Ellopia Point Hotel Ioannina Greece

Ioannina's Hidden Gem: Ellopia Point Hotel - Unforgettable Stay!

Ellopia Point Hotel: Ioannina's Hidden Gem - My Unvarnished Truth (and Why You Need to Go)

Okay, folks. Let's be real. Hotel reviews can be… well, let's just say they often taste like they've been carefully pre-digested by a marketing department. This isn't one of those. This is me, spilling the beans (and maybe a little tsipouro – hey, we're in Epirus!), about Ellopia Point Hotel.

Forget the perfectly posed Instagram shots for a second. This place… this place actually delivered. And not just in the “clean sheets and a functioning shower” kind of way (though, praise Zeus, they nailed that too). This place… felt real.

First Impressions – The Accessibility Tango (and a Near-Disaster with a Suitcase)

Right, let's start with the nitty-gritty. Accessibility. This is HUGE for me, and Ellopia Point, bless their hearts, is making a serious effort. Wheelchair accessible? Yes, with ramps and elevators. However (and this is where the REALITY hits), maneuvering a HUGE suitcase through the sometimes-narrow hallways felt less like ballet, more like a clumsy octopus wrestling a rogue bowling ball. Let's just say I almost took out a potted plant (apologies, Ellopia Point landscaping!). But hey, the staff were amazing when I finally got stuck. I had to mention a minor issue, but overall they are doing good.

Internet Access: Connectivity in the Cradle of History (and My Obsessive Compulsive Checking)

Free Wi-Fi in all rooms, internet that is working? Yes! Actually fast and reliable internet? Double yes! (I’m a digital nomad, so this is a survival requirement). The relief of not having to wander the hotel like a Wi-Fi vampire, clutching my phone, was immense. I could actually, you know, work. Internet [LAN]? Yep, if you need a wired connection for some reason. You've got options!

The Rooms: Sanctuary with a View (and the Blackout Curtain Revelation)

My room was a haven. Seriously. The air conditioning actually worked. The bed was ridiculously comfortable (extra long, even!). And the blackout curtains? Game. Changer. I'm a terrible sleeper, and these things transformed my room into a blissful, light-proof cave. I slept. I actually slept. It was glorious. There were also bathrobes and slippers which felt ridiculously decadent, and I loved it. There were all the toiletries, and the hair dryer worked.

Let's Talk Views, Baby! (and My Brief Affair with the Pool)

The views from my room (and the pool with a view) were absolutely breathtaking. Lake Ioannina sprawling before me, the mountains in the distance… It was stunning. I did a few laps in the swimming pool [outdoor] – the water was refreshingly cool, and the sun was… well, let's just say it was making me a little crispy. The poolside bar was a godsend for a quick drink and snack.

Spa Days and Blissful Indulgence (and My Body Wrap Disaster)

Okay, so, I might have gotten a little carried away in the spa. The sauna was heavenly. The steamroom… well, let's just say I spent a lot more time in there than recommended. There was a massage, which was truly divine. But then… the body wrap. Let's just say I emerged looking less like a revitalized goddess and more like a slightly lumpy mummy. No, I'm not proud of that. I told the spa lady, and they were super nice. But still… It was a lesson learned: stick to what you know!

Food! Glorious Food! (and the Unforgettable Breakfast)

Oh. My. God. The breakfast [buffet]! I'm not even a buffet person, but this was… exceptional. The Western breakfast, Asian breakfast, international cuisine, and vegetarian food were superb. Freshly squeezed orange juice, perfectly ripe fruit, an array of cheeses I didn’t know existed… And the local pastries? Forget about it! I ate approximately my weight in bougatsa (a local custard pie). It was a culinary crime, and I have no regrets. This breakfast alone is worth the price of admission. The coffee/tea in restaurant was also really amazing.

Staff & Services – The Human Touch (and the Slightly Dodgy Directions)

The staff at Ellopia Point are amazing. Seriously. They were friendly, helpful, and genuinely seemed to care. They offered 24-hour room service, concierge, daily housekeeping, dry cleaning, laundry service, and breakfast takeaway service, and their English was excellent (thank Theos!). They were always happy to answer questions, offer suggestions, and generally make you feel welcome. BUT, their directions to the local bakery (which, admittedly, was my fault for trying a shortcut) led me on a mini-adventure involving a very confused goat. So… maybe stick to the main roads.

Things to Do – Explore Ioannina (and My Sudden Obsession with Byzantine Churches)

The hotel is close to the lake and the city center. Things to do are truly endless, and the staff in the Hotel are super helpful. I visited the castle, explored the old town, and wandered through the labyrinthine streets. I developed a sudden, unexpected obsession with Byzantine churches (who knew?).

Cleanliness and Safety – Peace of Mind (and the Hand Sanitizer Obsession)

Right, post-pandemic stuff. Ellopia Point is on it. Anti-viral cleaning products, daily disinfection in common areas, hand sanitizer everywhere, rooms sanitized between stays… They're taking it seriously. I felt safe and comfortable.

The Fine Print (and My Personal Verdict)

Okay, I've rambled enough. Car park [free of charge], airport transfer, cash withdrawal is available, etc. Non-smoking rooms are available, and all the amenities of a modern hotel are available.

My Opinion: Book It. Seriously. Ellopia Point Hotel isn't perfect (no place is, even after the cleaning and safety protocols). But its flaws are charming, overshadowed by its warmth, its genuine hospitality, and its stunning location. It's a place that feels lived-in, loved, and… real.

But Wait, There's More! (My Personal Pitch)

ARE YOU READY FOR AN UNFORGETTABLE GETAWAY? Stop dreaming, start planning! Your Ioannina adventure awaits!

Ready to trade the ordinary for extraordinary? Ellopia Point Hotel isn’t just a place to sleep; it’s a gateway to the magic of Ioannina.

Escape the Ordinary: Immerse yourself in stunning views, luxurious rooms, and a spa experience that will melt away your stress.
Culinary Delights: Indulge in a breakfast buffet that will change your life (seriously!), and savor the flavors of authentic Greek cuisine.
Unforgettable Moments: Explore the ancient city, discover hidden gems, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

ELLOPIA POINT HOTEL – Your Unforgettable Stay! BOOK NOW!

Avrora Hotel Magnitogorsk: Your Luxurious Magnitogorsk Getaway Awaits!

Book Now

Ellopia Point Hotel Ioannina Greece

Okay, buckle up, buttercups. We're chasing sunshine and questionable amounts of feta in Ioannina. This isn't your perfectly curated Instagram itinerary. This is the REAL deal, warts and all. Prepare for a rollercoaster of joy, slight panic, and the eternal quest for the perfect gyros.

Ellopia Point Hotel, Ioannina – A Messy, Magnificent Adventure

Day 1: Arrival, Jet Lag, and the Quest for Gyros (Oh, The Gyros!)

Morning (Around 9:00 AM): Okay, so, the flight…long. REALLY long. Spent most of it trying to decipher Greek airport announcements and failing miserably. Finally touch down in Ioannina. The air? Beautiful. The baggage claim? A chaotic ballet of rolling suitcases and exasperated sighs. Found my bag! Victory!
(11:00 AM - 12:00 PM): Taxi ride. A little bumpy, a little chatty (the driver, bless him, spoke about 3 words of English, but still managed to tell me about his cat). The hotel, Ellopia Point, is…charming. Clean-ish. The view from the balcony? Stunning. Lake Pamvotida shimmering in the morning light. Instant bliss. I think I'm already in love.
Afternoon (12:00 PM - 1:00 PM): Unpack (mostly) and collapse on the bed. Jet lag is hitting me like a ton of bricks. Seriously, I think I could sleep for a week. But I have a mission. The Gyros Quest Begins! Got some suggestions, a few maps… and a rumbling stomach.
Lunch (1:00 PM - 2:00 PM): Found a place called "Yiamas Gyros". This is it, right? This is THE legendary gyros? Nope. It wasn't bad, but the meat was a little dry. Onions were a bit limp. I wasn't "wowed" to be honest. A little disappointed, yes.
Afternoon (2:00 PM - 4:00 PM): Wandering around the old town. Cobblestone streets, tiny shops, and the scent of roasting coffee. I'm trying very, very hard not to buy everything. Picked up a tiny ceramic owl (because, why not?). Got a little lost. Enjoyed it. Found a cafe, ordered strong, sweet coffee. Suddenly the world felt right.
Evening (6:00 PM - 8:00 PM): Dinner at a taverna near the castle (Kastro). Finally. The food was amazing. The grilled octopus, to die for. The ambiance? Magical. The wine? Slightly too much wine. Okay, definitely too much wine.
Evening (8:00 PM-9:30 PM): Some random wandering to soak in the atmosphere after getting my brain a little "buzzed", and I discovered there are some cute stray cats.

Day 2: Kayaking, Monastery, and a Gyros Revelation (Aha!)

Morning (9:00 AM - 9:30 AM): Wake up with a slightly fuzzy head. Regret the wine. Drink a ton of water. The view from the balcony still makes me gasp. Gorgeous!
Morning (10:00 AM - 12:00 PM): Kayaking on Lake Pamvotida. This was a great idea. The water is so calm, all of the lake so still, and watching to go, but I felt a little underdressed for the activity. Plus, the sun is getting intense.
Lunch (12:00 PM – 1:30 PM): Found a little cafe by the lake. Souvlaki this time. Better. Much better. Progress.
Afternoon (2:00 PM - 4:00 PM): Visited the island. Boats are a great way to go. Felt all the weight of the past. Went to the monastery. The frescoes are breathtaking. The silence? Surprisingly peaceful. Found a little souvenir shop and bought a tiny icon. Hoping it brings good luck.
Afternoon (4:00 PM - 6:00 PM): Back in town. Wandering through the back streets, getting lost again (happens every day). This time, I found "Gyros Station".
Evening (6:00 PM - 8:00 PM): This is the day. This is it. The gyros that I've been dreaming about for two days. They had to be great. Had to be. The answer? YES. YES, THEY WERE. Perfectly seasoned meat, fluffy pita bread, the right amount of tzatziki…heaven. I ordered two instead. Ate both. No regrets. Absolutely none.
Evening (8:00 PM - 10:00 PM): Strolling around, feeling content. Stopped at a gelato place. Pistachio, obviously. Watched the sunset over the lake. Pure bliss.

Day 3: Dodoni, History, and a Bitter Farewell

Morning (9:00 AM - 10:00 AM): A quick breakfast at the hotel. The views from the hotel are so amazing. Packing up. Heart is a little heavy.
Morning (10:00 AM - 1:00 PM): Trip to Dodoni, the ancient theatre. Absolutely incredible. Massive. Imagining the plays, the crowds, the history… chills. The scale of it all is just… overwhelming. The wind was strong.
Lunch (1:00 PM - 2:00 PM): Found a little taverna near Dodoni. Simple, delicious food. The local wine, again. This time, I paced myself.
Afternoon (2:00 PM - 4:00 PM): Back in Ioannina. Last-minute souvenir shopping. Tried to find the perfect postcard. Failed. Got a fridge magnet instead. More practical anyway.
Afternoon (5:00 PM - 6:00 PM): Said goodbye to the lake, did some final walk around, and had to go back to the "Station Gyros" for one final gyros.
Evening (6:00 PM - 7:00 PM): Heading off the hotel to the airport.
Evening (7:00 PM - 8:00 PM): Back to the airport.
Evening (8:00 PM): Going back home.

Reflections: Ioannina. A place of history, beauty, and, yes, the perfect gyros. This trip wasn't perfect. There were moments of exhaustion, of getting lost, of feeling overwhelmed. But there were also moments of pure joy, of connection, and of delicious, greasy, absolutely perfect gyros. Would I go back? In a heartbeat. Maybe I'll even perfect the Greek language (or at least learn how to order a gyros without pointing wildly). Until then, I'll have the memories, the souvenirs, and the lingering taste of paradise. Yamas!

Escape to Paradise: Hotel Beau Séjour Awaits in St. Raphael, France

Book Now

Ellopia Point Hotel Ioannina Greece

Ellopia Point Hotel: The Chaotic Guide You Actually Need

Okay, so Ellopia Point Hotel...is it REALLY a "hidden gem" or just another overpriced bougie Instagram trap?

Alright, let's be real. "Hidden gem" is tossed around like a cheap souvlaki pita in Ioannina. And yes, Ellopia Point, with its panoramic views, could easily *be* that Instagram trap. But here's the secret: it's got a *soul*. It's not perfect. The building itself is a bit...well, let's say "spirited." Some rooms I'm sure are amazing, but the one *I* was in, the shower curtain kept trying to stage a daring escape to the bathroom floor. But, the *view*... oh, the view! Makes you forget you're probably wearing yesterday's clothes.

Bottom line? It *leans* towards gem. Not entirely flawless. But the imperfection is part of the charm. Embrace it. And bring a backup shower curtain.

What's the deal with the location? Is it a hassle to get there?

Getting to Ellopia Point feels a bit like a treasure hunt, but in a good way! It's just outside Ioannina, perched on a hillside. The GPS will try its best to send you on an adventure. I swear, mine tried to make me drive through a sheep farm (true story!). But once you're there, the peace and quiet are worth the slight navigational headache. Think windy roads, some potentially dodgy turns, and finally, THIS VIEW! Just download the offline map, folks, and pray.

Pro-tip: Arrive in daylight. Seriously. Navigating those roads at night could add years to your life...or take them away. (Just kidding...mostly.)

The rooms... what are they ACTUALLY like? Are they clean? Cozy?

Okay, this is where things get… interesting. I'm trying to be objective, but my room experience was so-so. It was clean enough, and the bed was comfortable, BUT... (hold for dramatic effect) The towels were kind of thin, and the minibar was stocked with stuff I wasn't really interested in. I'm guessing it depends on which room you snag. Ask for a room with a view, and maybe inquire about the shower curtain situation *before* you check in. Some rooms, I'm told, are divine. Mine…was functional. Bring your own fluffy towel, just in case. And a bottle opener. The staff were super accommodating, so if there's a problem, just ask. It seemed like everyone was willing to help if they could.

And the food? I'm a foodie! Don't disappoint me!

Oh, the food... Now, this is where Ellopia Point *actually* shines. Breakfast? Forget instant coffee and sad pastries. They do things right. Fresh-baked bread, local cheeses, amazing yogurt with honey, and more variations of eggs than I could count. And their restaurant… oh, it's a revelation. I’m a sucker for a good *kotopoulo* (chicken). The food is so delicious you start planning your next meal while you're still chewing the current one. I probably gained 5 pounds, but totally worth it. I *still* dream of that grilled octopus. The presentation is beautiful too. You will not leave hungry. Or disappointed.

My (rather over-the-top) anecdote: I swear, I saw one guy literally licking his plate clean. And I’m not judging. I almost wanted to. The flavors are vibrant, fresh, and the portions are exactly what you need. Seriously, GO HUNGRY.

What kind of amenities are there? Pool? Spa?

Ellopia Point has a pool, and it's a GREAT feature. Relaxing by the pool overlooking the lake is an experience. It's super relaxing! They've got a pretty decent pool and a nice patio area for chilling out. I personally spent a few hours just staring at the view, which is exactly what I needed. My advice? Bring a good book and a swimsuit. There isn't is a spa as far as I know. Make sure to bring your own beauty products if you need a specific one.

Okay, so, the staff. Are they friendly? Helpful? Do they even speak English?

The staff at Ellopia Point? Absolutely wonderful. The staff are incredibly warm, welcoming, and genuinely interested in making your stay amazing. They are really helpful and very welcoming! English is spoken well, so no problems there. Even when I was probably being a bit 'that tourist'. They were just amazing!

Is it good for kids? Romantic getaways? Or a party destination?

This is a tricky one, because my experience is limited. Kids? Mixed. I didn't see many, and the vibe is definitely geared towards relaxation and quiet appreciation of the scenery. If your kids are happy with a pool and a view, then sure! Party destination? Absolutely not. It's all about chilled-out vibes. Romantic getaways? Hell yes! The views, the food, the ambiance... it all screams romance. Imagine your perfect picnic and bottle of wine, sitting on the balcony watching the sun go down. *Chef's kiss*.

Anything I should definitely pack? Besides a good attitude?

Besides a good attitude? (Love that!). Pack:

Good walking shoes (Ioannina has some hills).
A phone charger (duh!).
A swimsuit (pool time!).
A small flashlight (just in case!).
Earplugs (maybe- the walls aren't *perfectly* soundproof).
A book (to relax by the pool or on the balcony).
A sense of adventure. And maybe that backup shower curtain...

Final Verdict: Would YOU go back?

Look, I'm not usually one for flowery language, but... YES. Absolutely. I'd go back in a heartbeat. The view alone is worth the price of admission. The food is divine. The staff is amazing. And even with a slightly imperfect room, I left feeling relaxed, refreshed, and dreaming of that octopus. It’s not always perfect, butWander Stay Spot