Hotel Romanza

Hotel Romanza

Fond greetings to Stella & Marina, the main receptionists at the hotel. Cheerful, friendly and genuinely helpful to everyone. It's no wonder that so many people return to this small resort when all the locals are so hospitable. Perhaps philoxenia originated here as a concept.

Surrounded by mist on a cool July morning

Even the waiter of Brusco's mentioned the cuisine at this hotel, since all the eateries are always on the look-out for improving their cooking and enhancing the quality of their output. So, hats-off (and bikinis & trousers) to Andreas (who's now at the Manthos) for the outstanding a la carte food here. His family do all the donkey-work and his mother is an exceptional chef(ette?). We ate in several times and had fabulous meals. There was the added bonus of the view, which is stunning (see above). Whether you choose traditional fare, like sofrito. or steaks, you'll get a treat.

Some complain about the location. The hotel is situated at the top of a winding steep hill from the village (about 15 minutes if taken steadily). But there is a track down through the gardens zigzagging around the cliffs (seem to be pirate-trails) which takes barely 5 minutes down. I'm not sure if you'd want to climb back up that way and in the night the road is essential. Get to know the neighbour, though, and you'll probably get an invite to short-cut through his gardens!

The rooms at the hotel are quite compact, compared with, say, those in Rhodes. But all are positioned to avoid midday sun and excessive heat and to provide the best angle and views of the daily sunset spectacle.

Room with a view

Just happened to be popping to the bar when I grabbed this shot

However, there are huge reeds growing on the cliffs and it is wild territory. You will definitely require insect-repellant or anti-mozzy spray. (Beware! The wasps love the wine-season and get aggressive in the autumn). The sting-relief tubes are also compulsory here, if you get nipped. You could get overwhelmed if you don't prepare properly or thoroughly. Once I had rolled-on I could rock with the best. To do otherwise would be foolish and painful. Kounoupia rule here.and finally.........a sunset to end all sunsets!