Pounda Paou, set amongst olive trees overlooking the Pagasitic Gulf, over an hours drive from of the city of Volos. Sitting beside its lovely swimming pool or down on the private jetty watching the fishermen casting their nets into the blue waters of the Pagasitic Gulf, it might just as well be half a world away.

This quiet, small hotel, well off the beaten track is a haven of peace, approached by a long lane off the coastal highway. You only have to step out of your mini bus or taxi and put your bags down to sense that Pounda Paou has an atmosphere of complete relaxation. This is due in part to the owners, Lula and her daughter Maria, who go to great lengths to make your stay perfect, in the Greek tradition of Filoxenia, friendliness to strangers.

Whichever room you choose you will find the same level of simple comfort, homeliness and informality. The accommodation is quirky yet comfortably furnished, all with balconies or terraces offering a variety of views. If your idea of a perfect holiday is freedom from pressure, beautiful surroundings and time just to enjoy the simple things in life, then Pounda Paou will appeal to your taste.

Steps and pathways through lovely gardens lead on to the shaded jacuzzi and swimming pool with the water circulating via a cascade. There is a sunbathing terrace by the jetty and Paou beach is a 10 minute walk away. Even shopping for a picnic lunch ceases to be a chore when it involves a gentle cruise in a boat of your own before setting off for the day to explore the other beaches and coastal villages in the area.

Each morning, guests are asked if they wish to have dinner at the property. The hotel has a reputation for its dinners, made with fresh, mainly local ingredients that vary from day to day.

As the property is isolated, mainly due to its spectacular location on a steep hill just above the sea, we have included the hire of a motor boat or a car for the duration of your stay. The motor boats can be used until 5pm each day and allows you to see a completely different aspect of the coastline and the local villages of Paou, Kalamos, Horto and Milina which all become easily accessible.

Pounda Paou is remotely positioned, so we highly recommend the use of a car to venture further afield and to enjoy the true delights of the local area. They include the beautiful monastery of Agios Nikolaos above Kalamos and the magnificent central mountains, the eastern coastline of the Pelion Peninsula including a trip on the extraordinary narrow gorge railway at Milies or perhaps Meteora with its famous monasteries perched on top of soaring rock pinnacles.

For an alternative choice of tavernas one can venture to the waterside village of Horto around the headland from Pounda Paou twenty minutes by car. It has four excellent tavernas and serving a fresh catch of fish every day from the local fishermen.

Pounda Paou is strictly an adult only property even during the peak summer months of July and August, so absolute peace and quiet is assured.

We highly recommend Pounda Paou for a relaxing and truly tranquil break, not only for its breathtaking views and unique location but also for the atmosphere and a complete sense of well being.

Please note: Pounda Paou is a child free property. It is however built on a steep hillside, with varying terraces and therefore is not suitable for those with mobility problems.