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/ notte
Prenota se 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.
Perché piace così tanto
- 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
In sintesi: A visually spectacular resort that struggles to keep its food and service up to the 5-star promise of its architecture.
Recensito da @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!
Cosa hanno detto gli ospiti che hanno soggiornato qui
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
Pulizia e manutenzione
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™
6.5MODERATO
0-4RUMOROSO
4-7.5MODERATO
7.5-10SILENZIOSO
- Thin walls between rooms
- Echoing hallways with tile floors
- Main pool noise for inward-facing rooms
Prima di prenotare
Buono a sapersi
- 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)
Cosa portare
- Water shoes for the pebbly beach
- A European power adapter (plugs are deeply recessed)
- Mosquito repellent for evening dining on the terrace
Genio delle camere
Migliori scelte
- Residence Collection Premium Rooms (for adults/teens) – exclusive access and better soundproofing
- Top-floor suites facing the sea (better views, less overhead noise)
Camere da evitare
- Ground floor rooms with private pools facing North (no sun, freezing water)
- Rooms near the main elevator banks (high foot traffic noise)
Genio delle richieste camera – copia e incolla
“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.”
FAQ e consigli nascosti
Tutto ciò che vuoi davvero sapere prima di prenotare.
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.
Suggerimenti degli Insider
- ✨
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 cose da sapere prima di partire
💡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.
Guida locale
Mappa
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