Testimonials Customer Reviews

Don’t just take our word for it, read the Testimonials Customer Reviews to see what our guests have to say about the ELaiolithos Luxury Retreat.

Peaceful retreat with character!

The lodge is an excellent place from where to explore the mountains and villages of Naxos. There are many hiking opportunities directly out of the lodge and the owner cooks healthy meals using local ingredients grown by her family. The suites are all different and personalized. While the beach is never too far, watching the sunset with a glass of wine on the balcony is priceless.
❤️~ Arnold Kohavi, October 2020, United States of America

A temple of traditional values and good taste!

As I look out over the most breathtaking panoramic view on the island of Naxos, I am certain that I have found my own paradise. The silvery olives sway gently to the song of cicadas in the afternoon breeze, while the peak of Zeus mountain looks proudly over the hinterlands. I’m sitting on the terrace at ELaiolithos, a boutique residence situated just below the village of Moni and a few miles above the village of Chalkio – a privileged position between two lovely enclaves of authentic Naxian life. Here I am in the spirit of the natural world with access to the cultural and agricultural riches that this island has to offer. The people of Naxos are proud and hardworking, they are a self-sustained culture rare in the globalized world. Everything on my dinner plate is grown and produced here, from root vegetable and greens to fruit, olive oil, herbs, preserves, traditionally made small batch cheeses, and certainly if I were not vegetarian, meats. The island unlike most in the Cycladic archipelago has a source of fresh water and fertile soil, so everything is organically grown, and picked by my own hands. I came for 5 days and ended up staying 15 days and didn’t want to leave. Helen Marakis, the proprietor of ELaiolithos is a woman of two worlds, born and raised on Naxos and educated in the US. She has brought two decades of North American experience and know-how back to her home island. The residence is a temple of traditional values and good taste. Each room is designed to reflect the riches of local tradition from textile weaving to furniture production and artisan design reflecting the aesthetics and charm of the island. Helen is a generous host, and you immediately sense that it comes naturally. She has built her dream and wants to share it with those who are looking to fill their spirit with beauty, nature, tradition and a sense of peace.
❤️~ JULI ZÄLL,  BFA | MA, September 2020,  Toronto, CANADA

Amazing authenticity – a true haven in Naxos that makes you feel like home away from home!

We loved this hotel so much! It offers incredible value for luxury, design, decor, and views of Mountain Zeus, Drymalia valley and the Aegean Sea. Location is unbeatable. We stayed in Zeus Cave suite that is so beautiful and unique. The entire staff, and the owner, Helen, was very hospitable and tended to our every need. Breakfast was fresh and delicious and consisted of many local delicacies. We also had dinner at the hotel twice and it was fantastic! Ideal base to explore the whole island. We would definitely stayed here again!!! They made us feel very safe also because all Covid19 guidelines were implemented. Thank you for everything
❤️~ Kate & Nick, September 2020, Germany

“Luxury retreat” is an understatement; add “excellent local food” and “great hospitality”

“State of mind” was used in early June as the main message of Greece to the world for the current summer season.
Naxos is a “State of mind” for me, as I have been already on the island 4 times in the past – this is the fifth time. But the true definition of “State of mind” is this place I have discovered this year, ELaiolithos. And it’s so, not only because this place is a center of rejuvenation itself, but also because Hospitality is a “State of mind” for its owner – Helen.
I had been on the island before and picked accommodations by the sea: Pyrgaki, Kastraki, Agia Anna etc. No specific reason for that. I had traveled around the island by car many times and really enjoyed the people, the products, the fresh air, the energy. Only those days ELaiolithos had not been built yet.
Helen has created this small “nest” with perfection in mind; not only she has selected an excellent spot up in the mountains at the center of the island, where you can feel the earth and the fresh air, but she has also brought a cosmopolitan touch with a great respect in the original environment. ELaiolithos is definitely a retreat spot.My greatest love is local food, selling Greek local products myself, and I need to emphasize something about ELaiolithos: authentic local cuisine is at its best here, providing a unique and amazing gastronomical experience. Everything I have tasted so far, both at ELaiolithos and also at the village nearby, called Moni, is extremely tasteful, farm to table taste buds; all ingredients are regionally grown and brought to your plate the day they are harvested.
If you are lucky enough to find availability in any of the 5 suites, do not forget to ask Helen to make for you her great recipe of potato salad, based on the famous local PDO potato and all the local greens and vegetables you can rarely cook – and if you do, definitely not with any kind of these ingredients. I stayed in Fanari suite which is spacious, awesome in design and decor, unique local artwork, and the amenities provide a local experience. Complimentary surprises are part of your journey here.
If you want to combine authenticity with luxury feeling in the center of the universe, then this is the perfect place to stay!
❤️~ Dimitris Vasileiou, Owner of Authentic Greece – Med Diet, Local Products & Destinations, August 2020, Athens Greece

This was such a beautiful, idyllic getaway retreat high up in the hills of Naxos!

Tucked away between the valleys of the scenic Grecian mountains, ELiaolithos Luxury Retreat offered a homespun, personalized care for my husband and I. Helen, the owner, was a wonderful caretaker and fed us so well during our trip! The food is fresh, local and delicious. You don’t order as Helen makes for you what is good for the day – it’s quite nice not to have too many options! Also, the portions are quite big so you definitely won’t go hungry! The room was fun with colorful textile created by Helen’s mom woven into the design. It has all the modern technologies and amenities yet still felt very homely. Helen went above and beyond to help us feel save during Covid-19 times, gifting us free stylish handmade masks and taking care with the social distancing and cleaning our room. It was a really nice getaway.
❤️~ L J Beanz, August 2020, United Kingdom

Greek hospitality at its finest!

What a place! My husband has visited Naxos for over 20 years and said to have found such a gem as Helen and her beautiful resort is like discovering the island again for the first time. What she has created is something truly special. Unfortunately we discovered her place too late to stay but we visited 3 times for dinner and each time we were blown away. Even just visiting for food we were treated with a tailored vegan friendly menu and left with a new friend for life. If you are looking for a truly immersive cultural experience with food for the soul then this is the place to come. We will be booking to stay next time we visit the island for sure! Thank you Helen!
❤️~ Joanna Gwaspari, August 2020, Germany

Simply excellent!

The location is very calm and peaceful. Amazing views. The room was big, fully equipped (Kitchen with every device one needs during the holiday, sufficient storage space and safe). Helen was very polite and kind. She helped us a lot, provided us with tips and information about sight seeings, as well as everything we could need for our room and our excursions.
We had no worries about Covid19. There was enough distance to the other rooms, no crowded or common places. In the room there was a disinfection gel.
The resort is highly recommended!!!
❤️~ Nicholas & Filia, July 2020, Germany

Fantastic!!!

Bel emplacement et très bons conseils pour découvrir la région. Nous avons beaucoup apprécié l’idée de monter au sommet du Mont Zas pour le lever du soleil. Petits déjeuners fantastiques et excellents produits locaux, certains venant même de la famille d’Helen qui est résolument une hôtesse exceptionnelle et généreuse.

Translated from French-Show original: Nice location and very good advice to discover the region. We really enjoyed the idea of going up to the top of Mount Zas for sunrise. Fantastic breakfasts and excellent local produce, some even from Helen’s family who is definitely an exceptional and generous hostess.

Basic ratings: Staff 10, Cleanliness 10, Location 9.5, Facilities 10, Comfort 10, Value for money 10

💜~ Hervé, Ch, France, Nov 3, 2019

Would go back in a heartbeat!!!

The property was set in a beautiful location overlooking the mountains of Naxos. We had a rental car which made getting around the island very easy. Helen was very helpful and welcoming. We had a wonderful stay and would go back in a heartbeat.

Basic ratings: Staff 10, Cleanliness 10, Location 10, Facilities 10, Comfort 10, Value for money 10

💜~ Emma, United States, November 11, 2019

Breathtaking in so many ways!!! Want to go back

Totally awesome resort! First of all LOCATION is unbeatable. The resort is unbelievably beautiful constructed with gorgeous view, local artwork, luxurious suites. We spent here our honeymoon in Naxos island, stayed in Zas Cave Suite. Amenities include an excellent restaurant lounge cafe bar, outstanding service, and amazing hospitality by the owner Helen and staff. Our suite was large in size, tastefully decorated with local hand painted art, handmade local loom weaving textiles, an amazing bathroom with eco design and decor and breathtaking view of the Drymalia valley, Zeus mountain, several villages, and Paragia Drosiani Byzantine church. You wouldn’t believe you see so much green in a Cycladic island, but yes the greenery and the thousands olive trees you see here and been surrounded by are amazing! An oasis in the center of Naxos island! King size bed with fabulous mattress, our sleep was sooo relaxing. A comfortable sofa, books about the region, room amenities, a full kitchenette and large dining area and sitting area make you feel at home. The suite is super romantic. There is a restaurant and bar with very good local food and signature cocktails and a very good wine list all awarded. We plan to return back here. Our 4 day staying just left us with the feeling to return. The early in the morning goat bells sound, the sunrise with its reddish orange colors seen between the olive trees above the resort and the gorgeous sunset will stay with us forever. Thank you for everything. Our review doesn’t do justice to all the beauty and experience we had here.
💜~ Dion & Cathy, October 2019, USA 

We didn’t want to leave!

Unbeatable location- stunning views, and it’s central location gives easy access to all points on the island (there are not many roads on Naxos so this is important!). The food is all local, fresh, and lovingly prepared- Helen makes sure you start your day with a full belly! She is a font of information and will happily help you plan your day if you wish. She is a very accommodating hostess without being intrusive- we never felt as though we didn’t have privacy but we were very glad to have her available to us for questions while we were out exploring. Chatting with her we learned a lot about the local culture and customs, and she even taught our teenage daughters how to make some of our favorite local dishes! The rooms are beautifully decorated with objects from local artisans utilizing natural materials found on the island, including the famous Naxian marble. Overall, it was an unforgettable experience and I can’t wait to return. – We loved it so much we extended our trip by a few days to stay longer- the only downside for us was having to leave!”Basic ratings: Staff 10, Cleanliness 10, Location 10, Facilities 10, Comfort 10, Value for money 10❤️~ Marisa Gilmore, October 16, 2019, New Jersey, USA

Our stay took in the beauty of Naxos with excursions during the day and sunsets in the evening.

I liked the location. It was away from crowds and we were surrounded by beautiful views. We loved exploring on drives and also, being able to walk down to the next village. The room worked perfectly for us with its state of art kitchenette. It was very clean and comfortable. Maybe it’s the mountain air and it being so peaceful that I slept great. (Bed was also nice). Breakfast was delicious, healthy and filling. We came back every evening for the sunset and a drink. The owner is very thoughtful and a good cook! She wants her guests to be happy!

Basic ratings: Staff 10, Cleanliness 10, Location 10, Facilities 10, Comfort 10, Value for money 10

❤️~ Thomas, United States, October 14, 2019

Super

Grossartiges Frühstück und sehr bequemes Bett. Wunderschön eingerichtetes Zimmer, super Blick von der Terrasse. Helen ist eine außerordentlich hilfsbereite und freundliche Gastgeberin mit vielen tollen Tipps für Naxos.

Translate in English: Great

Great breakfast and very comfortable bed. Beautifully furnished room, great view from the terrace. Helen is an extremely helpful and friendly hostess with many great tips for Naxos.

Basic ratings: Staff 10, Cleanliness 10, Location 10, Facilities 10, Comfort 10, Value for money 10

❤️~ Thomas, DENMARK, October 2, 2019

The Best of the Best!

Helen Marakis’ hotel, ELaiolithos is the kind of hotel that every traveler yearns for. She has created the ultimate Naxos villas from which you can relax and enjoy all of the island’s wonders. Situated high up in the mountains, ELaiolithos looks down over a stunning valley, nestled between warmly welcoming villages and quiet footpaths. Helen is the rare person who was born for the position she holds. She finds out your interests (cuisine, culture, quiet…you name it) and she makes sure that you get what you came for. She seemingly knows everyone on the island. In a three day visit she took me to a tiny tavern on the sea where I was the only non Greek-speaking guest (and yes, the food was amazing), to watch olives being pressed and raki being made and to visit with a local weaver (happens to be her mom who has been weaving for 55 years and has made many of the textiles in my room!). We also hiked, did a cooking class and spent a couple of hours as the sole guest of a local vintner who kindly shared his lovely wine with me. Believe it or not, I also enjoyed many hours on the terrace reading and gazing out on the sunrise to sunset views from the terrace. I don’t think I could possibly have asked for more in such a short visit.

❤️~ Solo Traveler Susan Fleklinger, October 2019, USA 

Excellent experience at ELaiolithos!

Helen, the owner, is wonderful! She made her guests feel at home. She planned our days and drove us around in the mountains to catch the best views in the area. All her suggestions were great. We gave thumbs up for the location, the facilities, the food and the owner!!

Basic ratings: Staff 10, Cleanliness 10, Location 10, Facilities 10, Comfort 10, Value for money 10

❤️~ Li-Wan, USA, October 1,2019

Incredible location with a breathtaking view and even better hospitality.

Incredible location with a breathtaking view. The hostess and her staff were so welcoming, helpful, and friendly. Breakfast was delicious, authentic, and made from locally sourced ingredients. Truly a unique experience compared to many other high end places I’ve stayed at before.  We loved it and if we ever find ourselves back in Naxos, we will be staying here again.

Basic ratings: Staff 10, Cleanliness 10, Location 10, Facilities 10, Comfort 10, Value for money 10

❤️~ Rick, California, USA,  September 25, 2019

A Paradise in Naxos!!!

This place is over the top. A true treasure in the mountains of Naxos. Highly recommend. Good and wine perfect. The owner is warm and welcoming. We thought we were in paradise in Naxos until we found this place. Highly recommend.

❤️~ Janice Skoloff, September 2019, USA

Perfekte Idylle zum Abschalten und entspannenSehr familiär geführtes Hotel. Vom Empfang bis zum Abschied wurden wir von Helen (Gastgeberin) und ihrem Team herzlichst Empfangen und verwöhnt. Helen kümmerte sich um uns als gehörten wir zur Familie. Im Hotel angekommen wurden wir von Helen begrüßt und sie gab uns erst mal einen Überblick über die Insel. Das Frühstück war jeden morgen ein Erlebnis und wurde frisch zubereitet. Hier ist uns besonders der Jogurt und die Marmeladenauswahl in Erinnerung geblieben :D. Das Hotel selbst liegt 15-20 Autominuten von Naxos-Stadt entfernt auf einem Berg in der Mitte der Insel. Die Aussicht von der Terrasse über die Insel war jeden morgen ein Traum und man hatte abends seine Ruhe. Mit dem Auto sind die Stadt und umliegenden Strände gut zu erreichen. Die zentrale Lage ist für Reisende die die gesamte Insel erkunden wollen von Vorteil. Das Hotel verfügt nur über wenige Zimmer, was die Sache noch familiärer macht. Die Zimmer waren groß, sehr sauber und hell. Abends konnte man bei einem Glas Wein auf der Terrasse verweilen. Freue mich auf meinen nächsten Aufenthalt bei Helen.

Translated from German – Show original: Perfect Idyll to switch off and relax

Very family-run hotel. From the reception to the farewell we were warmly welcomed and spoiled by Helen (hostess) and her team. Helen took care of us as if we were part of the family. Upon arriving at the hotel we were greeted by Helen and she gave us an overview of the island. Breakfast was an experience every morning and was freshly prepared. Here we especially remembered the yogurt and the jam selection: !. The hotel itself is located 15-20 minutes by car from Naxos town on a hill in the middle of the island. The view from the terrace over the island was a dream every morning and you had peace and quiet in the evening. Easy to reach the city and surrounding beaches by car. The central location is an advantage for travelers who want to explore the whole island. The hotel has only a few rooms, which makes it even more family. The rooms were large, very clean and bright. In the evening you could sit and enjoy a glass of wine on the terrace. Looking forward to my next stay at Helen’s.

Basic ratings: Staff 10, Cleanliness 10, Location 10, Facilities 10, Comfort 10, Room View 10, Value for money 10

❤️~ Yunus, DE, September 2, 2019

Scenic, romantic, adventurous and artistic. Don’t miss it.

From the moment you enter, you feel the force of nature that is Eleni – from her warm welcome to the design of the overall property, both inside and outside. She gave us the history of the place; she made the dinner and breakfast; she recommended our hike. Oh, and she designed the room and pointed out where she grew up. Delightful. Regret that we didn’t arrive earlier in the day.

❤️~ Brian, USA, June 24, 2019

An Unrivaled Experience. This is more than a hotel. IT’S A STORY!

A staying worth repeating. ELaiolithos takes you deeper and closer to local life and nature of Naxos island. The resort is beautifully constructed on a scenic location ideal to relax and explore the whole island. The view is unbeatable. We stayed in Fanari Suite. Lovely bed, beautiful artistic decor, and an amazing bathroom with Eco design and decor. Name a thing and you find it among the amenities. You can tell that every little thing and detail is planned which makes you feel like home. Where to go, what to see, and how to do it – take the advice of the owner Helen who provides personalized service for everyone. She is an expert who gives you great advice on discovering all local things and secret spots in Naxos. She is a local but raised and lived in New York City for 30 years and has returned to her native island and built this beautiful resort -museum. Advice: follow her recommendations with confidence. Food at the restaurant in the premises is unbelievably fresh and delicious with many vegetarian options. We’re surprised to see such a great variety (my fiancé is a vegetarian). Don’t miss to try the local signature cocktails. We spent 5 days, went hiking Mt Zeus, the marble quarries and Apano Kastro, and the Keramoti waterfalls. Most major attractions of the island, the charming Chalkio village and the most picturesque villages in the mountains are within a short distance from the hotel . Our experience with the suite, the food, the hotel, the staff, the hospitality, and the fun we had make us want to return back in ELaiolithos this coming September and we booked again with a few friends. The resort is ideal for such gatherings. We were given many local gifts and we also bought local loom weaving scarves and table runners from the hotel’s gift shop. Happiness flows here and positive vibes. A sustainable accommodation in the middle of no where in the center of the island that created wonderful memories for us. Thank you Helen and Marirena for everything. You’re beautiful souls, you’ve created memories and laughs worth holding on to. See you soon.. 

❤️~ Stamatia & Zachory, August 2019, New York, USA

Fantástico!!! Recomendable sin lugar a dudas…

La localización espectacular, unas vistas increíbles. El apartamento nuevo y con todas las comodidades. LoS desayunos increíbles, todos los productos frescos y variados cAda día. La mermelada la hace la hermana de Elena, la dueña y cada día es diferente, no sabría decir cuál más buena. Está muy cerca de todos los puntos visitables, playas, pueblos, Naxos ha sido una gran sorpresa!!!,. Elena, la dueña muy atenta y amable, en general todo el personal lo es….para nosotros ha sido una gran opción alojarse en el centro de la isla, sin duda volveremos!!!. Gracias a Elaiolithos por hacernos la estancia tan agradable. Todo fue maravilloso. Un lugar super tranquilo para disfrutar de la naturaleza y los buenos productos de la isla

Translated from Spanish – Show original: Fantastic!!! Recommendable without a doubt…

The spectacular location, incredible views. The new apartment and with all the amenities. Amazing breakfasts, all the fresh and varied products of the day. The jam is made by Elena’s sister, the owner and every day is different, I could not tell which is better. It is very close to all the places you can visit, beaches, towns, Naxos was a big surprise!!! Elena, the owner is very attentive and kind, in general all the staff is…. for us it has been a great option to stay in the center of the island, we will definitely be back!!! Thank you to Elaiolithos for making our stay so enjoyable. Everything was wonderful. A super quiet place to enjoy the nature and the good products of the island.

❤️~ MA Garcia, June 2019, Columbia

An amazing experience in the mountains

Our stay at elaiolithos was very comfortable and Helen, the owner of the hotel, was very accommodating, it was a different experience from any other hotel. We felt like visitors instead of hotel guests because of the warm and personal care given to us. We would definitely return. Helen was very helpful in giving us suggestions of the villages around and delicious places to eat. The room was very clean and comfortable and had all the necessities in it to make our stay feel at home. We look forward to returning

Basic ratings: Staff 10, Cleanliness 10, Location 10, Facilities 10, Comfort 10, Value for money 10

Additional Ratings: Bed rating 9.5

❤️~ Khaled, AE, May 17, 2019

Panorama!

La situation et le panorama exceptionnels. L’aménagement de notre chambre très joliment décorée et disposant de tout le nécessaire (kitchenette inclus). Le petit potager et ses plantes aromatiques. Helen, son hospitalité, ses petits déjeuners copieux, bios et bons servis sur la terrasse avec vue à 360 degrés.

La proximité des chambres. Elles sont toutes accolées donc par essence cela manque d’intimité.

Translated from French – Show original: The exceptional location and the panorama. The layout of our room was very nicely decorated and had everything we needed (kitchenette included). The small vegetable garden and its herbs. Helen, her hospitality, her hearty, organic and good breakfasts served on the terrace with 360 degree views.

Basic ratings: Staff 10, Cleanliness 10, Location 10, Facilities 10, Comfort 10, Value for money 10

❤️~ Patricia, France, August 1, 2018

A pearl in the mountains of Naxos!

Vi leide bil og kjørte rundt i fjellene og så fant vi denne perlen ELaiolithos! Skulle bare stoppe for å ta en frappe på vår vei, men med Helen sin fantastiske måte å ta i mot oss og serve oss på så ble oppholdet lengre. Dette stedet kan jeg anbefale alle! Helen du gjorde dagen vår minnerik!

❤️~ Richard & Linda Lund, August 2018, Bergen Hordaland

This is a magical place!

Beautifully designed, in breathtaking surroundings overlooking a mountain valley. This feels like a real retreat in nature: from the bedding (made from aloe vera and olive oil), to the organic vegetable patch from which Helen, the owner, lovingly prepares delicious wholesome food from scratch, using the best that the land in Naxos has to offer. Helen went the extra mile to look after us, dropped us off to a hiking trail which she had prepared through the marble quarries. Definitely recommend this place during high season, and also in low season. It has all the comforts, enough to keep you toasty warm even in October nights, in her boutique suites which are inspired by the history and mythology of the island. We’ll definitely be coming back!

❤️~ Helen & Julian, October 21, 2018, UK & FR

Emplacement idéal pour sillonner l’île!

Bel endroit au calme àvec belle vue. La vue sur l’ile Ést tres belle. Ét les chambres impeccables. L’hôtesse des lieux donne de bons conseils et Ést tres disponible.

English Translation: Perfect place for visiting the Island. Nice, quite, with beautiful sight. The sight on the island is very beautiful. And the rooms are immaculate. The hostess give good advice and very available.

❤️~ Agnes Miguras, April 2018, French

A “must to” visit place!

When I first saw the place I thought someone should be crazy to built something like this over here. But then I met Helen the owner and everything made perfect sense. An ideal luxurious place, where you meet the calmness and the peacefulness of the hinterland, in combination with the wide “high society” services that you enjoy during your stay, and much more that make ELaiolithos unforgettable and a “must to” visit point. Highly Recommended…!!!

❤️~ Nikos Pagiotelis, April 2018, Athens Greece

Cet hôtel est un lieu magnifique!

J’invite tous les français (et tous les autres aussi bien sûr ?) à s’y rendre. Situé au coeur et au sommet de l’île, le panorama y est superbe et le village à proximité très singulier. Notre coup de coeur de notreséjour en Grèce. Helena, la responsable de l’hôtel est aussi une femme qui vaut le détour : chaleureuse, joyeuse, serviable et inventive. Bon, j’arrête là ?. Courrez-y en tout cas et réservez bien à l’avance car le lieu est assez récent et le succès s’annonce à grands pas ! Bons baisers de Paris, Helena!

❤️~Jean-Christophe Onno, September 2017, France