Anemoessa Luxury Villas

Faros is extremely quiet and far from the island's sights, which isn't what we thought this place would be. Ikaria itself is beautiful, but I'd suggest staying somewhere else in Armenistis or another town on the north side. We expected more after reading the glowing reviews for Anemoessa and left disappointed. It felt like a hotel trying to work as an Airbnb without doing either particularly well. The villas have some amenities, including a nice pool, though the beach is still a five-minute walk away. They seem suited to longer stays, but there's no onsite laundry and the kitchen doesn't have enough utensils for much beyond pasta or eggs. We also tried to book excursions through the hotel concierge to learn about the Ikarian blue zone. Even after sending links, we often heard that they didn't know what it was or how to book it. We don't speak Greek natively, but at other hotels on the islands we've had lovely help learning about places to see and things to do.

Our stay was so relaxing and beautiful, and I hope to return. The villa is walkable to the beach, nearby restaurants, and a market, while the airport is just a short drive away. Check-out was easy. The pool was lovely, with towels provided. Haris and the staff were wonderful, and the villa was perfect. We booked our last two nights in Ikaria with only a day's notice after deciding to leave the lodging we'd planned and paid for farther away. At check-in we got cold water and a local homemade sweet, a bit like Turkish Delight, plus a helpful tour and clear instructions. In the morning, there was a picnic basket with fresh milk, one fresh croissant for each of us, local honey, chocolate spread, homemade bread, cereal, and fresh oranges. The cute Italian fridge had complimentary butter, juice, water, beer, and wine, along with other items for sale at reasonable prices. There was a great selection of coffee and tea, a well-equipped kitchen, and several books on the living room shelf.

A really relaxing atmosphere, and the staff are very friendly. These are easily the most luxurious villas in the southern part of the island.

Amazing villas, in the best location on Ikaria!