234 Steps is probably the most spectacular and beautiful apartment that we have had the pleasure to stay in over 10 years of using Airbnb. This sympathetically restored house is positioned towards the top of the Kali Strata and commands wonderful views over Gialos and Symi harbour. Thaleia and Ioannis have restored the house to its former glory, it is well equipped and beautifully furnished throughout with a wonderful attention to detail – the painted floor and frescoes in the sitting room are stunning. The apartment occupies the top floor of an old sea captain’s house – his photograph is in the sitting room – the extensive accommodation comprises a well equipped kitchen, bathroom, dressing room, bedroom and a large sitting room. There is a beautiful shaded courtyard which is the perfect place to have breakfast, and a small balcony off the sitting room which overlooks the Kali Strata - where you can while away the evening watching people coming and going. Thaleia and Ioannis use the ground floor as a studio from where run their architectural business. They are on hand if needed most mornings and evenings, but are always discreet and conscious of your privacy. As the apartment is situated towards the top of the Kali Strata, it is the perfect haven to escape the busyness of the town and close to the Chorio, the old town, where there are a couple of small supermarkets, bakeries and a couple of tavernas and bars.
Thaleia is a wonderful, generous and kind host who wanted to ensure that we had a relaxing stay in Symi. On our arrival, the kitchen was well stocked with fresh food, coffee, wine, soft drinks, fruit, yoghurt, honey, butter and water to ensure that we settled in quickly, and there was an extensive range of wonderful Korres toiletries in the bathroom. The bed is wonderfully comfortable and the bed linen and towels were of the highest quality and changed during our stay. A wide selection of information leaflets about the island were provided, and Thaleia was always available, if needed, to suggest places to visit and the best restaurants.
We have no hesitation in recommending ‘234 Steps’ - staying there and meeting Thaleia and Ioannis was one of the highlights of our lovely holiday in Symi. ‘234 Steps’ is the perfect place to stay.