FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Is Greece a safe place?

Yes it is very safe! The South West Peloponnese people are by and large a farming community and spend most of their time working their land and tending their crops. They are people of great self sufficiency. Statistically, the South West Peloponnese is probably one of the safest places to take your vacation. Bower House is completely enclosed has electric gates and accessible only to those in residence.

Are my children welcome?

Certainly, our age guide is 5 and up, Bower House is considered by the owners, to be unsuitable for younger children though we have been proven wrong! Please ask for advice if your children are under 5. It is designed for couples and families sharing the 3 bedrooms, two en suite, whose occupants are looking for privacy, peace and tranquillity.

Is car hire necessary?

Car hire is considered essential for this rural property located 2km from the sea and local amenities. We have found that booking car hire on line when you book your flights is often the most economical.

How far is Bower House from Kalamata airport?

A very easy 30 minute drive (approximately 20km). Clear directions are provided on receipt of your deposit. If flying into Athens you need to allow 3 hours driving time. The new road is fabulous accessed immediately outside the airport taking the ELEFSINA E90 and for most of the journey you will be wondering why you are the only car on it! Do have approximately 25.00 Euros available for the tolls.

Will we need to shop prior to arriving?

We believe not. Not only do we provide you with a very generous welcome pack (a buffet supper/lunch can be provided for late arrivals or distant travellers). The house is stocked with all basics such as shampoos, shower gels, hygiene items such as fairy liquid, bin liners, dish clothes, foils, cling film and toilet rolls. No charge is made for this service! All we ask is that you either replace what you use or leave a contribution, the amount is completely at your discretion. We do not monitor your usage and provide these items on a basis of trust.

What kind of holiday can we expect?

Be prepared for a total get away from it all experience. Bower House Estate is promoting total relaxation away from the office and the hustle and bustle of everyday working life. The area is being promoted as 'Boutique Greece' and we can not disagree....It is very new to tourism and offers the best of traditional Greece and is totally unspoilt....sit back, relax, unwind and enjoy true Greece at it's best.

What is there to do?

Lots! The area boasts several historical sites of interest within reasonable driving distance. Ancient Messini, Methoni and Koroni Forts, Pylos Castle and a little further away is the Byzantine City of Mystras, Dyros Caves, and Olympia itself. The area also has many beautiful un crowded beaches and crystal waters. Lively night life is available in Kalamata. Sports enthusiasts can find golf, sailing, water sports, horse riding and walking close by.

How close is the nearest beach?

The nearest is a 5 minute drive away and has simple cafe facilities with toilets and beach showers. It is very much a Greek site that you would not know about unless guided. Miles of Golden sand and lots of sun! The area boasts many more and mostly deserted. Our personalised house book covers most of them and gives clear instructions on how to get there. We are always at hand to assist should you need help.

Shopping - What is immediately available?

Everything.....Within a 5 minute drive (3km) in the village of Petalidi you have 3 small supermarkets, 2 bakeries, a pharmacy, post office, 2 ATM's, several cafes bars, tavernas, A small daily fish market and every Friday morning the local street market by the sea selling anything from fresh produce to clothes. There are also several road stops where you can buy fruit and vegetables from the local farmers. On route from the airport, at the first big roundabout (5 minute drive) you will pass 3 super markets, AB, Lidl and Sklavenitsis..... very convenient! Please note they do NOT open on a Sunday.

Food - Dining out?

Eating out is very easy and inexpensive. There are several tavernas in the village all offering typical local cuisine. Whether eating under the trees by the side of the church or in the comfort of a sea front taverna you will always find a friendly greeting, or perhaps you might like to buy a fresh fish from the local fishermen and bring it home to cook on the BBQ and enjoy the five star luxury of Bower House.

What is Eco Friendly Temperature Control?

Bower House is on a an elevated location and has been ideally situated to take full advantage of the prevailing summer breezes. The window locations have been thoughtfully sited with this in mind and use of this ventilation together with the reversible ceiling fans throughout this property offers hygienic, safe comfortable temperature control. However for guests who are not used to southern Mediterranean temperatures we have installed full air conditioning in all 3 bedrooms.

What happens if we need to see a Doctor?

In the unlikely event you feel the need to see a doctor the owners have a list of contacts depending on your need. Our private Dr will be more than happy to see you. Appointments are usually quick. Most GP's charge a standard fee of 40Euros which you can reclaim against your health insurance. In an emergency the owners will guide to the local hospital in Kalamata 30 minutes away. In both cases you will need your insurance cover documents and your passport.

Is the property suitable for wheel chair users?

Unfortunately, it is not.

What if we need further help?

Help is always at hand. The owners are discreetly in residence in a self contained part of the property and available to offer advice. Should you require any extra services or help they will be more than happy to assist. There is a book located in the ground floor lounge to guide you.