I've read the reviews for this hotel with interest and I hope I can add something helpful to them.
One of the first things to say is that it’s clear there have been some significant recent changes at the hotel (in the last year or so) so you shouldn't judge the place on reviews from 2016 or earlier. And there is also a building that is being developed next to the pool area which looks like some additional space coming soon - I forgot to ask about this but it is worth keeping an eye out for expansion and what this will mean in terms of options and the feel of the place.
My recent experience (July 2017) was excellent and of a great staff team who are really trying to provide guests with a great holiday. They had got the balance right, in my view, of being helpful without being intrusive. Plan a stay here if you like being isolated (but not cut off) from the mad crowds elsewhere but with the complete freedom to choose from easy access to any place on the island together with a great local selection of restaurants and time to feel as though you have completely escaped from the rat race.
One important thing to appreciate is that this is an authentic Greek hotel which is beautifully crafted into the local natural resources. You have to walk up cobbled steps (quite a few of them) to get to the hotel but it does get easier and feel closer every day. And there is a donkey (Marco) who carries your bags if there are two or more of you and a member of staff (Victor) who carries single bags - on his shoulder whatever the weight - that guy (and this donkey) must be fit! This is part of the immediate charm of the place. Rooms are inevitably quirky with a variety of rooms dotted about on the hillside. There is no road access. You need to get off your bum and explore but, trust me, this isn’t difficult to do and it’s worth it!
The rooms were serviced swiftly and efficiently. Queries were dealt with courteously and thoughtfully. The hotel felt spacious even when there must have been a number of guests milling about – it still felt as though we had space and privacy. The small staff team worked hard and dealt with queries and requests with consideration and genuine interest.
We spent our days very happily – the hotel has a driver and you can engage him (at reasonable cost) to take and collect you to a variety of places. We arranged trips to Oia, Fira and local vineyards through the hotel. Or you can put together days based around the hotel – pool time, local exploration, picnic lunches on great, fresh Greek fare (bakery and mini-market in Pyrgos for local bread, tomatoes, wine etc.) and an abundant supply of eateries for dinners. There are at least 6 good places to eat within easy staggering distance of the hotel gate – and if you’re prepared to stagger just a little further probably about a dozen good places to try.
On balance, a very solid recommendation from me. And a truly Greek experience.