Aliv Stone Suites & Spa

The people here made the stay feel like visiting friends. The owners and staff were so welcoming and helpful, and a big thanks to Joe, Lena, Ria, Teo, Melina, Costa, Pitt, and the Housekeeping team for keeping our room spotless every day. We also loved seeing the owners’ dogs, Balu and Orfia, in the lobby. They’re adorable, and we miss them already. Our room was spacious, very clean, and had a fantastic sea view. The hotel itself is modern and stylish, with a beautiful beach and sea right there. Breakfast was great, especially the cheese pie. The restaurant meals were the one letdown, as the flavors felt a little underwhelming for a hotel of this class. We hope they improve that. It was a special, unforgettable stay for us. If we return to the island, it’ll be to see the staff again and swim in that sea we fell for. Sending love from Italy, Ceren &Akin.

The private pool and the view were fantastic, and the place felt quiet and spotless. It’s beautifully designed, with friendly, helpful staff. A relaxing spot that’s still close to beaches and attractions. I’d happily stay again.

The property itself is lovely, and the developers did a good job. The people running it, though, made the experience awful. I came back so unhappy that I considered reporting them to the Greek tourism board. The owners seemed to look at guests with hostility because they assumed we had money. Staff tried hard, but the service didn’t match the price or the image of the hotel. It’s a disgraceful way to run a business. They present it as having a spa, but there’s only an outside massage provider, who needs to be booked ahead and was always fully booked when I tried. There aren’t active spa staff. The food also fell far short of how it’s advertised, with supposedly excellent produce and chefs. I could cook better myself after a weeknight at work. They take the pots and pans out of rooms, so guests can’t cook. Taxis won’t come to the area, and they don’t say that it isn’t walkable, leaving you stuck paying for the hotel’s overpriced, bad food. The one time I asked for a ride, it cost €30 for a 4 min trip to a local restaurant. It was the owner’s personal car. I was dressed for a nice meal, but the car was filthy and I had to sit in the back with a dog. Stay clear.

The boat trip to ship wreak beach and the blue caves was a real highlight. The restaurant has a great view, and the staff make an effort to meet your needs. The rooms were spacious and clean, too. Since it’s family-run, they make you feel like part of the family once you’re there.