“Perfection!”
We booked Kastelli Blu expecting something special but our expectations were blown out of the water! Stunning views, beautiful property, high quality finishes and out of this world hospitality from Damion and John. From meeting us at the airport to help with the luggage, to the welcome pack awaiting us on arrival, to the local tips and availability to answer any questions - we couldn't have asked for more. We had a truly special holiday, on a gorgeous island with plenty to see and do. Cannot recommend highly enough. Warmest wishes!
August, SASHA,
“A beautiful, and beautifully decorated, haven on the shores of the Aegean”
Kastelli Blu SEA is a beautiful, and beautifully decorated, haven on the tranquil island of Kalymnos. Whilst Kalymnos itself is fast becoming a destination for avid climbers (who make their base in the nearby town of Massouri), Kastelli Blu SEA is a perfect compromise for non-climbers and climbers who don't want the constant bustle of scooters and bars in Massouri itself. The house stands well back from the nearby road, and with the windows open directly out to the sea, the only noises you'll hear are the waves and the occasional visit from one of the sauntering packs of goats. John has set out with a clear vision for Kastelli Blu - to provide everything that's necessary for relaxing, while stripping away the noise and distractions of modern life. It suited us perfectly - with wifi and a washing machine, but no television to intrude on conversation. The house is full of thoughtful touches, which at once make it feel simple and luxurious. Kastelli Blu looks over the tiny island of Telendos and the ruins of the ancient fort of Kastelli. In the evenings, the sun sets directly into Telendos on the horizon, with the balcony offering stunning views which fast become a regular part of your stay. If you are a climber, Kastelli Blu is within walking distance of some of the most well known sectors - Odyssey, Kastelli, Grande Grotta, Panorama. A car or scooter will be needed for others, like those in Arginonta, while a mountain bike will suffice for access to most. We walked to and from Massouri most days, but hired mountain bikes for a few days to speed up the 1.5km trip to the restaurants in Massouri. If you're looking for easy walking distance access to bars, or are looking for a buzzing and vibrant atmosphere, you may be happier with a spot in Massouri itself. If, however, you value tranquility and a real opportunity to relax, I can't recommend Kastelli Blu highly enough.
September, Mark,
“The villa of your dreams”
Just before arriving at this wonderful villa by the sea I was concerned about the bar on the main road above Kastelli Blu. I needn't have worried; the' big blue bar' looked like it had been empty for years. If you want a peaceful, relaxing holiday then this is the place with sumptuous furniture from different parts of the world that has been carefully selected by the owners. The overall effect is to create a wonderful ambience overlooking a tranquil expanse of sea that has some of the best sunsets I have ever seen. I would recommended that you get a boat to the island opposite the villa called Telendos and eat in one of the restaurants on the shore. There is no traffic at all apart from the odd bicycle- a blissful afternoon spent there eating good and drinking wine The nearest village to the villa is some 20 minutes walk away but well worth it where you will find plenty of bars and excellent restaurants, with some of the best vegetarian Greek food that I have come across. The main downside is the amount of rubbish on the island-I have never seen so much plastic and discarded cans that you come across dumped by the road. If you can put up with the latter then I would heartily recommend a stay at Kastelli Blu SEA where I rediscovered what it mean to truly relax.
August, Elizabeth,
“Perfect”
If you wish to escape the rat race, visit Kastelli Blu. Spend your evenings bathed in the rays of the sinking sun on the magnificent balcony. It was a privilege to spend our holiday in this boutique styled house. Kalymnos is a lovely little island, very Greek, very friendly, very welcoming. One tip, take plenty of books and sink into a very slow paced way of life - brilliant! Ah! unless you drive around Porthia - hold onto your hat, close your eyes and drive!
July, Sheila,
“Our Wedding Day at Kastelli Blu”
What a perfect wedding and honeymoon we had at Kastelli Blu!We felt as though we were dreaming the entire time of our stay. From the beautifully accented decor to the panoramic views that draw you out to the balcony every morning and evening, we couldn't have asked for a more lovely place to have our wedding ceremony. My new husband and I sought out a simple yet breathtaking and serene place to hold our small wedding ceremony. After looking at several different places on the island, we chose the terrace of Kastelli Blu. It was the first wedding ceremony there, and we were honored to start a tradition of hopefully, many weddings to be had there. The homeowner, John, has become a friend through the process of planning our wedding. He helped us find a photographer, John Miniotis, and a makeup artist, Anna Chatz. He ensured that the garden and balcony were manicured to perfection for our wedding day. John also went the extra mile to help us find a minister to marry us. He went above and beyond for us, but the only regret is that we have yet to meet him in person to tell him our many thanks face to face. Liana, the property manager, was just as hospitable and wonderful as John. She met us at the airport and drove us through the villages on our way to Kastelli. She was available whenever we needed her or had a question. She came to clean the day before our wedding to make sure everything was tidy and in order. Not only did we have a memorable wedding day, we couldn't have had a better climbing trip! The house sits right under the climbing sectors, Odyssey, Olympic and Sea Breeze. You are just a 4 minute drive into town by way of scooter which is perfect for a quiet getaway but close enough to feel a part of the "city" life. Our stay at Kastelli Blu was worth every penny and it is evident in all of our wedding photos! Thank you to John and Liana and everyone who made our stay absolutely perfect.
May, Kinsey,
“amazing view, amazing place and close to climbing crags!”
All I can say is WOW. My partner and I stayed here for about 10days and were here to climb. The location of Kastelli Blu SEA is absolutely ideal as you can see the crag from the house, close drive to other crags- and a very short drive to Massouri the closest town. Adding to that, the place is amazing! I cannot rave enough about the detail of the house, and John and Liana! Oh my gosh, the hospitality was beyond what I had expected. When arriving into Kalymnos (we took a plane from Athens to Kalymnos - its propeller plane too!) , we were greeted by Johns friend who took us to his car shop while we organised a rent car and waited for John. John made us feel at ease straight away! He insisted on taking us to the grocery market to purchase supplies while he waited in his car for us, and then drove us to places he recommended for food! If you are hungry and love a great Greek meal, then head to IL Posto, my partner and I ate there EVERY NIGHT! Staff were so lovely too! It seems to be a trait on the island where everyone is so friendly. Oh and we even came back one evening to some baklava, bread and fruit. Could it get any better? Do yourself a favour and ask John where this baklava place is. I haven't been able to find baklava that is even close to what I had in Greece. I'm not kidding. Know, let me talk about the house. WOW. The views were just WOW. The interior design of the place was incredible. Everything so detailed. I loved the white and blue colours scheme, and L’Occitane products in the bathroom? Talk about spoiling us John and Liana! More so, as a climber there was a Petzl harness bag reused to store the extra toilet papers - i found that to be really cute :) Lets add in the speakers where you can plug up your music, wifi to play some spotify, and all the utensils needed in the kitchen! (even some Jamie Oliver cutlery!) Oh, and you can wash your clothes in the washing machine and a clothes hanger and pegs all provided! Only downside, if you plan on going climbing in March - its cold. House is cold. But that is all! Put on some thermals and you'll be okay. Even in the freezing weather, my partner and I still had all the doors open so we could watch the sun rise and listen to the sound of the waves. Also you get a lot of visits from the goats. If you are going to Kalymnos to climb and want to go home to a nice comfy place, then book here. John and Liana will look after you. Although we didn't meet Liana, she did leave us a 'hello' note on a piece of paper for us. I think small things like this from both John and Liana made Kastelli Blu such a wonderful place.I will be back for sure!
March, Jack,
“A little slice of heaven”
This is our second time in Kastelli Blu SEA and we thought that this time it would look more "normal" as the first time is always more special. We were wrong! Kastelli Blu SEA was more charming and magical this time! Perfectly maintained, all the little details were as magical as the first time we arrived only better as we now have true friends here, we learned to love the island as if it was home and we feel Kastelli Blu as our little heaven! This place is absolutely magic and we are already planning for next year! Thanks so much Jon for receiving us, say thanks so much to Liana for being such a dear friend. Big hugs! Ro and Kas
November, Ro & Kas,
“A little haven of luxury and escapism”
We wanted to thank you so much for all that you did in making our week in Kalymnos, a wonderfully enjoyable one. No hitches, everything was as it had been stated, everyone was where they said they would be, what more could you ask for. Oh yes, the view from Kastelli Blu SEA! Sitting on the magnificent veranda on wonderful blue and white striped beach towels on comfortable rattan chairs could not have been rivaled elsewhere. The villa is wonderfully situated, in fact spectacularly situated, for one of the best views of the sunset as it is located just past Telendos island (you miss the best part of the sunset from the village). The villa has a fabulous waterfront situation with a path down to the rocks and waters edge for a dip in the Aegean.We adored the villa – a little haven of luxury and escapism. It had a boutique feel, so well furnished, yet simple and so comfortable. Never been we been to such a hideaway where, apart from a refresh of clothes, we needn’t have brought anything else with us! Wow! WiFi was available, all sorts of toiletries were already in situ, plus ‘the most’ adorable local baklava from the best bakery on the island welcomed us upon our arrival coupled with a bottle of local and very palatable wine. Maps of the island plus immensely detailed and informative guidebooks are on the table – we took most of your suggestions and were not disappointed by any of them. And the suggested walks were amazing. A docking station too, plus coffee making facilities and air conditioning if you really want to spoil the fact that you are in a hot place! It’s wonderfully secluded and an ideal place to rest, so if you are looking for ready made party life on your doorstep, this is not the place for you! The peace is interrupted daily by the bells attached to the local goats, a small sacrifice..Hiring a car was a fabulous idea, we roamed all over the island and went back to our favourite beach a couple of times, which was Emporio, up north. And simply adored Palionissos for lunch and swim. There are so many lovely places, everywhere had a view and gasp effect. We were very sad to leave ‘our house’ and move to the apartments up the road (due to availability), but these were good recommendations by John. Kastelli Blu most definitely exceeded our expectations. A return visit is a must!
May, Jo,
“A Little Jewel”
We stayed there late March early April and we loved every minute. It is very close to some climbing sectors and close enough to town to get all the groceries you need yet far enough away to feel secluded and private. The house is a charming well equipped space and the views from the balcony are superb. John was a great host and we can't wait to get back.
April, Debra,
“A haven of tranquility”
Kastelli Blu is a little haven. It's a tastefully restored villa, with breathtaking views over the seas. The warm welcome from our host and from Liana was just lovely and she was really obliging and thoughtful throughout our stay. A really helpful guidebook compiled by our host was a lovely touch as was the climbing guidebook! The L'Occitane shower products and fine bed linen gave a 5 star feel. The mid stay cleaning service was also very welcome and the wi-fi service was excellent. We had a complete break from the hustle and bustle in this really special place.
April, Aine,
“Paradies on earth”
Kastelli Blu SEA absolutely magic. The best place in the world we have ever stayed. It is beautifully decorated, with love for detail. John was so kind all times and although we didn't meet him, we felt like been hosted by a friend. Liana took care of us at our arrival and checked on us to see if we were doing fine. We became friends with her as she is absolutely lovely, as most of Kalymnians. This place is an absolute dream. We were there for climbing and it was beyond our expectations in all senses, the food in Massouri is excellent, the people are cool, it is a great place for chilling out, enjoying amazing sunsets, running, a perfect terrace for yoga and romantic dinners, peaceful breakfasts, just fantastic. It was very difficult to go back home, as Kastelli Blu SEA became home in very short time. We are definitely coming back and keep discovering the wonders of this little paradise.
May, Ro,
“Chilled and Relaxing Stay”
John was the perfect host and Kastelli Blu SEA is a lovely place to stay. The house has everything you need for a chilled and relaxing stay by the sea. A lot of thought has gone into making it comfortable. The private balcony had great views over Telendos and Kastelli with some spectacular sunsets. The house is conveniently located for Massouri (with a small scooter) and very near good climbing too. Perfect!
April, Martin,
“Wonderfully Relaxing Place to Stay”
We really enjoyed the house, which had everything we needed for a really enjoyable stay. It was clean and a nice blend of modern and traditional. We loved the shade covered veranda outside which stayed in the shade into the afternoon, which meant we loved hanging out most mornings & listening to the sea. It had wonderful views out to the Telendos Island. John was very helpful supplying lots of suggestions and information before we arrived. Kalymnos had plenty to do and wasn't busy even in August. The islanders were very friendly. We particularly enjoyed: Dinner on the beach at Emporios The beach at Paleonisos which the new road as made accessible Trips to Telendos beach evening meal & night time boat trip back Boat trip out of Rina to some quiet coves (beautiful harbour) We'd love to come back. It was so nice to be by the sea & hear the waves.
August, Philip,
“An Aegean fantasy”
We stayed at Kastelli Blu SEA for 12 days recently. We had read the trip advisor reviews and were pretty confident that it would be somewhere we'd love to stay. We had been to Kalymnos many times so we knew the area. Kastelli Blu exceeded our expectations. From the welcome we had to the accommodation, the styling, the views I could go on. We were greeted with a lovely note from John and there was a bottle if wine in the fridge. These little touches are welcoming and are a good start to the holiday. On the practical side the house had everything you needed. For us who had a busy, cold year to wake up every morning to sunshine and uninterrupted views of the Aegean was just magical. I swam every day by diving off the rocks (not for the faint hearted). For those who prefer a more conventional beach there was a gorgeous pebble beach close by. Kastelli is one if the loveliest locations on Kalymnos and to be able to stay there in such lovely accommodation was fantastic. We loved Kastelli Blu and will definitely be staying there again.
September, Kelly,
“An Unexpected Surprise”
Fantastic communication with owners made the booking process seamless. They went above and beyond in informing me about the islands workings. The space was a mix of modern and traditional Greek design with a spacious bathroom, complete with quality shampoo and shower gel (uncommon in these parts of the world ) and a great little kitchen. My favorite features included blue tooth docking station, hi speed wifi, a view to die for and close proximity to beach, shops and bars ( quick drive) . Loved Kalymnos, loved this house !
September, Bill,
“Peaceful, Tasteful, Stunning setting...nothing more to say!”
Well I could say more but only to reinforce that if you want to take your small family on a memorable holiday to a simple, clean, friendly island in Greece and you want to do it in relative luxury then please stay at Kastelli Blu...just not when I want to return! WE were met at the ferry, escorted to the house, arrived to find sweet little gifts on our pillows for each of us (a teenager, my eight year old and myself and husband) wine in the fridge and plenty of information on where to eat and what to do on the island. We were there to primarily rock climb and the choice within walking distance of the house was amazing. We could see the house from the crag so we were never far from sitting on the verandah and staring into the Aegean as we indulged in local honey, cheeses and wines from nearby islands. This place is great value and will not disappoint you at all.
July, Kathryn,
“Magical, Mythical, Mystical Kastelli Blu”
From the moment I arrived I was completely captivated by its beauty and within moments, months of built-up stress accumulated from my fast-paced world back home began melting away. Each morning I would wake up and make myself a cup of traditional Greek coffee and soak up the magnificent view from the kitchen window. I would then enjoy my coffee and breakfast on my very own private terrace facing the majestic island of Telendos. After a trek to one of the many quaint churches on the island I would go for a delicious swim to cool down and snorkel in the crystal clear waters of the Aegean sea … right on my door step! I spent the rest of my days either painting, discovering secret beaches, villages, meeting the friendly locals and mountain climbing with friends. It’s hard to describe how peaceful and serene Kastelli Blue is – my little piece of paradise is far enough away from the main town of Pothia and yet close enough if you need to tap into the local vibe, do a little souvenir shopping, go to a classic taverna for lunch or listen to a local DJ at one of the bars in the evening – its all there if you want it.This is no quaint rental folks – if you are looking for a luxe, super cool and stylish boutique hideaway, look no further – every detail has been thoughtfully researched and you’re every need is provided for. Its so dreamy here – you’ll be bathed in the classic Hellenic blue and white through the décor; depending on the time of year the aroma of wild jasmine, thyme and basil will be wafting through the apartment; not to mention the sound of the goat bells chiming.They’re friendly, warm and extremely helpful - they truly made planning my trips easy and enjoyable. The accommodation was always ultra clean; the beds comfortable and the sheets and towels all soft and fresh. Amenities, full kitchen utensils, robes, slippers, beach towels and even sun loungers are all provided. There is also free Wi-Fi and great connection which is hard to come by in some places I’ve stayed! In June 2011 and August 2012 I stayed here for two weeks – it’s one of my favourite destinations and I am about to book another 2 weeks for this September! Stop your search and book now – I promise you won’t regret it. What I loved 1. My own private terrace 2. Décor and attention to detail 3. The location is the best on the Island, you will not be disappointed with the views 4. The oversized shower 5. The complimentary bottle of wine always goes down well while watching the sunset on the first night Tips 1. Take a trek up to one of the many churches – they’re everywhere 2. Take a boat cruise around the island 3. Rent a car – it’s cheap 3. Take a boat trip over to the island of Telendos 4. The island is renowned for sponge diving – don’t go home without a few
August, Kathy,
“A quintessential Greek Island experience”
We stayed at Kastelli Blu for a week in July. The house is located right on the water just a few minutes from Massouri and overlooks the island of Telendos. The owners have a great eye for design which is reflected in the eclectic style of the house. It has a fresh, relaxing feel about it. It is well appointed with quality furnishings and fixtures throughout and excellent attention to detail. A beautiful location and a memorable stay. We highly recommend it.
July, Ray,
“A week wasn’t’ enough !!”
A week wasn’t long enough. Early mornings on large terrace, not sure whether to face the incredible mountains or amazing ocean to welcome the day. Breakfast by the water trying to coax ourselves to move only to find another hour had passed. Managed some days to get in the car and explore another of their wonderful recommendations for a secluded beach or local feast. Back to watch the sky change colour as the sun switched out for the moon as we sipped cocktails at the waters edge. Got up the next day and did it all again. Have already booked for next year.
May, Naomi,
“Quite probably my favourite place to holiday!”
May, AHYNE,
“A beautiful, and beautifully decorated, haven on the shores of the Aegean2”
Kastelli Blu SEA is a beautiful, and beautifully decorated, haven on the tranquil island of Kalymnos. Whilst Kalymnos itself is fast becoming a destination for avid climbers (who make their base in the nearby town of Massouri), Kastelli Blu SEA is a perfect compromise for non-climbers and climbers who don't want the constant bustle of scooters and bars in Massouri itself. The house stands well back from the nearby road, and with the windows open directly out to the sea, the only noises you'll hear are the waves and the occasional visit from one of the sauntering packs of goats. John has set out with a clear vision for Kastelli Blu - to provide everything that's necessary for relaxing, while stripping away the noise and distractions of modern life. It suited us perfectly - with wifi and a washing machine, but no television to intrude on conversation. The house is full of thoughtful touches, which at once make it feel simple and luxurious. Kastelli Blu looks over the tiny island of Telendos and the ruins of the ancient fort of Kastelli. In the evenings, the sun sets directly into Telendos on the horizon, with the balcony offering stunning views which fast become a regular part of your stay. If you are a climber, Kastelli Blu is within walking distance of some of the most well known sectors - Odyssey, Kastelli, Grande Grotta, Panorama. A car or scooter will be needed for others, like those in Arginonta, while a mountain bike will suffice for access to most. We walked to and from Massouri most days, but hired mountain bikes for a few days to speed up the 1.5km trip to the restaurants in Massouri. If you're looking for easy walking distance access to bars, or are looking for a buzzing and vibrant atmosphere, you may be happier with a spot in Massouri itself. If, however, you value tranquility and a real opportunity to relax, I can't recommend Kastelli Blu highly enough.
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“A beautiful, and beautifully decorated, haven on the shores of the Aegean”
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