Andreas Studios & Apartments II

, Skala
4 star
hotel photo
view of mountains from our terrace Pool Area side view from our terrace
Find great package holiday deals in Skala
Back to Andreas Studios & Apartments II

Andreas Studios & Apartments II Reviews

A nice spot spoiled by terrible hospitality
5 / 10
Nov 2011, John

The Andreas Apartments have the potential to be an idyllic place to take a sun-drenched retreat from the stresses of working life.
The situation is fantastic - on the side of a gentle hill just a short walk outside the lovely beach town of Skala - and the place itself has great views (you can see right across to Zakinthos), a well-proportioned swimming pool with bar and is very well kept.
So far so good.
The big problem with the place, as detailed in a number of other reviews, is the abrasive personality of the proprietor, Elisabeth.
The way she treated us during our stay genuinely soured our experience and - given we were on holiday in such a lovely place - this is quite a feat.
The issues, in approximate order of annoyance, were as follows:
- Any drinks not purchased from the bar - including water - are strictly banned from the poolside area. It was 35 degrees Celsius during our stay, so drinking a lot of water was essential. The cost of bottled water from the bar was 4x higher than in the town. Obviously, we took to drinking water surreptitiously. However, Elisabeth sits there all day every day, watching guests like a hawk and we were strongly admonished for breaking the rule on a couple of occasions when we got caught.
- Showers before getting in the pool are strictly enforced. Anyone who gets in the pool without being seen to have a shower first gets a stern telling-off from Elisabeth, even if they've only just had a shower in their apartment.
- The sun shades on the poolside are not to be moved under any circumstances - even if there is no other way to get your sun-lounger out of the searing heat. On a couple of occasions our only choice was to leave the pool because there was no shelter from the sun.
- Elisabeth commands her staff like a Victorian headmistress. I'm not exaggerating when I say my heart goes out to the people that work there. She frequently shouts instructions across the pool area and deals out regular *********** if things are not being done properly or fast enough. As a guest, this was a huge annoyance as it not only constantly distracted me from reading but also made me feel quite stressed out on behalf of the poor employees.
- Literally every day the maid would turn the power setting on the fridge in our apartment right down so that the contents were not particularly cold when we returned. We had to turn it back up every time we came back so we could keep our food fresh and have a cold glass of wine.
As others have said, we'd recommend steering clear of this place as long as Elisabeth is there - she is not someone you want to share your holiday with.
Please don't let this discourage you from visiting Kefalonia, which is a beautiful island with friendly people, beautiful food, great wine and beaches to die for. The days we spent in a hire car exploring were fabulous.
Go to Skala, just don’t subject yourself to the hospitality at the Andreas Apartments.

Sort by Date | Rating
Tread carefully . . .
4 / 10
Aug 2011, Barbie2011

We visited these apartments during the summer of 2011. This was the fourth time we had been to the island and our third visit to Skala so our expectations were high.
However, our holiday was spoilt by Elisabeth’s attitude to us, once she realised we would not be spending a large amount of money or time at the hugely overpriced pool bar (2.5 euros for a can of coke!)
In addition to this, there were 3 incidents which Elisabeth dealt with in a very rude manner.
Firstly the bar-b-que; we had booked 4 places and intended to go but a medical emergency meant we had to cancel at the last moment. We later received a note from her saying that we would have to pay 30 euros as she would be out of pocket for the food she had bought. When I discussed this with her she was very rude and walked away.
Secondly, when I pointed out part of the swimming pool edge where my daughter had cut her foot, she said that the pool could not possibly have caused the cut. Once again she seemed to forget the fact that, as her customers (not her “guests”), we had the right to be treated with respect.
Lastly, the information document. We had not filled this in as we did not think it necessary or legal. She chose her moment carefully and approached my daughter, whilst on her own, demanding that the form be filled in. Threats were made about removing our passports if this "instruction" was not complied with.
People say that she is extremely friendly. Well I can assure you that she is the rudest hotel proprietor I have ever met.
When we were there, even the so called “in crowd” were scared of crossing her. One guest was heard to say how he was “so relieved” that he was not responsible for the fault with his air con system.
In addition to this, other guests frequently made fun of how strict Elisabeth’s poolside rules were saying “It’s OK to dive, Elisabeth isn’t watching.” When someone broke a glass by the pool, his daughter said, “Well you’d better get packing because you’ll have to go home now!”
If you have children who like to enjoy themselves when they are in the pool, this is not the place for you. She keeps watch on everybody like a stern headmistress, and whenever anyone steps out of line in the slightest way, she sends one of her staff to remind them of the rules.
It seems that if you want to keep yourself to yourself and not spend time socialising with her at the bar then Elisabeth resents this.
We would not return to the Andreas Apartments unless there was a change in management.

  • Board Basis:All Inclusive
  • Tour Operator:Thomson

Was this review helpful? Yes

lovely place to chill out
10 / 10
May 2011, sheila

1 reader found this review helpful

We have just returned from a week staying here at the Andreas Studios with Elisabeth, We had a studio on the ground floor overlooking the fabulous pool and sea view.
Elisabeth and her staff work extremely hard to provide a very clean and friendly place to stay.The pool area is a glorious sun trap,the food available was very nice. We will definatly be going back to stay with them again. Perfect holiday
Sheila & Brian x

  • Advice: just relax
  • Good For: Beach
  • Board Basis:Room Only
  • Tour Operator:Thomson

Was this review helpful? Yes

Wonderful holiday
10 / 10
Oct 2009, Jane Kingham

3 readers found this review helpful

We have just come back from spending 2 weeks with Elisabeth in Andreas studios. We too had read some of the reviews but we wern't too concerned. We couldn't beleive our luck when we were shown to our appt. Spotless and very spacious, great view from the balcony.
We were invited for a drink on the first evening down at the bar and from that night on we felt very welcome.
Elisabeth was a very kind and helpful host and her BBQs on a sat evening were outstanding. She even presented my husband with a birthday icecream with a fire work in it which was a lovley surprise.
The pool and bar area made it very easy to have a very realxing holiday and the Greek salad is a must.
The atmosphere was very friendly and while we were there we met some lovley people.
We shall definately being going back to see Elisabeth next year.

  • Good For: Beach
  • Board Basis:Self Catering
  • Tour Operator:Thomson

Was this review helpful? Yes

the perfect relaxing holiday
10 / 10
Oct 2009, christelle evans

3 readers found this review helpful

After reading some of the reviews about the Andreas apartment we were a bit apprehensive about what to expect, but when we saw the studio and met Elisabeth we soon realised we were in for a good two weeks holiday.
During our first week we both had our birthday.Elisabeth provided us with a surprise birthday cake at the end of the Saturday BBQ,and what a yummy cake it was!!
The apartment was really clean as was the pool area.
Please everybody stop being horrible about Elisabeth, she is actually a very very nice lady and a good laugh!
We will definitely be returning as soon as possible!!
Tim, Christelle

  • Good For: Beach
  • Board Basis:Self Catering
  • Tour Operator:Thomson

Was this review helpful? Yes

Stayed in the Andreas 2 section, very...
9 / 10
Aug 2008, Miss R Davies

1 reader found this review helpful

Stayed in the Andreas 2 section, very nice and clean. The pool area was always kept tidy and clean. Although the pool didn't open until 10am, I think that's too late as some people like to have an early dip before breakfast. The BBQ on the Saturday night was brilliant, we went both Saturdays. I didn't like the way you had to buy the air con as an extra and there was no tv in the room, but all in all it was a fantastic holiday where I meet lots of new people. A friendly place to stay.

  • Board Basis:Self Catering
  • Tour Operator:Thomson

Was this review helpful? Yes

Even though these apartments were...
2 / 10
Jun 2008, Miss H Catchpole

2 readers found this review helpful

Even though these apartments were fantastically clean and tidy, and very well kept, our holiday was very much let down by the attitude of the owner Elizabeth.
We have have two small children aged 1 and 2, and we thought this might have been the problem, but as we have spoken to several other guests staying there we have found that she treated them with the same rudeness that we had experienced. We felt that we were not welcome and very uneasy around her. Also we would frequently hear her shouting at her staff most mornings, who in our oppinion were lovely and very good at there jobs. On a good note Skala is definately worth a visit.

  • Board Basis:Self Catering
  • Tour Operator:Thomson

Was this review helpful? Yes

This was our first time to Kefalonia...
10 / 10
Jun 2008, Mrs A MEDD

This was our first time to Kefalonia and it wont be the last. Andreas studios were just perfect, spacious, modern and spotlessly clean. The owners Elizabeth and Dennis work extremely hard to maintain excellent standards. Ignore the bad comments about her, she is welcoming, friendly and goes out of her way to ensure you have a great holiday. What she wont put up with is visitors ignoring rules and spoiling it for everyone else.
This was the most relaxing holiday we have ever had, the studios have lovely views from either a terrace or balcony. The short climb up the hill may be off putting for some. I am not very fit and found the first time a struggle but suprised myself how quickly I got used to it. For the standard you get at the studios it is worth the short climb.
Skala has many small restaurants, mostly serving the same kind of food, but it was good value for money and everyone is so friendly and helpful.
We booked a car to get around the island, and it was definatley worth it. Stunning scenery around every corner. We loved the island and will definately be back and would'nt consider staying anywhere else. Well done Elizabeth, the studios are a credit to you and your hard working staff.

  • Board Basis:Self Catering
  • Tour Operator:Thomson

Was this review helpful? Yes

My wife and I enjoyed the most...
10 / 10
May 2008, Mr Alan Metcalf

My wife and I enjoyed the most relaxed two weeks holiday when we stayed at the andreas 2 studios. the room was spotlessly clean and a credit to Elizabeth,the owner, and all of her staff. Situated at the top of the resort up a very steep hill, it is not really suitable for the elderly or imfirm. I apologise to the elderly and imfirm but I used to walk into the village and back at least twice a day and it was a struggle for me, and I am reasonably fit! Our first night was spent in a hotel in Lixouri because of fires surrounding Skala but once we arrived at the Andreas we were made very welcome by everybody. We attended a wedding that evening which was the perfect ice breaker! If you are looking for somewhere lively with lots to do then this is not for you.However, if you want to sit back, soak up some sun, sip a few beers, read a couple of pages and have the occasional swim, well this place is ideal. We enjoyed it so much we have booked to return this year(08).Having visited several of the Greek Islands we have never relaxed so much as on Kefalonia.

  • Board Basis:Self Catering
  • Tour Operator:Thomson

Was this review helpful? Yes

We have just returned from a weeks'...
10 / 10
Sep 2007, Mrs B Mcdonald

We have just returned from a weeks' holiday. The Andreas apartments are ideal - clean, well-equipped and spacious.
The location is lovely with fantastic views though probably not for you if you mind a walk uphill from the resort centre!
Only about 10 mins though from the Restaurants, Bars etc. Has a lovely pool with bar area.
Elisabeth and Denis do everything they can to make guests feel welcome - the weekly barbecue is a must with Elisabeth's home-cooked food. We would definitely go back!

  • Board Basis:Self Catering
  • Tour Operator:Thomson

Was this review helpful? Yes

The Andreas Studios & Apts are...
9 / 10
Jul 2007, Ms I Rennie

The Andreas Studios & Apts are possibly the cleanest, most efficiently run apartments and studios I have come across. Elizabeth the owner, despite the bad press, is lovely. Don't let the bad press put you off.
These studios are for couples and families who are looking for peace and relaxation. If you want to have a lively time in the pool, this is not the place for you. However, if you want to read books, drink beer and admire the amazing view then this is. Most people hire cars to explore the island as Skala is quite sedate and the bus service infrequent.
The apartments are at the top of a hill (5/10 mins walk from the top of the main street) so not suitable for people pushing prams or the unfit! The breeze at the top and the views more than compensate.
Most guests are well travelled and know what to expect in this type of Greek resort. If you are used to a lively hotel in a lively holiday resort then this is not the place for you.

  • Board Basis:Self Catering
  • Tour Operator:Thomson

Was this review helpful? Yes

Kefalonia is a beautiful Greek...
8 / 10
Aug 2006, Mrs Lesley Styles

3 readers found this review helpful

Kefalonia is a beautiful Greek island. People are very friendly and helpful. Spectacular scenery, quiet roads, lovely beaches, very good tavernas/restaurants and no 18-30's!
Our apartments were situated at the top of the main street which was up a hill and then up another hill, which didn’t matter to us but could be quite difficult if travelling with young children or older people.
The apartments were probably the nicest we have ever stayed in Greece. Large, clean, 2 balconies with beautiful views, electric kettle, toaster and even a bath. The towels and bed linen were changed every 2/3 days and there was a wonderful pool. Air-con was available at 75 Euros per week or you could hire a fan at 15 Euros per week.
However the owner of these apartments did not seem to like children and was completely intolerant of them trying to enjoy themselves in the pool. She had many rules, some sensible others downright ridiculous! No balls in the pool, no splashing and certainly no inflatables.
We felt as if big brother was watching our every move when around the pool or even when sitting out on our balcony/patio! If you didn’t spend a great deal of money in her bar/snack bar then you were greeted with scowls. Our children are not badly behaved but they were told off on many occasions by Elizabeth. If you have children then I cannot recommend these apts for a holiday.
We hired a jeep and saw a lot of the island. Favourite places included Sami, Agia Efimia, Assos and Mounda Bay/Kaminia Bay.
Would gladly return to Scala again, but probably not to Andreas Apartments.

  • Board Basis:Self Catering
  • Tour Operator:Thomson

Was this review helpful? Yes

Read 32 additional reviews of Andreas Studios & Apartments II
Stayed at Andreas Studios & Apartments II? Share your insight. Write A Review Add Photos
Brilliant629 Good29 Average14 Poor13 Awful01
Traveller Rating:
8.5 / 10
Write a Review
Hotel AmenitiesHotel Description
  • Swimming Pool

View Map of Andreas Studios & Apartments II

Map for Andreas Studios & Apartments II

Similar Hotels around Skala

Hotels Near Andreas Studios & Apartments II

DistanceRating
Looking for a beach holiday? Get ideas here

Explore Skala

Skala Photos Skala Holidays Kefalonia Holidays Skala Forum