Iris Beach Hotel

I felt right at home here, and had a wonderful four days exploring Monemvasia and the peninsula. This was easily the best value hotel of my month-long trip around Peloponnese, and one of my favourites. I’ll definitely come back when I’m in the area. The owner and staff were so kind and flexible. My room was spotless, felt new, and had a lovely, coordinated design. There was a little balcony, a sliding mosquito screen that also kept out the sun, and an efficient, quiet AC. They refilled filtered water daily when I asked, a nice, more sustainable touch. The lobby also had a cute shared living room with books. The beach is a one-minute walk away. I’d climb over a small hill and have the next cove to myself, with beautiful swimming water and a great view of Monemvasia. My favourite Taverna of the whole trip, O Takis, was also within walking distance.

From the room and terrace, we had an amazing view of Monemvasia rock. The beach is great too, just a two-minute walk through the garden. The rooms were bright and clean, breakfast was complete, and the staff were wonderful, with lots of advice about the area. And if you like cats, the mascot is always happy to cuddle.

The beach bag, towels, and sun umbrellas for guests were a great touch, and our room was very clean with air conditioning that worked really well. But we had serious plumbing trouble and not enough hot water. The showers were tiny, the beds stiff and uncomfortable, and breakfast was only okay and very sparse. I wouldn't recommend it. I would have paid extra for somewhere better.

The room was nowhere near the condition shown on booking.com or google and really needs substantial refurbishment. Bathroom drainage was poor too, with water repeatedly overflowing from the floor siphon when we showered or used the basin. During our three-day stay, the sheets and towels weren't changed, and the garbage was taken out only once. For me, it wasn't worth the price, and I wouldn't recommend it. The location is very nice, with a view of the rock of Monemvasia and access to a lovely beach. Facilities are basic, breakfast decent, and the staff polite and responsive.