Naxos

Juliet, I'm not familiar with Pension Sofi, so can't offer any comments on it. I stayed at This Hotel last year and would certainly recommend it! The room was clean and comfortable, the staff great and the breakfasts were wonderful. There's a nice patio for relaxing and a small swimming pool on the lower floor. I took a day trip with one of the local tour companies, so didn't have an opportunity to hike Mt. Zeus. It's reportedly "strenuous" in spots so probably not something I would have tried anyway. Happy travels!

We stayed on Naxos for 3 nights at Hotel Grotta. It is recommended by Rick Steves and if you look at the reviews on Tripadvisor: http://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Review-g580192-d253516-Reviews-Hotel_Grotta-Naxos_City_Naxos_Cyclades.html you will see it is very highly recommended. The owners and staff are so nice and helpful. You always get a warm greeting and great service. We asked for a room with an ocean view. It was nice and the price was right. It is close to all the sights. We rented an ATV and went to many parts of the island. It is one of the largest and greenest. We loved Agios Prokopios which is one of the most beautiful beaches and frequented by locals with families. We loved the pork or lamb pita gyros and octopus salad. Good choice picking Naxos. You will love it on Naxos. We did.

Jerry, That's also the Hotel I recommended! I didn't realize it was recommend by Rick Steves. My experience with the Hotel was the same as you described. The owners were very friendly and helpful and the breakfasts included freshly baked items every morning. Cheers!

Boys, she wants something cheaper than Grotta. Also, that's quite a hill to climb after dinner. If you can find her a self-catering place under €40 in May, that's what she wants.

Or maybe up to €50 would be OK.

We stayed at the Sofi last September. Loved it! It was a short walk from the center of town and our hosts were great. Panos, the owner, provided samples of his homemade wine, homemade olives, homemade goat cheese (from his goat), eggs and tomatos from his chickens and garden. He didn't speak much english but his daughter, Sofi, did and communications were not a problem. He also picked us up and dropped us off at the ferry dock. The also arranged a rental car for us. They were helpful with local recommendations for restaurants. Also, allowed usage of the office computer for emails. The rooms were average size and clean. Clientele was diversified, mostly european, with many return visitors which is a testimonial to the hotel. A gem of a value on Naxos.