The Stay at Portaria Hotel & SPA

Monday, July 22, 2013
Portaria, Thessaly, Greece



HIGH STANDARDS – A STEADY VALUE




We spent 2 dreamy nights at this amazing Spa Hotel of Portaria . We were made welcome with a huge smile and I mention this because it is important for the guest to feel welcome right from the beginning. The hotel was full the time we were there but everything was functioning well.

STAFF AND MANAGEMENT: The staff is truly world class. The service is Impeccable. As you walk pass them you are greeted with a smile that it is so warm that makes your day! I don't want to start naming people because the list is big but both the reception and the gentlemen of the restaurant were exceptional. The percipient observer notices instantly the value of these people and how they perceive to make guests feel at home. The best is that you don’t have to be a repeater to receive this exceptional personalized service. You can enjoy it even if you are here for the first time, and this surely counts.

LOCATION: We were coming from Agios Ioannis (Mouresi) and for us it was about a 50 minute drive with the several stops on the way for photos . Volos however is so close that visitors who book here and love the night life of a big city can easily get there in less than 15 minutes. It is only a 12 kms ride, but in 12 more from here you can get to the Ski Centre as well.

The Hotel is built in the higher part of Portaria in an exquisite and relaxed location. It overlooks the imposing city of Volos, giving breathtaking views of the Pagasitikos Gulf. It is more or less a km to the Square if you spare the time, but by car it is a matter of 3 minutes ride. Luckily the municipality made sure that there would be a spacious free parking lot opposite the main Square so parking is not actually a problem. The village of Portaria can easily become your starting point to visit the whole of Pelion.

ARCHITECTURE: The resort respects the traditional architecture of Pelion, but in all it is a mixture of the local architecture blended with modern touches in a sophisticated way to provide tranquility and comfort to the guest .

OUR ROOM: The superior suite #220 we had was spotlessly clean, classy, spacious and well equipped. I was happy that there was plenty of space to walk. The combination of Warm colours, Wooden floors and the contrast of Red, created a relaxed ambience. Space is so important but most of the times is missing from many hotels. The bed was in the master room and it was comfortable enough and there was also the lounge with a fireplace nicely decorated making the guest feel at home. All the above preserve a state of constant serenity if you plan to remain indoors.  

Now about the view! The word "stunning" is very little to describe it. Nothing could stop me from getting up early to catch the crack of dawn as it breaks into a new day. It was like standing in front of a nice landscape painting - a palette of true to life natural colours. The real beauty of Mount Pelion. Trust me it worth paying the few extra to get a superior room .
Facilities like toiletries, robes, a hair dryer, slippers, a safe, pool towels, a mini bar, a flat TV and a second set in the living room are provided. Wi Fi connection is also free.


BATHROOM: It was roomy and functional with a Jacuzzi and a shower. The hand wash basin was red making a nice contrast.

BREAKFAST: The first meal of the day out here was an adequate buffet which was enough to fill you up till late in the afternoon if you tried to taste the different things offered.

RESTAURANT: Breathtaking sunsets! Dining was out at the big porch overlooking the city of Volos and it was the perfect spot to catch the sun going down. The menu varies and it is different every day including gourmet dishes. Quality is satisfying, dishes mostly Mediterranean/Greek and the portions are huge. Impeccable service with the Chef doing an excellent job, and several of the guys in the kitchen are an asset to the business especially the ones who are here for years and teach the youngers . You truly make the difference guys!

TIP: The restaurant’s home wine is good. Try it instead of asking for bottled wine which is more expensive. The 'Barrel’ beer is the other option I recommend.

GARDENS & POOL: A marvel. You can lazy on the loungers with a drink from the pool’s bar, read a book or just sit out there and relax. The spot is simply unbeatable.

SPA: We were mostly out but I had the time to visit the SPA once. After a whole day out taking photos and walking through the nearby picturesque villages, it is wonderful to slip into the bathrobe at last and walk over to the Spa pool. It was nice and cool. I spent some time in the Jacuzzi and also used the Rassul. I cannot comment on the treatments or the therapist since I did not have the opportunity this time. Perhaps on a coming trip I will.

CONFERENCES: Versatile function rooms to host a conference with the state of the art audio-visual equipment are provided for the businessman.   

1990 RESTAURANT: Recently renovated the New Restaurant of the Hotel stands right opposite the main entrance and it opens its doors for special occasions, wedding venues, private gatherings or parties. The hotel’s chapel provides the unique location for a ceremony.  

CONCLUSION: In all I highly recommend this hotel for all the above reasons and I will definitely return. Keep the good work up guys and thanks for making our stay interesting.
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