Regina Dell Acqua Resort

Set in the hillside, Regina Dell Acqua Resort is a lovely hotel with Mediterranean charm and family-hospitality. The property shines outside, where stonework and salmon-painted buildings are surrounded by colorful flowers, tall cypress and palm trees, furnished terraces for staring at the beautiful sea. Inside, the hotel is filled with contemporary furniture in an elegant, yet cozy design. Like its exterior, the color palette is warm, earthy, and neutral, with beige marble floors, seating and linens in shades of brown, and decorative accents like island-themed artwork, intricate chandeliers, and faux flowers. The dining room has panoramic windows to take in the sea vistas, though ocean views are found throughout. Decor and some features don't live up to the advertised five-star rating, but this is still an excellent option for an upmarket stay, and this property receives a ton of repeat visitors. 

Scenic hills to one side, and the beach to the other, this hotel's location offers guests a prime spot in a beautiful setting. From Cephalonia Airport, it's a 54-minute drive to Regina Dell Acqua Resort, which may be a negative for some. However, once in the area, it's possible to explore the city on foot, as Skala's town center is just a 15-minute walk away. The area is packed with restaurants, bars, and shops, plus Skala Beach is near here. A supermarket (AB Market) is also just a one-minute away from the hotel, which previous guests have said is a great spot to grab a snack or some waters.

For a hotel with such attention to detail -- and upscale features throughout -- the guest room's traditional decor is underwhelming. They have off-white tiled floors, peach walls, old-fashioned patterns curtains, and shiny brown bedding that resembles something you'd see in a budget hotel. The furniture throughout (headboards, bedside tables, dressers, and desks) is all wood, and upholstery on the chairs matches those of the curtains. Wicker lampshades and pretty artwork add more pleasant touches. All rooms have furnished outdoor spaces with views of the sea or garden, and most agree it's worth upgrading to the former.

Also standard are air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs, free WiFi, well-stocked minibars, and tea- and coffee-making facilities. Wardrobes also house bathrobes, safes, and ironing facilities. Bathrooms are similarly old-fashioned and have orange granite countertops. However, amenities include walk-in showers and separate jetted bathtubs, old hose-style hairdryers, and free toiletries, which aren't as high-end as expected for a hotel of this caliber.

There's not a ton for kids at the Regina Dell Acqua Resort, but there are still a good range of features. Of course, the adjacent beach is one of the most popular aspects of the hotel, and there are both Bali beds and regular sunbeds under umbrellas for rent (they cost six euros during our stay). For those that prefer to stay on-site, a large and lovely pool has a separate kiddy pool, plenty of cushioned wooden sunbeds, chairs, and a hammock, and gorgeous sea vistas. Although the spa isn't that expansive and furnishings look old, many past guests have enjoyed the outdoor massages by the pool and beauty salon treatments. A fitness center is also on-site, but the equipment is limited and in need of an updated.

The Mediterranean restaurant, Amethyst Hippocampus Restaurant, serves a buffet breakfast and a la carte meals for lunch and dinner. Food receives positive reviews. A poolside snack bar is also available. Half-board packages can be purchased.