After our disastrous night at the Youth Hostel Thira, Villa Anemomilos was recommended to us by Mama’s House. We figured anything could be better than the YH, so we grabbed our bags and followed the directions to the pension. It was a bit hard to find, but it is still only a 15-20 minute walk from the center of Fira, and only about 10 minutes north of the hostel on the main road.
We arrived to find a charming whitewashed villa, and a gracious host. Our room had two comfortable twin beds, a TV with satellite, a phone, a hair dryer, private bathroom, and best of all—a balcony!! In addition to clean sheets and maid service, there were three blankets for each of us. We didn’t even need them because the room had heat and AC. We had only planned on staying one night, but after taking one look at our room, we decided to stay another night. We had been quoted a room rate of 30€ a night, but since we stayed two nights, she gave it to us for 25€ a night. That was only four euros more than the despicable YH, and we got so much more!! The waitress was staying at Anemomilos long-term, and she and her roommate were both paying 10€ a night for their room. If you are staying more than one night, bargain for a better rate, especially in the low-season. There are a lot of domatias and pensions around the island, and expect similar conditions and rates elsewhere.
That said, we recommended Anemomilos to all of our friends after the hostel fiasco, and to others we met who were looking for a cheaper place to stay. The hotel has about 25 rooms, most with two twin beds, although some a double bed or three beds. The website http://www.villa-anemomilos.gr/villas/index.html has contact information and some pictures. The hotel even has a small pool with chaise lounges where you can soak up the hot Mediterranean sun. Finally, the hotel owner will pick you up from the port, airport, or anywhere in town. He also gave us a ride to the airport early in the morning, saving us a 10€ cab fare.
Directions
From the main square in Fira, walk uphill on the main road, Dekigala. After about five minutes, you will pass the Youth Hostel on your left, and Mama’s House on your right. At the first fork in the road, take the right fork to stay. You will pass a small film/Kodak shop and a pet store. At the second fork, bear to the left. Finally, the road will bear into a driveway. Anemomilos is on the left. It is bright white with a blue sign. I’ve looked online for a map of Fira, but no luck. The important thing is to keep walking uphill. Your best bet is to call ahead and have them pick you up!