Ipsia Apartments

There's a lot to love at this quiet, family-run property, where traditional Greek hospitality is well-regarded, but offerings are basic and limited. High-perched settings amid olive groves afford pretty hillside and distant sea vistas, but the steep approach can be challenging on foot. Five-minute walks downhill to Paleokastritsa's village and beaches are easier than the return route, although friendly owners here often offer a free ride in their vehicle. Clean studios or apartments here occupy a villa-like house, and its pink-stone exterior pop against surrounding garden greenery, where a handful of loungers and dining furniture get the sun. Self-catering accommodation is simple, but spotlessly clean, and gorgeous outdoor spaces offer terrace, swing, or lounger seating, plus barbecue facilities in some units. The property attracts budget-conscious, easygoing couples, families, and groups of friends, and it's particularly popular with British travelers. Note, upper-level rooms are reached by stairs, and like much of Corfu, the hotel is only open in the summer.

The small resort village of Paleokastritsa sits on Corfu's western coast, and peninsula settings here form beautiful cove inlets amid scenic mountain backdrops. While the hill setting (a five-minute walk from the seafront) is a bit of a hike on the approach, travelers here are within a seven-minute walk of three lovely beaches with pebbled or sandy shores, and clear, shallow waters are great for snorkeling. Three more beaches are within a 20-minute walk. The seafront is lined with tavernas, bars, tourist-geared stores, and bars, and a bus here runs to Corfu's town in around 30 minutes. An ancient monastery and the harbor's boat trips are popular destinations. A supermarket is four minutes away on foot. Corfu International Airport is a 39-minute drive away.

Some more modern than others, bright studio or apartment rooms are clean, comfortable, and outfitted in unfussy decor. They feature clean-tiled or wooden floors, light or muted-gray walls, and colorful accents in bedding or drapes. Bold reds, oranges, or warm-toned checked fabrics here offset wooden furniture, and decorative touches are found in table ornaments, small wall hangings, and traditionally Greek archways. Economy Studios and One-Bedroom Apartments have dining areas designed for two, while Four-Bedroom Apartments have cozy sofa-equipped living areas and can sleep eight. Kitchenettes have two-ring hobs, mini-fridges, microwaves, kettles, and cookware, while those in the larger apartments include ovens and laundry facilities.Smaller units have furnished balconies or terraces, with garden or distant sea views, and upgraded units have backyards with swing seating, loungers, and barbecue facilities. All units lack safes, and Studios don't come with flat-screen TVs. Compact, light-tiled bathrooms are simple, equipped with basic showers, hand soap, towels, and hairdryers. AC and free Wi-Fi are provided. Note, upper-level rooms are reached by stairs, and beds are two twins pushed together (common for region). 

You won't find much in the way of features here, as there are no pool, restaurant, bar, or lounge on-site. However, considering the bargain rates and nearby outlets, features are reasonable. The property's gardens have a wild, unkempt look in parts, which fits with the rugged countryside setting, and guests here are surrounded by nature. Lawns, trees, and olive groves offer a pleasant, quiet place to sit, while a few loungers are suitable for sunbathing. Decorative lanterns dress up rock walls, and garden furniture can be used as a place to eat room-prepared meals. Some apartments offer this space privately, alongside barbecue facilities. There's no front desk, but friendly owners live on-site and are available 24/7 to give regional information, and it's pretty common for them to offer free rides up the steep hill. Pets are not permitted. On-site parking and Wi-Fi throughout are free.