Anna Studios

Zola has very few facilities, so get supplies at a supermarket before you arrive. There’s one taverna, and you’ll need a car to get around. The roads into and out of the village are hairy, as is the drive down to the beach, but the beach is worth it. We stayed for four days at the start of July 2024 and really enjoyed it. Anna runs the hotel, and the rooms are modern, spotless, and well looked after. Ours was comfortable for two, though we spent most of our time on the balcony, looking out over the Ionian Sea.

The evenings can be a little noisy, with the neighbors’ roosters and goats, which might bother light sleepers. The view, though, is five-star. Anna also takes care of the flowers all around the property, and they’re lovely. It’s self-catering, but the host collects the rubbish every few days if you haven’t taken it to the dumpster yourself. Booking by email was very easy, and Anna was ready to help with any request. She even gave us fresh fruit from her garden. The location has a great view across Agia Kiriaki bay and is very convenient. The kitchen made it easy to feel at home, with an electric stove, extractor hood, fridge and freezer, plenty of dishes and cutlery, a kettle, and a sandwich maker. The shower had very good water pressure. Our bedding was changed once during the stay, and towels were changed every two or three days, or whenever we asked.

The views are incredible, and Anna is always around to offer help or advice. The place is clean and lovely, set in Zola, where people are friendly and the sea and surrounding mountains make a beautiful combination. Agia Kiriaki beach below is clean and gorgeous, and local fishermen bring in fresh fish. It feels close to paradise. If you stay here, ask Anna to show you the turtles in her garden.

We’re staying here for the third year, and Anna and Nikos have become real friends. They’re such pleasant people and always try to make you feel welcome. The apartments are clean and comfortable, with a spectacular view across the whole bay. You’re by the sea but up on a mountain, and it never gets too hot because there’s always a breeze. Vouti and Agia Kyriaki, two of the most beautiful beaches around Myrtos Bay, are nearby.