Rhodes Retreat – Persefoni’s Loft

Hotel Description

You know what struck me first about Persefoni’s Loft? It’s actually tucked away in Kalithies in this quiet residential area where you hear roosters in the morning instead of traffic – and I mean that in the best way possible. Most people rush straight to Rhodes Town or Lindos, but honestly, staying here gives you this authentic Greek island vibe that’s getting harder to find these days.

The loft itself is one of those places that feels like someone’s stylish aunt designed it. Everything’s thoughtfully put together without being fussy about it. The kitchen actually has proper cookware (not those sad hotel pans that barely heat water), and there’s this lovely terrace where I found myself having coffee every morning, watching the locals walk their dogs and head to the nearby bakery. Speaking of which – there’s a traditional bakery maybe a five-minute walk away that does these incredible cheese pies, and the owner, this elderly woman, will wave at you after the second day like you’re family. The location is sort of perfect if you want to explore but also decompress. You’re about fifteen minutes from the thermal springs at Kalithea – which are absolutely worth the trip, by the way – and the main road to Rhodes Town is right there, but you don’t hear any of that noise at night.

What I really appreciated was how Persefoni (I assume that’s who she is, though I dealt with her son mostly) has set things up. Check-in was refreshingly straightforward, parking is right there and free – none of that circling-the-block nonsense you get in the old town. The Wi-Fi actually works well enough for video calls, which matters if you’re trying to work remotely. I mean, it’s not blazing fast, but it’s reliable. The place sleeps about four people comfortably, and there’s proper air conditioning that doesn’t sound like a helicopter landing. One small thing – the shower pressure could be better, but honestly, after spending days walking around ancient ruins in the heat, I wasn’t too picky. The bed was surprisingly comfortable though, and the whole place stays cool during those brutal August afternoons when it’s pushing 35 degrees outside.

What made it special for me was this sense that you’re staying somewhere real, you know? Not some sanitized resort bubble, but not roughing it either. There’s a small supermarket within walking distance, the beach at Faliraki is maybe ten minutes by car if you want the full tourist experience, but you can also find these smaller, rockier coves nearby where it’s just you and maybe one other family. I’d definitely come back – it’s that sweet spot between comfort and authenticity that’s honestly pretty rare these days.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $91. Superior One-Bedroom Apartment with Balcony with 1 double bed and 1 single bed for Max persons: 2

Reviews

• Pinot from France – 23 July 2024 (8/10)

  L emplacement, une vue imprenable

• Daniel from Germany – 12 April 2024 (8/10)

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities