The hype
Guests are blown away by the pools and design but often disappointed by the repetitive buffet food and slow service.
Avra Imperial Hotel
$180-350/ nacht
Boek dit als You want a massive, architectural showstopper of a resort where you can dump the kids at a top-tier crèche while you hide in the adults-only wing.
Waarom mensen ervan houden
- The 'Residence Collection' wing offers a genuine sanctuary with private pools and exclusive dining
- Architecturally stunning glass-walled main pool that looks incredible on Instagram
- Apivita Spa is a legitimate destination wellness center, not just a hotel gym with a massage table
Snel Overzicht: A visually spectacular resort that struggles to keep its food and service up to the 5-star promise of its architecture.
Beoordeeld door @thecheltenhammama: We stayed in October and it was perfect. The hotel upgraded us to a massive 2-bedroom suite, and having a driver waiting with car seats at the airport took all the stress away. Hudson and Otto loved the kids' club, so Dave and I actually got spa time!
Gast die hier verbleef zei
Reality check
That 'private pool' you paid extra for might be in the shade all day and too cold to use.
- You are a family with young kids who needs a serious kids' club and crèche
- You book the 'Residence Collection' for the exclusive, quieter experience
- You plan to eat dinner at local tavernas instead of the hotel buffet
Schoonmaak & Onderhoud
8.5
- Housekeeping: Generally solid daily service, though some reports of missed dust under beds.
- Bathroom hygiene: Sparkling interiors, but watch out for black grout in the outdoor private pools.
- Maintenance: Most areas are pristine, but some peeling paint on exterior walls and worn pool tiles.
- Linens & towels: Crisp and clean, though pool towels can be a bit threadbare.
- Odors & scents: Lobby smells expensive (signature scent), but some rooms have musty AC units.
Sleepability™
6.5GEMATIGD
0-4LUID
4-7.5GEMATIGD
7.5-10STIL
- Thin walls between rooms
- Echoing hallways with tile floors
- Main pool noise for inward-facing rooms
Voordat je boekt
Goed om te weten
- The 'Residence Collection' is worth the upgrade for the exclusive breakfast area alone
- Men must wear long trousers at dinner (strictly enforced)
- The indoor pool has restricted hours for children (usually mornings only)
Wat je mee moet nemen
- Water shoes for the pebbly beach
- A European power adapter (plugs are deeply recessed)
- Mosquito repellent for evening dining on the terrace
Kamer Genie
Beste keuzes
- Residence Collection Premium Rooms (for adults/teens) – exclusive access and better soundproofing
- Top-floor suites facing the sea (better views, less overhead noise)
Kamers om te vermijden
- Ground floor rooms with private pools facing North (no sun, freezing water)
- Rooms near the main elevator banks (high foot traffic noise)
Kamer Aanvraag Genie – kopiëren en plakken
“I am requesting a room on the highest possible floor, away from the elevators. If upgrading to a private pool, please ensure it is South or West facing to ensure direct sunlight, as we are concerned about water temperature.”
Veelgestelde vragen & Verborgen tips
Alles wat je eigenlijk wilt weten voordat je boekt.
Is the private pool heated?
Generally NO. Unless you are in a top-tier villa or pay a hefty surcharge (request in advance), assume it will be cold.
Is the beach sandy?
No. It is a mix of grey sand and large pebbles. It's clean, but not soft.
Is it all-inclusive?
Optional. You can book Half Board (breakfast/dinner) or All-Inclusive. Half Board is usually better as local tavernas are cheap and delicious.
Can kids use the indoor pool?
Only during specific 'family hours' (usually 10am-12pm). The rest of the time it is adults-only.
How far is the party town Platanias?
About a 15-minute drive or bus ride. Kolymbari itself is very quiet.
Is there a dress code?
Yes, 'Smart Casual' for dinner. Men need long trousers; no flip-flops or swimwear allowed.
Tips van Insiders
- ✨
Walk 5 minutes west to 'Palio Arhontiko' for meatballs that destroy the hotel buffet.
- ✨
The hotel has a dedicated app—download it before arrival to book a la carte restaurants, as they fill up days in advance.
- ✨
The glass-walled main pool is freezing; the smaller side pools are often warmer and quieter.
5 dingen die je moet weten voordat je gaat
💡The 'private' pools often have zero privacy—neighbors on balconies above can look right down at you.
💡The AC units in some older rooms have a lingering stale tobacco smell.
💡You have to use your room key to access the free underground parking.
💡The 'fresh' orange juice at breakfast is sometimes watered down unless you are in the Residence section.
💡Black mold/grout issues have been reported in the corners of the private pools.
Lokaal Playbook
Kaart
Bekijk waar Avra Imperial Hotel zich bevindt en wat er in de buurt is.