Villa Athena Resort

The hotel is in an amazing location, but the old rooms and the lack of care from staff really spoiled the experience. I didn't feel they put guest satisfaction first. I can't recommend the place unless the accommodation and service improve. It has so much potential in such a prime spot, but there are other real luxury resorts nearby, so we'll stay there next year. Great job losing a high end customer. I booked two rooms, including presidential suite 201, for $2,400 a night. When we arrived, the suite was outdated and showed wear that made it look like it hadn't been remodeled in decades. I expected much more luxury for that price. Room 101, which cost half as much, was actually nicer. After I raised the issue, staff offered room 105, which had been remodeled but wasn't a suite. I appreciated the effort, but having to downgrade after booking a suite at that price was disappointing. They said they'd speak to the booking agency about the price difference or maybe cover dinner. At checkout, though, nothing had been taken off my bill.

The temples are only a 5min walk away and they were stunning. We could just see them from our small balcony. We didn't eat at the hotel because we went out to explore the town. The minibar was well stocked, though expensive. The room was beautiful, with a comfortable bed, lovely toiletries, soft towels, bathrobes, Ortigia toiletries, slippers, and a Dyson hairdryer. From the moment we got out of the car, a porter greeted us and carried our bags in. We checked in while sitting down and were offered a drink, then shown to our room. What made the stay such a treat was the time of year: it cost £80, while a summer night is about £500. Treat yourself to a winter break and stay in luxury.

The location and views are great, and most of the staff were said to be great. One waiter in particular was strange to be around, not rude, but he made lunch and dinner unenjoyable. You'll be charged for water at both meals. Even after spending over $200 euro on food and wine, they charged us for water, though my wife and I probably had only a small half glass each. We drank more wine than water and paid full price for both. There's no A/C or heat unless it's peak summer or winter. It's a beautiful area, but based on what we experienced, I'd spend the money somewhere more humble.

You pay a big premium for the view, and I think it's worth it if you understand that the view gets the attention here, not you. In most 5 Star resorts the guest is the focus. This one isn't. The staff are cold. They do their jobs, but don't seem joyful about it, perhaps because there's no competition. If you want this view, you have to come here. The location is right in the archeological park of the Valley of the Temples, looking straight up at the Temple of Concordia. Amazing. The room and food were fine, and I most enjoyed breakfast. We also ate lunch and dinner there, so we spent 6 hours in the restaurant over a 20 hour period. But it has the view!