Like most who visit Greece we set out on a romp through carefully selected idyllic sun-drenched islands. The sun however decided to team up with the wind and our boat to milos was canceled so back to Athens we went with 6 daunting extra days in a big city - which since we come from one was a bummer. Enter the suggestion to head for Peloponnesus and let me say this - what a fortuitous turn of events. Started in charming nafplio which was sweet and lovely and then headed to Piana - the hometown of a friend and into the PERFECT accommodations of Hotel Papanikola. Host Dimitris and his family seem to pay attention to every detail. After a day exploring secluded beach coves and ancient places built into rocks, Dimitris’ homemade locally sourced pizza and killer tsipuro on the deck overlooking the entire valley and town church felt like we found paradise. The room was beautiful and the beds super comfortable, I intend to order those pillows when I get home. Really this place is on par with a five star hotel and Michelin chef - I’ve been to those and would actually prefer Hotel Papanikola. From there we hiked to two monasteries and had the leftover pizza by the Loisios River gorge. So sure, hit the islands if that is what you came for, but also try the Peloponnesus and if you do, Papanikola is a must. You will be...
Read moreWe stayed in the upstairs suite of Hotel Papanikola. We found the accommodations comfortable and relaxing. Our room was quiet and had an excellent view of the nearby mountains. We were greeted by the chirping birds every morning. ||||The room had a fireplace, an ample sitting area with chairs and a table with a large bowl of local walnuts and a decanter of Port wine. There was also a refrigerator loaded with water, sodas and candy and snacks. A kettle was available to make tea or coffee at your desire. ||||More importantly, the owners were kind and saw to every detail. We enjoyed the open family room in the downstairs lobby area which had a large fireplace and comfy furniture to relax. ||||We took advantage of a cooking class and learned to make prasopita a traditional leek and onion filled pita from the hotel owner and chef Dimitris. We now make this dish at home for friends and family ||||They also serve a lovely continental breakfast of local bread, meats, and cheese along with a specialty item like rice pudding or French toast. It's a wonderful way to...
Read moreHotel Papanikola is a fantastic guesthouse, surrounded by fabulous nature and run by amazing, greatly hospitable people.
We hosted our yoga retreat there and we were amazed by their care and their hospitality. Each room is unique, decorated with traditional elements, spacious and super beautiful. The beds are very comfortable, the cleanliness is spotless. Every room has its own pretty balcony with unbelievable views. The suites have their own fireplaces and they are awesome.
Each morning they serve traditional breakfast with freshly made local delicacies. We enjoyed their handmade spinach pies and cheesepies, eggs from their chickens, amazing chocolate cake with espresso- creme frosting, handmade marmalades and local honey among others, in the amazing veranda
On top of that, Piana is a very picturesque village that serves as an excellent point for explorations of the fantastic area.
We are...
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