Koukounaria Hotel, Alykes, Zante
Hotel Information
Hotel Class:
Hotel Description:
Set in the scenic outskirts of the resort centre, Koukounaria studios and apartments are ideal for those who want a relaxing base in high standard accommodation. Excellent for families or couples looking for a slower pace of life in a peaceful setting away from the resort centre. location 400 metres to the gently shelving beach and 300 metres to the quaint centre of Alykes, where there are traditional bars, tavernas and shops. loading...
Nearby Hotels Viewed by Other Travellers
Rating: 8 / 10
Porto Skala Hotel & Village Resort
Skala, Kefalonia, Greece
Distance: 9.8 km / 6.1 mi
Check Rates and Availability
Koukounaria Hotel Reviews
" clean but basic "
Submitted By: juliet bravo
On arriving at the Koukanaria I was quite aprehensive as I had read lots of bad reviews - our room was not ready until 4 p.m and then we had to pay 203 euros for safety deposit box and air con also breakages deposit of 80 euros not bad for the first day!!!!!!
Staff were very friendly room was very basic towels changed three times in the fortnight and bed linen once only there was no privacy for adults children were directly next door and even the loo door did not close properly!!!
I have to say the resort is lovely eveyone is so friendly we enjoyed eating at the Picadilly and Ponderosa (bottom of road and turn right) The beach is lovely and we booked a turtle trip through Jim in the main resort which was enjoyable.
I cannot see the attraction as I read some reviews saying that people go back every year there is a games room for kids which was hardly ever open and there was always a long wait at the snack bar. Lovely resort but we won't be returning to the apartments and we were lucky we had a balcony and a seperate bedrrom but a lot of people were not so lucky. Be warned!
Staff were very friendly room was very basic towels changed three times in the fortnight and bed linen once only there was no privacy for adults children were directly next door and even the loo door did not close properly!!!
I have to say the resort is lovely eveyone is so friendly we enjoyed eating at the Picadilly and Ponderosa (bottom of road and turn right) The beach is lovely and we booked a turtle trip through Jim in the main resort which was enjoyable.
I cannot see the attraction as I read some reviews saying that people go back every year there is a games room for kids which was hardly ever open and there was always a long wait at the snack bar. Lovely resort but we won't be returning to the apartments and we were lucky we had a balcony and a seperate bedrrom but a lot of people were not so lucky. Be warned!
Advice: lovely
Activities: Ponderosa and Picadilly
Good for: Beach
-
- Date of Holiday:Aug 2009
- Board Basis:Self Catering
- Tour Operator:Airtours
" 1st class koukounaria "
Submitted By: wings from Rotherham
It was our first time to Greece & we choose Koukounaria in Alykes,what a good choice. This is a family run hotel & they can not do enough for you.Upon our arrival late @ nite we were allocated a room that was not what we asked for as we had booked a 1 bed apart but this was just a room with sliding doors in between,on asking reception about this they stated that this is what thomas cook class as a 1 bed apart but she would have a look to see if there was another free,she managed to find one which was top class ,2 bed,2 balconys,2 bathrooms the only down side was that it was only for the week but we were grateful that they helped.
The pool is reaaly big but they only down side is that even the shallow end is not that shallow but there ais 2 other little pools.
All the staff are lovely in the breakfast bar ,Tonja & in the bar by the pool,a special thanks to Leo & Di who really made us feel welcome & even though Leo was always throwing us in the pool or making us jump it really added to a great holiday.Di organises the games & events & does a great job.A special thanks to you 2 & we will miss you.
Well worth a visit to the koukounaria..........Vicki ,Dave ,Nath & Lucas
The pool is reaaly big but they only down side is that even the shallow end is not that shallow but there ais 2 other little pools.
All the staff are lovely in the breakfast bar ,Tonja & in the bar by the pool,a special thanks to Leo & Di who really made us feel welcome & even though Leo was always throwing us in the pool or making us jump it really added to a great holiday.Di organises the games & events & does a great job.A special thanks to you 2 & we will miss you.
Well worth a visit to the koukounaria..........Vicki ,Dave ,Nath & Lucas
Advice: take the train ride up to the mountains & sample the local wine & their way of life
Activities: the best restaurant had to be Paradosiako
Good for: Beach
-
- Date of Holiday:Jul 2009
- Board Basis:Self Catering
- Tour Operator:Thomas Cook
" Pros and Cons Hotel Koukounaria "
Submitted By: Tek Team Family
Apartment very nice, and clean, and great sea view, but you have to pay extra for some room items.
The staff were lovely, but beware DON'T pay for your room deposit by credit card! (always pay by cash, and get a receipt)On leaving to fly home, the man on the reception appeared to tear up our credit card slip in front of us, and put it in the bin. The staff were so nice during the holiday, that we thought everything was fine.
Low and behold when we got back to England we found the hotel had charged us for this credit card deposit payment, and we lost out.
Didn't get a reply on e mails,when we queried it, even though we translated it into Greek.
We have since been to Spain and Portugal, and never had any problems, but if you have a similar experience at this location,or any other location,please report it to your tour operator if you have one. Great shame though, as if it was an "oversight" on their part,
the lack of response, has meant I have had to write this.
The staff were lovely, but beware DON'T pay for your room deposit by credit card! (always pay by cash, and get a receipt)On leaving to fly home, the man on the reception appeared to tear up our credit card slip in front of us, and put it in the bin. The staff were so nice during the holiday, that we thought everything was fine.
Low and behold when we got back to England we found the hotel had charged us for this credit card deposit payment, and we lost out.
Didn't get a reply on e mails,when we queried it, even though we translated it into Greek.
We have since been to Spain and Portugal, and never had any problems, but if you have a similar experience at this location,or any other location,please report it to your tour operator if you have one. Great shame though, as if it was an "oversight" on their part,
the lack of response, has meant I have had to write this.
Advice: Very pleasant resort, and lovely sea
Activities: The Relax Bar, and Boat trip
Good for: Beach
-
- Date of Holiday:Jun 2007
- Board Basis:Self Catering
- Tour Operator:Booked Independently
" really good relaxing holiday "
Submitted By: claire5990
Our holiday at koukounaria was great! it didn't start off too good as when we arrived we found ourselves in the apartments around the back and we thought they were not very nice however the staff agreed to let us move into another apartment the second week we was there and gave us our air con for half price! however after staying a couple of days in these apartment we soon loved the room that we was in and didn't move the second week as the room was nice and quiet and comfortable and we would definetely request these rooms if we went back again!
the apartment were very clean and the maids took the rubish, mopped the floors etc everyday!
the town alykes is quiet but not too quiet that you get bored and there is plenty too do!at night there is plenty of really nice restaurants and bars that come to life after dark!
overall the kokounaria apartments are lovely and having spent two weeks there would definetely go back!!
the apartment were very clean and the maids took the rubish, mopped the floors etc everyday!
the town alykes is quiet but not too quiet that you get bored and there is plenty too do!at night there is plenty of really nice restaurants and bars that come to life after dark!
overall the kokounaria apartments are lovely and having spent two weeks there would definetely go back!!
Advice: nice friendly people, quiet enough to have a relaxing holiday but not too quiet
Activities: you have to go on the boat trip to see the blue caves that is great! also astoria restaurant lovely
Good for: Beach
-
- Date of Holiday:Jul 2008
- Board Basis:Self Catering
- Tour Operator:Booked Independently
" great holiday "
Submitted By: cavin321
Hey All
First thing I would like to say about my holiday at the Koukounaria Apartments it was great!
Starting with the not so good things... As soon as we got dropped of outside the hotel it didnt look to pleasant! But as soon as you walk up to the actual Hotel enterance it is beautiful! The hotel staff are very kind and helpful. Espicaly Leo;)
The room I was in was a 4 person room at the very top of the apartments, with a spectacular pool view. The room it's self was very basic. It had a very small kitchen area with just enough cutlery for my family of four. It didnt have a kettle or a toaster and only to electric cooking rings. But if you wanted a cup of tea you can easuly boil some water in the saucepan as we done. The bath room was good, it had bath, shower, toilet and sink.
The hotel was very poor with entertainment but the reason of this was because we went at the end of the season (october). It has a cafe, a resteraunt, games room, and a bar! All are Fab! The pool was huge and 3 metres deep. But great fun!
Here are some of the things my family done at night and during the day!
During the day we would sit my the pool up until about 12 noon then go and do an activity such as... watersport, scuba diving, shipwrech, beach, tourtoise island and many more. At night the town was very quiet. The reason being end of season. But just 2 mins away from our hotel was the AMAZING *IRIS BAR*. I recomend this bar for everyone! They are so friendly and very nice people. Many thanks to Chirs and the other two barman and barwoman that i have totalt forgotten there names:O
Overall an amazing acomadation and an amazing holiday thanks you very much! Ill be back soon!;)
First thing I would like to say about my holiday at the Koukounaria Apartments it was great!
Starting with the not so good things... As soon as we got dropped of outside the hotel it didnt look to pleasant! But as soon as you walk up to the actual Hotel enterance it is beautiful! The hotel staff are very kind and helpful. Espicaly Leo;)
The room I was in was a 4 person room at the very top of the apartments, with a spectacular pool view. The room it's self was very basic. It had a very small kitchen area with just enough cutlery for my family of four. It didnt have a kettle or a toaster and only to electric cooking rings. But if you wanted a cup of tea you can easuly boil some water in the saucepan as we done. The bath room was good, it had bath, shower, toilet and sink.
The hotel was very poor with entertainment but the reason of this was because we went at the end of the season (october). It has a cafe, a resteraunt, games room, and a bar! All are Fab! The pool was huge and 3 metres deep. But great fun!
Here are some of the things my family done at night and during the day!
During the day we would sit my the pool up until about 12 noon then go and do an activity such as... watersport, scuba diving, shipwrech, beach, tourtoise island and many more. At night the town was very quiet. The reason being end of season. But just 2 mins away from our hotel was the AMAZING *IRIS BAR*. I recomend this bar for everyone! They are so friendly and very nice people. Many thanks to Chirs and the other two barman and barwoman that i have totalt forgotten there names:O
Overall an amazing acomadation and an amazing holiday thanks you very much! Ill be back soon!;)
-
- Date of Holiday:Oct 2008
- Board Basis:Self Catering
- Tour Operator:Thomas Cook
" Awesome holiday with a great hotel... "
Submitted By: Mr A Kelland
Awesome holiday with a great hotel and great local tavernas.
We were greeted by friendly, helpful staff as soon as we arrived, and this continued throughout our time at The Koukounaria. We were extremely pleased with our room (top floor) with a sea and pool view from the balcony.
Our only fault would be the extra costs, but you don't have to rent extra appliances. Air con was expensive, but well worth it. We also rented the safe, which may not have been necessary but stopped us worrying about our valuables.
Overall a fantastic holiday- we would definately go back again.
We were greeted by friendly, helpful staff as soon as we arrived, and this continued throughout our time at The Koukounaria. We were extremely pleased with our room (top floor) with a sea and pool view from the balcony.
Our only fault would be the extra costs, but you don't have to rent extra appliances. Air con was expensive, but well worth it. We also rented the safe, which may not have been necessary but stopped us worrying about our valuables.
Overall a fantastic holiday- we would definately go back again.
-
- Date of Holiday:Sep 2008
- Board Basis:Self Catering
- Tour Operator:Thomas Cook
" after coming back from alykes for the... "
Submitted By: Miss Fiona Rex
after coming back from alykes for the 2nd year running we stilll love it and would recommend relax restraurant as a very friendly and great meals, as for our accomadation its very basic and clean , we had a 2 bedroom and it would have been spacious for 4 adults, the only down side , its a bit of a walk over the salt flats if want to get to the beach, but there 3 pools nearby to use whhich are all in a 5 minute walk, definalty go back next year althrough I wasn't impressed with our thomas cook rep as we didn't meet her once and our flight attendance weren't much help we were in the middle of the plane,they ran out milk and sugar for drink service and completely forgot to ask if want drink after the in flight meal and I had to ask for drink for my son I felt that was very poor.
-
- Date of Holiday:May 2008
- Board Basis:Self Catering
- Tour Operator:Thomas Cook
" Just arrived back from a week at the... "
Submitted By: Mrs J Gentle
Just arrived back from a week at the Koukounaria. This was our second time staying here and again we could not fault it at all! This time there was 14 of us (including 6 children). We had four separate apartments (321, 322, 324 and 326). The apartments were spacious, clean, safe and all had balconies overlooking the pool. The food at the koukounaria is great and reasonably priced and everyone is so friendly and helpful. Again, we enjoyed the company of Leo and Jimmy! They are fantastic with the children. The weather was over 30 degrees everyday!
Again, we went on the Trainiki with Brenda and Spiros and had a wonderful evening and plenty of wine!
We ate out in different tavernas every nite and recommend Piccadilly and Fantasia. The food is great and they have plenty of play equipment to keep the children entertained!
We definately recommend the Koukounaria to any family and will be going back for a third visit. Alykes is a excellent resort for families.
Again, we went on the Trainiki with Brenda and Spiros and had a wonderful evening and plenty of wine!
We ate out in different tavernas every nite and recommend Piccadilly and Fantasia. The food is great and they have plenty of play equipment to keep the children entertained!
We definately recommend the Koukounaria to any family and will be going back for a third visit. Alykes is a excellent resort for families.
-
- Date of Holiday:Aug 2008
- Board Basis:Self Catering
- Tour Operator:Thomas Cook
" Room would be OK if it had a balcony.... "
Submitted By: Mrs K Hammond
Room would be OK if it had a balcony. Its like a pigeon loft the room we have been allocated after specifically requesting a balcony as I have 2 children with me under the age of 15.
1 Child was ill therefore was required to spend a full day & night in the room to ensure they were OK, there was no where I could sit other than a table next to the window with no breeze coming through.
This is the 2nd holiday booked with thomas cook that has lead to severe disappointment and disruption.
The apartments are OK and the facilities good, however the support and assistance in this matter from the staff at the complex and the thomas cook rep has been less than I would expect.
1 Child was ill therefore was required to spend a full day & night in the room to ensure they were OK, there was no where I could sit other than a table next to the window with no breeze coming through.
This is the 2nd holiday booked with thomas cook that has lead to severe disappointment and disruption.
The apartments are OK and the facilities good, however the support and assistance in this matter from the staff at the complex and the thomas cook rep has been less than I would expect.
-
- Date of Holiday:Aug 2008
- Board Basis:Self Catering
- Tour Operator:Thomas Cook
" Arrived early hours of a monday... "
Submitted By: Miss S Crow
Arrived early hours of a monday morning after having traveled all night to gointo a room that seems no bigger than a box. This is a studio that sleeps 3, after requesting a room with a balcony we have a tiny window that looks over the top of the cafe.
The staff all seem friendly enough, however upon requesting a room with a balcony as all of our holikday details show we are still in a box room with the option to upgrade for 200 Euros, after already paying an 80 euro deposit as well as paying over 150 euros for air con and the safe.
This holiday has been completly spoilt due to the lack of a balcony as a member of the party has resorted to smoking on the stairs as their is no air coming into the room itself.
If we wanted to stay in a room with the windows closed then it would of been alot cheaper to stay at home.
The staff all seem friendly enough, however upon requesting a room with a balcony as all of our holikday details show we are still in a box room with the option to upgrade for 200 Euros, after already paying an 80 euro deposit as well as paying over 150 euros for air con and the safe.
This holiday has been completly spoilt due to the lack of a balcony as a member of the party has resorted to smoking on the stairs as their is no air coming into the room itself.
If we wanted to stay in a room with the windows closed then it would of been alot cheaper to stay at home.
-
- Date of Holiday:Aug 2008
- Board Basis:Self Catering
- Tour Operator:Thomas Cook
" just got home and want to book to go... "
Submitted By: Mrs N Proctor-smith
just got home and want to book to go again in october it is true that prices seem to
have risen but to be fair they are trying to make a living and you are paying probabaly the same prices if you were in a holiday resort in england- only you d spend more cos there s no sun!
these apts are great, basic but clean the resteraunt at the hotel is a little more expensive than in town but it has a renowned chef and the food is excellant.
the pool area is fab for kid s and the pool party is a must.
nikos and charlotte are ace on the bar and their cocktails are to die for but are potent.
alykes is ideal if you want to get away from it all and unlike in tsillive they are not trying to drag you into every bar and eatery which for me is a bonus.
there s an heat wave their at the moment and the temp ranged from 45 - 55 degrees
so beware take high factor suncream!
have risen but to be fair they are trying to make a living and you are paying probabaly the same prices if you were in a holiday resort in england- only you d spend more cos there s no sun!
these apts are great, basic but clean the resteraunt at the hotel is a little more expensive than in town but it has a renowned chef and the food is excellant.
the pool area is fab for kid s and the pool party is a must.
nikos and charlotte are ace on the bar and their cocktails are to die for but are potent.
alykes is ideal if you want to get away from it all and unlike in tsillive they are not trying to drag you into every bar and eatery which for me is a bonus.
there s an heat wave their at the moment and the temp ranged from 45 - 55 degrees
so beware take high factor suncream!
-
- Date of Holiday:Aug 2008
- Board Basis:Self Catering
- Tour Operator:Thomas Cook
" Just arrived back from Koukounaria... "
Submitted By: Mrs L Robinson
Just arrived back from Koukounaria Apartments, Alykes. What a fantastic holiday! Air Con, Safety Deposit box, Kettle, Toaster all charged as extras on arrival plus 80euro returnable deposit if no breakages. You can pay deposit in euros or they'll copy card details and destroy on departure. No need for kettle - boil your water in a pan. I think we paid about 150 euros per fortnight for safety deposit box that was the highest charge!!! We knew about these charges before arrival but others were complaining, got receipts and complaining to tour operators on return.
Reception staff really nice. Room was spacious and really clean. Cleaned and toilet paper provided every day, towels changed every 3 days, bedding changed once a week. There is internet access in the reception for 1/2 euros per half hour. Reading material provided in the reception and in most bars, ie., novels and thrillers, if you want something to read.
Pool staff really nice. Pool parties good fun but be prepared to be thrown in - they are on about every 3 nights from 9pm - 1am but most people get there at about 10pm. The pool snack bar is good value and the bacon in Greece is gorgeous!!! There are 2 other eateries in the hotel but we didn't try them - never heard any complaints though. They also have a hotel Greek night/fireworks. You need to be up early in the morning to put your towel down for a sunbed but if you are late you will still get a sunbed but probably in a more shady spot. The big pool is very very deep at one end and there are two smaller pools for toddlers. There are always plenty of linos, blow up dolphins and boats you can use lying around the pool - no need to buy your own.
The town/beach is a 5/10 minute walk away with pubs and shops on the way. First stop at Iris Bar - Big Screens for sporting events, Wii for the kids, picturesque 18 hole golf course to the rear and lots of board games/books if required. Local lager, Mythos, very cheap and local wine is only 2 euros per glass. The staff in the Iris Bar are top notch - make you feel like family!!
Down at the bottom of the road is The Magic Mushroom/Spikeys Bar - they show films every day at 4pm. Spikey and Vinnie are the wackiest pair ever!!! They come round with a tray of medicine for you at night which is really a shot (they even put a fruity drink in for the little ones so they're not left out).
Beyond this pub you will see Papora Restaurant - they have a greek night on Mondays. Next door to this is the pink-themed Buca Bar which serves really nice snacks and will bring them to you on the beach as you lie on your sunbed!! Cut through there and you are on the beach!! Wow!!! Wot a beach!!! We walked up to Alkanas (you can walk right along the beach to get there - it's the next town) and the beach was nowhere near as nice. You will meet Mr Kev on the beach and he will look after you!!!
Eating out - would recommend The Lemon Tree (ask Tina in Iris Bar about this - she might be able to book it for you). You can get there by horse and cart for 5 euros and get a free minibus back. The food is fabulous! Beautiful setting!! Greek dancers start about 9pm. Paid about 50euros for 4 main courses, 4 desserts and 2 rounds of drinks. A real treat. The Beef Stifado is delicious - the meat melts in your mouth served with rice, veg and the best roast chipped potatoes ever!!! You may as well indulge in the chocolate cake too if you do pay a visit.
Also recommend Paradoskia (ask Vinnie in Magic Mushroom) - go about 6pm coz it gets busy - it's halfway down the river walkway. Paid 37 euros for 4 main courses, 4 desserts and 1 round of drinks - bargain!! Food delicious - very quick service too seen as they get extremely busy.
For snacks I would recommend - Koukouaria Apts, Relax and Buca Bar.
Watch out in Fantasia cos they add 4euros to your bill for bread and cutlery and said it was a tax they had to charge by law!!!!
Trips - Do not miss going to the Shipwreck/Smugglers Cove. We took a half day trip with Blue Dolpin (book on the beach - Mr Kev will direct you). Paid 20 euros adults and 10 euros for kids (or near enough that). Went in a speedboat - extremely bumpy!! But when you arrive it is like entering paradise!!! Got a trip round the caves on the way back - this was dissapointing as you only go into the entrance of one cave but you can get out for a swim. Stayed half hour in Smugglers Cove. Trip lasts about 3 hours and goes a few times a day.
Went into Zante Town - very hot!!! Got Calypso Taxis (in Alykes town) - check price before you get in - we paid 16euros - 20 mins drive. There is a bus service but everyone told us different times - we waited for ages then gave up and got a taxi. Look out for Alexandra Row which is designer shop after shop then when you see the lanterns hung up across the street you have hit the bargain shops. They shut at 2pm and it is recommended you get a meal then before getting a taxi back. We looked out for the Calypso Taxis and just stopped them in the street. Be warned it is extremely hot in Zante Town.
On arrival at the airport we checked with rep if we were first stop-off - we were and a minibus was provided - journey took 20 mins. Some other people got the coach on arrival another day and got taken all around the island first for an hour and a half. So check before you get on coach as taxis at airport should only cost about 25 euros (but check price before you get in).
Also beware any extra baggage you may be carrying home. We had a 15kg allowance each - we went slightly over on the way to Zante but didn't get charged. Zante Airport are really strict. Our rep told us on the coach they charge 8euros per extra 1kg. When we got to the airport - put our bags through- she told us it had gone up to 11euros per extra kg - we ended up paying an extra 100euros!! Therefore if you know you're going to have over your allowance - sort it out with your tour operator when booking. The hand luggage is not checked for weight on the return journey but they had already grabbed our suitcases so we couldn't transfer anything to hand luggage and had to pay the charge.
The only complaints I ever heard or had were the extra charges for air con, etc., which some people had paid about £200 for and the extra baggage charge.
Do not let this put you off as this is the best holiday my family and I have ever had and we will definitely be going back. We took my 14 year old daughter and her friend and they loved it - they are going to take greek lessons and go working over there when they get older (oh! to be young again!)..we really did have to force ourselves to come back home it was absolute paradise!!!!
Reception staff really nice. Room was spacious and really clean. Cleaned and toilet paper provided every day, towels changed every 3 days, bedding changed once a week. There is internet access in the reception for 1/2 euros per half hour. Reading material provided in the reception and in most bars, ie., novels and thrillers, if you want something to read.
Pool staff really nice. Pool parties good fun but be prepared to be thrown in - they are on about every 3 nights from 9pm - 1am but most people get there at about 10pm. The pool snack bar is good value and the bacon in Greece is gorgeous!!! There are 2 other eateries in the hotel but we didn't try them - never heard any complaints though. They also have a hotel Greek night/fireworks. You need to be up early in the morning to put your towel down for a sunbed but if you are late you will still get a sunbed but probably in a more shady spot. The big pool is very very deep at one end and there are two smaller pools for toddlers. There are always plenty of linos, blow up dolphins and boats you can use lying around the pool - no need to buy your own.
The town/beach is a 5/10 minute walk away with pubs and shops on the way. First stop at Iris Bar - Big Screens for sporting events, Wii for the kids, picturesque 18 hole golf course to the rear and lots of board games/books if required. Local lager, Mythos, very cheap and local wine is only 2 euros per glass. The staff in the Iris Bar are top notch - make you feel like family!!
Down at the bottom of the road is The Magic Mushroom/Spikeys Bar - they show films every day at 4pm. Spikey and Vinnie are the wackiest pair ever!!! They come round with a tray of medicine for you at night which is really a shot (they even put a fruity drink in for the little ones so they're not left out).
Beyond this pub you will see Papora Restaurant - they have a greek night on Mondays. Next door to this is the pink-themed Buca Bar which serves really nice snacks and will bring them to you on the beach as you lie on your sunbed!! Cut through there and you are on the beach!! Wow!!! Wot a beach!!! We walked up to Alkanas (you can walk right along the beach to get there - it's the next town) and the beach was nowhere near as nice. You will meet Mr Kev on the beach and he will look after you!!!
Eating out - would recommend The Lemon Tree (ask Tina in Iris Bar about this - she might be able to book it for you). You can get there by horse and cart for 5 euros and get a free minibus back. The food is fabulous! Beautiful setting!! Greek dancers start about 9pm. Paid about 50euros for 4 main courses, 4 desserts and 2 rounds of drinks. A real treat. The Beef Stifado is delicious - the meat melts in your mouth served with rice, veg and the best roast chipped potatoes ever!!! You may as well indulge in the chocolate cake too if you do pay a visit.
Also recommend Paradoskia (ask Vinnie in Magic Mushroom) - go about 6pm coz it gets busy - it's halfway down the river walkway. Paid 37 euros for 4 main courses, 4 desserts and 1 round of drinks - bargain!! Food delicious - very quick service too seen as they get extremely busy.
For snacks I would recommend - Koukouaria Apts, Relax and Buca Bar.
Watch out in Fantasia cos they add 4euros to your bill for bread and cutlery and said it was a tax they had to charge by law!!!!
Trips - Do not miss going to the Shipwreck/Smugglers Cove. We took a half day trip with Blue Dolpin (book on the beach - Mr Kev will direct you). Paid 20 euros adults and 10 euros for kids (or near enough that). Went in a speedboat - extremely bumpy!! But when you arrive it is like entering paradise!!! Got a trip round the caves on the way back - this was dissapointing as you only go into the entrance of one cave but you can get out for a swim. Stayed half hour in Smugglers Cove. Trip lasts about 3 hours and goes a few times a day.
Went into Zante Town - very hot!!! Got Calypso Taxis (in Alykes town) - check price before you get in - we paid 16euros - 20 mins drive. There is a bus service but everyone told us different times - we waited for ages then gave up and got a taxi. Look out for Alexandra Row which is designer shop after shop then when you see the lanterns hung up across the street you have hit the bargain shops. They shut at 2pm and it is recommended you get a meal then before getting a taxi back. We looked out for the Calypso Taxis and just stopped them in the street. Be warned it is extremely hot in Zante Town.
On arrival at the airport we checked with rep if we were first stop-off - we were and a minibus was provided - journey took 20 mins. Some other people got the coach on arrival another day and got taken all around the island first for an hour and a half. So check before you get on coach as taxis at airport should only cost about 25 euros (but check price before you get in).
Also beware any extra baggage you may be carrying home. We had a 15kg allowance each - we went slightly over on the way to Zante but didn't get charged. Zante Airport are really strict. Our rep told us on the coach they charge 8euros per extra 1kg. When we got to the airport - put our bags through- she told us it had gone up to 11euros per extra kg - we ended up paying an extra 100euros!! Therefore if you know you're going to have over your allowance - sort it out with your tour operator when booking. The hand luggage is not checked for weight on the return journey but they had already grabbed our suitcases so we couldn't transfer anything to hand luggage and had to pay the charge.
The only complaints I ever heard or had were the extra charges for air con, etc., which some people had paid about £200 for and the extra baggage charge.
Do not let this put you off as this is the best holiday my family and I have ever had and we will definitely be going back. We took my 14 year old daughter and her friend and they loved it - they are going to take greek lessons and go working over there when they get older (oh! to be young again!)..we really did have to force ourselves to come back home it was absolute paradise!!!!
-
- Date of Holiday:Jul 2008
- Board Basis:Self Catering
- Tour Operator:Thomas Cook
" A bit late in putting in my review,... "
Submitted By: Mrs H Wardle
A bit late in putting in my review, but here goes. Spent 2 fantastic weeks in Alykes, staying at the Koukounaria Apartments. Myself, my husband, our 3 year old daughter, my father and my brother. We had 2 separate apartments which although were basic, they were kept very clean everyday and the maids always had a smile on their faces. There was no kettle or toaster, but hey, you're on holiday, make do!!! The little hob was quite fast in boiling the water (in a saucepan) and you could hold your bread over the hot hob for some toast!!! Other than that, you could have cereal or eat out. If you fancy a cooked breakfast try the Fantasia Restaurant. For only 4 euros you had the full works with tea/coffee and juice. Well worth it!! Their evening food was also great as were the waitresses who worked there. They always had a wave and a hello for us.
The Koukounaria is well worth staying at, it had a huge main swimming pool, a lovely childrens pool and the biggest jacuzzi that I have ever seen!! The bubbles come on every so often during the day. My daughter loved it (as did we all). It was always kept very clean as were the sunbeds. The cafe was lovely, very friendly bar staff and waitresses. Just to warn you that on arrival you will be asked to pay about 80 euros this is to cover any breakages etc, but you will get this back once you check out, (you can pay by credit card and they will tear up the receipt). This was a bit of a shock when we arrived cause no-one told us about it. So be warned! On the plus side, there was a new restaurant opened which was called Linos . What cracking food!! If you want a special night out, then try Linos, it might cost you a bit more than if you eat in town, but the food was excellent!! The reception staff were also very helpful and friendly. This new restaurant and cafe were lit up at night with different coloured changing lights. Very cool!! The only main problem that we had was that we were put in a room directly over the bar!!!! Not good when you have children. All we could hear was the thump, thump of the music which went on til 2am. We unfortunately had to complain about this (on our first night there), but we were moved to another room the very next day!! It was all dealt with very quickly and with no fuss or bother, they were very sorry that this had happened. So, if you should get rooms 328, 329 or 330 then you'd best take some earplugs with you. However, once we had moved it was much better. We still had the same pool side and fantastic surrounding views. Quite breath taking. We couldn't get enough photos.
The town of Alykes was fairly busy but not too noisy, which is exactly what we wanted. All the restaurants were busy and the food fantastic. Try the Relax, Fantasia, Zorbas and Ambrosia restaurants. We never had a bad meal. 2 of the best meals we had were at a place called Deni's Diner. They do mostly kebab food, but it was fantastic, the starters, the main and especially the desserts. Try their crepes with marshmallows and melted chocolate!!! Heaven.
The beach at Alykes was only 5 minutes walk from our apartments. It was gorgeous. It was clean and tidy and you could always get food or drink from one of the bars situated on the beach front. See a chap called Kev who will look after you (he rents out the sunbeds and parasols). Very friendly.
Well thats about it for now. I would definately stay at the Koukounaria again. Fab holiday had by us all. Hope to come back to Alkyes some day soon, the people of Zante are the best!! The weather was very hot, up to 42% one day!
Would also like to mention our rep Felicity, who always had time for a chat and was very friendly and helpful.
The Koukounaria is well worth staying at, it had a huge main swimming pool, a lovely childrens pool and the biggest jacuzzi that I have ever seen!! The bubbles come on every so often during the day. My daughter loved it (as did we all). It was always kept very clean as were the sunbeds. The cafe was lovely, very friendly bar staff and waitresses. Just to warn you that on arrival you will be asked to pay about 80 euros this is to cover any breakages etc, but you will get this back once you check out, (you can pay by credit card and they will tear up the receipt). This was a bit of a shock when we arrived cause no-one told us about it. So be warned! On the plus side, there was a new restaurant opened which was called Linos . What cracking food!! If you want a special night out, then try Linos, it might cost you a bit more than if you eat in town, but the food was excellent!! The reception staff were also very helpful and friendly. This new restaurant and cafe were lit up at night with different coloured changing lights. Very cool!! The only main problem that we had was that we were put in a room directly over the bar!!!! Not good when you have children. All we could hear was the thump, thump of the music which went on til 2am. We unfortunately had to complain about this (on our first night there), but we were moved to another room the very next day!! It was all dealt with very quickly and with no fuss or bother, they were very sorry that this had happened. So, if you should get rooms 328, 329 or 330 then you'd best take some earplugs with you. However, once we had moved it was much better. We still had the same pool side and fantastic surrounding views. Quite breath taking. We couldn't get enough photos.
The town of Alykes was fairly busy but not too noisy, which is exactly what we wanted. All the restaurants were busy and the food fantastic. Try the Relax, Fantasia, Zorbas and Ambrosia restaurants. We never had a bad meal. 2 of the best meals we had were at a place called Deni's Diner. They do mostly kebab food, but it was fantastic, the starters, the main and especially the desserts. Try their crepes with marshmallows and melted chocolate!!! Heaven.
The beach at Alykes was only 5 minutes walk from our apartments. It was gorgeous. It was clean and tidy and you could always get food or drink from one of the bars situated on the beach front. See a chap called Kev who will look after you (he rents out the sunbeds and parasols). Very friendly.
Well thats about it for now. I would definately stay at the Koukounaria again. Fab holiday had by us all. Hope to come back to Alkyes some day soon, the people of Zante are the best!! The weather was very hot, up to 42% one day!
Would also like to mention our rep Felicity, who always had time for a chat and was very friendly and helpful.
-
- Date of Holiday:Jun 2008
- Board Basis:Self Catering
- Tour Operator:Thomas Cook
" Absolutely pure class craic! Nice big... "
Submitted By: Mr H&C McConalonan
Absolutely pure class craic! Nice big rooms with balconies, and cleaners were pure friendly too, even though you were still hungover in your room at midday they just pottered on. Staff were feckin class too: Leo loved our "crazy Irishness" and was always up for a bit o'tha banter, Jimmy was a dote, really friendly and invited us out on his 'jet ski', Nicos had a mole moley moley moley and made great cocktails that tasted even better because we got "sexy girl discount".
Sugarbush was AMAZING! Charlie and Lambros were so friendly and their dog Daffi was adorable, i totally recommend it to anyone. Their free shots were v. welcome!
We defo. would recommend goin to Zante, (and in particular Alykes) to anyone with an inkling of going there.
Sugarbush was AMAZING! Charlie and Lambros were so friendly and their dog Daffi was adorable, i totally recommend it to anyone. Their free shots were v. welcome!
We defo. would recommend goin to Zante, (and in particular Alykes) to anyone with an inkling of going there.
-
- Date of Holiday:Jun 2008
- Board Basis:Self Catering
- Tour Operator:Thomas Cook
loading...
Apartments were basic and clean. These were cleaned daily, towels every 3rd day, and bedding weekly. Nothing to complain about on that front. Room was comfortable enough, however no kettle or toaster for self catering apt. These could be hired at the cost of 10 euros per item per week. (money money money).
We decided to keep our room for an extra day as our flight was early hours of the morning, now you have guessed!! Money money money 50 Euros. They took the remote for the air con and the tv, I asked for the air con remote and they said money money money another 10 Euros, I politely declined this offer. We did receive our deposit of 80 Euros on the day of our departure without any problems.
The sunbeds around the pool were free no money money money, however if you wanted a mattress on the hard plastic it would have cost you 1.50 euros money money money
The staff were friendly, no wonder they must have been smiling all the way to the bank with money money money.
In itself Alykes was a nice little place and the sandy beach was beautiful with crystal clear water, and some nice restaurants. The people were very friendly. I would recommend it for a quiet relaxing holiday especially if you like the beach.
Advice: Beautiful beach with crystal clear water
Activities: The Picadilly was our favourtie place to eat, food was really nice.
Good for: Beach