Villa Ostria

Kostas and Selina made us feel welcome from the start. They’re warm, kind, helpful and courteous hosts, and we really appreciated the relaxing two weeks at Villa Ostria. With fewer than ten rooms or mini villas, it’s a calm place to unwind. The bed was one of the few where I’ve slept like a baby. We often left the balcony door open and woke up for the sunrise, with at least two neighborhood roosters keeping us company. There’s air conditioning if you need it, and the bathroom had everything we needed. The rooms are simple and just what you’d expect. Ours had a small kitchen with a sink, little stove, fridge, filter coffee machine, microwave and kettle, handy for breakfast or preparing a bite for the beach. We’ll certainly return.

Kostas was a terrific host and a great conversationalist. He let us check in early and went out of his way to help with several other things. Since he owns the villa, there’s plenty of flexibility. The villa has lots of open space, nice views and two balconies. It’s very close to the beach, and the kitchen was fully functional.

The location by Kamari Beach was great, but that was about the only thing in its favor. Before we arrived, we tried several times by phone and text to reach the owners about airport transportation, but couldn’t get hold of them. I’m not sure there’s an office, since we only saw them when they happened to be on the grounds. Our apartment felt old and dusty, and the towels and bedding were rough and scratchy. Maybe it was from being hung out to dry, but it wasn’t what I wanted on vacation.

The location is amazing, and maybe this place was wonderful years ago. These days, I wouldn’t recommend it unless you’re on a very tight budget and mainly want a great location.