Lakitira Suites

With families making the most of the neighboring Lakitira Resort & Village, this smaller property has a quiet, low-key tranquility that attracts couples. A fair amount of couples also leave the property for spa access at the Helona Resort. All are part of the Lakitira Hotel Group, and within a 10-minute walk of each other. A sequestered feel pervades throughout this hotels' manicured lawns, palms, flowering plants, and terraces around the outdoor pool. Loungers here and on the private beach are plentiful, and the snack bar is popular. Earth-toned interiors won't wow you, although marble floors and smart furnishings are well-maintained. Greek nights or occasional live music liven the place up, as do, unfortunately, passing planes, though they're not overly intrusive and stop at night. Note that the hotel is only open May through October.

Occupying a tranquil spot on Kos' southern coast, the hotel is remote, although settings amid gardens are peaceful. Walks to a lovely and private sandy beach take three minutes, and a card is required for access. Allow five minutes on foot for spa facilities at Helona Resort, while Lakitira Resort & Village is four minutes farther. The latter offers nine tennis courts, varied water sports, and bars and restaurants. Aside from the nearby bus and readily available taxis to Kardamera village (seven minutes away by car), there's nothing nearby. The city and port of Kos are a 40-minute drive. Kos International Airport is 14 minutes by car. 

All with furnished balconies overlooking pretty gardens, rooms are contemporary but bland. Fortunately, starting at 258 square feet (24 square meters) for entry-level Deluxe Rooms, they're large and have seating areas. Decor is streamlined from light walls, tiled or carpeted floors, and caramel or slate-blue colors in drapes, studded headboards, and bed runners. Framed artwork adds some much-needed character, but deep-wood furniture and sconce lighting leave an uninspiring overall finish.

In-room comforts of phones, desks, mini-fridges, kettles for tea- and coffee- making, safes, AC, and flat-screen TVs come standard. Deluxe Rooms have one sofa bed, while Family Suites have two and living rooms. The Suites measure 576 to 753 square feet (53 to 70 square meters), and have one or two bedrooms, plus a minimum of two bathrooms. Bathrooms come with shower/tub combos, marbled vanities, slippers, robes, toiletries, and hairdryers. 

With animation-packed activities reserved for the adjacent hotel, features here are geared toward a quiet stay. Rugged hillside views, palm-flanked terraces, loungers, and umbrellas surround the large outdoor pool, and a wooden bridge and gazebo give the space some character. Additionally, there are a large kiddy pool, a kids' club, and a playground. The nearby private beach has white sand, umbrella-shaded loungers, and a choice of water sports (at a fee, and via the next door hotel). Unfortunately, spa facilities are off-site, although a sauna and a small gym with a handful of cardio and resistance machines, and free weights are available, alongside a tennis court. 

Despite its Ruby moniker, the restaurant is outfitted in creams, whites, and woods. Drab interiors are lifted by pleasant al fresco terraces and excellent cuisine, which ranges from Greek and international fare, to themed and barbecue nights. All rates include hot buffet breakfasts and dinners. The Splash Pool Bar's drinks, lunches, and ice cream are popular, as are weekly dancing nights and live music. The small gift shop, free parking, and free Wi-Fi round out features.