Panorama Fanari Studios & Apartments

The location suited us well: it was peaceful, with a 20-minute walk into town and an €8 taxi back up the hill. Going the other way, the lighthouse, a scenic walk, and a little beach were 10-15 minutes away on foot and very picturesque. There’s plenty of parking if you hire a car. Drinks were reasonably priced and available at all times. Although they couldn’t extend checkout by an hour or two when we asked because of our late flight, we appreciated being able to store our luggage and use the shower facilities. Our room was a good size and clean, with a lovely water view from the balcony. The fridge freezer, kettle, and toaster grill were useful; a microwave would have been handy but wasn’t essential. Breakfast was good for a small apartment complex, though don’t expect eggs cooked to order or especially cheerful service. The WiFi was appalling. There were three options, but they all cut out and were weak wherever we tried them. With your own roaming data, that may not matter.

The sunsets were breathtaking, and the name Panorama makes sense. We spent three relaxing, scenic nights here, and I’d recommend it if you want a quiet break away from the hustle and bustle. There were always plenty of sunbeds around the reasonably sized pool, and you could get drinks from the 24/7 bar, mark them on the sheet in your room, then pay at the end. The staff were welcoming and kind, and the local taxi company was easy to reach. A taxi to Argostoli was about €8. Breakfast had a good fresh selection of healthy Greek food, with frappes made to order if you asked. The studio was spacious enough, the bathroom adequate, and the balcony lovely. The air conditioning worked. The bed was a little hard but okay. Makis quickly replaced our pillows with a smile when we had a small issue on the first night.

I had room 18, which was excellent, with a full kitchenette and two balconies, one looking toward the pool and the other toward the sea. The sea view was great. The hotel is quiet but still central, with a nice beach and a few restaurants in Fanari about a ten-minute walk away. Take the dirt road by the traffic mirror. It’s rated three stars, but the service, cleanliness, and upkeep felt five-star. Breakfast was very good and generous, though as a vegetarian I missed having fish such as tuna or herring instead of only cold cuts. The clean pool was big enough for laps. Everyone staying there and all the staff were lovely, with a warm family feeling. On our late-flight departure day, we could spend time by the pool, and the hotel provided clean toilets and showers with towels. I stayed for a week in mid-June and will definitely return.

The view was incredible, and my partner and I watched the sunset most nights. The pool was great for days when we just wanted to relax nearby. The hotel was very well equipped, and all the staff were caring and friendly. Maki, who I believe is the owner, was kind and looked after us. He helped us check in close to 11 pm and order food after our long trip from Milo’s. Dimitri, who provides cars for guests, was also caring and helpful, with suggestions for places to visit. For seeing Kefalonioa, I’d say getting a car is a must. Thanks for having us, Maki and the team. 💙🤍