Elia Apartments

The low price didn’t make up for the condition of the place. We stayed with friends, reported several problems, and most were eventually dealt with, but it’s disappointing that guests had to face them at all. The furniture and equipment feel neglected and like they haven’t been updated in years. I wouldn’t return or recommend it unless there are major improvements. A bed in one unit collapsed, leaving someone sleeping in a hammock-like dip for the night. Our apartment had just one AC, unlike the two in the others, and it barely worked. In another room, the AC above a bunk bed smelled strongly of urine when switched on. It seemed someone may have urinated on the top bunk at some point, and it hadn’t been cleaned properly. There were mornings with no hot water. The fridge door came off twice, even after we reported it the first time and were told it was fine. A toilet seat broke and pinched a friend’s leg badly enough to leave a painful cut. Drapes also fell off the wall in one apartment and nearly hurt our friends.

We came to Afytos as four families, with two apartments and two maisonettes. At least three families had a good time, especially the kids. The hosts made us feel welcome, even giving us a jar of apricot jam and some pickled olives, and the evening chats added a real sense of Greek hospitality. The manager also connected us with a local maker of authentic Khalkidiki olive oil, which was a lovely way to bring home a taste of the area. The pool was a hit with both adults and children, and the location made things easy. There’s what may be the best bakery in town right next door, some of Afytos' best restaurants are a five-minute walk away, and the old town is nearby too. We did have a few issues. One apartment had a single AC in the hallway, less convenient than the two or more in other units, though that may come down to preference. Another family disliked the AC blowing straight at them, but switching rooms was an option. Elsewhere, a toilet seat was broken and a curtain rod wasn’t working. Most things were fixed promptly by management or quietly handled by the cleaners. When we raised a problem, it was sorted out reasonably quickly. The furniture and appliances are practical for a summer holiday, not fancy or state of the art. No place is perfect, and as a former travel guide I’ve seen plenty. We had a positive stay, the price felt fair, and the hosts were warm and attentive when approached. We made good memories with the kids and friends. If you want a polished five-star stay, this might not suit you, but for simple comforts, friendly people and the occasional hiccup, it has plenty of heart.

The pool area is nice, and the rooms are of okay standard, but the table tennis and play area was filthy, with bird droppings and generally unhygienic conditions. Showers in some rooms flood the bathroom, though maybe not all of them. The internet was painfully slow, like 1997, and the AC was locked at 24 or 25°C, making it hard to sleep in the heat. It would be good to have a choice. At checkout, one of the managers wanted to inspect the room as we left and made us feel like an inconvenience. I don’t see the point of that kind of gestapo inspection when the hotel is average. Five-star resorts don’t act like that.

The owner, Juliane, was kind, cheerful and witty, and she responded quickly and positively to all our requests, large or small. The apartment was roomy where it counted, with two bedrooms that weren’t big but were sufficient, each with its own balcony and a larger one off the main bedroom. The living, dining and kitchen areas shared one spacious room. Out front, a lovely terrace tucked among greenery gave us privacy. The centre location was ideal without feeling chaotic or crowded. A well-stocked shop, several restaurants, a lovely bakery and a bar were all just a few metres away. They took out the rubbish each morning, brought fresh towels three times by day five, and had already changed the bedding. Pool towels were available too. Highly recommend this excellent place.