Between sea and sky sit the six stone towers of Akrolithi Boutique Hotel, overlooking a sweeping bay in the Mani Peninsula Greece. A warm welcome awaits you at this family run and eco-friendly boutique hotel in the Peloponnese, where you can unwind on the terrace and drink in the views.
We used Akrolithi as a base for touring the stunning Mani peninsula, with its mountainous landscapes, rocky coastline and distinctive stone tower houses. (Read more about our Mani adventure!)
Read on for our review and why you will want to stay at Akrolithi Boutique Hotel.
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Table of Contents
The story of Akrolithi Boutique Hotel
Akrolithi’s friendly owner Panagiota welcomed us into the hotel’s informal reception and showed us to our suite in one of the six tower houses. She and husband Michalis started their hospitality business with a guest house just up the road.
In 2004 as the business became established, they decided to expand and built the six towers that make up the boutique hotel, where we stayed. While Panagiota manages the hotel day to day, Michalis built both guest house and hotel himself in the local style of the stone Maniot tower houses that characterise this region.
The name Akrolithi means “edge of the rock” and offers beautiful views of the mountain range that runs down the peninsula’s spine, as well as the Bay of Oitylo below. With four children, who sometimes help out in the school and university holidays, this really is a family business that’s run from the heart, with a lot of love and attention to the small details of hospitality.
Our Suite at Akrolithi Boutique Hotel
Ours was the Petrompeis suite, on the upper floor of one of the towers, with wonderful views over the sea. We thought it charming that each of the suites is named after some aspect of traditional Mani life. Petrompeis commemorates the famous Mani clan leader Petrompeis Mavromichalis, last Bey of the Mani and leader of the 1821 Greek Revolution of Independence.
The suites at Akrolithi are divided into two main categories, in traditional stone “Tower houses” that each accommodate two suites. Junior Suites (5 suites) are on the ground floor with a shaded terrace at the front overlooking the bay. The slightly larger Deluxe Suites (4 suites) are on the upper floor, with a spacious outdoor terrace overlooking the sea.
Our Deluxe suite felt elegant but homely, in restful shades of grey and brown, with classic style wooden furniture complementing the natural stone and wooden ceiling. We enjoyed having more space than the average hotel room, with a sitting area offering sofa and two chairs. There was a flat screen TV, but we never turned it on – who wants to do that in Greece when there’s so much beauty outside your window?
Read my review of the Las Hotel and Spa – contemporary style in Gythio, Greece
Decorative touches in our suite
We enjoyed the decorative touches such as the gilded antique wardrobe front that had been installed on one wall and the original artwork by Greek artists.
Our extremely comfortable kingsize bed had high quality bed linen and extra covers in case we felt the cold. These days I value a good night’s sleep more and more. It’s one area where a boutique hotel like this seems to get it right, over holiday apartments where such comforts are often overlooked, with smaller beds and less luxurious linen.
A lot of care and passion had clearly gone into selecting the individual furnishings of the suite and the effect was both luxurious and cosy. Our sun trap of an outdoor terrace was a private place to relax on the chairs or sun loungers, to catch the sun and enjoy the views over Oitylo Bay.
Our bathroom at Akrolithi Boutique Hotel
In the compact bathroom was a shower and modern fittings, softened with pretty patterned tiles in neutral shades and monogrammed towels. Toiletries are by Oliva del Mediterraneao, with a selection of shower gel, body lotion, shampoo and conditioner, made with organic olive oil and fragrances of bergamot, orange blossom and eucalyptus.
We appreciated that there was also a refillable hand soap dispenser and individual soap bar to reduce the amount of plastic waste. These days we avoid using small bottles of individually packaged toiletries, but it’s a good compromise to have them on offer in case we run out of our own supplies when travelling.
Location of Akrolithi Boutique Hotel
To reach Akrolithi Boutique Hotel, drive 1.5 hours south from the gateway city of Kalamata in the Peloponnese, Greece. The hotel is located half way down the western side of the Mani peninsula, which means that you can drive in either direction to find beaches or interesting places to explore – read more about everything to see in the Mani Peninsula!
Backed by the Taygetos mountains, Akrolithi’s towers are built on the hillside overlooking Oitylo Bay, with gorgeous views from the bedrooms, terraces and restaurant.
The downside of this hillside position is that you do need a car to drive down to the beach and nearest restaurants, unless you want a 20-30 minute walk. There’s not much else close to the hotel, which gives it a peaceful atmosphere, yet access from the main road is good and there’s easy parking on site.
Breakfast at Akrolithi Boutique Hotel
A leisurely breakfast in lovely surroundings is one of the ways we like to treat ourselves on holiday. At Akrolithi Boutique Hotel they pride themselves on offering a “Traditional Greek Breakfast”, as part of an initiative from the Hellenic Chamber of Hotels, that showcases the best of the region.
In addition to the spread of cereals, bread, fresh fruit and cold meats, you can enjoy some local Mani specialties. Expect to taste creamy Greek yoghurt drizzled with local honey, Kalamata olives to accompany local cheese and tomatoes, or typical Peloponnese pastries like diples (pastry rolls soaked in honey and nuts) and lalangia (loops of fried dough).
To drink there’s freshly squeezed orange juice from the orchards near Gythio and excellent barista coffee. The breakfast buffet is laid out in the bar area, with drinks made to order. Depending on the morning temperatures, we alternated between taking our breakfast in the glazed extension with views over the bay, or outside on the terrace where we could enjoy the sun on our face.
Guest areas at Akrolithi Boutique Hotel
While each of the suites has a spacious living area and terrace, there are also some other parts of the hotel where guests can gather for a chat or a drink. Walking into the reception feels like entering a friend’s home – the atmosphere relaxed and homely. Akrolithi’s decor is stylish and elegant, with warm muted colours and rugs to soften the natural finishes of wood and stone.
We were checked in at the desk where owner Panagiota is normally found working, ready to answer any questions you might have about the area or arrange any services you need.
Beyond the reception is a cosy area with built in seating and pretty cushions, ideal to sit and read or chat with friends. Adjoining this is the bar, where breakfast is served and where the team can fix you a coffee or drink at any time, with wine or aperitifs in the evening.
The main restaurant area is in a glazed extension, a useful space that allows guests to enjoy the sunshine and views while sheltering from the cooler temperatures of spring and autumn. In summer, the doors and roof are joyfully opened, making this space a shady and sheltered extension of the terrace.
On sunny days (which is most of the time in Greece!) the terrace is a lovely place to sit out for breakfast, drinks or lunch and take in those wonderful views across the bay below the hotel.
Dining options at Akrolithi Boutique Hotel
As a small boutique hotel, Akrolithi does not run a full scale restaurant kitchen, but instead focusses on light meals, cakes and snacks throughout the day. From their well stocked bar, you can order a coffee or drink at any time, accompanied by local cakes or other nibbles.
While we stayed at Akrolithi we ordered from their evening menu of pizzas and freshly prepared salads, for a light supper that meant we didn’t have to drive down the hill to find other restaurants. As we were there in low season, the menu was limited, but the offering expands in high season to other home cooked dishes that showcase the cuisine and produce of the region.
Sustainability at Akrolithi Boutique Hotel
We are increasingly making more sustainable choices when we travel, and prefer to stay in eco-friendly hotels that have a sustainability accreditation.
One of the reasons we were attracted to Akrolithi Boutique Hotel and Guesthouse is its commitment to sustainability. The eco-friendly practices we observed or heard about at Akrolithi include;
- The hotel has a “Green Key” accreditation, a scheme that meets internationally recognised high standards of excellence in sustainable practice under the Foundation of Environmental Education and Global Sustainable Tourism Council
- Akrolithi Boutique Hotel participates in the Greek Bike Friendly Hotel scheme, indicating a hotel that provides facilities and advice for cyclists on the best local cycling routes. The hotel has bikes that they can lend to guests to explore the area.
- There is an 11 kw electric car charging point at the hotel, that can be used by guests and by other travellers. The payment is through the EV Loader App so can be used at any time without the assistance of hotel staff.
- The hotel avoids the use of single use plastic, works to reduce food waste and has water conservation measures in place such as grey water recycling.
- Akrolithi also supports the regional economy and showcases local Mani produce and dishes in their “Greek Breakfast” and other menu options.
Book the Akrolithi Boutique Hotel & Suites – an eco friendly hotel close to Oitylo with charming suites overlooking the bay.
More suites at Akrolithi Boutique Hotel
Each of the suites at Akrolithi Boutique Hotel is individually designed, in elegant and comfortable style, but with slightly different colour scheme and furnishings. The inspiration for the decor is taken from the name of the room, which echoes aspects of traditional Mani life.
Top tip: Since the styles are quite varied, take a look at the Akrolithi website before you book, and request the suites that appeal to you most.
Here are just a some of the suites that we were able to see when we visited, but images of the others are on the hotel website.
Junior Suites at Akrolithi Boutique Hotel
There are 5 Junior Suites of 28 m2 – all on the ground floor with terraces at the front and sea views.
Elia Suite
The suite is a homage to the ancient olive trees of Mani, with a traditional wrought iron bed and natural furnishings.
Elia means – the olive tree that is a symbol of fertility, wisdom and prosperity, in Mani and all over Greece.
Pelena Suite
A striking black and white scheme creates a modern, minimalist aesthetic, complemented by natural tones in the walls and soft rug.
Pelena means – the square cloth that was folded around a lunch of bread, cheese and olives, taken by the Maniots when they went to work in the fields.
Kazika Suite
A traditionally styled suite with leather padded headboard and dark wood classic furniture, set against the lighter walls and upholstery.
Kazika means – the tall plants with woody stem that grow in the countryside of Mani.
Deluxe Suites at Akrolithi Boutique Hotel
There are 4 Deluxe Suites of 30 m2 – all on the first floor with terraces at the side and sea views.
Maniatissa Suite
A romantic suite where the soft blue tones echo the sea and sky outside the window.
Manitissa means – the difficulties of life experienced by the women of Mani, expressed in their funeral songs and daily struggles, borne with pride and care for their families.
Limeni Suite
Soft grey and brown tones harmonise with the stone walls, while the aqua green ceramics and decorative highlights are inspired by the sparkling sea below.
Limeni means – the “stone harbour” just around the next bay, seat of the leading Mavromichalis family, which is known for its turquoise waters.
Vika Suite
This is the only Junior suite that has a jacuzzi on the terrace for you to cool off and enjoy the view. With a four poster bed, the decor is striking and a little bit special, making this a romantic choice for a honeymoon, birthday or anniversary celebration.
Vika means – a ceramic pot used by Maniots in daily life to store food such as oil, wheat or water.
Book the Akrolithi Boutique Hotel & Suites – an eco friendly hotel close to Oitylo with charming suites overlooking the bay.
Guest houses at Akrolithi Boutique Hotel
In addition to the suites like those we stayed in, Akrolithi has three guest houses in a traditionally styled stone built tower house. The guest houses are a little separate from the boutique hotel but just a few minutes up the road, with the same wonderful views over the bay.
Two of the studios are open plan with a kitchenette and will each accommodate two people. A third is for four people and has a mezzanine with twin beds in addition to the double bed, so would be suitable for a family stay.
The guest houses are a good alternative for those who want self catering facilities, while benefitting from access to the hotel’s services. Booking the 3 guest houses together for up to 8 people, would be a good option for 3 couples or an extended family.
Things to do near Akrolithi Boutique Hotel
The location of Akrolithi Boutique Hotel is ideal for visiting some of the small seaside and hilltop towns around Oitylo bay and is a short drive from many of the Mani’s other attractions. Within the immediate area are the following things to do.
Oitylo – walk up the road behind the hotel to the old town of Oitylo, with its village cafe, church and narrow lanes, for an authentic taste of the Mani.
Neo Itilo – the sweeping bay just below the hotel offers a pebble beach for swimming and several nice restaurants.
Kastro Kelephas – we drove up the hill from Neo Itilo to the huge ruined castle on the hill, built by the Ottomans in the 17th century.
Limeni – just around the headland from Neo Itilo is the picturesque bay of Limeni, with its stone tower houses. Here you’ll find several restaurants and cafes serving local seafood, as well as clear turquoise water for swimming.
Areopoli – The closest town of Areopoli is just 15 minutes drive away, with a pretty old quarter as well as essential shops and amenities. There are some food shops that specialise in local produce and delicacies.
Hiking – we saw many marked hiking trails, especially leading up to the quiet villages that sit in the foothills of the Taygetos mountains. The hotel can advise on the best walking routes.
Cycling – Akrolithi is a bike friendly hotel, with bikes to lend to its guests. The hotel team can also advise on cycling routes through some of the quieter villages nearby, although note that the terrain can be rather hilly.
Not too far from Akrolithi Boutique Hotel
If you have a car, it’s easy to make day trips to other parts of the Mani peninsula
Caves of Diros – (25 mins drive) A flooded cave complex where you can take a 30 minute boat trip through the floodlit caverns with stalactites dripping from the ceiling.
Kardamyli – (50 mins drive) A charming village with activities such as hiking, cycling and kayaking on offer. There are some excellent restaurants, stylish shops and the Patrick and Joan Leigh Fermor house to visit.
Vathia (50 mins drive) – an abandoned hilltop village of traditional Mani Tower Houses, that you can wander through.
Read my article about all the things to do in Mani and the places we visited.
Who will enjoy staying at Akrolithi Boutique Hotel?
- As we visited early in the season, the hotel was quiet when we stayed. However we gathered from the owner that the hotel attracts a wide range of European and other nationalities, including British, German, French and also Greek guests.
- We think that Akroliti is best suited to couples of all ages, especially those looking for a quiet location and relaxing stay. There is one luxurious suite with an outdoor jacuzzi that would be lovely for honeymooners who want to completely unwind and enjoy the peaceful location.
- Many guests stay a few nights and like us use the hotel as a base for touring the Mani peninsula. Others are interested in walking and cycling, with plenty of opportunities in the Mani, as Akrolithi is a “Bike Friendly” hotel, with bikes to lend guests.
- The hotel will also appeal to those who wish to make sustainable choices when they travel, since Akrolithi Boutique Hotel is a Green Key accredited hotel with a strong commitment to best sustainable practices.
Good to know
- To get the most of a stay at Akrolithi Boutique Hotel you do need a hire car, as it would otherwise be difficult to see all the interesting places in the Mani peninsula. The exception could be if you want to combine relaxation with cycling or hiking in the area, in which case a taxi transfer could be arranged by the hotel from Kalamata or other locations in the Mani. While there are buses, they are not very regular and do not cover all parts of the Mani.
- There is no swimming pool at Akrolithi Boutique Hotel, but the beach is a short drive or 30 minute walk down the hill.
- We don’t think that the layout of the 1 bedroom suites is especially conducive to family holidays although one of the guest houses can accommodate 4 people. The relaxing ambiance of the hotel does not really offer a location or surroundings that would keep younger children entertained.
Book the Akrolithi Boutique Hotel & Suites – an eco friendly hotel close to Oitylo with charming suites overlooking the bay.
Book your stay at Akrolithi Boutique Hotel and Guesthouse
Visit the Akrolithi Hotel website and book your stay direct from their site (they also have a late offers page). To discuss your requirements or for last minute enquiries you can contact the hotel by email on [email protected] or +30 27330 53112. Address: Karavostasi, Neon Itilo, Mani Peninsula, 23062, Peloponnese, Greece.
If you prefer to use a hotel booking site, check out the hotel on Booking.com, Expedia or Hotels.com
How to get to Akrolithi Boutique Hotel
Kalamata is the closest city to Akrolithi Boutique Hotel and the gateway city for the Mani Peninsula and southern Peloponnese. Here you’ll find the closest international airport to the Mani, with direct flights from the UK and many other cities in Europe.
Due to a new fast toll road through the Peloponnese, it’s also possible to reach Kalamata from Athens in under 3 hours. If you plan to arrive and depart via Athens, you can easily hire a car there and drive to Kalamata, then on to the hotel.
Another option is to take the bus from Athens Kifissos bus station to Kalamata, with many departures during the day including the express bus which takes around 3hrs 15 mins. Information is available on the KTEL Messinias website and cost is around €22 one way. From Kalamata you could hire a car and drive into the Mani peninsula and Akrolithi Hotel – driving time 1.5 hours.
It’s possible to take a ferry from the Ionian Island of Zakynthos to Kyllini and from there it’s just over 2hrs drive to reach Kalamata.
Read Next
Discover more in our article: Mani Peninsula Travel Guide – the Wild Peloponnese, about all the places we visited on this trip.
More articles to read about Greece
A guide to the Pelion Greece – from the mountains to the sea!
Visiting the Acropolis in Athens – here’s what you need to know
Mamma Mia film locations in Greece – Skopolos, Skiathos and Pelion
Map of Mani Peninsula showing places to visit
To see the other places we visited on this trip, check out my map of the Mani Peninsula, Greece or click on the map below. You can also read my article: Mani Travel Guide – things to do in the Mani Peninsula Greece
Plan your trip to the Peloponnese in Greece
For more information on visiting the Peloponnese visit the official Mythical Peloponnese official tourism website.
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Heather’s stay at Akrolithi Boutique Hotel was hosted* by the hotel
* More info on my policies page
This article is originally published at Heatheronhertravels.com
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