Louis Regency Beach - Agios Ioannis
Operator and Date: (First Choice Discounts) First Choice June 2005
Opinion submitted in July 2005 by : The Kirks (35,37)
Resort Rating: Good
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Review:
This hotel is simply wonderful....room was clean, complete with bath and shower curtain and essential air-con, staff were friendly, food was great (and there was always plenty of everything on offer), however the hotel entertainment was average - seems to keep the Germans amused. The Brits are in the minority at this hotel but when we were there (last week in June) there were enough sun loungers to go around both at the beach (shingle) and round the two pools. Great for kids.
Without doubt would go back for a weeks break. Flight with Thomas Cook airlines was very good also. There are a couple of cheap bars near the hotel if you feel a bit stir crazy and want a change in surroundings (No name Bar has beautiful views over the sea and is directly opposite the hotel and Vafias Bar which is approx 400m down the road towards Benistes).
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Agios Stephanos - Corfu
Hotel Nafsika - Agios Stephanos
Operator and Date: June 2006
Opinion submitted in June 2006 by : Lou - Nr Oxford
Resort Rating: Excellent
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Review:
I've just had the pleasure of returning from Agios Stephanos, a holiday to remeber and one that I'll be repeating again very soon. I travelled with friends some of who have been going to the village for the last 25 years off and on, and feel truley privaledged to have been introduced to the village, but most important Hotel Nafsika.
We didn't actually stay in the hotel but in a villa next to the hotel, but we very quickly became adopted residents. Speros the owner is the perfect host, you couldn't be made more welcome whatever time of day or night, and to be made to feel like one of the family.
The food was the best in the village by far, Theodora, Speros's mother still cooks in the kitchen after many many years, you might think there isn't much variety to Greek food, but you could eat at Nafsika for 2 weeks and each night discover another wonderful dish. On our last night, they even cooked something off menu for us for us to try!
We also had a lesson or two from Speros in Greek wine - which was suprising good, in fact excellent! Added to all this the hotel has a great pool and is in spitting distance of the beach, a quiet sandy bay - you couldn't wish for much more from a relaxing, traditional Greek holiday!
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Hotel Romanza - Agios Stephanos
Operator and Date: (Thomson Holidays
Direct) Thomson Holidays
- 2006
Opinion submitted in January 2007 by : Joh Ford Leicestershire ( 42,43,13,11,8)
Resort Rating: Excellent
Accommodation Rating: Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
Lives up to reputation.Would highly recommend to anyone.You won't be disappointed.Hotel and restaurant are exceptionly clean, and Helena dosen't stop cleaning.Everyone was so friendly.we have booked again for next summer.Our kids loved it,and their attempt at talking greek was greatly appreicated.We tried several places to eat in the resort but Hotel Romanza was the best.
Be careful when booking.We booked with Thomson Holidays
s and requested for our
rooms to be next to each other as we have 3 children.When we arrived at
11 o'clock at night we were told that one of the rooms was in one block
above the bar ( sleeps 3) and the other room was 2 blocks away (sleeps
2). We expressed our concerns ,and said there was no way we were
prepared to leave our children in a different block in a room with a
balcony .
The hotel owners were very understanding and put us in 2 twin rooms
and put an extra bed in one of the rooms for us. They said that Thomson Holidays
s
had not told them about our request and I believe them!
The only complaint we have is that the beds are rock hard,it is like sleeping on concrete.We bought lilos and inflated them and put them on the beds to avoid any bruising.Other than that a great holiday and excellent place to stay.
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Barbati - Corfu
Captain's Apartments - Barbati
Operator and Date: Internet - July 2006
Opinion submitted in August 2006 by : Paul and Johanna E R of Yorkshire (51,45)
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
This was the second time that we had been to Corfu, the last time we stayed in Gouvia. This year we had a fantastic holiday.
The apartments were good even though the layout for 5 adults was a bit strange (we went with 3 other adults of similar age). There were loads of steps but we hired scooters so we could park at the top of the apartments and then only had about 10 steps to climb down. The view was incredible, every morning we had breakfast on the large balcony overlooking the bay over to Corfu town. And at night time we could see all the lights. Ireni was very helpful nothing was too much trouble for her. She worked hard and seemed to do everything at the apartments other than clean them. The food was good that she prepared and was cheaper than in the resort (so was the beer).The only downside was that there was no air conditioning and the temp was about 26 deg at night time but Ireni says she should have air con next year.
The best place to eat in Barbati was Caryatides With Michalis the young waiter and Stathis the owner. Food was excellent but the Stathis was a bit too fond of himself where the ladies were concerned. Give it a try though because you wont be disappointed with the food or prices. We tried lots of other restaurants allover the Island and none of them came close to this one although Taverna Agni wasnt bad. We hired a boat from Spiros at the beach for the day. This cost 110 Euros for the day between 5 of us and was a brilliant day. Also the boat trip to Parga is a must this cost us £17 pounds each, for the whole day, which we booked with Tolis Bike hire. He was very helpful. We hired all of our scooters from him, booked the boat trip and he also organised a car to take us back to the airport at the end of our holiday. All at competative prices.
Can't say enough about Corfu the people, the food, the beer, the scenery we love it. Can't wait to go back.
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Captain's Apartments - Barbati
Operator and Date: (Thomson Holidays
Direct) Thomson Holidays
-October 2005
Opinion submitted in Oct 2005 by : garry,wendy,keith -march,cambs 40,49,51
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
Just arrived back from a wonderful week in barbati.The apartments were very clean and spatious.We were very lucky in only being on the 'second floor'(only 25 steps instead of 100 some people had to climb).So if you are less than mobile this isn't the place for you.
Anyway wheezing aside the apartments have fantastic views over the bay to Corfu Town(especially in a thunderstorm!)The 'main road' runs right outside the front of the apartments with very little pavements to think of.Some road noise can be heard from the road but it didnt bother us that much.Swimming pool is half way up the steps with a pool bar(Vergina local beer 2 euros a pint,very nice!)
Barbati itself is very quiet apart from a few tavernas and restuarants along the main road.Try the Caratydes restuarant that looks over the bay(Lamb kleftico superb)or if you are on the beach the Riviera(HUGE greek salad 5 euros).BUT we ended up at one taverna for most of the holiday and that was Odyssia 2001(first on right from captains),Lefteris and the lovely daughter in law Aneta(she hopes soon!) made us feel very welcome,THANKS GUYS.If you go try the grilled feta and pork in lemon sauce,ar wot the heck try the whole menu,we did!! The beach itself is small pebbles(no sand to speak of)but very clean and so is the water.
Being a san miguel fan i didnt think the local hooch would be up to standard but i was very suprised(Mythos and Vergina being very good.Two supermarkets(HARRYS outside the apartments and one at the top of the steps)cater for your needs.Over the road from Harrys is a car hire place(not dodgy and 45 euros a day for Citroen c3 or 50 for a Suzuki jeep).Anyway enough of the waffling Barbati is not Blackpool with sun,just a place where you can go to relax and enjoy the scenery and the very hospitable Corfiot people.We enjoyed ourselves very much and would not hesitate to recommend Barbati or the apartments to anyone.
Sorry for boring you and happy holidays!!!!!
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Captain's Apartments - Barbati
Operator and Date: (Thomson Holidays
Direct) Thomson Holidays
SEPT 2005
Opinion submitted in Oct 2005 by : PAULINE 37,42,1,2
Resort Rating: Good
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Opinion:
Barbati is quiet but ipsos is just arpound the corner. Unfortunaley these apts were no good for us as we had prams and there was to many steps. We seen older people having trouble with the steps has well.dont get me wrong the apts are spotless the staff very helpful but are 1yr old had a bad case off asthma attacks the hospital said this was due to the closed in area of barbati. If your going for a beach hoilday this is for you has the beaches are top quality if not a bit peebley. Food is lovely no ifyfy tummys.
If barbati had not been so hilly it would have been excellent.
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Captain's Apartments - Barbati
Operator and Date: (Thomson Holidays
Direct) Thomson Holidays
- October 2004
Opinion submitted in Oct 2004 by : Gareth, Lynda - Caerphilly (50, 37)
Resort Rating: Excellent
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
Having booked this holiday before reading the reviews on this site I started to get a bit nervous as some of the reviews are not good. However, we have just returned from our holiday and have had one of the most relaxing and enjoyable holidays we can remember. We had a two bedroom apartment with a fantastic sea view and a clean, airy bathroom (I'm fussy about bathroom!).
There are a lot of steps so I agree that this accomodation would not be the most suitable for those with mobility difficulties but we had no problem with the climb - in fact we found it quite useful as, along with the climb down and back from the beach it was the only exercise we managed whilst on holiday!
The beach was lovely, peaceful with clear waters and a couple of beachside bars for lunch.
The resort is very quiet but there are a couple of good restaurants and bars to while away the evening. We mostly ate at a great restaurant (whose name escapes me but looks quite new and overlooks the bay - just up and across the road from the Olive Wood shop - nicest red wine I've tasted on holiday) and then followed up with a few drinks in Thasos bar (recommended as it's quite small and a good place for meeting people).
If you like peaceful, relaxing holidays then I would thoroughly recommend this.
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Captain's Apartments - Barbati
Operator and Date: (Thomson Holidays
Direct) Thomson Holidays
August 2004
Opinion submitted in Aug 2004 by : Pat & Julie Nolan and teenage children 46,43,17,15,15,15
Resort Rating: Average
Accommodation Rating: Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
Have just returned from a week at Captains Apartments in Barbati. Accommodation was clean and staff friendly. This is self catering accomodation, although you are not allowed to take your own food and drink into the pool area so allow for this in your budget. Poolside snack bar provides drinks, ice creams and limited snacks, although more expensive than Pandokrator Hotel at back of complex. Expected a quiet resort and although resort is small, main road running through it has limited pavements and walks in the evening to local restaurants needed to be in single file! Not particularly relaxing. Likewise the small road at the back of our apartments, although not busy was extremely noisy and we were woken around 5am each morning by a three wheel scooter attempting deliveries up the mountainside behind us.
Eating out was cheap and would recommend Dimitris, the Lord Byron and
the poolside snackbar at the PANDOKRATOR HOTEL. Excursions booked
through Thomson Holidays
s were expensive and could be easily booked privately at
a fraction of the cost. We enjoyed Captain Homer's boat trip and BBQ
which took us up to Kassiopi, a very pretty resort, and was very good
value.
We would go back to Corfu but not to Barbati as we prefer the more
harbourside resorts e.g. Kassiopi which reminded us of some of the
smaller Greek Islands we have visited. We found Thomson Holidays
s disappointing
and given the choice would choose another tour operator next time.
Overall though, a good holiday and kids enjoyed it.
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Captain's Apartments - Barbati
Operator and Date: (Thomson Holidays
Direct) Thomson Holidays
- August 2004
Opinion submitted in Aug 2004 by : Lorna Nicolson - Glasgow (14)
Resort Rating: Excellent
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Review:
Wow! Captains Apartments are the best apartments i have ever been to.
Last year, myself and my family arrived at Captains Apartments to discover the best holiday we had ever been on so that is why we had to return this year. This year was no dfferent except even more nicer people surrounding us.
Captains Apartments has the best veiws ever, overlooking Corfu's Bay, towards Corfu Town. In our apartments we had a fan each for air conditioning which had 2 be kept on when ever we were inside which was good. We stayed in a two bedroomed apartment which also included a well equiped kitchen and a really clean bathroom which included a shower!! There is a nice women who is the maid who works extremely hard so we achieved amazingly clean rooms. The balaconys are also private so you could have your breakfast out there with your pajamas on with nobody bothering you.
The accomation is situated on a hill which yes you have to climb a fair amount of stairs but it just gave you a good reason to get fit and to stop off at the pool bar for a nice cocktail/drink.There is a beautiful pool there which we spent most of our time at as it was so clean. It is run by a family who are so friendly. Mainly the wife and son were present and they were the best ever!!
In Barbati there is a small number of tavernas but each one seemed to be as good or even better as the last. Also these tavernas included really good looking waiters who were so friendly and who remember you each time!! There is also a disco there for the adults which looked good.
There was two super markets which we went to which had everything you needed.
To get arround the island we hired a car through our Thomson Holidays
rep who
came at least everyday.
Captains Apartments is so relaxing it is a must go and even though i have been twice I will definetly be making sure i return in my future or next year.
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Oceanis Apartments - Barbati
Operator and Date: No Agent - July 2006
Opinion submitted in August 2006 by : Dawn & Gary - N.Wales (47,48)
Resort Rating: Excellent
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Opinion:
You want every holiday to be memorable for all the right reasons. In June '06 we weren't disappointed after choosing the Oceanis Apartments in Barbati for a two week self catering holiday. The location overlooking the blue waters of Corfu Bay and the majestic mountains of Corfu, Albania & Greece, all from your balcony was an excellent start. The apartments are approx 10 minutes walk from the main resort of Barbati which is only a small resort with a few restaurants & bars.
We had hired the smallest of the apartments but we were certainly not disappointed as both the bedroom and living areas were a reasonable size. On entering the living area there was a large sofa that converted to a double bed, a TV on a wall bracket and a table & chairs (none of which were used by us). At the end of the living area was a fridge, small cooker (who wants to cook on holiday!), sink & cupboards. The bathroom was just off the kitchen area. This had the usual wash basin, toilet & shower, with hot water constantly available which is something we haven't always experienced when abroad. There's a hairdryer in the bathroom too.
The bedroom was excellent. Lovely high ceilings, a large airy room with plenty of wardrobe & drawer space for the two of us. The best thing about the room was pulling back the curtains to reveal the sea / mountain views, and having the sun shine though the patio doors first thing in the morning. All the apartments are sea facing. We always had orange juice or breakfast sitting at the table on our balcony, which also overlooked the swimming pool. The rooms have air-conditioning & a safety deposit box all included in the price, so no nasty extra charges to worry about at the end of your stay.
We used the swimming pool everyday and the water was always warm. It was a nice size pool with plenty of free sun beds. No need to rush down first thing in the morning to put towels down as there is room for all. There's an outside and indoor shower available near the pool area. It's all as you will see in the photographs on the Oceanis web site, but much better. There's a path right next to the Oceanis that takes you down to the beach. It took us less then a couple of minutes to make our way to the small shingle beach. It is a lovely spot with very clean water and surprisingly few people.
The best beach we visited was at Myrtiotissa however please note that this is also a nudist beach!
In the evening the Oceanis turns into a wonderful taverna with bamboo covered dining tables outside. Unrestricted views of the bay, the sun going down, glimmering lights of Corfu town and the moon's reflection on the water....all very romantic and all on your doorstep. The food at the Oceanis was first class. We hadn't originally planned on eating at the apartment complex very much as we have been to Barbati before and knew some really nice restaurants there. However the fact that we dined at the Oceanis 7 out of 14 nights speaks for itself. The fish dishes were our favorites and we really enjoyed the wide range of starters and salads. Everything was freshly prepared and reasonably priced. The service was efficient and friendly. During the day snacks, meals and drinks are always available. We enjoyed sitting under the parasols drinking frappes in the mornings and carafes of wine in the late afternoon. The other places we dined were in the small tavernas along the coast i.e. Agni, Kalami, Agios Stephanos and a must is Corfu Town.
In our view the real success of the Oceanis Apartments is the fact that it is a small well run family concern. Nothing was too much trouble for Nikos, the owner, or his sister Lliana. They were the most friendly, welcoming and warm hearted hosts we have ever come across on our travels. This extended to the other members of staff as well. Doritas the waiter was always friendly and smiling, & 'Chef' was a good laugh too. When things got hot in the kitchen in the afternoon's he'd sometimes drive in the pool. Corfu is a fantastic holiday destination and the Oceanis in Barbati provides an ideal base from which you can explore the island.
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Pantokrator Hotel - Barbati
Operator and Date: Thomson Holidays
August 2007
Opinion submitted in August 2007 by : Paul and Carol Bassett - Swansea (44)
Resort Rating: Excellent
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Review:
We had a fantastic week's holiday at this hotel - don't be put off by any of the poor reviews!
The reception area, bar and outside terrace of the hotel is really stylish.
You could upgrade to gorgeous luxury rooms for 35 Euros a day but we didn't bother.
Our room was typically Greek - very basic! It was spotlessly clean and had Maid Service every day except Sunday when only the rubbish was removed. Towels were changed every other day and sheets changed twice a week. Towels pretty small but again very clean.
We found the staff to be extremely pleasant and helpful - receptionist smilingly put up with my husband asking to have his MP3 player charged every other day.
The hotel is built on the side of a mountain and so is very hilly - we were fortunate to have a room on the first level! The road leading up to the hotel from the main road is also very steep - great exercise for the old calf muscles!! However, the fantastic view more than made up for the hill climb.
The pool area is gorgeous - plenty of loungers and shade, a very good pool snack bar has a good selection of drinks, ice cream and food and opened from 10.30 - 6pm. Breakfast was served in the restaurant at a civilised 8-10am and we found it to be more than satisfactory - typical continental buffet with ham, cheese, bread, toast, jam,butter, honey, cereal, eggs, beans etc. English breakfast was available on order but who the hell wants an English Breakfast!!!!
Not great entertainment in the hotel but that suited us fine - we just wanted peace and quiet.
We loved the resort, very quiet with a good selection of restaurants, we ate somewhere different every night and weren't ever disappointed with our food. Plenty of boat trips on offer if that's your thing and reasonably priced.
If you prefer a bit livelier nightlife Ipsos is a 15 minute taxi ride away and taxis are plentiful and cheap.
Beaches are shingly - I'd recommend some shoes for swimming as it was quite a challenge getting into the water!! Water was gorgeous - so clear, my husband had a ball snorkelling.
Getting down to the beaches was either via steps or steep hill, no problem - just take your time.
We would recommend both the hotel and resort, we have been to many Greek resorts and if you want a get away from it all holiday with good accomodation and spectacular views Barbati and the Pandokrator will fit the bill. We would have no hesitation in returning here.
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Pantokrator Hotel - Barbati
Operator and Date: Dscountholidayonline.com - May 2007
Opinion submitted in June 2007 by : Ian Jones - Brentford (40)
Resort Rating: Average
Accommodation Rating: Poor
My/Our Holiday Opinion:
Hotel
Just about a three star. The standard rooms are all very basic, but with locks on everything to permit charging by the day, eg Fridge, air conditioning and dvd player. TV worked but no english channels, but room fairly grim so not used anyway.
Pool bar - good snacks and drinks, decent breakfast also, far better than the buffet in the restaurant.
We stayed half board but ate there twice as the dinner was a very basic buffet with only two or three choices, very very canteen type food.
The resort is on a hill as described, but make no mistake it is not a pleasurable stroll. If you leave something in your room, you will sacrifice having it for the day rather than having to walk all the way back up the hills to the room. The views ARE fantastic, both day and night, but the walk is just too hard work on a three or four times a day basis. Also difficult in flip flops - sturdy shoes needed.
Resort
Barbati is lovely and quite, a real bonus as it is only a few miles away from Ipsos, but a world away in terms of no stag or hen groups or raucous nightlife. Just tavernas and bars and a couple of supermarkets. Great for families or couples wanting a quiet break.
Weather
Being at the bottom of a big hill, it can suffer more rain that other areas. Out of a week we had one and a half days of solid rain, but glorious sun for the rest. (travelled end of May early June). The evenings though where quite chilly which we weren't expecting.
Staff at Hotel
Hmmmm... as mentioned before, made no real effort with guests, often treated as 'products' rather than people. Also when there was a mix up over departure dates (local travel company sent wrong details) a very angry manager started threatening my girlfriend and myself with being "thrown in jail with the Albanians which will make you cry very bad - I know I been there".... despite sounding funny this was a very threatening display that soured the whole holiday and is the subject of a major complaint at present.
Overall, Barbati is great, will definately return (but a bit later in the year to ensure consistent good weather), Pantokrator Hotel.... never again. Luxury rooms look lovely, and were quoted at 35 euros a night extra, but would be too afraid to stay there again having seen the displays of aggression towards customers.
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Pantokrator Hotel - Barbati
Operator and Date: Travel Gems - August 2006
Opinion submitted in December 2006 by : Colin, Tracey - Glasgow (26,30)
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
My Girlfriend and I booked this fairly late on through Lastminute and was a bit more expensive than we wanted to pay £800 for both of us for 1 week, however having read other reviews on this site as well as others it sounded like the quite holiday we were loooking for.
When we arrived at the hotel we noted the hill that most reviews cannot fail to mention, however although it was steep and hard going during the heat of the day it was not quite as bad as I was imagining (I had thought of something to rival K2 :o))
Upon arrival we were checked in by the night porter to a standard room, however there was a notice to upgrade to a luxury room, we asked how much this was and were quoted £80, we asked if that was for the week or a night and he said it was for a week (this is where our problems started). At the sametime another couple, who also arrived from Glasgow with us checked into the Standard room, however did not like it so that same evening also upgraded to the luxury room, again, they were quoted £80 for the week.
Now the room was lovely and I cannot fault it, everything you would want from a luxury room abroad. Was very plush and reminded me of something you would see in IKEA, that is a compliment.
The complex itself was a bit hilly, however being on the side of a mountain, that is to be expected. It was well maintained and the pool and pool area were really nice. The restaurant had a varied menu, however there were stnadard things on every night i.e. rice, noodles, chips, etc. They also had a nice touch of fresh bread you could have as much and as little of as you wanted, which was great for mopping up sauces.
As for the trips and things to do on Corfu I cannot comment as we were just on holiday to do nothing and that is exactly what we did, so apologies for not being able to give you a review on the trips on offer.
Now I come to the problem we did not know was coming until the 2nd last day and the reason I WOULD NEVER GO BACK TO THIS HOTEL.
Upon arrival they take your passports, which however you are meant to get back up leaving the hotel. We were told we could settle the bill for the hotel room the next day or when ever we wanted too. On the 3rd last day we ordered 200 cigarettes, for people back home, from the reception and were told they would be available to collect and pay for the next day. So we decided this is when we would settle all our bills. When we went to pay for the room in the morning we were told it was not £80 a night and in actual fact £80 a night, we explained this to the receptionist and she told us we would need to speak to the manager when he arrived at night time.
Now this ruined our second last day as we did not have this sort of cash and with them having our passports it was very worrying and stressing for both of us. We tried to find the other couple who arrived at the same time as us however that day they were on a boat trip. However we managed to catch up with them before going down to see the manager and they confirmed they had been told the same us. We decided to present a united front and went down together. Before we went down we were willing to meet the manager half way with the payments to sort things out and I, unlike my girlfriend, was not worrying about the meeting. However when we all spoke to the manager he became very angry, aggressive and threating toward the 2 girls it was only when me or the other guy (Stewart) said anything that he would calm down for a moment or two before flying off the handle. He tried to use emotional blackmail i.e. taking it out the night porters wages, vicious threats i.e. keeping our passports as well as throwing us in jail. However at this point he stormed into his office, slammed the door and it was left unresolved. The receptionist who we spoke to that morning was amazing though. She managed to sort it out even though everytime she went into the managers office she was getting a bllocking as well. We sorted it so we both paid £80 for the 6 nights, plus we got back our passports and we then had to move to a standard room immediately, which we did.
However this whole experience ruined, which up until that point, had been a very pleasant holiday. We had the quickest of dinners and went straight back to the room, to make sure nothing happened to our bags. On our last day we never left the room in case anything happened to our bags. We were not due to leave until 11pm that night but we along with the other couple were so unhappy that we booked our own taxi to the airport at about 5pm and paid for it ourselves which cost about £20 each.
So although it wasn't a bad holiday, I would never recommend this place to even small bags on Mars. The manager intimidated my girlfriend and for that reason alone I would never go back.
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Pantokrator Hotel - Barbati
Operator and Date: Travel Gems
Opinion submitted in July 2006 by : Gemma Pitts - London (29, 30)
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
We spent a lovely week in Hotel Pantokrator in June 2006.
The hotel is very much as described, both on this site and on their own website - all the photos are very accurate.
The hotel is set in Barbati, a small, quiet resort about 10 mins (by car) from Ipsos. Barbati has a very pleasant beach - very clean and not at all crowded. There is a small number a very good, and extremely firendly Tavernas along the main road. This is an ideal place for couples or families to have a relaxing break, but definitely don't go expecting a crazy nightlife.
The hotel itself was very good, don't be put off by anything you have read about steep hills - the hill is pretty steep in places, but it does not take long to walk up. I am chronically unfit and it was nothing I couldn't handle! Also, being set where it is on the mountain the views from everywhere in the hotel are pretty stunning. The reception and bar area is gorgeous (they don't make enough fuss about this in their promotional material!)and the staff were extremely friendly and helpful everytime we needed them. The basic accomodation is just that - basic with no frills - but it is line with many traditional Greek hotels and it is kept spotlessly clean and has everything you need. That said we did take the opportunity to upgrade to a 'lux' room and if you have the spare cash I can highly recommend it - they look EXACTLY like the images on the hotel website and made for an excellent stay. The pool area is really nice - not too crowded and with decent sunloungers and shade - as an added bonus we didn't even experience any of the horrible business with people getting up early to claim loungers, there were plenty to go round and the atmosphere was very relaxed. The food was apparently not great in the hotel but I can't personally say as we ate out in a taverna every night.
In terms of things to do (beside relaxing) I would highly recommend hiring a motor boat. The hotel arranged this for us with a local company - it cost 70 euros for the day plus petrol, and was without doubt the best day of our holiday. The boats are very easy to drive - neither of us had ever been in opne bbefore but we had a great day speeding up and down the coast and stopping to snorkle in deserted coves and beaches.
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Pandokrator Apartments - Barbati
Operator and Date: Travel Gems - August 2005
Opinion submitted in Sept 2005 by : Sonia - London (29, 28)
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Review:
We have just come back from the Hotel Pantokrator (August 2005) in Barbarti and we were very impressed. The hotel itself is in great condition and we spent an extra £175 (in peak season less off peak) to upgrade our room to a luxury room for a week. I would highly recommend this option as you get air con, dvd player, satellite, kingsize bed and a balcony with amazing view over the Ionean sea as standard. The food was good and varied, the staff friendly and helpful.
It is remote though and if you want to go site seeing outside of the hotel you will need to hire a car or get up to date with the bus timetable (there are 3 buses a day to Corfu town. It is also important to note it is half way up a mountain (hence the hotel name) and therefore going out to places (downhill) is fine but coming back (uphill) can be a killer! There is also a lack of entertainment it is mostly a bar playing music but when they try ie Greek night every second Wednesday it is a real laugh and gets everyone joining in. More of the same please
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Pandokrator Apartments - Barbati
Operator and Date: (Thomson Holidays
Direct) Thomson Holidays
- July 2005
Opinion submitted in July 2005 by : Steve - Bolton (39, 47)
Resort Rating: Excellent
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Review:
Just got back from an absolutely fabulous week at the above. How the apartments only qualify for a 2T rating is beyond belief. The apartments are spotlessly clean and apparently very well maintained, have microwaves, toasters, irons, kettles, TV and DVD players.
The view from the balconies over the bay towards Corfu Town is outstanding as the apartments are built into the side of Mount Pandokrator, But, this does mean that there is "something" of a steep walk firstly from the main road and then secondly from the entrance to the complex. There's even more of a climb if you've been down on the beach up to the road.
The apartments have their own pool and at times we were the only people by it despite its fabulous location. Even when others were by the pool it was still quiet.
As for the resort of Barbati, if you want loud music and neon lights don't bother going. We weren't, so it was bliss. Of the half dozen or so tavernas stretched out along the road in the village we couldn't fault any of them. Ditto the few bars in the village.
If you want a nice quiet holiday in an idyllic location (and don't mind the walk up the hill(s))then give it a go.
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Pandokrator Apartments - Barbati
Operator and Date: Travel Gems - June 2005
Opinion submitted in July 2005 by : Kate & Will - Hampshire - 20,23
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Review:
Just got back from a lovely holiday at the Pantokrator hotel in Barbati. Corfu is beautiful, we arrived mid-afternoon so it was very hot. Once we finally got to the hotel, checked in you get taken up to your rooms in a minibus (your cases follow) which was lucky as if you get one of the rooms at the top its a long walk up a steep hill but you do get used to it eventually.
The Hotel was excellent it was very clean (room service everyday) and all of the staff were very friendly. We stayed by the pool most days which was beautiful (very shallow though) and the views are fantastic from all around the hotel.
Food was averageI would advise getting to the resturant early (ish) as the food seemed nicer then, breakfast was handy and is worth getting up for but if you do miss it the pool bar do good food anyway and is very cheap.
We rented out a boat with some couples from the hotal from Emilios Boats on the beach for only 70 euro plus petrol. Was a lovely day swimming very good day out, beware though if the boat company don't think you can drive you will not be allowed to take a boat out we saw this happen to a couple....
Also, tried watersking at the watersports centre on the beach this was well priced and good fun (watching Wills face trying to water ski!)
We booked two excursions (BBQ Boat Trip& Greek Night) through Marina (the holiday rep) we were very open minded as we do not usually book through the companies. The BBQ boat was very nice we got taken to a very secluded beach on the west side of the island where the waters are crystal clear ate food, drank wine, etc was worth the moeny also we saw Dolphins on the way to the beach which was a great bonus well worth the money. I would definately recommend the Greek night, we were very unsure of this but once we had arrived had a fantastic time, the food was absoluty lovely best i have ever tasted on a greek island, learnt how to Greek dance as well which was interesting.
Over all we had a fantastic holiday just wished we had booked longer than a week!
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Pandokrator Apartments - Barbati
Operator and Date: (Portland Direct) Portland Direct - Sept 2004
Opinion submitted in Sept 2004 by : Stephen (35 , 32)
Resort Rating: Excellent
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Review:
We originally arrived in Sidari for a 10 day holiday, but disliked Sidari so much we ended up being moved to the Pandokrator apartments (an adjunct to the Pandokrator hotel).
We arrived in Barbati not knowing what to expect - but were amazed at our lovely aprtment. It had fantastic views of both Mt Pandokrator on one side (the partments are built into it)and the sea on the other.
Apartments were very well stocked - our two bed apt had a kitchen with oven, microwave, fridge and 2 rings. We had a twin bed room and double bed room - with a telly with satellite sky news on. Air con also available for an extra charge. Bathroom had a bath! though it only had a shaving light so it was gloomy. However, having visited Spain, Rhodes, Kephalonia and Cyprus in self catering apts we can say that these were the best ever.
Barbati itself is perfect for couples wanting to get away from it all and relax in peace. There are plenty of taverna's to visit and adequate supermarkets with a beautiful beach. There is no nightlife - which is a plus for us, and it is a great place to base yourself and explore the north part of the island (we recommend car hire which we did for three days). Reading o the terrace with the mountain on one side, the sea on the other and a beer in hand is a treat (although we did encounter noisy neighbours above us on one night).
It is hilly, which did not pose us a problem - but may be an issue for small children and less fit people.
In conclusion we would recommend this location to couples wanting a peaceful break and a beautiful base from which to explore in the daytime. However - if you value nightlife or are a family Barbati may be a bit limiting.
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Pandokrator Hotel - Barbati
Operator and Date: (Thomson Holidays
Direct) Thompson-june 2004
Opinion submitted in July 2004 by : emma breese-herts
Resort Rating: Good
Accommodation Rating: Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
Pandakrater is a lovely hotel! very beautiful and clean breathe taking views from anywhere in the hotel! the pool is brillant and clean and the jazzi looked lovely bit 2 hot 2 go into!
The food is lovely there isn't much choice in the morning there either bread,toast or cake! the food in the evening is lovely but if you have fussy children they might not enjoy the food!
the is a snack bar my the pool the food there is very nice and so are the people!
barbati in itself is pretty quiet there are about 10 bars and restaurants all together but they are very nice most of them are right next to the beach which is very nice! but three of the nights we went down to ipsos which is jus a taxi drive alot more bars etc there!
Weather when we went was very lovely very hot, and barbati beach beauiful the only down side is that it is pebble nt sandy but at least u dnt get all sandy in your shoes! the water sports are great down there to! try them out especially the rings and a a ride called the flying fish it was brillant!
overall i enjoyed this holiday very much corfu and barbati is a lovely place! thanks!
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Pandokrator Hotel - Barbati
Operator and Date: (Portland Direct) Portland Direct - May 2004
Opinion submitted in May 2004 by : NUFC - Northants (49, 42, 42, 40, 37, 35)
Resort Rating: Average
Accommodation Rating: Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
Just returned from the Pandokrator Hotel in Barbati.
HOTEL: Very nice and clean with a fabulous pool area with the best views on the island, the backdrop of the mountains is stunning, however this makes for a VERY steep walk to the hotel from the main road and it doesn't end there. Once you arrive at the hotel reception you discover the rooms are in in fact more like small apartments built higher up on varying stages of hills set right back in the hill above. Each block is completely seperate from the actual hotel building itself which in fact only houses the bar, reception and dining rooms.
ROOMS: Adequate with varying configurations of beds some have 3 singles others 2 or even 1 double and a single, all rooms vary in size and shape as do the balconys (of which all rooms have one) The usual lastic table and 2 chairs on balcony come as standard alonf with a small wadrobe and 2 small draws. There is air con units in the rooms which are payable locally for approx 8 Euros per day plus a fridge which can also be rented daily. The rooms are quite cramped but fine for what you need and the staff will let you have more blankets, towels and pillows etc. Bathroom again small but adequate they have the usual hand held greek shower facility ! But at least you get a shower curtain even if it is 5 inches short of the tray !!!!! The water was always hot even though the weather wasn't (come to that later) perhaps it may not be if there were more than the 8 rooms being used when we were there. Rooms are cleaned daily except Sundays and sheets and towels changed every other day.
FOOD: Brekkie was the usual greek standard affair of cold sliced meats, greek yoghurt, sliced cake, museli and cornflakes. Plus the toaster for toasting your brown or white bread also honey and jams available. Tea and STRONG coffee plentiful but beware they only provide Earl Grey tea bags :-( it is served in the dining room between 8 & 10 and they are pretty strict at shutting it all away at 10am too so not for stragglers or late risers ! You can order a full english for an extra 3 Euros if required, although we never did so can't comment on it. The Pool Bar was open every day (except when it was raining !!!) and served lovely coffee, milkshakes, alcohol and fruit juices along with good quality snacks at very reasonable prices. Carla is the resident wizard in the pool bar and is very quick and very friendly.
The main bar does serve food in the evening but it's very limited at this time of the year and we didn't bother, however we did all have our first drink of the evening in the bar and although it was nice I wouldn't say the staff go out of their way at all to get to know the guests they all very much keep themselves to themselves.
BARBATI: VERY, VERY quiet not much there except a couple of supermarkets and a handful of bars/restaurants. If you only want a half a hike from the hotel and don't want to climb Cardiac Hill then there is a small but well stocked supermarket just below the hotel before reaching the main road. We ate a coupld of snacks in Barbati and spent our first night in one of the bars here but otherwise we left in Taxis every night for Ipsos.
As we were celebrating our friends 40th Birthday we wanted something a little more lively than Barbati had to offer so we took to getting 2 taxis every night from the hotel to Ipsos which is about 3 miles away and cost us 10 Eur each way. Ipsos again is small but the whole place is in one long strip along the seafront and there were some good bars and clubs. We all recommend B52 Bar where we were made to feel really welcome, good music and nice staff. It was very popular with greeks, tourists and most of Ipsos. Next door but one was Hectors nightclub and although we were there at the start of the season it did open most nights till 5am. We recommend Donos for food we ate there twice and it was exellent on both occasions. On our last evening we travllled to a pre-arranged dinner to Agni Beach just past Kassiopi and about a 20 Euro ride away from Barbati. We ate at the infamous Agni Beach Taverna which is run by Nathan and his greek wife. The food was outstanding as was the service, however it was very expensive compared to other restaurants locally but the quality was second to none. Our bill for 2 courses for 6 people was 210 Euro's but was worth every penny.
TIPS: Be prepared for the amount of Albanian nationals in Corfu, bearing in mind you can actually see the Albanian coast from Corfu it's no surprise to find many of them have moved to Corfu for work. You can tell them from the Greeks, HOWEVER for some reason none of them will readily admit to being from Albania dn try to insist they are greeks.....why I don't know only they could explain that but bear in mind the bulk of them are doing pretty menial jobs in Corfu and therefore don't earn an awful lot. I also think they rely on the tourists for "chatting up" as the Greek women don't seem to have the time of day for them. While we met many and most were very friendly we were warned off them by the Greek men....who knows this could have been genuine concern or jealousy but we didn't encounter any problems at all.
WEATHER: The weather was pretty poor we had rain and lots of it, although we did get one and half days of glorious sunshine too and the nights made up for it.
All in all I definitely wouldn't go back to Barbati because it was too quiet however I would try Ipsos as for the Pandokrator probably not but if it was located elswhere definitely yes !!!!
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Corfu Town - Corfu
Corfu Palace Hotel - Corfu Town
Operator and Date: (Thomson Holidays
Direct) Thomson Holidays
-July 2006
Opinion submitted in August 2006 by : Judith McKinley - Stockport (57,57)
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
The positive aspects of this hotel are its gardens and pool, the location and cleanliness. Negative aspects are the rather tired furnishings and decor of the rooms, overpriced food and drinks and the service which is great if you are Greek, but second class if you are British. Definitely not 5 star, more like a good 3 star.
The town is buzzing and has many interesting places to visit. The Town Hall square is a good place to eat, quieter and cheaper than the Liston. The Bouginvillea Restaurant has service that is hard to beat and good value Greek food.
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Corfu Palace Hotel - Corfu Town
Operator and Date: medhotels - 2006
Opinion submitted in August 2006 by : 47,36,07
Resort Rating: Poor
Accommodation Rating: Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
accom was ok, food was ok, but everything else was awful,no place for families, no place for children.
The all place is stuck in the 70 is. If you like to go to a place were you are treat like low lives and have a beach that live poo floats past this is the place for you.The hotel staff are actually prety good,clean sheets every day and clean towels.Its a good base for couples who want to explore Corfu anybody else i would quite honestley say dont go.The pool guy only gets you a towel if you give him at least 5 euros a day.
Wr did have a pretty crp 2 weeks although the white spot is pretty good,but mossiesies beyond beleive i am actually going to hossie tom for mossie bites.
All in all if you like to go away and mix with the |A class at a good price this is the place for you.If you are just a normal guy then dont even think about it.
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Corfu Palace Hotel - Corfu Town
Operator and Date: (Thomson Holidays
Direct) Thomson Holidays
August 2005
Opinion submitted in Oct 2005 by : Helen & Den - Northern Ireland (34,37)
Resort Rating: Good
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Opinion:
My husband and I stayed at the Corfu Palace the last two weeks of August and it was our first visit to Corfu island.
The location of this hotel is excellent - a ten minute stroll to the Liston area of the town centre. We arrived in our room about 11pm and there was a bowl of fresh fruit, a bottle of red wine and a fresh flower arrangement in our room. The bed linen and towels were changed every day and there was a small vase of flowers in our room every day. The hotel also provides pool towels which are changed every evening between 6 and 6.30 pm. The room was a good size with antique-style furniture and loads of wardrobe space and hangers - the bathroom was a little small but perfectly fine.
Every room has a sea view from which you can see the old fort, the Greek mainland and Albania. I would recommend that when you are booking this hotel to request a high floor as I suspect that the lower floors have a limited sea view. We ended up with the fourth floor which was fine (there are only six floors).
Breakfast at the hotel was excellent - there was something for everyone including freshly made crossiants and danish pastries, different meats and cheeses, about 12 different cereals, pancakes, sliced melon, fruit salad, tomatoes and cucumber, different varities of yoghurt and jams, various breads and hot breakfast selection including bacon, sausages, eggs and mushrooms. There was also a fresh orange juice machine, and other juice including grapefruit and peach. There was also a toaster and a capp/latte maker. Tea and coffee is served by the waiters and you have a choice of sitting outside or inside. We always had our breakfast around 9am - it was never busy and there was a good choice of tables.
Apart from breakfast, the best bit about this hotel is the pool and garden areas - it is so quiet. This is not a hotel for anyone with children of any age - there is nothing for them to do. There is no kids club and no daytime activities. If your ideal of a holiday is rest, relaxation and peace and quiet, with no children running about, the pool at the hotel fits the bill. It is easy to get a sun lounger and each pair of sun loungers has a brolly and a table. The hotel discourages the use of airbeds and beach balls in the pool for any children that are there. Most of the clientel at this hotel are aged from mid 30's to 80's/90's and seemed to be mainly English and Greek.
We used the pool bar every day and the beer and wine is about the same price as Corfu Town. The water however is far too expensive - 3 euro 20 for one bottle. You can buy 4 bottles for that price from one of the kiosks in town but the hotel asks you not to bring supermarket water to the pool (use your imagination to disguise the fact)!! We had lunch at the pool bar - there is a fairly extensive menu but we mainly had toasties, club sandwich, burger and fries or omlettes all of which were very tasty with good portions and ranged from about 6 euro up to about 20 euro in price. Lunch can work out quite pricey if you have a couple of drinks. The hotel has a cocktail hour every Tuesday from 7pm - 8pm where the manager makes a point of talking to everyone. (Tip - don't have the cocktails, they are like water. The wine and beer are complimentary so its better to have those instead). Every Thursday is the BBQ night with entertainment but we thought it was a bit expensive at 45 euro a head. All the staff at this hotel are friendly, helpful and efficient from the manager to the cleaners. The public areas inside the hotel have fresh flower arrangements everywhere each day.
The hotel is listed as a five-star but I would say it is more like a good 4 star. Having said that, the pool, the atmosphere, the view and the breakfasts are definately worth five stars. I would recommend this hotel to anyone - it is an oasis of relaxation compared to the bustle and noise of Corfu Town. Do not go to Corfu Town expecting it to be like other resorts. There are none of your usual activities, e.g. karaoke bars, themed bars, mini-golf, kids playground, water sports etc., so those with families might find that kids would get bored easily. We found the restaurants ok - the food in other Greek countries we've visited has been of a much higher standard. We thought some of the restaurants were expensive as the portions were not good - about 55-65 euro for two courses, two people and a bottle of wine.
The best restaurants were the Italian, Il Gardino, close to Corfu Palace hotel and the Poco Loco mexican close to the new fort entrance. They were much better priced (about 40-50 euro), better service and better portions and without the noise or smell of mopeds whizzing past. The shopping in Corfu town is excellent - the usual "tat" shops but also some really good olive wood, jewellery and leather shops.
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Corfu Palace Hotel - Corfu Town
Operator and Date: (Thomson Holidays
Direct) Thomson Holidays
A la Carte - August 2005
Opinion submitted in Sept 2005 by : H Hoffin - Northern Ireland (34, 37)
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
My husband and I stayed at this hotel the last two weeks in August.
Firstly, the airport. We had heard bad reports about the queues etc.
but this is the quickest we've ever been through an airport. The luggage
was off the plane almost immediately. We were then taken by private taxi
to the botel which only took 10 mins. Going home, because we had booked
Thomson Holidays
a la carte, again we had a private taxi and at the airport, a
rep took us to our check-in desk and we were checked in straight away.
We arrived at the hotel about 11pm and there was a bottle of red wine, a basket of fresh fruit and a fresh flower arrangement waiting in our room. All the rooms are sea view, from where you can also see the old fort, the Greek mainland and Albania.
The location of the hotel is excellent, about a 10 min stroll into Corfu Town and is a peaceful oasis compared to the noise and bustle of the town. The room was a good size with antique-style furniture and a double bed which I had requested. I also recommend you request a high floor as I suspect that the rooms on the lower floors may have limited views (we were on the 4th). There is loads of hangers and wardrobe space and although the bathroom is a bit small, its perfectly adequate.
The bed linen was changed every day as were the room and pool towels and we had a small vase of flowers in the room every day. The mini-bar was expensive, 3 euro 20 for a small bottle of water or lemonade.
The breakfast at this hotel is fantastic - something for everyone. It includes fresh croissants and danish pastries, various meats and cheeses, tomatoes, cucumber, various yoghurts, cereals, breads and jams, pancakes, fresh juice including orange, grapefruit and peach, a toaster, capp/latte machine, a fresh orange juice machine and a variety of hot food including eggs (boiled, scrambled etc), bacon, sausages and mushrooms. You have a choice of sitting outside or in. We had our brekkie about 9am - it was never busy and there was always a good choice of tables.
The pool area and garden areas are fantastic - it is so quiet and again never busy. This is not a hotel for those with children of any age - there is nothing for them to do. The hotel frowns on the use of airbeds and balls in the pool. If your ideal holiday is rest, relaxation, peace and quiet with no children running around, then this is the hotel for you. There was never any problem getting a sun lounger and each pair has a brolly and a table. The pool bar is good also - the beer and wine is approx the same price as in town but the water is seriously over-priced at 3 euro 20. You can buy 4 bottles for the same price in one of the kiosks in town. The snacks menu is good with prices ranging from 6 euro to about 20 euro with good portions. We mainly had toasties, club sandwiches, burgers and fries and omlettes.
The hotel has a manager's cocktail hour every Tue from 7-8pm. Tip - the "cocktails" are like water so its better to have something else like wine or beer which is also complimentary. The manager makes a point of talking to everyone. There is a BBQ night every Thur with entertainment but was a bit pricey at 45 euro a head. The staff at this hotel are friendly, efficient and helpful from the manager to the cleaners. The indoor public areas are immaculate with fresh flower arrangements everywhere.
Corfu Town - do not expect the town to be like other smaller Greek or Cypriot tourist areas. There is no beach and therefore no water sports. There is not karoke bars or english/irish bars, no kids entertainment areas and no activities such as mini golf. None of the tavernas/bars that we were in had entertainment. We found that most of the restaurants around the Liston area are very similar with quite small portions and ranged from about 40 to 65 euros for two courses with wine. They are also very noisy with mopeds zooming around.
The two best restaurants we ate in were the Il Gardino Italian which is in the next street to the hotel and the Poco Loco Mexican which is in Solomon Street, close to the entrace of the New Fort. The portions in both were massive compared to the Greek restaurants and much better value - between 40 and 55 euro and better service. The cocktails in the Liston area are too expensive - 10 euro for a Long Island Iced Tea compared to 5 euro for the same cocktail in the Mexican.
Corfu town is a maze of streets -the hotel provides good maps at
reception to get you around. The shopping areas get very busy and have
weird opening hours - best to ask the rep or at reception. We had
intended to hire a car but the traffic and the driving is just downright
dangerous and we were not brave enough. The Thomson Holidays
reps were very good
at the airport and we didn't need the rep at the hotel.
In all, I would recommend this hotel to anyone but not for those with kids. The clientel seemed to be mainly Greek and English with an age range of mid 30's to 90's and quite a few had stayed at the hotel before.
It is listed in the brochures as five star but it is more like a good four star. Having said that however, the staff, pool area, breakfasts and location of this hotel are definately five star.
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Corfu Palace Hotel - Corfu Town
Operator and Date: (Thomas Cook Direct) Thomas Cook
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
We have just returned from a holiday at the Corfu Palace Hotel in Corfu Town. Although we had a great view from our room and the staff were lovely, we were disappointed with the hotel.
It was advertised as a 5-star. The public areas were quite nice but the bedroom we stayed in was not 5-star. It was shabby and the beds were very uncomfortable. In addition I don't think that they employed enough room cleaners. We have stayed in much better 4-star accommodation.
If you want 5-star luxury, go elsewhere!
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Hotel Mon Repos Palace - Corfu Town
Operator and Date: Tui - June 2005
Opinion submitted in July 2005 by : Chris Crauwels 50, 51
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
The Palace Mon Repos hotel looked clean and 'chique' but was anything but.
It was situated rather well, but at night there was a lot of street noise and in the early morning, terrible noise from dustcollectors etc....For entertainment there was absolutely nothing at all, no pool-table, no table-tennis ... NOTHING.The swimming pool was very very tiny (not just small but really tiny) and the pool-chairs were practically all broken. During the day there was no pool-bar or anything opened, the only thing you could acquire was a tin of coke or lemonade or beer from the reception.
The room we had (231)was very crappy , dangerous and un-hygienic. Water kept running from underneath our bath whenever we took a shower, on top of that, everytime our upper neighbour went to the toilet and flushed, we had water running down our bathroom walls. All this flooded our bathroom regularly, in which case we had to clean it all with towels,the bathmat etc... and then altough it was NOT our fault all our bathlinnen was soaked every day, we did not get any other, untill THEY taught it proper to provide us with some fresh ones (which could be 3 days later or so). Also so the bedlinnen was only changed once a week.
Electric wires were behind the bed unprotected. The airconditioning was also a disaster. It made a noise like a grassmawer and when you sat on the