Krouzeri Beach Apartments

A steep and narrow winding road leads down to the wrought-iron gated entrance of the Corfu Apartments by the Beach. Comprising just seven apartments all located in a single three-story building, the complex is tiny and lacking many amenities, but it's the setting that really steals the show. Stone footpaths meander through beautifully tended gardens dotted with olive trees and colorful flowers. The grounds slope gently down to the beach -- a white-pebble stretch of coastline overlooking crystal turquoise sea. There's not much else to this family-run property, and it's the simplicity and serenity that attracts most of the clientele.

The hotel is located at the bottom of a lush hillside overlooking the white-pebble beach of Krouzeri on the east coast of Cyprus. Despite the Nissaki Beach Hotel next door, the surrounds are peaceful and quiet, which equates to little in the way of nightlife. There are a couple of quaint tavernas along the beach, however, and various local coves such as Kaminaki and Agni. The resort town of Nissaki is a 10-minute drive away. The bustling Corfu City, with its UNESCO-designated Old Town and impressive historic buildings, is about a 45-minutes drive away, while Corfu International Airport -- also known as Ioannis Kapodistrias Airport -- is just a bit farther. 

Of the seven one-bedroom apartments, the two largest are located at ground level and the rest are on the second and third floors. Interiors are bright and spotlessly clean, with polished stone floors, simple light-wood furniture, and a fresh finish. Separate kitchen and dining areas come with up-to-date cooking facilities that include fridges, ovens, stoves, kettles, coffeemakers, and decent cookware. Guests also receive a free welcome basket with various snacks and drinks. All apartments extend to terraces or balconies with a wooden table and two chairs for alfresco dining accompanied by lovely sea views. All bedrooms come with flat-screen TVs, two twin beds pushed together, and wardrobes with safes. Modern bathrooms are equipped with wall-mounted hairdryers, toiletries, and open showers.

There's little in the way of facilities, although there are plenty of lounge chairs and parasols dotted around the gardens and lining the beach (free of charge). The only other facilities are a barbecue grill and parking lot for a few cars. Friendly staff are also on hand to help with booking local water sports, excursions, or even offering rides to and from the local supermarket. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property.