Malvasia

Nico, the waiter at Café Malvasia, was a real professional and made us feel so welcome on our 2024 visit that we came back. Sadly, the reception experience this time means we won't return. When the hotel makes a mistake, fails to do its job, acts unprofessionally, overcharges, misses calls, or doesn't properly read or answer emails during peak season, reception seems to blame the guest, lecture them, and claim the hotel is simply too busy. It felt like outright gaslighting. Jimmy at reception came across less like a professional and more like a charlatan. His approach seemed to be deflecting blame with deceptive arguments, then, when that didn't work, getting indignant and using a false air of authority to cover up the hotel's failings. Such a shame.

The price seemed fair, and the place was clean and in a good location. My room, though, was directly above a noisy outdoor AC unit, which made it hard to sleep properly.

We went in mid-June, so it wasn't too crowded, and the place felt lovely and private for a relaxing stay. The women serving breakfast were really friendly and kept the buffet stocked with fresh food. One tip: don't haul your bags along the cobblestone road. Contact the hotel and they'll send someone with a wheelbarrow to carry them, for about 5 euros.

The quiet in this part of Monemvasia, the view, and that magical breakfast keep bringing us back. We've stayed in budget, standard, and premium rooms over the years, and every one was beautiful. Bastione feels like home whenever we visit. We'll be back this April, and many times after that.