Aegean Suites

The quiet, upscale atmosphere at this boutique hotel appeals largely to couples looking for a relaxing vacation. Whitewashed buildings with terra-cotta roofs and dark-wood trim have a sophisticated look. Stone walls, trim shrubbery, and some colorful flowers add charm and beauty. Inside, the lobby has an elegant, serene feel with pale-blue walls, white accents, and light, modern furnishing. Dark touches in an ornate table or unusual work of art provide pleasant contrast with the airy atmosphere of the space. 

Set on a hill overlooking the beach, this hotel has many stunning views. All rooms are accessible via stairs, but nicer rooms are higher up, which could prove difficult. Children over 13 are welcome, but the lack of kid-friendly facilities make this hotel essentially adult-only. Guests find the staff consistently friendly and welcoming, and most thoroughly enjoy the tranquil environment. 

Aegean Suites is on the eastern coast of the Greek island of Skiathos, just off the mainland. It is on the main coastal road through the area, with a small beach across the street, but little else nearby. There are a couple of tavernas within a six-minute walk along the beach, and it's a 12-minute walk to a supermarket. A 15-minute walk, or a three-minute drive, will bring guests to the more populated areas of Skiathos Town, where there are restaurants, bars, museums, and historic sites. There’s also a public bus with service into town that stops about a minutes’ walk from the hotel. The island sports a plethora of beautiful beaches, many of which can be reached within a 20- to 30-minute drive. Skiathos Airport is a 15-minute drive a way, and the port in Skiathos town is a five-minute drive or a 20-minute walk from the hotel.  

Suites are spacious -- starting at 430 square feet (40 square meters) -- and lovely. Decor varies between room types, but warm tones, high-end fabrics, and sophisticated design elements make for appealing, relaxing spaces. Seashell artwork and blue-and-white ceramic pots add homey touches. All rooms have a furnished terrace or balcony -- many with beautiful views to the sea. Upscale extras like a king-size bed, minibar, welcome gift of fruit and wine, robes, and slippers also come standard. A free safe and 26-inch flat-screen TV are provided, plus a DVD player can be requested. Higher-category rooms are larger and have more sophisticated decor, plus some have private whirlpools or a second bedroom and bathroom. Sleek bathrooms come equipped with a vessel sink, dark-wood vanity, and oversized shower stall, as well as a hairdryer and quality free toiletries.

There are a decent array of amenities -- most occupying beautiful spaces -- for a hotel of this size. The outdoor pool sits in a stone deck lined with plenty of wooden sunbeds with thick blue cushions and umbrellas. It is a lovely spot, surrounded by a short stone wall and trees, plus offering a view of the sea. The beach across the street is pretty but small, and guests tend to prefer others around the island. 

Guests enjoy the food at the two restaurants, and the free breakfast is particularly well-reviewed. Half-board guests find the dinners are good quality but can be repetitive over a week. A light, a la carte lunch is served at the poolside Karavia, while the gourmet restaurant, Pelagos, serves Greek and Mediterranean dishes on a lovely terrace above the pool and with an ocean view. 

Spa services include massages, facials, treatments, and beauty services like hair styling and pedicures. A small fitness room has some cardio and weight-training equipment. Guests also have access to the spa and fitness services at a sister hotel, though it is a 15-minute drive away. Wi-Fi is free in common spaces, but is not available in rooms. Also offered are 24-hour concierge, 24-hour room service, and turndown service.