Lassi Hotel

This family-owned hotel is a simple place with basic amenities that offers a quiet, relaxing atmosphere and friendly service. Off-white buildings with terra-cotta roofing are typical of the area, while stone walls, plenty of trees, and a few pops of colorful flowers create a warm feel. Paths between guest rooms wind through lawns and gardens -- some areas more inviting than others. Inside, the lobby is a modest space with ivory tile floors and painted walls, but a few lovely design features elevate the look. Floor-to-ceiling bamboo stalks are eye-catching, ceiling-high bookshelves are stuffed with books, and bold-red seating stands out as a modern addition amongst older furnishings and neutral tones. The hotel is popular with couples who appreciate the unfussy environment and affordable rates over ample features. 

This hotel is close to the southwestern shore of the Greek island Cephalonia, and is just outside the island’s capital city of Argostolion. Nearby (five-minute walk) Crocodile Beach is rocky, but a pretty spot with a natural setting. Farther north along the shore, Kalamia Beach is a 15-minute walk and offers a bar and sunbeds for rent. It is a five-minute walk to a supermarket and a bus stop, and Lassi has a few restaurants and tourist shops a 10-minute walk away. Argostolian has more to offer, with plenty of shopping along the town’s pedestrian promenade and a wider range of restaurants. From the hotel, it is a 12-minute uphill walk to the outskirts of town, or a seven-minute drive to a parking lot near the port from which sights are walkable. Cephalonia International Airport is a 12-minute drive from the hotel.

Rooms here are modest and clean, with a largely bland appearance. Various room types are spread across three buildings on the property, and decor varies from room to room. Generally, tile floors and ivory walls are complimented with wood furnishings and trim for warmth. Rooms have little color, due to no artwork and bedspreads and fabrics tending to be in neutral or muted tones. Twin or double beds in standard rooms can accommodate up to three guests. Studios and Apartments each include a small kitchenette with a microwave, sink, and electric burner, while the latter add a separate bedroom, often in a second-story loft. 

All rooms have flat-screen TVs -- some with DVD players -- and kettles, plus robes and slippers. Air-conditioning, mini-fridges, and safes are available, though each comes with an extra fee. Many rooms have balconies, some with lovely sea views over the natural landscape. Tiled bathrooms are simple and cramped. Curtained showers have handheld showerheads and trays to catch water, but floors tend to get wet. Hairdryers are provided, and free toiletries include soap, shampoo, and lotion. 

There are limited amenities at this simple hotel, but the lovely pool area is a highlight. It is in a pleasant, sunny spot at the back of the hotel, and it has a fenced wading section for young children. The pool is surrounded by bright-blue loungers under straw umbrellas, providing a relaxing spot to enjoy a bite from the snack bar. 

Free breakfast buffets are good, providing plenty to choose from, but it gets repetitive over a long stay. Al fresco dining is available on a pleasant patio surrounded by greenery, or on the lawn near the pool. Snacks at the pool bar are the only other on-site food option during the day. Wi-Fi is free in the lobby, but the signal fades farther across the property and in rooms.