Highlights

• Great central location near sights, restaurants, and nightlife.
• Exclusive pool.
• Historic property with modern comforts.

Experience

The Menelaion Hotel has just finished its renovations in 2010 which completely modernized it from the original neoclassical building which opened in 1935. Though the hotel takes its name from the ancient Spartan King Menelao, it has significant recent history. The hotel was requisitioned by both the Italians and the Germans during World War II until 1944. After it was used by the Greek Popular Liberalisation Army and the Greek Army it was finally returned to the Stathopoulos family, its rightful owners.

With such a history and high ratings, I decided to stay at the Menelaion Hotel as my tourism base.

Arriving from Athens, I had a quick check-in and went up to my room. The room had a king bed facing a TV and desk area. Next to the bed was a wardrobe and on the other side was access to the terrace overlooking the main street. A door led to the bathroom which included a separate shower and bath, a large sink in a dark stone counter and a toilet. The bathroom also features fine finishes and ornate wall coverings.

Whether you reserve a single bed room or a suite, all 48 rooms are exquisitely finished in contemporary colors and textures. Each room is equipped with air-conditioning and triple-glazed windows, a mini fridge, internet access, interactive plasma/LCD TV and balconies that look over the city. Special accommodations for pets, interconnecting rooms or disability access can also be provided at request.

The next day I went down for breakfast at the restaurant and explored the property.

In the summer, the restaurant area is extended to include the pool area so guests can enjoy the private pool and sun while dining on gourmet meals. So I had a great breakfast on the open air terrace. The Menelaion Café offers casual dining along the front entrance of the hotel which is optimal for people-watching.

The pool area is lined lounge chairs which are reserved for guests between the hours of 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. I swam for a few laps but found the water to be a bit chilly as it was a bit overcast. The pool area also offers full bar service so this is a perfect place to enjoy happy hour if you want to avoid the crowds. It is also a great place to reserve for private parties or corporate events which can be arranged by the friendly hotel staff. There is also a small business center near the entrance of the courtyard.

Service by the front desk was efficient and friendly. They are also knowledgeable on the area and can provide some local insight.

During the day I set out to get some sightseeing done. Close by the hotel are some of the premiere sights of Sparta. The Archeological Museum, John Coumantarios Art Gallery and King Leonidas Statue are all within easy walking distance. If guests would like to travel a little farther, the Sanctuary of Artemis Orthia is just a 20 minute walk away. I suggest taking a short taxi ride to the neighboring town to see Mystras.

In the evening, the main nightlife in the city is just across the street from the hotel. Enjoy bars and lounge or walk to the main square where people socialize late into the nights.

I recommend this hotel to leisure and business travelers alike. The central location to the local station and easy access to popular tourists sites makes this an ideal base while traveling through Sparta.

Contact
The Menelaion Hotel
Address: 91, Constantine Paleologos Avenue, Sparta, Greece
Telephone: + 27310 22161-5
Website: http://www.menelaion.gr/en/
Email: info@menelaion.gr