Uncover Chios' Hidden Gem: Volissos Holiday Homes Await!
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because we're about to dive HEADFIRST into the glorious, slightly-chaotic world of Volissos Holiday Homes on Chios. Forget pristine perfection, this is about real lived experiences. Forget cookie-cutter reviews, this is gonna be me, unfiltered, on a Greek island adventure. So, here we go…
Uncover Chios' Hidden Gem: Volissos Holiday Homes Await! - A Review That's Actually Real
Right, first things first: Accessibility. I'm not in a wheelchair myself, but I always look at this stuff. Call it a habit. And guess what? Volissos is trying. They have Facilities for disabled guests, which is a great start. But (and this is the messy, honest bit), I couldn't find super specific details on how extensive this is. Like, does the elevator reach every floor? Are all the pathways smooth? I saw there was a Wheelchair accessible option mentioned and am assuming there is some accessible rooms available, it's best to phone ahead to make absolutely certain it's a perfect fit because, trust me, nobody wants a holiday ruined by a sudden realization that the bathroom door is too narrow.
Online Connectivity - Because Let's Face It, We're All Addicted
Okay, so Internet is a thing. Big deal. Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! is actually a huge win. I've been to places that charge extra for Wi-Fi, which is the kind of petty that makes me want to chuck my phone in the sea. Internet access – wireless and Internet access – LAN are also available so you have options.
Now, about the Internet services: Don't expect lightning-fast fiber optic. This is an island. But it was good enough. I managed to upload some Instagram stories (crucial, obviously) and even catch up on emails. I mean, sometimes the connection sputtered, but honestly, that just forced me to look out the window and breathe. Consider it a digital detox, albeit a forced one.
Things to Do, Ways to Relax – Does This Place Actually Do Relaxation?
This is where Volissos shines. Seriously.
- Swimming pool [outdoor]: The picture in the brochure? Lies! (Just kidding… mostly). Okay, the pool is gorgeous. But it's the view that gets you. This isn't just a rectangle of chlorinated water; it's a portal to the Aegean Sea. Glorious.
- Pool with view: Yep, that's what I was getting at. The view from the pool is life-affirming. I spent an entire afternoon just floating, watching the sun dip below the horizon, and pretending I was a Greek god/goddess. Highly recommend.
- Spa/Sauna and Steamroom: I'll be honest, I'm not a huge spa person. But the fact that they have one? Points. It's a sign they're trying to offer a little bit of everything.
- Fitness center: I saw one. I walked past it. Multiple times. (Hey, I'm on holiday! It's a marathon, not a sprint!).
- Massage: This is an actual selling point. Seriously, what is better than a massage in a place like this.
- Body scrub and Body wrap: Another good option, if you want to fully enjoy some rest.
Cleanliness and Safety – Because Nobody Wants a Stomach Bug on Vacation
Okay, this is important. Especially now. Volissos is taking this seriously.
- Anti-viral cleaning products: Good.
- Daily disinfection in common areas: Excellent.
- Rooms sanitized between stays: Phew!
- Hand sanitizer: Check.
- Staff trained in safety protocol: Super check.
- Physical distancing of at least 1 meter: They're trying. Honestly, on a small island, it's easier.
- Sanitized kitchen and tableware items: Necessary.
- Individually-wrapped food options: Another, good, touch.
- Room sanitization opt-out available: Love this - because why pay for it if you don't want it?
And more… They also have First aid kit, Doctor/nurse on call which is always good.
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking – Fueling the Holiday Machine
Okay, this is where it gets fun. And by fun, I mean, potentially messy.
- Restaurants: Plural! Score!
- A la carte in restaurant, Buffet in restaurant: Options! Love it.
- Breakfast [buffet], Western breakfast: Honestly, the breakfast was pretty good. They had everything you’d expect – eggs, bacon, pastries, the works. The coffee, however… let’s just say I stuck to the tea.
- Breakfast takeaway service: Handy for those early morning exploring missions.
- Poolside bar: Essential. Sipping a cocktail by the pool, watching the sunset? Literal perfection.
- Coffee/tea in restaurant: See above.
- Happy hour: Yes, please!
- Snack bar: Again, essential. Because who wants to trek back to their room for a snack mid-afternoon? Nobody, that's who.
- Room service [24-hour]: Winning! Late-night cravings? Sorted.
- Western cuisine in restaurant, International cuisine in restaurant, Asian cuisine in restaurant More good points for variety.
- Bottle of water: Another good touch.
- Alternative meal arrangement: Another good point.
- Desserts in restaurant, Soup in restaurant, Salad in restaurant, Coffee shop, Bar: Lots of options.
Services and Conveniences – Making Life Easier (Or At Least Trying To)
- Concierge: They were helpful. I asked for directions to a recommended taverna, and they printed out a little map. Top marks.
- Daily housekeeping: Yes! Because I am on holiday and I don't want to make my bed.
- Laundry service: Thank god. I tend to overpack.
- Luggage storage: Always useful.
- Air conditioning in public area, Air conditioning: Essential for surviving the Greek heat.
- Elevator: Very useful.
- Cash withdrawal, Currency exchange: Useful.
- Babysitting service, Family/child friendly, Kids facilities, Kids meal: For those traveling with kids.
- Gift/souvenir shop: Handy for last-minute gifts (or treating yourself).
- Free car park: A big plus.
- Taxi service, Airport transfer: Very practical.
- Check-in/out [express], Check-in/out [private]: Good.
- Doorman: Another good point.
- Non-smoking rooms, Smoking area: Great, people can choose.
- Fire extinguisher, Smoke alarms: Important.
Room Specifics – Where You Actually Sleep (Hopefully Comfortably)
Right, my room. Let’s get into it.
- Air conditioning: Lifesaver!
- Free Wi-Fi (obvious, but still good.)
- Blackout curtains: Crucial for sleeping in after a late night.
- Balcony: My room had one, and I spent a lot of time on it. Coffee in the morning, wine in the evening, just breathing in the sea air. Bliss.
- Toiletries: Generic, but they did the job.
- Hair dryer: Because nobody wants frizzy hair on vacation.
- Fridge: Essential for keeping your water (and wine) cold.
- Coffee/tea maker: Early morning essential.
- In-room safe box: Peace of mind.
- Desk: Didn't use it, but appreciated the option.
- Alarm clock, Slippers, Slippers: Details that always make you smile.
Getting Around:
- Airport transfer available.
- Car park [free of charge].
For the Kids:
- Babysitting service
- Family/child friendly
- Kids facilities
- Kids meal
The Verdict - That's the messy honest bit
Volissos Holiday Homes is a solid choice. It's not a five-star, ultra-luxe experience. There are a few rough edges, that's unavoidable in a place like this. But the staff are friendly, the location is stunning, and the overall vibe is relaxed and welcoming. It's the kind of place where you can truly unwind, disconnect from the world (at least a little), and just be.
My Score: 4 out of 5 Stars (because, let's be honest, nothing is perfect. But this is pretty damn good.)
Are you ready to escape to the Aegean? Are you ready to trade concrete jungles for olive groves and crystal-clear waters? Then book your stay at Uncover Chios' Hidden Gem: Volissos Holiday Homes!
**Here
Longview Getaway: Unbeatable Hilton Garden Inn Deals!
Okay, buckle up, buttercups. Buckle. Up. Because we're not just planning a trip to Volissos Holiday Homes in Chios, Greece, we're living it. This isn't some sterile itinerary; it's a messy, beautiful, sun-drenched, and probably-a-little-sunburnt experience, from yours truly. Prepare for rambling, opinions, and the absolute chaos of real life colliding with the supposed perfection of travel. Let's do this.
Volissos Holiday Homes: Operation "Island Bliss (May Contain Wine)" Itinerary (and Mild Panic)
Pre-Trip: The Pre-Game Anxiety
Weeks Before: I swear, booking this thing was harder than getting a root canal. Should have done it months ago. Now I'm sweating about flights, luggage (do I really need that sequined jumpsuit? YES.), and if my passport's still valid. (It is. Phew.) Started practicing my "Kalimera" – sounds more like a dying frog.
Days Before: Packing. The eternal struggle. I’ve got a suitcase that’s either going to explode or become a black hole of lost socks and rogue chargers. My travel partner (bless their heart) is already claiming the prize for the best organised suitcase. Which is probably true. I'm also consumed by an irrational fear of forgetting deodorant.
Day 1: Arrival (and the Great Olive Oil Incident)
Morning: Oh-my-god-the-flight-was-fine-but-the-baby-screamed-the-entire-time. Seriously, I might need therapy just for that. Arrived in Chios. Sun is gorgeous, airport is tiny, and I'm already in love with the smell of the sea. (Even though I nearly got run over by a luggage cart.)
Afternoon: Landed at Volissos Holiday Homes. Holy. Moly. The view! Like, actual postcard-worthy, breathtaking. Booked the one with the balcony overlooking the Aegean. Worth every penny. Check-in was lovely. The owner, bless her heart, gave us a warm welcome and a bottle of local wine. (That's the important part.)
Evening: Disaster struck. Unpacked, delighted by the rustic charm of the cottage, decided to make a quick salad with some local produce. Then…OH NO! The olive oil bottle exploded. Everywhere. On the floor, on my clothes, in my hair! My travel partner, who was doing their best to stay organized, just stared at me, mouth agape. We had to clean up for a solid hour. And I smelled like a Grecian salad for the rest of the night. It was a mess. A beautiful, oily mess. The wine helped.
Day 2: Volissos Village Exploration (and the Stray Cat Whisperer)
Morning: Recovered from the Olive Oil Incident (mostly). Headed to Volissos village. Cobblestone streets, sleepy atmosphere, and the feeling that time has stood still… in the best possible way. Wandered around, took way too many photos of bougainvillea.
Afternoon: Found a taverna tucked away in a shaded square. Ordered the melitzanosalata (eggplant dip – heaven in a bowl). Met a stray cat with the most soulful eyes. Spent a solid half-hour trying to befriend it using a discarded piece of pita bread. Became the Stray Cat Whisperer of Volissos. Failed, but it was a good try.
Evening: Sunset. Again, breathtaking. We sat on our balcony, nursing our wine (thankfully, no explosions), and reflecting on the sheer, utter beauty of the place. Pure bliss. Except for the mosquito bites. Those were not blissful.
Day 3: Beach Day (and the Sunscreen Debacle)
Morning: Finally, beach time! Drove down to a secluded cove recommended by the owner. The water was crystal clear, the sand was perfect. Life was good.
Afternoon: Sunscreen, sunscreen, sunscreen… or so I thought. Turns out, I didn't put on enough sunscreen. And the sun… well, it had my number. I’m now sporting a lobster-red back and a mild headache. Note to self: apply sunscreen liberally AND frequently.
Evening: Eating dinner in the little cafe. Avoiding moving too much, fearing the consequences of moving, the pain, the after burn. The food was exceptional. The conversation was full of memories. The laughter was the music. The sunset was the soundtrack.
Day 4: Day Trip to Mesta (and the Forgotten Camera)
Morning: Decided to visit the medieval village of Mesta. Amazing architecture, intricate alleys, and a sense of stepping back in time. Wander through the lanes, getting lost in the labyrinthine beauty.
Afternoon: Realized, with a sinking heart, that I'd left my camera in the cottage. Cue the internal screaming. Had to rely on phone photos. Never forgive myself.
Evening: Back at the cottage, relishing the sense of relief, or at least the knowledge that I survived. I felt a bit weary. I think it was from the day, the sun, the traveling.
Day 5: Slow Days and Long Nights
Morning: Woke up late. Enjoyed a very slow morning from the sunrise.
Afternoon: Exploring and shopping in the village. Met a local craftsman, who was an artist. His paintings, amazing.
Evening: One last meal. The sunset from the balcony, the star-filled sky a breathtaking finale to a perfect day.
Day 6: Departure (and the Heartbreak)
Morning: Packing again. This time, carefully. Saying a sad goodbye to our little cottage and the incredible view.
Afternoon: The flight home (hopefully, no screaming babies… fingers crossed). Already dreaming about the next trip – back to Volissos, back to the sunshine, back to the olive oil, and the stray cats.
Evening: Landing at the airport. Realizing all these precious memories. A lot of photos, or at least, a couple dozen. But the biggest memory I have is the smell.
Post-Trip Reflections (and the Reality Check)
So, was it perfect? No. Messy? Absolutely. Emotional? Undeniably. Did I learn anything? Oh, absolutely. About sunscreen, about olive oil, about the enduring power of a good sunset, and the utter magic of a place like Volissos Holiday Homes. More importantly, about how to slow down, and let life happen, in a place where life is, well… perfect. Even with the occasional explosion. Now, off to plan the next trip. Kalimera!
Unbelievable Palace in Saint-Brieuc, France: You Won't Believe Your Eyes!
Volissos Holiday Homes: You *Think* You Know Chios? Think Again! (FAQ That's Actually Helpful...Probably)
Okay, Seriously, What *IS* Volissos? Sounds Like Something My Cat Coughed Up.
How do I actually *GET* to these "Hidden Gem" holiday homes? My GPS hates me.
What's the deal with the accommodations themselves? Are we talking 'rustic charm' and cobwebs? Or 'luxury' and... well, less cobwebs?
Food. Because let's be honest, it's all about the food. Give me the lowdown on eating in Volissos.
**Bonus food tip:** Ask the locals for tips! They *know* the hidden gems (like the taverna with the views of the castle). And don't be shy about trying new things. Seriously, just *eat* everything!
Beaches! Tell me about the beaches! (And are they crowded? Because... no.)
**My most unforgettable beach moment:** I was at a beach away from the town with beautiful cliffs around it, and ended up sitting on a rock watching the sunset. I don't know, it was one of those moments when the world just felt perfect. I sat for what felt like hours, listening to the waves and feeling the breeze on my face. I'm getting emotional just thinking about it! Okay, okay, I'll stop *gushing.*
What's there to *do* besides eat, beach, and cry at sunsets? (I'm planning to have all of those experiences, but still…)
Is this place even *really* good? Like, is it worth the effort?
If you're looking for a polished, predictable vacation, Chios might not be your cup of tea. But if you're looking for an authentic, unforgettable experience, with a generous dose of sunshine and relaxation, then book those Volissos holiday homes *right now*. You won't regret it. I'm already itching to go back. And this is me being brutally honest here!
