Escape to Paradise: Elena Hotel, Arkitsa, Greece - Your Dream Vacation Awaits!
Escape to Paradise: Elena Hotel, Arkitsa, Greece - My Dream Vacation… Really? (Let's Be Honest!)
Okay, folks, buckle up. I just got back from the Elena Hotel in Arkitsa, Greece, and I have opinions. This isn't your typical dry, brochure-speak review. This is the real deal. We're talking sunshine, feta, and maybe a little bit of my own existential dread mixed in. Because, let's face it, even paradise has its quirks. Let's dive in, shall we?
First Impressions & Accessibility (or the lack thereof… sometimes)
Landing at the Elena Hotel? Gorgeous setting, overlooking the Aegean, postcard-perfect. And the building itself? Classy. But… let's talk accessibility. Wheelchair accessible? Hmm, sort of. The website says so, but I’m not sure I’d want to navigate some of the cobblestone paths around the pool with a wheelchair. The elevator is there, which is a huge win. Facilities for disabled guests? They appear to have some rooms designed for accessibility, which is a plus. But, honestly, I didn't see it firsthand. This area could REALLY use a double-check. Exterior corridor access is there for easy entry. Which is good.
Then, there's the Internet!
Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! Yep, and it actually works! Even better, Internet access – wireless in the rooms and Wi-Fi in public areas is solid. Internet [LAN] is mentioned as well. Though I didn't use that. This is important in this day and age.
Things to Do (and Not Do!) - Oh, the Relaxation…
Okay, so, Things to do? This is where the Elena Hotel shines, especially if you're into chilling. It's all about ways to relax. Let's start with the good stuff. The Spa? Yes, please! Spa/sauna? You betcha. Sauna? Absolutely. Steamroom? Oh, my aching muscles, YES! They also offer a Body scrub and a Body wrap. I indulged in a scrub and immediately felt like a new human. I'm going to be honest, I never scrubbed my body before this trip. But I'm a changed man! The Massage was heavenly. Seriously, melt-into-the-table good. I’m not usually a spa person, but after a couple of stressful weeks, it was exactly what I needed.
But it's not all perfect relaxation. Fitness center? Yep. Gym/fitness? Yes. I glanced at it. Looked… adequate. I did the Pool with view, also amazing. The Swimming pool [outdoor] is gorgeous. The view is stunning. The Swimming pool itself is clean and well maintained. Overall, fantastic.
Cleanliness and Safety - Can We Trust the Greeks? (Just Kidding… Mostly)
This is the 2024 reality, folks. We gotta talk about safety. I was genuinely impressed. Anti-viral cleaning products? Check. Daily disinfection in common areas? Check. Hand sanitizer? Everywhere. Hygiene certification? I didn't see a certificate hanging, but it was clearly a priority. Individually-wrapped food options? Yes, at breakfast, and the usual suspects. Physical distancing of at least 1 meter? They encouraged it, which made me feel comfortable. Rooms sanitized between stays? Absolutely. This is definitely a high priority, which is great. Safe dining setup? Yep. Sanitized kitchen and tableware items? Again, evidence of meticulous attention. Staff trained in safety protocol? Yes. They were all wearing masks when serving and moving around. This shows a real dedication. They also have First aid kit and a Doctor/nurse on call. It's all fairly reassuring.
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking - Let's Get to the Food!
This is where the Elena Hotel truly excels. Restaurants? Yup, multiple (Coffee/tea in restaurant, Bar, Poolside bar, Snack bar). I loved the A la carte in restaurant and the Buffet in restaurant - and the Breakfast service was fantastic. They serve Asian breakfast, which I didn't try, but hey, options! Seriously, the Breakfast [buffet] was incredible. The fresh fruit alone was worth getting out of bed for. They also have Western breakfast and International cuisine in restaurant too. Seriously, the food was GREAT. The Desserts in restaurant were amazing, too. I always finished my dinner with a sweet treat. Coffee/tea in restaurant was always available. I was a big fan of the Soup in restaurant. The Salad in restaurant was amazing. I'm not a big salad guy, but this place changed me. The Bottle of water provided was great.
Services and Conveniences - The Good, the Bad, and the "Meh"
Okay, so, the usual suspects are here. Air conditioning in public area. Air conditioning in all rooms. Daily housekeeping was impeccable – they were efficient, and the rooms were sparkling. Doorman? Nope. Elevator? Yes. Concierge? Yep! Currency exchange? They had it, which was handy. Dry cleaning and Laundry service available. Luggage storage was super convenient. Safety deposit boxes – always a plus. Car park [free of charge] and Car park [on-site], all good. Food delivery is listed, but you can’t order to your room via their app. Cash withdrawal is available, which is a plus. Gift/souvenir shop? Definitely.
The "meh" category? Honestly, some of the business facilities felt a little… dated. Business facilities, it says. They have Meeting/banquet facilities, which looked okay, but not exactly cutting-edge. Air conditioning in public area. I didn't use any of the Audio-visual equipment for special events facilities, so I can't say much!
Available in All Rooms – Your Home Away From Home… Kind Of
Okay, rooms! Honestly, the rooms were comfortable. Air conditioning was a lifesaver. Alarm clock? Check. Bathrobes? Yes, and they were fluffy! Bathrooms are good, and come with Toiletries . Bathtub in some, Shower in others. Blackout curtains were a godsend. Coffee/tea maker was a nice touch. Complimentary tea was good. Daily housekeeping, as mentioned. Desk was present. Hair dryer was powerful enough. In-room safe box, always appreciated. Internet access – wireless, as, well as Internet access – LAN. Ironing facilities was awesome. Mini bar was on point. Non-smoking rooms are available. Private bathroom was great. Refrigerator was handy. Satellite/cable channels and Shower options were good. Smoke detector good to know. Sofa was present. Telephone was there, but who calls anymore? Wake-up service worked.
For the Kids – Bringing the Tiny Humans?
Family/child friendly? Yes. Babysitting service? They offer it. Kids facilities there were.
Getting Around – Freedom of Navigation (or Lack Thereof)
Airport transfer is available, which is a huge bonus. Taxi service is available. Car park [free of charge] on-site. Car park [on-site].
Things I Wish I Knew Before – The Honest Truth
Look, the Elena Hotel is generally fantastic. But, and this is important, it's not perfect. Here's the honest truth:
- The Proposal Spot: Yeah, that’s not just “a spot.” It's the spot. It’s the romantic, Instagram baiting spot right at the edge of the property. If you're looking for a spot to get engaged, this is it. Very well done.
- The Staff: Mostly amazing, especially the spa staff. But there was a slight language barrier sometimes. Be patient (and maybe learn a few basic Greek phrases!).
- The Drive: Arkitsa is a bit off the beaten path. Renting a car is the best way to get here.
- The Beach: It's not like a white sand, paradise beach if that's what you're looking for.
My Verdict?
Even with a few minor hiccups, the Elena Hotel is a winner. The spa alone is worth the trip. The views are breathtaking. The food is incredible. It's a perfect place to escape and actually relax.
My Crazy, Honest, Persuasive Offer to YOU!
**Ready to Ditch the Real World? Book your Escape
Byron Bay Beachfront Paradise: Stunning 2BR Bayside Court Oasis!
Okay, buckle up buttercup, because this isn't your average, sanitized travel itinerary. This is my Arkitsa, Greece meltdown… I mean, adventure itinerary. We're aiming for chaotic good. Think less "perfectly curated Instagram grid" and more "sweaty tourist clutching a melting gelato, desperately trying to remember where they parked the rental car." Here we go…
Elena Hotel Arkitsa: A Hot Mess Express Itinerary (with a sprinkle of sunshine)
Day 1: Arrival & Immediate Panic
- 08:00 AM (ish): Land in Athens. (Okay, “land” is generous. More like “bump slightly on the runway.”) My carry-on (bless its little heart) barely made it through the luggage carousel. I swear, it’s a David and Goliath situation every time I fly.
- 09:30 AM: Hire a taxi to the bus station to take me to Arkitsa.. The driver, Giorgios, immediately starts talking about his favorite taverna in Piraeus, which, to his credit, sounds amazing. I zone out a little. I'm already overwhelmed, and the Greek sun is a beast.
- 11:00 AM: Bus journey to Arkitsa. This is already shaping up to be a full-blown symphony of the soul. The journey is nice, and the view is a godsend.
- 13:00 PM: I made it to the hotel! Check-in at the Elena Hotel. The lobby is actually really charming, even if the receptionist looks perpetually bewildered by my attempts at speaking Greek. They gave me a room, and the key won't work. Sigh.
- 13:30 PM: Finally in my room. The first thing I do? Check for bed bugs. (I know, I'm a paranoid mess. But I saw one travel documentary and now I'm permanently scarred.) The room is basic, but the little balcony has a view of the sea, which instantly soothes my travel-addled soul. Score one for Greece!
- 14:00 PM: Lunch at the Hotel Restaurant. I eat a delicious greek salad, I really wanted to eat the cheese but I should control myself.
- 16:00 PM: I decided to stroll around the beach. The beach is nice but not extremely clean…
- 18:00 PM: I'm so tired, I decide to go to bed. Maybe tomorrow the world will turn around.
Day 2: Embracing the Chaos (and the Tzatziki)
- 09:00 AM: Breakfast at the hotel. The coffee is strong, the yogurt is thick and perfect. I'm feeling slightly less like an alien and slightly more like… a human who might actually survive this trip.
- 10:00 AM: Figure out how to work this TV. (Spoiler alert: I fail. Technology and I are not friends.)
- 11:00 AM: Wander through the town. Arkitsa is… small. In a charming way. I spend a solid hour just staring at the boats bobbing in the harbour, contemplating the meaning of life. (Or maybe I was just really, really tired.) I make the mistake of stopping at a gelato shop and get a pistachio ice cream.
- 13:00 PM: Lunch at a Taverna. I choose a restaurant called "Something About Greece." The food is… divine. I order the moussaka, and it's like a warm hug from the Greek sun. I eat the entire thing, and I feel zero regrets. The waiter (who, bless his heart, understands my broken Greek) smiles, and I'm convinced I'm in culinary heaven.
- 15:00 PM: I went to the beach for a while. The water in Arkitsa is not the clearest, it's alright.
- 18:00 PM: Dinner at Elena Hotel. I eat some kebab and feel I'm falling in love with this place.
Day 3: Double Down on Delicious & Possibly Get Lost
- 09:00 AM: Breakfast at the hotel. The breakfast is good.
- 10:00 AM: I want a walk on the beach. I ask the hotel receptionist where the beach is and they look at me as if I was an alien. I make it to the beach, and it's very clean finally!
- 13:00 PM: Lunch at my favorite Taverna, "Something About Greece." I ordered again a delicious Moussaka. I don't feel guilty.
- 15:00 PM: "Adventure" time. (Read: I attempt the impossible and rented a bike.) I think I'm going to try cycling around the area. This whole "driving on the right side of the road" thing is proving to be a real challenge, but I'm determined.
- 16:00 PM: I got lost right after beginning my biking adventure. I wanted to go around a little village, but got lost. I am a disgrace.
- 18:00 PM: Dinner at the hotel. This time I eat a delicious fish and some other vegetables.
Day 4: Melancholy Morning, Sunsets & Reflections
- 09:00 AM: Breakfast at the hotel. The breakfast is good.
- 10:00 AM: I think I'm going home… I'm already feeling melancholy. I should enjoy as much as I can. I went to the beach, and walked around.
- 13:00 PM: Lunch at "Something About Greece." The moussaka is perfect, as always. I ordered a greek salad too…
- 15:00 PM: Walk around Arkitsa. I buy a souvenir. I bought a stone. Seems cool.
- 19:00 PM: I watch the sunset from my balcony. The sky is a riot of oranges and purples, and for a moment, everything feels… right. This sunset, I decide, is the reason I came. It's enough to make me forgive the bed bug paranoia and the near-death experience on the bike.
- 20:00 PM: A final meal at a taverna. I order my last moussaka and reflect on how many times I have eaten the moussaka.
Day 5 : Farewell, Greece (Until Next Time)
- 09:00 AM: Last breakfast at the hotel. I savour every bite, knowing I'll be back to scrambled eggs in no time.
- 10:00 AM: Check out of Elena Hotel. I say goodbye to the receptionist that was very kind.
- 11:00 AM: The bus to Athens. I look back at Arkitsa, and I feel a mix of sadness and gratitude.
- 12:00 PM: I go to the airport. Now the journey to home begins.
- 20:00 PM: I arrive home.
Post-Trip Reflections (Because I'm a Rambler):
- I did not master the Greek language. I did not master the bike. I did, however, master the art of eating moussaka. And that, my friends, is a victory.
- The Elena Hotel was not perfect, but it was clean and the restaurant staff were a blessing.
- This trip was an adventure. A beautiful, chaotic, often-sweaty adventure. And I can't wait to do it all over again.
- I will return to Greece soon.
Escape to Paradise: Elena Hotel, Arkitsa, Greece - Your Dream Vacation Awaits! (But Will It *Actually*?)
Okay, let's get real. You're looking at the Elena Hotel, right? Arkitsa? Greece? Good choice, maybe. Let's see if my experience can actually help, or just confuse you further. Buckle up, buttercup.
So, the Elena Hotel... is it REALLY on the beach? I've been burned before.
Okay, here's the lowdown. Yes, *technically* it's "on" the beach. But think... *a very Greek definition of "on."* It's right there, yeah. Step out the back, cross this... little dirt lane (more like a goat path, honestly – and I *saw* a goat, people! A GREEK GOAT!), and BOOM. Beach. It's not white sand, mind you. Think more pebbles and smallish rocks. Bring water shoes. TRUST ME. I spent a solid morning whimpering after a rogue wave decided to rearrange my ankle. The beach is... functional. The *views*? Spectacular. Seriously. Just... watch your feet. And maybe avoid bringing a delicate sun hat. Mine got lost in the wind, never to be seen again. Tragic.
What about the food? I need good food. I *crave* good food. Is it all just... souvlaki?
Okay, food is important. Vital, even. Life-affirming! The Elena Hotel restaurant... well, let's just say it's got character. Some days it's pure gold. The Greek salad? AMAZING. Fresh, vibrant, the tomatoes tasted like sunshine (I'm not even kidding). Other days... let's just say the chicken was a little... *challenging.* I swear, I had a piece that could've doubled as a doorstop. They also have a BBQ night, or at least they *had* a BBQ night, the night I was there, it was more a chaotic mess of grilled meats and a serious lack of serving spoons. But hey, the house wine was cheap and plentiful. And sometimes, that's all you need, right? Oh! And the breakfast? The yogurt is heavenly. Seriously, get the yogurt. Skip the questionable scrambled eggs. Take my word on this. Learn from my protein-induced misery.
The rooms? Are they clean? Because bedbugs are my nightmare.
Okay, sanity check on bedbugs. Deep breaths. My room? Pretty clean. (Cue me frantically inspecting the mattress now for a second time... just in case). It's not a five-star luxury hotel, mind you. Think more... functional. The decor is... let's call it "vintage." The air conditioning? Worked sporadically. I'm talking the kind of sporadically that leaves you sweating in the middle of the night, feeling like you're about to *literally* melt. The shower pressure? Also... sporadic. But hey, the view from my balcony was killer, overlooking the sea. And the bed was comfy enough. Definitely bring earplugs, though. The cicadas? They sing an opera *all night long.* You'll hear them. They'll haunt your dreams. Honestly, I'm still humming their tune. It's a sonic assault.
What's the area around the hotel like? Is there anything to *do* besides sit on a pebble beach?
Alright, Arkitsa. It's not Mykonos, people. It's a sleepy little town. Which, honestly, is part of its charm. There are some tavernas (check!), a couple of shops (mostly selling beach essentials and gaudy souvenirs), and a *very* laid-back vibe. You can rent a car (do it! seriously, explore!), take a ferry to some nearby islands, or just... chill. Read a book. Drink coffee. Watch the world go by. If you're looking for wild nightlife and all that jazz, this ain't it. This is about slowing down. *Getting away* from it all. And for me? That's exactly what I needed. Though, I gotta admit, after a few days, my brain started craving a bit more than just the sound of the waves. But that's me. Maybe pack a deck of cards. Or learn Greek.
What's the staff like? Are they friendly? Can they speak English?
The staff? They're... sweet. Generally. Greek hospitality is a real thing, folks. They try their best. English skills varied. Some were fluent, some were... less so. But they were always happy to help, even if it involved a lot of gesturing and me using an old phrasebook I found in the back of a closet. There was this one woman, Stella (I think), who worked at the bar. She poured a mean Ouzo and always had a smile. She was a gem. Really, the staff felt like family. A slightly dysfunctional, occasionally forgetful family, but a family nonetheless. Don't be afraid to ask for things. They’ll try. Just be patient. And learn to say "Efharisto" (thank you) – that goes a LONG way. (Okay, and maybe "Please" too, it's just polite).
Is there Wi-Fi? Because, you know, the modern world...
Wifi. Ah, wifi. Let me tell you about wifi. There *is* wifi. Technically. It seems to exist. It might work in the lobby. Maybe. Probably not in your room. Seriously, expect intermittent connectivity. Like, *really* intermittent. I'm talking, you spend half your vacation furiously refreshing your email and the other half shouting at your laptop. Embrace the digital detox, my friend. You *will* be forced to. And if you're like me, you'll actually revel in it. The first day, I was itching to check my emails. By day three? I was a zen master, happily disconnected and staring at the Aegean Sea. (Which, by the way, is gorgeous. Absolutely stunning).
Would you go back? Seriously, would *you*?
Okay, the million-dollar question. Would *I* go back? Hmmm... That's a tough one. It's not perfect. Far from it. There were moments of pure frustration. Like, when the water went cold mid-shower after a long day at the beach. Or the time I spilled red wine all over my white trousers (don't wear white trousers, people, ever!). Or when I *swallowed a bug* when I was laughing, on the balcony, watching the sunset, while drinking cheap Greek wine... (okay, that was my fault). But, you know what? Despite the imperfections, the wonkiness, the occasional culinary disappointment and the questionable wifi... yeah, I think I *would* go back. The location is stunning. The people are lovely. The pace of life is slow and relaxing. It’s not slick; it’s not polished. It's real. And thereFindelicious Hotels
