Review of The Aigli 4*

Aigli is definitely a unique destination and a gateway to one of the most beautiful and fascinating regions of Greece: Lefkada. As a couple and as an extended family, we have been hooked on Aigli since it first opened its doors and have witnessed changes and improvements as well as an unparalleled standard of accommodation and hospitality that has remained steady throughout the years. Among the first in Greece to successfully tackle the problems of converting a very old structure into a modern hotel, Aigli has established a level of quality that has set the example for the development of the entire region and has contributed immeasurably to the growth and prosperity of Lefkada. You can hike in the cooler months in green hills amidst wild flowers, heather, and thyme that are unimaginable in the warm summers when the sea beckons. Swimming in the warm sea near the hotel is often comfortable until the end of November. For those interested in history there are untold numbers of beautiful Byzantine churches, archaeological sites, and of course, the famous villages and tower houses to explore. Any website can give you ideas about touring, but one of my favorite activities is foraging for wild asparagus and leeks when they are in season. This may be a secret that the owners of Aigli will share with you as they did with us. The variety and the sights are endless. After many years and many stays at Aigli, I can say that Lefkada always yields new secrets. Breakfasts are bountiful and one can order eggs prepared in any way one wishes in addition to the ample platters of local specialties. After a day of roaming and activity, it is a great comfort to return to a lovely room and a warm reception, not to mention a good glass of wine from the superb cellar. The staff is always eager to discuss the merits of the wines and the complexities of the menu which changes frequently and seasonally. Dinner is varied and extremely good. This is important because one doesn't necessarily want to venture out again at the end of a long day, especially when staying in is so inviting. The building has been restored with great respect for its historic core. It is not a simple thing to create comfortable, modern, efficient rooms with modern plumbing and conveniences in a building which has walls that are up to 1 meter thick and was not originally a hotel or guest house. The interiors are beautifully conceived, in elegant simplicity and sophistication with none of the attempts at stuffy false rusticity that one encounters so frequently. Houses in Lefkada, as well as most old village houses in Greece always had small windows. It should be noted that they also did not have indoor plumbing and there is no question but that the bathrooms at Aigli have been carefully designed in circumstances that would challenge a naval architect! The point is that you can step out on the terrace and enjoy the view — — its always there. In the summer, the interiors are cool and a welcome retreat from the harsh sunlight. In the winter, its cozy inside. One of the rooms has fireplaces. The large and comfortable dining room and sitting rooms are continuous with the outdoor spaces. There are many options and corners where you can read or have a private conversation no matter what the weather or wind conditions, even when the hotel is fully booked. The unique setting gives the visitor an open view to the old town which serves as a backdrop and an eternally shifting setting for escapist dreams. At the night the cuban lounge cafe is a channel for the imagination and a moment of peace.