MALVASIA TRADITIONAL HOTEL
About the Castle Hotel
Malvasia Traditional Hotel, Monemvasia - A Medieval Gem
Emerging from the stone embrace of the ancient fortress town, Malvasia Traditional Hotel is not merely accommodation; it's an immersion. As one of the earliest organized lodgings within the castle walls, it comprises an imposing complex of seven independent houses, meticulously joined and restored. This isn't a place that shouts its luxury, but rather whispers it through the very stones of its being, offering a rare opportunity to inhabit history itself.
Location
Monemvasia is a marvel, a medieval town clinging to a rocky islet, accessible only by a causeway. Malvasia Traditional Hotel is situated deep within this fortress town, along the main stone-paved street. Passing through the imposing castle gate, you'll find yourself amidst cobbled lanes, graced by beautiful mansions with arches, fortification walls with loopholes, and old churches. The hotel's terraces offer spectacular, uninterrupted views of the azure Myrtoan Sea and the majestic rock of Monemvasia, unfurling a panorama perfect for endless hours of contemplation. The Portello, the eastern gate, leads down to a wonderful swimming spot, mere steps from this historic enclave.
Style and Character
The spirit of Monemvasia is palpable here. The air-conditioned accommodation at Malvasia is traditionally decorated, featuring arched walls and wooden furnishings that speak of centuries past. Many rooms and apartments within this complex of stone buildings possess a unique charm, with some featuring a private or shared balcony, and even a fireplace for cooler evenings. The Stellaki Mansion, a particularly noteworthy building within the hotel's collection, is known to have belonged to one of Monemvasia's important families since the 18th century, and its five apartments offer a dreamlike setting that harmoniously combines romance and charm with modern amenities. It's a place where history is not a museum piece, but a living, breathing entity.
Service and Facilities
While specific staff details are scarce, the ethos of care is evident in the hotel's approach to guest comfort, particularly their commitment to ensuring a longer period for careful cleaning and adequate natural ventilation of the rooms. The hotel's greatest asset, beyond its historical setting, is its enchanting view. The terraces provide serene vantage points, and the popular bar overlooking the open sea, accompanied by the delicate sounds of classical music and jazz, offers an unforgettable experience. For breakfast, guests may venture to the traditional café, shaded by an old fig tree, or enjoy local recipes served beside a stone fireplace in the dining area.
Rooms
Malvasia offers a range of air-conditioned accommodations, each with its own character. Standard rooms typically feature satellite TV, a mini fridge, and free toiletries, with some opening onto a private or shared balcony offering sea views, or a smaller private balcony with partial sea views. Many units, particularly in the Stellaki Mansion, feature arched walls, wooden furnishings, and a fireplace. The apartments, some ideal for families and groups, are more spacious and often include a well-equipped kitchenette for preparing breakfast and snacks. For instance, a renovated apartment might feature a large living room with a kitchenette and two separate bedrooms with sea views, opening out to a shared terrace. Another apartment, perched on the fortress walls, boasts a stone balcony with sea views, a fireplace, and two bathrooms. It is worth noting that some rooms, while comfortable and traditionally decorated, may not offer a sea view.
Food and Drink
Breakfast at Malvasia is a considered affair, utilizing local recipes and products for a delicious start to the day. Guests can enjoy this meal at the traditional café, a charming spot under the shade of an old fig tree, especially delightful from April to October, offering coffee or ouzo alongside mouth-watering appetizers. Alternatively, breakfast is served beside the stone fireplace in the dining area. For a more leisurely experience, the hotel's bar, overlooking the open sea, provides a cool drink accompanied by the delicate sounds of classical music and jazz, promising an unforgettable time.
Value for Money
The Malvasia Traditional Hotel offers a unique proposition: the chance to sleep within the walls of a living medieval town. While specific pricing isn't detailed, the value lies in the experience. The combination of historical immersion, stunning sea views, and comfortable, traditionally appointed rooms, some with kitchenettes and fireplaces, makes it a compelling choice for discerning travelers seeking authenticity over convention. The effort made for careful cleaning and ventilation adds to the sense of thoughtful hospitality.
Accessibility
Navigating a medieval fortress town presents inherent challenges, and this should be considered when booking. While specific accessibility features for guests with mobility issues are not detailed, the nature of the historic buildings, with cobbled streets and multi-level structures, may pose difficulties. Guests requiring specific accommodations should contact the hotel directly for personalized information.
Family-Friendly
The larger apartments, particularly those within the Stellaki Mansion with their separate bedrooms and kitchenettes, are well-suited for families and groups of friends traveling together. The ability to prepare simple meals in the room can be a significant advantage. The unique setting of Monemvasia itself, with its car-free streets and fascinating history, provides a sense of adventure that children often find captivating. However, parents should be mindful of the historic environment and supervise younger children closely, especially near the terraces and sea access points.
Choose your room
Price and Room Availability Calendar
Local transport options
Overview of transport connections
Facilities
General
- Free Wi-Fi
- Parking
- VIP check-in/ -out
- No pets allowed
- Fire extinguishers
- Key access
Guest Parking
- Electric kettle
- Cookware/ Kitchen utensils
Services
- Paid shuttle service
- Housekeeping
Dining
- Bar/ Lounge area
- Outdoor dining area
Business
- Fax/Photocopying
Children
- Cots
- Board games
Spa & Leisure
- Sun terrace
- Leisure/ TV room
Room features
- Air conditioning
- Sitting area
- Patio
- Garden furniture
- Tea and coffee facilities
- Dining table
- Ironing facilities
Bathroom
- Free toiletries
Self-catering
- Electric kettle
- Cookware/ Kitchen utensils
Media
- Flat-screen TV