Joy Hotel

I spent a week here with my mum and my three kids, who are in their late teens, and we had a wonderful time. The hotel was lovely and such good value. The pool is beautiful, with plenty of loungers and luxury beanbag ones that are easy to fall asleep on. The best part was the staff. Damia's sons were polite, friendly, funny and helpful, and so easy to like. Demitrius felt like an old family friend, gave us tips on beautiful places to see, and helped with anything we needed. The scenery is beautiful, and it’s just five minutes from Sidari strip, so it’s a great spot for a family holiday or a night out. I can’t fault the trip. We’ve had fun on plenty of holidays, but this is the first time we’ve all agreed we definitely want to return to the same place. Go to the Damia, you won’t regret it. 5🌟

We first came during covid, so this second visit showed us how much has changed since the restrictions, including food being served. We had such a good time together, and after chatting with other guests, we’ve all booked for the same time next year. Damia and her family made us feel incredibly welcome and went out of their way to help. The hotel sits in a quiet part of Sidari, away from the strip. The walk into town is along a road with a limited footpath, though it’s lit for most of the way, or a taxi costs €7. Our rooms looked fresh, had pool views, and were cleaned every other day. Dimitri and Nikolas were great at the bar and seemed to know just when to top up our glasses. Quiz night was fun too, thanks Dimitri! We hired a car and explored the island, visiting places Dimitri recommended. We couldn’t fault the hotel, and it’s sad to think harsh reviews can hurt a business.

The only decent part was the pool, although even that had dead spiders in it. We paid for two four-sleeper studios, but they tried to put my son and me in just one. After that, one of us was given a double room with a foul-smelling toilet. The owners knew what they were doing and were trying to fiddle us. The rooms were dirty and dark, with fingerprints all over the cupboards and light switches. There was no hot water before 9am. The cups, plates, cutlery, and bedding were dirty too. The complex was full of wasps, so be careful. The nests are in an olive tree behind the complex. We left early. I’d rather be at home than feel so minging. Disgusting place, and the owners are dishonest and just want your money. Never again.

The main reason I wouldn’t book here again is the location. It’s quite a walk to the start of the Sidari strip, and the road is poorly lit, with no footpaths, which feels dangerous. The rooms are basic but have what you need, and the pool and garden areas were clean. The advertised BBQ nights didn’t happen. The restaurant served breakfast and lunch only, which was disappointing after seeing online pictures of what looked like decent meals.