Magic Hotel

Magic Hotel is a small family-run hotel with charming, homey decor. The large lobby is reminiscent of a sitting room, with a fireplace, pretty floral drapes, pine bookcases loaded with books, and ornaments scattered throughout. There's plenty of sitting space on cream sofas and stools, while outside guests chill by the split level pools and terraces, connected with numerous stone stairways. The restaurant and its shaded veranda are nicely done out with elegant cream chair covers, and spectacular panoramic views down the hillside to the sea. Overall, this is a pretty little place, and guests are often smitten once visiting, returning again and again. It's popular with young families and couples of all ages. 

Magic Hotel is located on the main road that runs through the village of Agia Paraskevi. There are several restaurants along the street, and a mini-mart. It's a five-minute walk to the sandy beach, and there's a bus stop opposite the hotel with routes around the island. It's about a 20-minute trip west to Koukounaries by bus, and half an hour east to Skiathos Town. The airport is about a 20-minute drive. It's possible to take the bus there, though it means changing in Skiathos Town. 

Rooms at the Magic Hotel is spread through a collection of buildings perched on the hillside. As a result there's an excellent choice of configurations, and all but one have sea views. Decor is charming, with an airy, coastal style largely in white, with pops of turquoise and blue in the cushions and accessories. Rooms all have air-conditioning, bathrobes and slippers, mini-fridges, flat-screen TVs, safes, large wardrobes, and writing desks -- plus furnished balconies with French doors and great views. However, the free Wi-Fi can be spotty. The Junior Suite is ideal for families -- split over two levels, with a double bed on the mezzanine level. Note that guests report a bit of road noise in some rooms. The stylish bathrooms all have shower/tub combos with rainfall showerheads, plus hairdryers and toiletries. Spacious Executive and Superior Suites have additional living rooms, and two bathrooms -- one with a whirlpool tub.

Magic Hotel has a well-received restaurant, visited by guests and passing tourists alike.They serve a buffet breakfast with hot and cold options -- including eggs made to order -- which is included in rates. Evening menus feature lots of traditional Greek dishes, full of fresh produce grown in the hotel's gardens. Light snacks are available during the day from the poolside bar. This is beside the main oval pool, which has a whirlpool and loungers with views out to sea. There's a separate grass-edged kids' pool on a lower level which is completely enclosed, and a grassy sundeck with more loungers. The lobby has a good selection of books and sofas to kick back on, plus two internet stations. Wi-Fi is free, though works best in the common areas.