Windmill Bella Vista

We would love to write a great review and mention how wonderful Sifnos was, how beautiful the beaches and scenery were as well as the superb food and hospitality of the island itself and all of this was true. However, as hard as it sometimes is to say something unflattering, you also need to give an accurate account of things when it goes badly. This did not go well and the WindMill Bella Vista was the biggest disappointment of a 17 day trip. It did not deliver anything like it advertises and in our experience was certainly not a luxury stay. We were the first guests for the season in May 2024 and they were clearly nowhere near ready to accept guests. Not even close. The restaurant and bar were not open at all. They did provide a breakfast but certainly not the buffet breakfast we were expecting and on our last morning, they did not even have any milk. Broken chairs and tables were piled up on the side of the dining area. There were no shades or umbrellas around the pool and there was work being done around the pool area with tools, lights and electric leads lying around. There were tools scattered around the outdoor areas as well as paint trays and pots, buckets and other equipment lying around. The “kitchenette” leaves a lot to be desired with rusty hot plates that were very slow to heat and the cutlery was placed on the tray with the dishwashing liquid. We had no hot water and very cold showers for the first 2 days. We assume the backup for the solar heating system was not operational. Regardless, the bathroom was a bad design as there is no panel or curtain to stop the water covering 80% of the tiny room. Margarita (manager) greeted us on the first night and helped to arrange a rental car for us but from there on in it was almost impossible to find anyone for assistance with anything. Repeated calls to the reception number were not answered. There was only really one staff member around who honestly did her very best in all aspects but even she could not find the manager when needed. On our 2nd day George (owner) was lovely and very kindly offered us some food and drink from his own fridge but unfortunately this does not make up for the unprofessional attitude and lack of effort from the manager. Given responses to previous bad reviews I am expecting an unpleasant response from Margarita but sadly, I felt that people should be aware of the truth here. Definitely DO NOT RECOMMEND. We did see Margarita when we were leaving and she really did not want to accept any responsibility for any issues whatsoever. We have subsequently read almost all reviews available for this place and would urge you to take into account the poor reviews as we are not the only people who had a 1 star or less experience. Good luck!

Beautiful hotel on mountain top… spectacular views but very windy… the staff very friendly… TV recaption was on and on…shower very tight not comfortable…breakfast buffet was traditional Greek style …delish

Simply a perfect location for a visit to beautiful Sifnos. The rooms, the pool, the food and the hosts are all first rate! Have stayed here three times now. Enjoy access to all the island from this mid-point. Walk to towns at night. Will be back as soon as possible. Thanks Margarita and George!

The position is outstanding and the views of Sifnos and across to adjacent islands breathtaking. We walked everywhere discovering a very well marked network of old island pathways providing off road access to Apolonnia and Kastro. And in particular to Artemon where there are some great restaurants. Buffet breakfast at the hotel good but there is literally no other service during the day at this time of year.

Convenient location to go around the island.

“the #1 destination for travellers who are looking for luxury and relaxation” Well well… If the view is indeed stunning - but as every where on the island - this destination is everything but luxury. The rooms (we visited 4) are over-aged with underequipped kitchens, and the bathrooms are ridiculously small ! Impossible to take a shower without spreading water everywhere and nowhere to put your personal things. Staff and service ? The person - owner ? - that was at the reception when we arrived was busier talking on the phone than welcoming us. In 5 days, not once did anyone from the staff ask us if we were enjoying our stay and if we needed anything. No interaction. Breakfast, taken on a commun terrace (with members of staff “instagramming” every morning at one of the tables next to us ) is a mix of fresh and industrial products. Very basic. No charm despite the view. Last but not least, no outside lighting on the premises in the evening ! When you come back from dinner, better be equipped with a torch ! Before fixing his prices, the owner should clearly visit à few true luxury hotels on neighbouring islands to understand what luxury means. Because the Windmill is way too expensive for what it is.

Beautiful and confortabile stay with my family close to artemon village. The swimming pool and Castro’s view is amazing! Windmill’ staff has been very kind with us, service always perfect. I highly recommend it!