Hotel Kentavros

December 15 2007: This is one of the best hotel experiences of my life. It's located in the miniscule, picturesque village of Makrynitsa that clings to the side of Mount Pelion, a really wonderful place to spend a night. We couldn't figure out why our archaeology study program booked this hotel for us en route from Thessaloniki to Athens, because it would have been most ideally suited for a romantic getaway - think small guest house perched on a hill, four-poster bed with a sort of canopy, windows open to let in the cool mountain air and the sound of the fountain in the village square below.  I also have no idea why they named the hotel after centaurs, who in ancient mythology and art are sort of nasty guys.  The square had a lovely little church, a few shops, a restaurant where I had one of the best meals I ate in Greece, and of course beautiful mountain views.  Makrynitsa isn't really near anything, but it's totally worth the trip for a unique and unforgettable experience. Just don't pack your bag too heavy, as you'll have to leave your car at the bottom of the hill because the town's streets are too narrow, steep, and twisty to be navigated by anything but people and donkeys.

Date of stay: July 2005
Purpose of stay: Business