Hotel Pantheon, Kefalos

I've never stayed anywhere in my 37 years on this floating space rock where you can head to the pool and count on having sun loungers, plural. Janet, the lovely lady in charge, somehow manages to be nearby exactly when you need her, and almost nothing is too much trouble. The rest of the Pantheon family make you feel more like one of their own than a guest. I'm writing this from their terrace on my second visit in as many years. If it's your first time in Kos and you want ideas for places to see, ask Janet. She has printed maps marked with nice places to visit, and they're all lovely. The family are friendly, and Teddy, who has the run of the place, gives you a welcome just like Janet and the others. The rooms are spacious and clean, the atmosphere is peaceful and relaxing, and the food and drink are fairly priced for the portions.

The hilltop setting is so peaceful, and the views are absolutely stunning. Janet, Panos, Sevi and Yanis made us feel welcome from the start. We were there with our family and our grandson Toby, who loved them all. It’s a family run place, and nothing felt like too much trouble. If walking is difficult, you can hire a car through Janet or Panos at the hotel. We had such a lovely stay and plan to return to pantheon next year. The Cogle family.

The two hotels share a pool, with plenty of sunbeds but only six umbrellas for more than 30 beds. Be aware that Pantheon View and Pantheon Hotel are separate places about 20 metres apart. They used to be one hotel and are now run by two brothers. Pantheon Hotel, run by the brother and Janet, serves cooked breakfasts and evening meals in its restaurant. Pantheon View has no hot food and only a very simple breakfast of cereal, toast and coffee. Rooms.

The sea views are lovely from all around the hotel, including the balcony, and the new dining area looks out over the water too. We enjoyed the food and drinks, with plenty to choose from and daily specials. Sevi’s banana bread and chocolate ice cream were a highlight. There are beers, cider, cocktails, soft drinks, juice, iced coffee, milkshakes and iced water, plus lots of crisps and chocolate biscuits at the bar. We appreciated being able to use the bars and seating areas at both hotels, and the shared pool had lots of sunbeds. Around 10 are shaded all day, while the rest are in sun or under shared parasols. The rooms were fine and had air conditioning, though we barely spent time inside. The balcony was perfect. It was our first trip to Kos, and Janet greeted us warmly at the Pantheon Hotel. She, her husband and their two children run this side of the two hotels and made the atmosphere feel friendly, fun and relaxed. We soon felt like we were among family. In the evenings, Janis (I hope I spelt that right) puts on chilled music and serves drinks, making for a relaxing place to unwind as the sun sets and the breeze comes through. Pantheon can arrange car hire at a good price, and we found it quick and simple. Driving around the island was easy, as it’s one road from end to end. Kos town is busy, while we liked the quieter Kardemena. They also recommend trips through Ztours, which can be booked at reception for a low price. We loved the Zia sunset tour. My wife liked the book cupboard by reception, where guests can swap books they’ve read for ones left by others. We’ll definitely come back and bring our children next time! Josh & Beth :)