Despotiko Hotel

This charming hotel, set in a historic building that was once a bishop's residence, offers a tranquil escape with a distinct old-world elegance. Its signature feature is its unique blend of traditional Cycladic architecture with refined interiors, providing a serene atmosphere for guests. The hotel is particularly well-suited for couples and sightseers seeking a quiet retreat within walking distance of the main town, as well as budget-conscious travelers looking for good value. Guests consistently highlight the hotel's exceptional cleanliness, comfortable rooms, and the friendly, helpful staff. While the proximity to the town is a major draw, guests should be prepared for a challenging walk on a steep road with no sidewalks, making taxis or other transport options advisable, especially for families or those with mobility concerns.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel features a beautiful and well-maintained swimming pool area, often described as an oasis of calm, perfect for relaxation and sunbathing. While the pool hours are somewhat limited, it provides a refreshing escape. Guests appreciate the charming garden and courtyard areas, which are meticulously kept and offer picturesque spots to unwind. Rooms are equipped with a minibar, though some guests note the absence of kettle or coffee-making facilities. While Wi-Fi is available, some reviews indicate it can be weak or intermittently disconnected in certain areas. The hotel also provides a safe box in rooms, though some find it to be on the smaller side.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guests consistently praise the hotel's commitment to cleanliness, describing rooms as spotless, exceptionally clean, and well-maintained with daily service and fresh towels. The comfortable beds and quality linens contribute to a restful night's sleep, with many guests highlighting the great mattresses. Rooms are often noted for their charming and stylish decor, blending traditional elements with modern updates, and some feature a balcony offering sea views or a cozy bistro set. While most rooms are described as quiet, some guests have experienced noise levels from the corridor or street, and a few noted issues with sound insulation. Some bathrooms are considered small, with limited counter space or no towel racks, and a few isolated reports mentioned a moldy smell.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel offers breakfast, which is included for many guests and served in elegant dining rooms. Most guests find the breakfast to be good, with a selection of foods including assorted breads, fruits, eggs, and yogurt with honey and oats. However, some guests mention that the breakfast variety can be limited and repetitive for longer stays, with certain hot items not consistently replenished. While the overall food quality is generally satisfactory, some suggest exploring local cafes for more diverse options. There is no on-site restaurant for lunch or dinner, but the breakfast experience is often highlighted for its charming setting.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel boasts a central location, placing guests within a short walking distance of Mykonos town, including popular areas like Little Venice and the windmills. It is also conveniently close to the Fabrika bus station, providing easy access to various beaches and the airport. While the proximity to the town is a significant advantage, a recurring concern among guests is the accessibility to and from the hotel. The walk involves a steep hill on a busy road with no sidewalks, which many describe as dangerous due to fast-moving vehicles. This makes the walk challenging, especially for those with mobility issues, young children, or luggage, leading many to recommend taxis or rented vehicles.

Staff & Service
The staff at the hotel consistently receives high praise for their friendliness, helpfulness, and attentive service. Guests frequently commend their professional and warm demeanor, noting their willingness to assist with inquiries, provide recommendations, and ensure a pleasant stay. The check-in process is often described as quick and efficient. Daily cleaning services are highly appreciated, with rooms meticulously tidied. However, there was a notable incident where housekeeping entered a room despite a "do not disturb" sign, resulting in a guest's valuable item being discarded, which caused significant distress and was not adequately resolved. Despite this isolated issue, the overall sentiment regarding staff interaction remains overwhelmingly positive.

Additional Information
The hotel's unique character stems from its history as a former bishop's house, which is reflected in its traditional and elegant decor, offering a distinct ambiance compared to more contemporary hotels. While the pool area is a highlight, guests should be aware of its specific operating hours. Some rooms, particularly those in older sections, may lack modern conveniences such as an in-room kettle for hot beverages. There have been isolated reports of issues with air conditioning units and the design of some bathrooms, including a lack of towel racks or sufficient counter space. The hotel is generally considered good value for money given its location and amenities, and guests often receive thoughtful welcome amenities like chocolates or souvenirs.