The Place
This charming hotel was the first in the remarkable medieval walled town of Monemvasia, and is still (but only just) the best, although several newer hotels now provide some competition.
The Malvasia must be one of the most atmospheric places to stay in Greece, with large, airy rooms spread over three restored Venetian buildings close to each other in a maze of narrow, car-free lanes. Each of the 14 bedrooms is plainly decorated in individual style, but all have polished wood or flagstone floors, traditional textiles, antique furniture, and fine views south over the Aegean.
The best rooms are in the original Malvasia Hotel, which has a bar-cafe, where you eat breakfast or enjoy coffee or a drink on a sunny terrace with lovely views. The only fault we could find with the Malvasia is that the service, though friendly, can be a little erratic. There is rarely anybody around at any time other than breakfast. This is the only meal served, but there is a wide choice of restaurants on the main street of Monemvasia, only a few steps away. You can swim from a tiny bathing-pier just outside the walls, less than 100m from the hotel.