Cafe Hotel Steni in Evia is another worth visiting property in Steni Dirfyos not far from Athens. What a fantastic surprise returning after several years to find the new generation in control of the business, running now by Zoe Gerakini and her two sons, Vaggeli and Costa. We combined this second visit to Steni Dirfyos to attend the Mushroom Production Unit of Pisonas in Evia and join in at the Mushroom Festival. Fully harmonized with the traditional features of this mountain-resort village, the hotel has in all 36 renovated rooms, nicely furnished and dominated by warm colours that enjoy mountain and garden views.
Most inviting than ever before the Cafe Hotel Steni in Evia is located in the central part of the village of Steni uphill, a few meters from the centre and enjoys a panoramic view of the round area. It is actually a breath away from the top of Mount Dirfy. Only 25 km from Chalkida and 107 km from Athens. A stay here makes an excellent pick, ideal for short, even longer stays, offering the exceptional homely feeling. We parked the car in their private parking lot and carried the luggage to the reception desk.
Check-In at Cafe Hotel Steni in Evia
It was nice to be back and see familiar faces. The family welcomed us warmly, and before heading to the room, Kosta allowed me to choose between two that were available.
My choice was the corner room on the first floor, in the renovated wing. Check-in, in general, was swift and efficient, and highly appreciated the fact that Costa lent a hand with the luggage.
Leading Staircase to the Rooms
Cafe Hotel Steni in Evia
A nicely decorated space at the opposite side of the major Lobby and Lounge area. The marble staircase leads to the first and second floor to the rooms.
The Rainbow Double Room
Our corner room was bright and airy with two doors, one of which overlooking the beautiful hotel’s courtyard and the imposing rock of the village. With the blinds down the temperature in the room was so pleasant that we never bothered to switch on the air-conditioning unit.
In tones of the colour of the wood, our newly refurbished of average size room was functional and furnished with brand new pieces of furniture. Above the dressing table, a lovely mirror next of which a hairdryer and below a small fridge to keep water and fruit fresh. The wooden wardrobe provided plenty of storage space. There were no coffee facilities, but there was a safe. The white linen fresh and crispy and the king-size bed comfortable and relaxing.
Cafe Hotel Steni in Evia
The Bathroom
Our bathroom was tiny but functional with a walk-in shower. Towels were brand new and crispy. Although the hotel does not provide plastic caps, it caters for small shampoo tubes and shower gel.
Traditional Breakfast
The buffet setting during weekends only is in the sitting lounge plentiful and tempting with standard and healthy options. Among others cheese and ham, local yoghurt and honey, a variety of homemade marmalades, orange juice and tasty homemade cakes.
We had a heartful breakfast by the beautiful garden of the hotel on both mornings enjoying the fresh mountain breeze.
During weekdays, like Monday, the day of our departure there was no buffet which was fair enough, but we still enjoyed a full breakfast, even a dish of loukoumades (doughnuts with syrup and cinnamon) excellent service and quality choices.
Lounge and Bar Interiors
The cosy traditional stone-built interior of the major Lounge of the Cafe Hotel Steni in Evia has a fireplace unique for the cold winter days, while their Bar is popular the year-round.
Besides hotel guests, the Cafe Steni Hotel in Evia attracts regulars who come here for breakfast, snacks, drinks and cocktails as well as coffee and homemade pastries and sweets.
The Mountain View from the Lounge
The Sun Terrace
The nicely furnished sun terrace of the property offers an oasis of relaxation along with exceptional service. With pleasant music, it is the ideal spot to avoid the noise of the centre of the village.
One such stay experience out here or just dropping by for a quick snack or drink offers a feeling of privacy and seclusion combined with a warm, friendly atmosphere and a sense of space with open views out to the mountain and the village.
The Cafe Hotel Steni in Evia offers any time of day or night light snacks, pizzas, pastry delights, drinks and a variety of cocktails.
One of the three nights we decided to stay indoors just for a change and had the opportunity to try their homemade Pizza out by their beautiful garden. The lights created a perfect cosy atmosphere, and the Pizza, rich in flavour and ingredients did not disappoint. We accompanied it with a cold icy beer.
The garden by night
Verdict
Cafe Hotel Steni in Evia offered us the hospitality we anticipated to have. The secret behind the excellent comments, the popularity of this little family business and the several awards is the result of hard work and respect to customers. The hotel is an excellent choice for weekends, short getaways, even longer stay. Highly recommended to families and those who love outdoor activities and nature.
Disclaimer: I was a guest at the Cafe Hotel Steni in Evia during this visit, but the opinions expressed in this article are, as always my own.
What do you think of the Cafe Hotel Steni in Evia? Is it the type of hotel you’d love to stay? Have you already been here? Love to hear your thoughts!
