Astra Village Hotel & Suites

Astra Village is a lovely hotel with a simple, but appealing design and a relaxed feel. Grounds are beautiful and lush, with stone walls, trim shrubbery, and well-tended flower beds all over the property. Clean lines and terra-cotta roofs on buildings are typical of the area, and the distant ocean is a reminder of the island locale. Inside, the lobby is immaculately clean with a mix of modern and beach-chic furniture. To one side of the reception desk, there is a lounge space with a large flat-screen TV, contemporary wicker furniture, and stylish chairs. The color palette is warm and neutral, mostly in shades of beige, but modern artwork and throw pillows provide bright pops of color. Across form the lounge, behind a screen of bamboo stalks, the hotel bar is a relaxed spot with a few tables and games. Couples are drawn here for the lovely surroundings and relaxed atmosphere, though families come as well. 

This hotel is on the southeastern side of the Greek island Cephalonia, south of the airport and near the shore. It is a quiet spot and there’s little to do nearby, but there’s a convenient grocery store across the street. It is a seven-minute walk to Ammes Beach, a pretty spot with a bar and sunbeds for rent, and there are a few good restaurants within a 15-minute walk. The capital city of the island is Argostolion, a 20-minute drive from the hotel. Also a 20-minute drive, Pessada Beach is a gorgeous spot with crystal waters perfect for snorkeling, though it has a small, rocky shoreline. Mount Ainos Oros offers hiking opportunities and beautiful panoramic views from the peak -- all a 65-minute drive away. Cephalonia International Airport is a five-minute drive from the hotel. 

Room types and amenities vary at this hotel, from old-fashioned rooms with an underwhelming design, to bright and contemporary rooms with a elegant feel. Expect tile floors, simple furniture, and a neutral color palettes with few accents. Overall, rooms are spacious and clean, though some minor wear and tear is present. Standard rooms have a double bed or two twins, while pullout sofas or extra bedrooms sleep up to four guests in other room categories. Most rooms have a small old tube-style TV, while the nicest suites have larger flat-screen TVs. All rooms are air-conditioned and have mini-fridges, kettles, and free safes, as well as furnished outdoor spaces. Most also have a kitchenette with a sink and an electric burner. Bathrooms also range in style, with either curtained showers over trays, or shower/tub combos. Hairdryers and basic free toiletries are provided.

Amenities are sufficient here, including both quality leisure and dining facilities. Elia Restaurant serves a free, American-style breakfast buffet and offers a half-board buffet or a la carte dinner option. Delicious Greek and international dishes are well-reviewed. The pool bar serves light meals and snacks throughout the afternoon and in the evening, and some nights have live music.  

A sunny patio at the back of the hotel has a decent-sized pool surrounded by loungers and umbrellas. It is a busy spot, but fairly quiet. There’s also a spa offering massage and body treatments, a sauna, and a small fitness room with old-looking equipment. A small playground and a few table games -- soccer, tennis, and billiards -- offer entertainment for younger guests. Wi-Fi is free in common areas around reception, but there is a nominal fee to access it in rooms.