The Olivar Suites

The Olivar Suites, a distinguished Michelin Key Selected property in Corfu, Greece, consistently receives glowing reviews for its unique blend of historical charm, contemporary luxury, and exceptional service.

1. Overall Rating & Sentiment

The general consensus for The Olivar Suites is overwhelmingly positive, with guests frequently describing their stays as "magical," "perfect," "exceptional," and a "dreamlike escape." It holds high ratings across various platforms, including 9.6 out of 10 on Booking.com based on over 500 reviews, and 4.8 out of 5 from hundreds of reviews on other travel sites. The sentiment highlights a profound sense of peace, luxury, and tranquility.

2. Key Highlights

Guests consistently laud The Olivar Suites for several standout features:

• Design & Ambiance: The resort is built on a former 18th-century olive oil mill, with its design seamlessly blending agricultural heritage with modern luxury. Ancient olive trees, some over 300 years old, are integrated into the design, creating a picturesque and serene setting. The low-rise, village-style arrangement of suites ensures privacy and harmonizes with the natural landscape.
• Private Pools: Many of the suites feature private plunge pools, which are a major draw for guests seeking seclusion and luxury.
• Beachfront Location: Direct access to the tranquil Messonghi Beach, complete with private daybeds, is a significant highlight.
• Service Excellence: The exceptional and attentive staff are frequently praised as a key factor contributing to the outstanding guest experience.

3. Room Quality

The Olivar Suites offers 120 elegantly designed suites, all providing maximum privacy. Rooms are described as sleek, stylish, and comfortable, featuring modern amenities and a calm cream decor with wooden furnishings and stone-tiled floors.

• Variety: Suite types include Junior, Majestic, Executive, Corfiot, Premier, Riviera, and Ionian Beachfront Suites, many of which come with private pools or spacious terraces/balconies.
• Amenities: Standard facilities across suites include air conditioning, Wi-Fi, satellite TV, a safety deposit box, hairdryer, bathrobes and slippers, minibar, and tea/coffee-making facilities.
• Comfort: Guests report excellent sleep quality, and the rooms are generally noted for being quiet and peaceful.

4. Dining Experience

The dining at The Olivar Suites is a highlight, with a strong emphasis on local, seasonal ingredients and Mediterranean flavors.

• Flya Restaurant: The all-day restaurant, "Flya," led by Head Chef Thomas Barbakis, offers an upscale culinary experience from fresh breakfast options to sophisticated evening meals. Dishes like grouper carpaccio and pan-seared fish are examples of the exquisite offerings.
• Olibar: Located in the resort's restored 18th-century olive mill, "Olibar" provides a relaxed atmosphere for drinks, light snacks, and signature cocktails throughout the day, often accompanied by live jazz or cello music.
• Breakfast: Guests consistently rate the breakfast highly (9.5 score on Booking.com), with continental, vegan, and buffet options available.
• Special Experiences: The hotel offers bespoke dining experiences, including poolside meze and moonlight beach dinners.

5. Service & Staff

The service and staff at The Olivar Suites receive near-universal acclaim. They are frequently described as "exceptional," "professional," "warm," "friendly," and "attentive." Reviewers highlight their helpfulness, their respect for guest privacy, and their overall contribution to a serene and luxurious atmosphere.

6. Location & Accessibility

The Olivar Suites is ideally situated on the tranquil Messonghi Beach on Corfu's southeast coast, nestled within an ancient olive grove.

• Beach Access: The resort offers direct access to a 200-meter-long sandy beach with sunbeds and snack service.
• Local Area: The charming village of Messonghi, with its traditional tavernas, local markets, and bars, is just a short walk away.
• Island Exploration: Corfu International Airport is approximately a 30-minute drive away. The UNESCO World Heritage site of Corfu Old Town is about a 40-minute drive, offering Venetian architecture, forts, and vibrant streets. The resort is car-free, promoting a peaceful environment. Excursions such as boat trips, hiking trails, and visits to other Ionian islands can be arranged.

7. Value & Pricing

While positioned as a luxury 5-star all-suite hotel, guests generally feel that The Olivar Suites offers excellent value for the experience provided, often describing it as "definitely worth it." Prices vary based on suite type, season, and board basis. Sample rates for a 4-night stay with bed and breakfast can be around £790 per person, with direct booking rates for a Majestic Suite with a private pool starting from approximately €353 for one night for two adults. It is considered a premium choice for those seeking understated luxury.

8. Common Complaints

Despite the overwhelmingly positive feedback, a few minor recurring criticisms have been noted:

• Pool Temperature: Some guests mentioned that the private plunge pools and the main hotel pool could be quite cold, especially in May.
• Beach Bar Music: A few reviews referenced the beach bar music as occasionally being "like supermarket music" or "Ibiza style chill out copies," suggesting a desire for more original artists or varied styles.
• Noise Transfer: One guest noted potential noise transfer between upper and lower suites, advising to request a ground-floor suite if possible.
• Spa Payment: A guest mentioned an unusual policy of having to pay for spa treatments upfront rather than charging them to the room, which was not the expected 5-star experience.

Sources

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