Heaven on Earth
We (a family of 4, kids aged 8 and 10) got back from 6 nights at Kinsterna the week before Easter. It was possibly the best hotel experience we've had as a family of 4, everything from the room (the family suite with a great view, plenty of space and storage), the food (the best buffet breakfast I've had with the daily home-made cakes, pastries, local specialties and garden produce) to the impeccable service from all the staff (tips from the lovely General Manager George and the attentiveness of the Experience Manager, also George and the barman who went out of his way to make my kids a mocktail even I would have traded my drink for), meant the experience was high quality and personalised, without being in-your-face bling, or pretentious. The Greeks just know how to be hospitable. I am a tough customer and have picked holes at a number of so-called 'luxury' resorts in the past. but Kinsterna is a rare thing. It is not flashy, its immensely understated, and whilst its not brand-shiny new (there are small aspects that could be modernised or updated), but the really important things are there in spades. Apparently the hotel was full by the time we checked-out, but we didn't feel it at all (the design and layout means its easy to find a quiet corner or terrace just to yourself, there are always plenty of staff). The free activities running that week were authentic and charming (egg-staining activity that didn't quite work and left everyone peering into the pot and researching on google, was a wholesome and perfect activity for all ages), the candle-making that my kids adored (using their own beeswax from the hives) and the donkey ride and hen-house visits and the ever so slightly old-fashioned but brilliantly designed children's play area were loved by my kids. The vibe is laid-back, friendly, and the beautiful gardens are impeccably maintained without feeling contrived or unnatural. The wild flowers and the perfume of the fruit trees everywhere left us feeling refreshed and relaxed. Thank you George and the whole team. We will be back....