Astir Odysseus Kos Resort & Spa

This lovely hotel appeals to couples and families alike for its beautiful, relaxing spaces and extensive list of amenities. The design throughout is sleek and attractive, if a bit minimalist, and largely neutral-toned. The large, open lobby has clusters of sofas and armchairs arranged into cozy seating areas under modern light fixtures. It's also decorated with artwork depicting aspects of “The Odyssey,” a famous Greek epic poem and the namesake of the hotel, with a large statue of Odysseus dominating the reception area. Some areas bear names from the poem, like the Sirens Bar, and Ithaka and Argo a la carte restaurants. The expansive grounds are striking with flower-covered trellises over stone walkways, and trim lawns dotted with palm trees. The property is long, with rooms and pools stretching back from the lobby toward the sea, but the grounds are flat with wide paths making all areas accessible. There are many places to sit and lounge, and despite the large presence of families, the atmosphere is peaceful. 

This hotel is on the northeastern coast of the Greek island Kos, just off Turkey’s shore. It is surrounded by open land with nothing but a few homes and other hotels nearby. A bus stops just outside the hotel with service to Kos, the nearest large town. It is an eight-minute drive to the city of Kos, where there are many historic sights and museums. Asklepion, a significant ruin with beautiful views, is a nine-minute drive from the hotel. It is a 10-minute drive to the nearby town of Tigaki, which has a gorgeous sandy beach and a few restaurants. Kos Airport is a 20-minute drive away, and it's an 11-minute drive to the port.

Rooms are well-maintained and comfortable, outfitted with warm, neutral tones. The minimalist and airy design is appealing, though lacks high-end furniture and finishings. Two twin beds are pushed together for a double, or a king-size bed can be requested. Furnished balconies or terraces offer a nice outdoor space with varying privacy; some have gorgeous sea views while others lead to private or semi-private pools. Family Rooms have a separate bedroom, while some suites have two bedrooms and two bathrooms. 

All rooms have a flat-screen TV, minibar, coffeemaker, and a free safe, as well as free Wi-Fi. Beach towels, robes, and slippers are also included. Bathrooms lack polish and could use an update, however, they're clean and functional. Typically, there’s a curtained tub/shower combo and a single sink, though some have a shower stall -- with or without glass walls -- and double sinks. A hairdryers is provided, as are a full range of free toiletries.

An appealing and comprehensive list of features makes this a good all-inclusive or half-board option. Food at the main buffet restaurant receives positive reviews, plus there are an a la carte Mediterranean restaurant and Greek taverna that hosts a popular barbecue night. Three bars are found in the lobby and at the pool and beach.

At the back end of the property, a sprawling pool meanders around curves and islands, creating several smaller sections. There is enough space for guests to spread out, even when the animation team is running activities at one end. A small wading pool to the side provides smaller children a place to splash. There's a quieter pool near the front of the property, which has two whirlpools built in and another small wading pool nearby. A narrow strip of beach offers free sunbeds with umbrellas. Gravely sand and a rocky entrance to the sea make it less than ideal, but it is a quiet spot to sunbathe or swim. 

The spa offers a full treatment menu, in addition to an indoor pool, whirlpool, sauna, and hammam, though there is a charge to access the facilities unless undergoing a treatment. A small gym has cardio and weight-training equipment plus there are tennis courts, a beach volleyball court, climbing wall, water sports, and exercise classes. The mini-club has a sandy, partly shaded outdoor playground with beach toys, slides, and swings. A modest game room has air hockey, a billiards table, a couple of massage chairs, and a computer. Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel.