Ios Chora's Mare Monte: Greece's Hidden Gem You NEED to See!
Mare Monte, Ios Chora: Is This Greek Gem Really Hidden? (And Worth Finding?) - A Rambling, Honest Review
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because I just got back from Mare Monte in Ios Chora, Greece, and my brain is still buzzing with bougainvillea, sunshine, and the faint scent of chlorine (in a good way, mostly). This isn't your polished, corporate review. Get ready for the raw, the real, and the possibly slightly chaotic account of my stay.
SEO & Metadata Stuff (Gotta Do It, I Guess…):
- Keywords: Mare Monte Ios, Ios Chora Hotel, Greece Hotel Review, Luxury Ios Hotel, Accessible Hotel Greece, Spa Hotel Greece, Pools with a View Greece, Romantic Getaway Greece, Ios Travel Guide, Best Ios Hotels.
- Meta Description: A brutally honest review of Mare Monte in Ios Chora, Greece. Is it paradise? Is it worth the hype? Discover the pros, cons, and quirky details of this "hidden gem," from the luxurious spa to the questionable coffee.
Accessibility & The (Almost) Perfectly Imperfect:
Right off the bat, let's talk accessibility. They say they have facilities for disabled guests. I didn't require them, so I can't give a definitive down-to-the-wheelchair-spec level analysis. However, the reception and some public areas seemed okay. Elevators? Yes! That's HUGE in a hillside location like this. But, and this is a big BUT, navigating the uneven cobblestone streets of Chora itself could be a nightmare. So, while Mare Monte itself might be trying, Ios as a whole…well, let’s just say it’s not the most user-friendly island.
On-site Accessible Restaurants/Lounges: (Hmmm, I need to check.)
The Food & Drink Frenzy (Or, My Stomach's Love Affair):
Okay, let's get to the good stuff – the food! The restaurants at Mare Monte are… diverse. They have a few options: A la carte, and a buffet. The buffet was a glorious, slightly overwhelming tsunami of deliciousness! Breakfast [Buffet] was a daily ritual. Hands down, their croissants were the BEST I've ever had, flaky, buttery, and practically melting in your mouth. Seriously, I almost cried when I finished the last one. They also offer a Western Breakfast, as well as Asian options, though I can't attest to those.
- Room Service [24-hour]: Temptation at its finest. After a long day lounging by the pool, having delicious food delivered to your room, is awesome.
- Restaurants: There were options, to dine by the Poolside bar. There was also Coffee/tea in restaurant to start
- Poolside Bar: A lifesaver. And a dangerous mistress. They have a fantastic selection of cocktails. The bartenders were also quite friendly.
I mostly stuck to the International cuisine, because, well, I was in Greece! Dinner was also decent. I didn't get a chance to try the Asian cuisine, that might be something to revisit. The coffee shop deserves special mention. The coffee was decent, but the pastries were the real winner (surprise, surprise). Happy hour was a nice touch too.
The Spa & Relaxing Side of Life (My Zen Moment, Interrupted):
Alright, spa time! This is where Mare Monte really shines. And where I, a stressed-out urbanite, finally managed to almost achieve a state of blissful calm.
- Spa: is a haven of serenity, and a great place to unwind.
- Spa/sauna: A plus, to have those two in one place, and I can definitely vouch for the sauna.
I booked a massage, and it was divine. The masseuse was skilled, the music was soothing, and for a glorious hour, I could pretend I was a goddess floating on a cloud of essential oils. They also had a body scrub and body wrap options.
- Pool with view: The main swimming pool offered views of the Aegean Sea and Chora
- Sauna & Steamroom: Both were available and, for the most part, functional. (The steam room had a momentary blip where it seemed to be doing more steaming than rooming, but hey, no place is perfect.)
The "Things To Do" (Besides Lounging and Eating):
Okay, let's be honest, doing things at Mare Monte mainly involves relaxing. But that's the POINT, right?
- Fitness center: I'm not one for working out on vacation, but they have one.
- Gym/fitness: See above.
- Swimming pool [outdoor]: Definitely a highlight. The pool is gorgeous, with amazing views, and plenty of sunbeds. The water was refreshing, not too cold, just perfect for lazy days.
Cleanliness & Safety (The New Normal):
COVID-19 happened. Mare Monte clearly takes this seriously.
- Anti-viral cleaning products, Daily disinfection in common areas, Room sanitization between stays, Hand sanitizer everywhere.
- Staff trained in safety protocol
- Physical distancing
- Safe dining setup: All this made me feel a little reassured.
- Individually-wrapped food options: No buffet buffet.
- Rooms sanitized between stays: They do a good job.
- Daily housekeeping
The Room – My Little Greek Nest:
My room? Ah, my room. It wasn't exactly palatial, but it was clean, comfortable, and well-appointed.
- Air conditioning was a lifesaver.
- Air conditioning in the public areas also worked; yay
- Balcony with a view: Breathtaking. I’m talking “Instagram-worthy sunsets,” every single night.
- Free bottled water was a thoughtful touch.
- Internet access – wireless was strong and consistent (thank goodness!).
- Coffee/tea maker: Crucial.
- Minibar: stocked with overpriced goodies.
- Safety/security feature were clear.
- Non-smoking rooms: A standard.
- Blackout curtains: Excellent for those sunset naps.
- Bathrobes: Luxury!
- Slippers: A small but appreciated detail.
- Towels: Fresh and fluffy.
Services & Conveniences: The Understated Essentials:
- Concierge: Helpful, but not overly proactive.
- Daily housekeeping: Excellent. My room was spotless every day.
- Wi-Fi [free] (in all rooms!): A MUST.
- 24-hour front desk: Reassuring.
- Luggage storage: Because I packed like I was moving to Ios forever.
- Food delivery: Useful
Getting Around (The Island Shuffle):
- Airport transfer: Easy and convenient, but pricey.
- Taxi service: Available, but can be hard to get, especially at peak times.
- Car park [free of charge]: A massive bonus, especially if you rent a car (which I highly recommend for exploring the island).
For the Kids (Did I Mention I Didn't Have Any?):
- Babysitting service: Available.
- Family/child-friendly (in general).
My Overarching Emotional Reaction (The Unfiltered Truth):
Okay, here's the thing: Mare Monte is a beautiful hotel. It's luxurious, it's relaxing, and the views are genuinely stunning. The staff are friendly (mostly). The food is delicious. But it's not perfect.
- The coffee could be better.
- The spa steam room had its issues.
- The price is… well, it's not cheap.
But, all things considered? I'd go back in a heartbeat. Because when you're sitting on that balcony, watching the sun dip below the Aegean, you'll forget all the minor imperfections. You'll be transported to a place of pure, unadulterated bliss. And that, my friends, is worth the price of admission.
Final Verdict:
Mare Monte is a solid choice for a luxurious and relaxing stay in Ios Chora. Just be prepared for a few minor hiccups and be ready to embrace the imperfection. You'll be rewarded with an experience you won't soon forget.
Escape to Paradise: Your Dream Phi Phi Twin Palms Bungalow Awaits!
Alright, buckle up buttercups, because we're about to dive headfirst into a week of sun, sand, and likely some serious existential pondering in Ios, Greece. Mare Monte – let's go! This isn't your polished travel blog, this is the actual, messy, glorious reality of my trip.
Day 1: Arrival, Chaos & Questionable Gyros
- Morning (or, more realistically, Noon): Land in Mykonos – cue the internal panic! Flying is exhausting, and the airport is a blur of designer sunglasses and way-too-tan tourists already. The ferry connection to Ios felt like a logistical nightmare, but hey, we made it! Scratched and bruised, but alive!
- Afternoon: Found Mare Monte. The hotel's cute, in a slightly faded "been-through-a-few-summer-loves" sort of way. The view from the balcony? Absolutely stunning. My heart actually did a little flutter.
- Evening: Chora. Oh, Chora. Cobblestone streets, whitewashed buildings, and a relentless uphill climb. My legs are screaming! Found some "authentic" taverna that served a gyro that was… well, let's just say it wasn't the culinary revelation I had hoped for. More like a "questionable meat product wrapped in cardboard" experience. Disappointment. Heartburn. But hey, at least the wine was cold.
- Late night: Stumbled into a bar, got hit on by a guy who looked like a budget Brad Pitt. Said no. Regrets? Zero. The place was LOUD, filled with dancing and some very questionable dance moves that I really enjoyed watching.
Day 2: Beach Bliss (Mostly) & Existential Dread
- Morning: Woke up with a throbbing headache and a vague sense of… regret? Nah, just the hangover. Spent the morning on Mylopotas Beach. Gorgeous. Paradise. The water was unbelievably clear, the sand soft, and I actually, truly relaxed for a little while.
- Afternoon: Sunbathing! I should probably be careful. The sun is intense.
- Late afternoon: The existential dread kicked in. Lay there watching the waves and suddenly considered my entire life. Are we all just… waves? Constantly crashing, only to recede and be nothing again? I'm a philosophical mess after a day at the beach.
- Evening: Forced myself to eat something other than gyros. Found a fantastic little place (thank god!). Ordered the grilled octopus, and it was, truly… incredible. The simplicity, the flavor, the texture… chef's kiss! That meal made everything better. Then, back to Chora. This time with some great company.
Day 3: The Party Scene – And My Personal Breakdown
- Afternoon: Headed back into Chora. My friends went to a club.
- Evening: First clubbing in ages. The music was ear-splitting. The drinks were strong. People were enthusiastically dancing. I felt like a fish out of water. Did not enjoy it.
- Late night: Stumbled out of the club, utterly overwhelmed. Found myself crying and wondering what the hell my life was all about and why I had to be such a mess. Walked all the way back to the hotel, alone and heartbroken (mostly over my own ridiculousness).
Day 4: Finding My Peace (or at least a decent view)
- Morning: Slept in. Needed it. The hangover from the night before was a doozy.
- Afternoon: Found a cafe with a view. Spent a few hours just… being. Watching the boats, the people, the clouds. Felt okay.
- Evening: Realized I was actually on vacation. Ordered some food and some wine, and then walked around the town alone. This was perfect. Got my head a little clearer.
Day 5: The Longest Day Ever - And Falling Dramatically In Love With a Beach
- Morning: Woke up in a good mood. Headed straight for Manganari Beach. (I heard about this place.)
- Afternoon: Manganari Beach. Let me clarify: Manganari BEACH! It was like stepping into a postcard. Turquoise water, white sand, a few beach huts, the perfect temperature… I spent the entire afternoon swimming, reading, and just letting the world melt away.
- Evening: Stayed at Manganari Beach until sunset. I watched the sun dip below the horizon, painting the sky in oranges and pinks. It was… breathtaking. Honestly, I could live on that beach. The most beautiful thing I've ever seen. I'm in love. I'm never leaving.
Day 6: Day Trip to the Archaeological Site - or, My Attempt to be Intellectual
- Morning: Dragged myself away from the beach to visit the Archaeological Site. Didn't understand any of it.
- Afternoon: Back to chilling.
- Evening: More food, more conversation, more laughter. Found a little place. This is what I needed. This really is good.
Day 7: Departure - And the Unpleasant Truth
- Morning: Packing. The worst. Also, the realization hits: my tan? Nowhere near acceptable. Also, I don't want to leave. I'm addicted to the sun. I'm addicted to the sea. I'm addicted to the… ease of island life.
- Afternoon: Ferry. Goodbye, Ios. Goodbye, gorgeous beaches. Goodbye, questionable gyros (maybe I'll miss them?).
- Evening: Back to reality. Feeling a little sad. But also, a little bit… renewed. This trip wasn't perfect, but it was real. And sometimes, that's all you need.
Final Thoughts:
This trip was a rollercoaster of emotions, questionable dietary choices, and sunburn. I loved it. I hated it. I wouldn't trade it for anything. And I'll be back. Eventually, in the meantime, I'll be reliving the sunsets and dreaming of Manganari. Bye!
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Mare Monte in Ios Chora: You HAVE to See It (Unless You Hate Being Happy, Obviously) - My Messy Take
Okay, spill. What *is* Mare Monte and why does everyone (including you, apparently) lose their minds over it?
Alright, let's cut the crap. Mare Monte isn't just a hotel, it's… I dunno, a *vibe*. Imagine this: you're climbing the insane, white-washed hills of Ios Chora (the town itself is a whole other level of awesome, by the way, more on that later), sweaty and probably regretting that extra gyros. Then, BOOM! You reach this place, and it's like God himself hit the reset button on your life. It's a collection of stunning apartments carved into the cliffside, each with its own terrace, infinity pool, and a view that'll make you weep with joy. Seriously. I've ugly-cried from beauty there. Don't judge me.
The *why* is simple: isolation (in the best way), perfect location, and the absolute Instagrammability of the whole damn thing. Every corner practically screams "photo op" and "life goals."
Is it *really* as luxurious as it looks in those pictures? Because, you know, Instagram lies.
Okay, look. I am a cynical Travel Writer. I've seen a *lot* of hotels. And yeah, Mare Monte is ridiculously luxurious. But here’s the thing: it’s not the sterile, soulless luxury you sometimes get. It’s real. It’s warm. The staff? Absolutely lovely. They remember your name (creepy, but appreciated). The rooms? Spacious, clean, and the air conditioning actually *works*. Thank God.
My *one* tiny, microscopic issue (and I'm being picky here) was the shower pressure in my room could have been better. But when you're overlooking THAT view, a slightly weak stream is a minor inconvenience. Seriously, water pressure is the *last* thing you'll care about.
The view… is it *really* worth the hype (and price tag, probably)?
HYPE. Worth. It. Period. The view is so stunning, it's almost offensive. Like, you'll find yourself muttering, "Okay, nature, you're showing off now." Imagine waking up to the sun rising over the Aegean Sea. Imagine sipping wine on your terrace, watching the sunset paint the sky with every shade of orange and pink. Imagine… okay, I’m going to stop before I start booking another trip. But trust me, it’s *worth it*. It will ruin all other views for you . Prepare yourself.
I recall an evening (the first night I stayed, to be exact), I nearly choked on my complimentary Prosecco because I was so overwhelmed. I just stood there, mouth agape, feeling silly, and utterly, completely blissful.
Okay, tell me about the location. Is it convenient or a trek? And what's the town of Ios Chora itself like?
Location is PERFECT. Mare Monte is *in* the Chora, but slightly elevated and away from the main hustle and bustle -- the noise, the crowds of drunk teenagers (fun, but exhausting), and the constant barrage of music. So, you're steps away from restaurants, shops, and the famous windmills, but you *also* get a peaceful sanctuary. It's a win-win.
Ios Chora itself? Oh man. Picture this: white-washed buildings cascading down a hill, tiny, winding alleyways perfect for getting delightfully lost, a vibrant nightlife (if you're into that – I am, sometimes!), and a general sense of carefree joy. It's a photographer's dream and a history buff's delight . Honestly, the town is almost as good as the hotel itself.
One minor thing: be prepared to climb. Lots of steps. If you aren't fit, be prepared to start that way. Good for the glutes, terrible for your lungs.
What about the food/drinks? Are there food and drinks at the property? Good ones? And any recommendations for restaurants nearby?
YES! There's an on-site restaurant with a beautiful view, and the breakfast is fantastic. Imagine, Greek yogurt with honey and pastries, the freshest orange juice you've ever tasted... I could go on. Lunch and dinner are excellent too. Good stuff, not just your average hotel restaurant fare.
But the real winner? Their cocktail menu. The bartenders are wizards. I can't remember all of the cocktails' names, but I do remember the feeling...relaxed, and a little tipsy. If you didn't have a drink, you aren't doing it right. Also, definitely try the local wines.
As for restaurants nearby: I'm a big fan of " Katogi". Seriously, if you are there, GO! Try to get a table with a view. Make a reservation. It might be overbooked. Then you go to one of the other restaurants if you can't get in. Oh, and don't be afraid to wander, there are hidden gem tavernas everywhere. The Gyros are amazing, by the way.
Is Mare Monte good for *specific* types of travelers? Couples? Families? Solo adventurers?
Honestly? It's pretty good for *anyone* who appreciates beauty and doesn't mind spending a little more. The only real exception would be families with very young children, since the terrain around the hotel can be a bit of a challenge with a stroller.
Couples? Perfect. Romance practically oozes from the walls. Solo adventurers? Wonderful. It's a place to relax, recharge, and contemplate life while gazing at the sea. Groups of friends? Hell yeah! The shared pool areas and amazing views mean you can party all day and chat late into the night.
Any drawbacks? I sense there must be *something*...
Okay, alright, here's the truth. It's not *cheap*. This isn't a budget backpacking hostel, you know. It's an investment. This is the only real black mark. Be prepared to pay for the luxury.
Some rooms might be a little more private than others, based on their layouts, but that's easily rectified by a quick email ahead of your stay if that's your main concern. The staff are lovely, but not everyone is on the same level of service, some could be friendlier.
And, as I mentioned before, getting around Ios involves a lot of hills and stairs. if mobility is an issue, this might not be the best place. But honestly, those are minor quibbles. Overall, it's pretty damn close to perfection.
So, final thoughts? Would you go back? (Be honest!)
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