Chrisa Hotel

My girlfriend and I had a great time at the Crisa Hotel in Acharavi, Corfu, this was our first holiday away together and the Chrisa had been recommended to us by family so we decided to give it a go.

The rooms are clean but basic (as is the way in Greece) and the beds are very comfy. We had the room at the end on the top floor so enjoyed views of the hills to the left and the sea to the right (just about, you are about 3 minutes walk from the beach with other houses and hotels in between but you can just see the sea over them) but you do get a good view of the sky out to sea and the sun set.

The pool is great, it's very clean and goes quite deep at one end which is good when you want to swim underwater. There are plenty of sun beds and umbrellas which are all free to use. There is also a bar area that serves snacks and drinks all through the day. There is also a nice shaded area, great for when it gets too hot and a lounge room with satellite TV that shows quite a few English films (with Greek subtitles) in the evenings and national geographic / news through the day.

Situated close to the centre of Acharavi, shops, tavernas and bars are literally 30 seconds away. I would recommend the supermarket across the road and to the left for supplies and the Acharavi Park and Valentines taverna's for great evening meals.

The nightlife in Acharavi isn't massive or mega loud but there are a few clubs and bars if you do want to go out. If you are after more clubs head over to Roda (10 minute walk down the beach) and Sidari (10 minute drive) where there are a lot more bars and clubs.

We had a great time in Acharavi and will definitely be returning soon. If you do go let me recommend a few things that you have got to try:

Greek Night at The Three Little Pigs in Sidari - lots of noise, music, dancing, fire and plate smashing (huge portions and try the stuffed peppers while your there - my girlfriend loved them!)

The Acharavi Park Taverna - great atmosphere (lots of running water and plants) and great food.

Valentines Taverna - voted best food in Acharavi, there are two restaurants - One in the town and one on the beach (you get a good view of the sunset if you go around 8.30 and get a table near the front)

Try the Ringos on the beach, they don't cost a lot but are great fun.

Go to the Ice cream parlour in Acharavi next to the Acharavi park taverna after your meal and try the watermelon ice cream - gorgeous! The CLO (carrot, lemon and orange) is also very good - all the ice cream is made fresh on the premises.

Go to the water park, there are 2 main ones, we went to hydropolis just on the outskirts of Acharavi and had a great time- wear plenty of sun cream though or you will get burnt.

And finally...Rent a Quad Bike for about €16 a day, sounds a bit dangerous(!) but great fun and safer than a scooter. You can get a full days driving off €4 of petrol. They are powerful enough to get you up the hills but not so fast that you're likely to kill yourself, but always wear the helmets or you're not insured.

Have fun - I hope you have as good a time as we did.

Chrisa Hotel is a great little hotel where the hosts Jim and Sue go out of their way to ensure your stay is pleasurable. The resort of Acharavi is becoming known as the capital of the north and is open all year round. There are countless bars and tavernas offering international cuisine. We've had a great time and will definately come again.