The Ionian Sun hotel is an award winning complex of just twenty-five studios and apartments, that, over many years have established a near legendary status on Lourdas' glorious kilometre of sun-drenched beach. Chiselled into the lower slopes of the cliff that parallel its glittering sands, just fifty metres from an iridescent blue Ionian Sea, it is hard to imagine a more perfect location.
This friendly, family run property has been tastefully designed to blend in with the natural vegetation of olive, cypress and wild oak trees, whilst still ensuring fabulous sea views from each apartment. Built in three blocks, linked by a series of steps and pathways that meander gradually up the hill. The ten studios are all in the sea-front building, arranged over three floors, all with uninterrupted views of the sea. A little further up the hill, is the main reception building, large free-flow swimming pool, pool-side bar and snack bar. Above the reception area, on the first and second floors are a further six apartments, with the two, newly created penthouses, exclusively occupying the second floor.
A third building, with the remainder of the apartments is located in amongst the pine trees, further up the hill, which due to its elevated position, also has great views. On reaching the second floor of the main building, an aura of discreet tranquillity is created by deep, flowering planters, trellises and wooden latticework panels. These also ensure a high degree of privacy between the two apartments. On the right is the arched gateway that is the entrance to the roof- garden of Penthouse 82. The garden and terrace area are beautifully "landscaped" with comfortable sun loungers, a wickerwork suite around a low coffee table, a shaded pergola and "al-fresco" dining area.
The stunning panoramic views are enhanced by the close proximity and relaxing sounds of the sea. An additional feature of this apartment, due to its position, are the views westward over the swimming pool to the Liakas peninsula on the horizon. Inside, the apartment has wide patio doors that seamlessly link it to the terrace and the well appointed double bedroom is separated from the open-plan louunge, dining and kitchenette area, by sliding double doors. The two sofas in the lounge are suitable as beds for children up to the age of twelve. The beach front location and high quality of this excellent property, combined with its proximity to a great choice of tavernas, bars, shops and facilities make it the undisputed place to stay in Lourdas.