Review & Pictures by Shaun Troke
Disappointment.
This was my initial feeling at the Hotel Akroyiali.
Not because of the hotel itself – the disappointment was because I’d be spending LESS than 24 hours here.
Upon first impressions, the Hotel Akroyiali seemed to have everything you could want from a visit to Halkidiki:
It stands just metres from the beach..
The town it’s located in (Olympiada) cries out to be explored…
And, the staff made me feel welcome as soon as I arrived…
SETTLING IN
Within minutes, the owner of the hotel – Dimitris – did what he’s good at, by making his new guest feel individual. Charismatic – and, a born again hippy – he & his sister run TWO hotels in Olympiada: Hotel Akroyiali (formally Germany) and Hotel Liotopi.
Dimitris’ knowledge of the area is impressive, especially since he volunteers at the nearby attraction, Ancient Stageira, the birthplace of Aristotle, where Dimitris is able to share his historic passion with those visiting the site (I’ll always remember Dimitris’ story of vibrators from 2,600 years ago!)
But, back to the settling in…
My room had an incredible sea view.
I cannot begin to tell you how sad I am that I wasn’t able to spend much time on the balcony…
Just relaxing to the sound of the waves crashing on the shore just metres away.
The bathroom also stood out. The walk-in shower and stone walls really give it true feel of Greek authenticity.
EATING OUT
Like half of the rooms in the hotel, the adjoining tavern looks out onto the ocean…
‘Akroyiali’ does mean ‘seafront’ after all.
The family built restaurant is an incredibly organic place, serving home-grown food, specialising in fish caught from nearby seas.
Portions are large, and, meals are served with wine that is made by a friend of the owner.
The first dish I tried at the tavern was a Rocket Salad, with sun-dried tomatoes & raisin walnuts. Absolutely delicious!
THE MORNING AFTER
I was invited to have breakfast at the sister hotel, Liotopi.
The breakfast included so many choices, and it wasn’t long before heading on my way to another part of the Municipality of Aristotle…
This review is incredibly short, yet you’re bluntly warned that one night at the Hotel Akroyiali will NOT be enough…a week minimum is recommended.
I hope to return again to the Hotel Akroyiali, to see more of the local area, and, enjoy the company of the best host Olympiada has to offer…
Will you have me back, Dimitris?
Book your stay at Hotel Akroyiali HERE!
You can find out more about Olympiada & Halkidiki in our series GOING SOLO, available to watch here on YouTube!