Olivemare

We were completely blown away by Olivemare. The owner Marilena is incredibly helpful and friendly, the food is fantastic, and the rooms are super stylish and comfortable, with a gorgeous private patio area. There are only 5 rooms, so the pool never feels busy, and it's a great size. Breakfast was fabulous with delicious freshly-squeezed orange juice, cheese from the owner's goats, freshly-cooked eggs, and daily specials such as fava, and spinach pie.

This hotel is set in very pretty gardens and the chef and manager are very friendly and attentive. Unfortunately it rained for our whole stay and we actually left early, obviously this wasn’t there fault! I’d also say the rooms are pretty basic and not super homey. The pool and pool area looks a bit tired and has a green ring around the interior top which isn’t particularly nice to look at or inviting. And it mentions a jacuzzi in gardens when actually it’s attached to the pool and is a cold jacuzzi. The welcome of cold delicious white wine and homemade cheese was lovely. The food overall was very simple done with great ingredients but don’t expect too much. I had slightly higher expectations which weren’t met. Overall I’m not sure I’d stay again- if this hotel were near fiskardo I would but we found the beaches in the area to be no where near as nice as the north.

Olivemare is a true gem in Cephalonia, offering a combination of peaceful serenity, delightful cuisine, and a host that feels more like a friend. I can't recommend this place enough – it's a must-visit for anyone seeking an unforgettable getaway. The moment you step onto the premises, you will be captivated by its serene and welcoming atmosphere. It feels like a true home away from home. It immediately puts you at ease. And the cuisine, oh my goodness! The dishes prepared by Galini are beyond amazing - I can't stress enough how much you shouldn't miss out on experiencing her fantastic creations. Each meal is a journey through the rich and diverse tastes of the island! Finally, what will truly make your stay unforgettable is the genuine hospitality of Marilena, the friendliest host I've ever encountered. Her warmth and attention to detail add a personal touch to every moment you spend in Olivemare. It's clear that Marilena takes great pride in ensuring her guests have an exceptional experience. I can’t thank her enough ＜3

We stayed for a week, and found the Olivemare a peaceful haven in which to relax and recharge. The hotel is just as beautiful as the photos suggest. It’s small size allows for a real chance to escape. The rooms are extremely comfortable-we had room 5 so benefitted from double aspect-a view of the garden and pool and plenty of light. The patio with sun loungers, table and chairs create privacy and a touch of luxury. The pool is beautiful (although cold!). Food-wow! The breakfast is amazing-decide what you would like the night before and it will be delivered to your table in the morning. It’s fresh and plentiful. We also decided to eat here one evening-yes the food is more expensive than in the village but the meal was one of the nicest we had as was the wine. Would love to return.

This unique property is a wonderful place to escape to for total rest and relaxation. The beautifully designed interiors and the stunning gardens and grounds are all the work of Marilena - a wonderful host who goes out of her way to ensure you are made to feel welcome and that your stay is perfect. She was always on hand to offer suggestions and advice about the local area. The breakfasts served each morning using the best local ingredients are delicious and set you up for the rest of the day. Only a 5 minute walk to the restaurants and bars of Katelios and it’s beach, the location of the hotel is peaceful yet practical and with only 5 rooms it really does feel like a little oasis. We will be back!!

Pros: Beautiful house and garden with just 5 rooms for guests to stay in. Peaceful pool area with plenty sun loungers and pool towels provided. All rooms and areas very clean. Efficient, quiet air conditioning. Lots of great help as to where to visit: best beaches etc. Location is just 5 minute walk from village with approx. 10 bars/restaurants. Good selection of food at breakfast. Orange juice is delicious. Really helpful with early arrival. Shower available for late check out. Beach umbrellas available to borrow. Takes about 45mins easy drive to airport. Cons: You need to like a hard bed. No restaurant or wine bar as the website suggests. Guests can have dinner but you need to book in by 3pm and can sit on the garden terrace to eat it. Breakfast is ordered the day before and brought out as tapas style all at once therefore omelette and pancakes are a bit cold by the time you eat them. A buffet (as shown on website) would be better with just the warm things made to order. Sea views are literally just a glimpse over the tops of the trees from the bedrooms. Each room has a private terrace with chairs and loungers but they are very closed in. No rail to dry wet beach stuff/beach towels. Tip: the beach in the village is pebbly and busy. You will need a car to get to the best beaches - it is worth it!

Beautiful family small hotel. 5 rooms. Fantastic swimming pool. Great breakfast with fresh local products, as well as lunch or diner on demand. Lovely staff. Very clean. The owners are really nice and will help you discovering the island.

Olive Mare is highly recommended, we spent a week there in June and it was lovely. Marilena and her team are really friendly and helpful with advice on where to go and where to eat. The bedrooms are spacious, cool and quiet and the bed huge and comfortable. The rest of the hotel, outside dining area and pool and surround were kept very clean and tidy. The pool is great and just what you need to cool off. The breakfasts were always lovely and fresh with plenty of options. We had both lunch and dinner there too and again the food was great. A is essential really as Katelios doesn’t have an awful lot to offer but it’s good base from which to explore and it’s an easy ride from the airport – especially if you’re not that used to driving overseas.

Very clean and comfortable. We started our 2 week stay in room 2 which we found a bit oppressive with the only windows being the patio doors. We were moved to room one which was fantastic. Rooms 1 and 5 have triple aspect windows. 2.3.and 4 don't. The rooms were exceptionally clean. The patios in all rooms are lovely with a table and chairs and two lovely sunbeds. Breakfast are ordered in advance and brought to your table in the garden room. The only problem is everything comes up at once so the hot food is cold by the time you come to eat it. A buffet would be far better suited. The pool area is very small and would not suit anybody with mobility issues as it has the very outdated metal steps to get in and out. Marilena and her staff will go all out to make sure your stay is a great experience. The olivemare is relaxing and very quiet if that's what you are looking for.