From the outside, the hotel complex looks every bit the vacation village it claims to be, with multiple whitewashed buildings repeating geometrically up the gentle slope. The hotel’s main action takes place right out front, first in and around in the midsize outdoor pool and attached whirlpool, and then at the tables of the indoor-outdoor buffet restaurant and bar. The light and airy but cookie-cutter Aegean ambiance encourages both relaxation and socializing among the predominantly Italian couples and families who check in (hence the language of the signage). For entertainment, there's a small stage with seating that hosts musical performances.

Overlooking the long curve of Kalo Livadi Bay on the southeast coast of this famous Greek island, Penelope Village snuggles comfortably among fig trees, vineyards, and olive groves. The golden sand itself is only a five-minute walk, as are the sprinkle of restaurants, bars, and clubs by the water catering to large numbers of vacationers during the peak season. Beyond that, however, there are few facilities until reaching Mykonos town, six miles to the northwest. Mykonos Airport is slightly closer in the same direction, while the ferry port in Tourlos, which connects to both other islands and the mainland, adds a few miles to the trip. Public buses do cross the island, but service is limited, particularly outside of summer, so it's often better to arrange a cab, car, or hotel shuttle to the property. As Mykonos only covers 33 square miles, the island’s other main sights are within a 20-minute drive, including Agios Sostis Beach, Archaeological Museum of Mykonos, Paraportiani Orthodox Church, and Windmills of Kato Mili.

The blue and white colors so familiar to Greece carry through to the walls, textiles, and trim of the 36 air-conditioned guest rooms and suites, but with little flair. Between the wooden ceilings and tiled floors are double and/or twin beds, flat-screen TVs with satellite channels, CD players, and mini-fridges, and all units have free Wi-Fi, but rooms lack kettles or coffeemakers. Ceramic tiled bathrooms contain standard stall showers, hairdryers, and toiletries. Considering the location and slope of the property, it’s well worth an upgrade to a unit with a balcony and sea view. Larger units add more beds and/or bedrooms, as well as a shower/tub combos or separate tubs, but that's as far as it goes. 

Penelope Village's top feature is its pleasant outdoor pool and whirlpool surrounded by loungers, offering guests an alternative to the beach for cooling down and sunbathing. Those seeking a bit more vigor in their activity need only lace up for the tennis court out back. Live entertainment is also provided at the on-site performance space. The on-site restaurant and bar satisfies food and drink needs, albeit buffet style, including a free breakfast. Private parking and Wi-Fi is also free, but babysitting, laundry, shuttle service, and beach loungers cost extra. Car rentals can also be arranged on-site.