The Petra, an SLH Hotel

The Petra, an SLH Hotel, located in the picturesque Grikos Bay on Patmos, Greece, consistently garners exceptional praise for its blend of luxurious comfort and genuine Greek hospitality. As a Michelin Key Selected property, it is celebrated for its sophisticated yet comfortable ambiance, making it a dream destination for discerning travelers seeking tranquility and a personal touch.

1. Overall Rating & Sentiment

The Petra consistently receives outstanding guest reviews, with ratings often in the "exceptional" range. Guests frequently describe their stays as "amazing," "pure magic," and an "unforgettable experience." The overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, highlighting a haven of luxury and tranquility where guests feel welcomed like family.

2. Key Highlights

Guests consistently laud The Petra for several key aspects:

• Exceptional Service and Hospitality: The family-run nature of the hotel, with owners Petra and Kostas, creates a warm and personal atmosphere where staff go above and beyond.
• Breathtaking Views: The hotel offers spectacular panoramic views of Grikos Bay and the Aegean Sea from its rooms, pool, and dining terraces.
• Elegant Design & Impeccable Cleanliness: The boutique hotel boasts sophisticated design with meticulous decoration, high-end linens, and art by famed Greek artists. The property is consistently described as immaculately clean, from rooms to common areas and the sparkling pool.
• Delicious Homemade Breakfast: The breakfast experience is a frequent highlight, featuring fresh, flavorful, and homemade Greek delicacies served on a veranda overlooking the bay.
• Tranquil Ambiance: Situated in a peaceful fishing village, The Petra provides a serene escape from crowds, offering a quiet and refined yet relaxed atmosphere.

3. Room Quality

The rooms and suites at The Petra are described as spacious, meticulously decorated, and tastefully furnished, reflecting a harmonious blend of contemporary comfort and traditional charm. They are equipped with high-end linens, air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, refrigerators, coffee machines, kettles, and robes. A standout feature is the private balconies or terraces that offer breathtaking views of Grikos Beach and the Aegean Sea. Some Superior and Petra suites further enhance the experience with hydro-massage bathtubs or private jacuzzis. Housekeeping is provided daily, ensuring spotless conditions.

4. Dining Experience

The dining experience at The Petra is highly praised, especially the breakfast. Guests rave about the "amazing" and "delicious" homemade breakfast, which includes a variety of fresh Greek delicacies, served on the veranda with captivating sea views. Vegan options are also available. Throughout the day, delightful meals from Greek-based cuisine are offered, and guests can enjoy club sandwiches by the pool. Dinners are also described as delicious, with flavorful ingredients and organic wines. The hotel has a stylish and elegant restaurant and a poolside bar.

5. Service & Staff

The service at The Petra is consistently highlighted as a cornerstone of its appeal. The hotel is family-run, with the owners, Petra and Kostas Stergiou, often greeting guests upon arrival and setting a tone of calm and gracious hospitality. Staff members are described as super friendly, attentive, kind, discreet, professional, and always ready to help with genuine smiles and thoughtful suggestions. Many guests feel like they are "guests at their house" or "like family," appreciating the personal and warm atmosphere.

6. Location & Accessibility

The Petra is ideally situated in Grikos, a charming, picturesque, and serene fishing village that offers a peaceful escape from tourist crowds. It provides breathtaking views of Grikos Bay and is just a short walk (70 meters or 230 feet) from Grikos Beach. The hotel is conveniently located a 5-minute drive from Skala Harbor and is also close to the historic village of Chora, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with its fortified Monastery of Saint John.

Patmos does not have its own airport, so accessibility involves ferry rides from nearby islands like Kos (approximately 2.5 hours by boat) or Leros (approximately 45 minutes by boat). A semi-private transfer from Patmos harbor to the hotel can be arranged. While the location is beautiful, the hotel is built on a slope, and access to rooms and common areas is primarily by steps and connecting stairways, which might be challenging for guests with mobility issues. Car rental services are available at the hotel for those wishing to explore the island.

7. Value & Pricing

The Petra is generally considered to offer remarkable value for money, especially for a luxury boutique hotel that is a member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World and a Michelin Key Selected property. While some older feedback mentioned on-site food and drink being pricey, the overall consensus is that the unparalleled level of luxury, comfort, and service justifies the cost.

8. Common Complaints

While overwhelmingly positive, a few minor criticisms have been noted:

• Balcony Seating: One older review mentioned a small balcony with an uncomfortable narrow shelf for sitting.
• On-site Pricing: Some guests found the on-site food and drinks to be relatively expensive, although other good restaurants are within walking distance.
• Accessibility for Mobility Impaired: Due to its construction along a slope with access primarily by steps and stairways, the hotel may present difficulties for guests with mobility challenges as there is no lift.

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