Set beside the Aegean Sea on the north coast of Kos, Astir Odysseus Kos Resort & Spa is one of the island’s most established five star beach properties. Blending contemporary architecture with subtle mythological references and a focus on family friendly, all inclusive comfort, it has built a reputation for warm service, extensive facilities and a relaxed resort atmosphere.
Recent refurbishments and service upgrades ahead of the latest seasons have further polished the guest experience, making this an appealing base for travelers weighing up a stay on Kos.
Location and First Impressions
Astir Odysseus Kos Resort & Spa sits in the Tigaki area on the northeastern shore of Kos, a short drive from Kos Town and facing the Turkish coast across the water. The setting is semi rural, surrounded largely by open fields and a handful of other hotels, which gives the property a distinctly resort feel.
Guests are not in the middle of a village or nightlife strip, but rather in a self contained enclave that prioritizes peace and sea views over urban buzz. A local bus stops near the entrance and connects to Kos Town during the day, while taxis and hire cars remain the most flexible options for exploring the island independently.
The transfer from Kos International Airport typically takes around 20 to 25 minutes by car, depending on traffic. On arrival, visitors step into a large, airy lobby with polished floors, high ceilings and clusters of comfortable seating.
The hotel leans into its name with decorative nods to Homer’s Odyssey, including artwork and statuary that give character to what is otherwise a contemporary Greek island resort. First impressions are of a modern, well maintained property that feels geared toward international couples and families seeking convenience and comfort rather than boutique minimalism.
The grounds stretch long and narrow along the shoreline, with rooms, pools and gardens radiating outward from the central reception and main restaurant. Paths are mostly flat and wide, which helps with luggage and pushchairs, and the landscaping includes manicured lawns, palms and flowering trellises that soften the resort’s footprint. Despite the size of the complex and its popularity with families, the atmosphere usually remains calm away from the activity hubs, especially around the quieter pool zones and the more secluded room wings.
Because the resort is a few kilometers outside Kos Town and the nearby beach village of Tigaki, some guests comment that there is relatively little within easy walking distance. This is part of the trade off that comes with an expansive seaside property in a low rise, undeveloped stretch of coastline. Travelers who prioritize nightlife at the doorstep or constant off site dining options may find the location less than ideal, while those who prefer a self contained retreat often appreciate the relative seclusion.
Room Types, Layout and Key Amenities
Astir Odysseus offers a broad inventory of rooms and suites, totaling more than 300 units in various low rise blocks threaded along the gardens and pools. Standard double rooms are the entry level category and come with either garden or pool views, together with a balcony or terrace.
The interior styling is contemporary and understated, featuring neutral tones, tiled floors and simple, modern furnishings. Beds are generally two twins pushed together, although king bedding can be requested. For couples and solo travelers, these rooms provide a practical and comfortable base without feeling cramped.
For families and small groups, the property features one bedroom family rooms and larger suites that provide additional sleeping space and separation. Family units typically offer a separate bedroom plus a living area with sofa beds, giving parents and children a degree of privacy that can make longer stays more comfortable.
Some suites extend to two bedrooms and two bathrooms, appealing to larger families or friends traveling together. Storage tends to be adequate, and most multi room configurations emphasize function over high design, but recent refurbishments have helped freshen fabrics and surfaces.
A notable selling point for the resort is its selection of swim up and pool sharing rooms. These units place guests directly alongside semi private pools that are shared with a handful of neighboring rooms or, in some cases, open onto a larger lagoon style waterway.
Terraces with loungers and outdoor seating allow for easy transitions between room and pool, which many guests find particularly appealing on hot summer days. The trade off is that some ground floor terraces can feel exposed to passing foot traffic and may offer less privacy than higher floor balconies with traditional views.
In room amenities are broadly in line with five star expectations on the Greek islands. Standard features include air conditioning, flat screen televisions with satellite channels, a safe, a minibar, coffee and tea making facilities and complimentary Wi Fi. Bathrooms are typically equipped with a combination bath and shower or a separate shower, along with hairdryers and a set of toiletries. Bathrobes and slippers are commonly provided.
While fixtures in some of the older bathroom units are described as functional rather than luxurious, recent renovation cycles have targeted key public areas and are gradually refreshing accommodation stock as well.
Dining, Bars and All Inclusive Experience
The resort’s dining program is built around a spacious main buffet restaurant that serves breakfast, lunch and dinner, supplemented by themed venues and bars spread between the lobby, pool and beachfront. Breakfast usually includes a broad international spread, with hot and cold options, fresh fruit, baked goods and local Greek items.
Guests on half board or all inclusive packages encounter rotating dinner themes and a combination of familiar international comfort dishes and Mediterranean flavors, which helps prevent repetition during longer stays.
Beyond the main buffet, guests can dine at an a la carte restaurant and a Greek taverna style venue, each operating on a reservation basis and subject to seasonal schedules. These restaurants highlight local and regional specialties, grilled meats, seafood and more elaborate plated dishes, often in an outdoor or semi outdoor setting that takes advantage of the island climate. For those seeking variety, a typical weeklong stay can blend buffet convenience with several more intimate dinners, although securing preferred time slots in high season may require advance planning.
The bar offering reflects the resort’s size and layout. A lobby bar provides a central meeting point in the evenings, while pool and beach bars keep drinks and light snacks within easy reach during the day. All inclusive plans usually cover a selection of local wines, beers and spirits, together with soft drinks, simple cocktails and coffee. Premium labels and certain fresh juices or special cocktails might incur a supplement, depending on the package. Many recent guests praise the friendliness of bar and restaurant staff and note their role in creating a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
It is worth noting that some visitors mention specific policies such as bottled water service outside breakfast or supplements for certain beverages as minor irritations, particularly on higher priced stays. These details seldom overshadow the generally positive impression of the food and beverage operation but can be useful to understand when setting expectations. Overall, though, the breadth of choice, the constant availability of snacks and drinks and the family friendly nature of the dining venues are core reasons many guests opt for all inclusive arrangements at Astir Odysseus.
Pools, Beachfront and Outdoor Facilities
Water is at the heart of the resort’s layout. The signature feature is a large, free form main pool complex that winds through the center of the property, broken up into curves, islands and separate sections that help disperse crowds.
This lagoon style pool is flanked by sun terraces with loungers and umbrellas, as well as built in whirlpool areas and shallow sections. An animation team often uses one end of the pool for aqua fitness sessions and games, which adds liveliness, while the opposite end usually feels quieter for those who prefer to simply swim or sunbathe.
Additional pools include a more tranquil secondary outdoor pool area positioned closer to the lobby, along with dedicated children’s pools designed for younger guests. These shallow pools allow families to supervise little ones in a safer environment, with nearby seating for parents.
Thanks to its configuration with swim up and sharing pools attached to certain room blocks, the resort offers a variety of aquatic experiences, from social hubs to semi private nooks. During peak summer weeks, however, sunbed availability can become competitive at busy times of day, a common theme at large Mediterranean resorts.
The property fronts a narrow stretch of beach characterized by coarse sand and some pebbles, particularly at the waterline. While it does not compete with the broad, soft sands of nearby Tigaki Beach, it provides a genuine seaside setting with complimentary loungers and umbrellas for hotel guests. The sea here is generally calm, and once past the initial stones, the seabed becomes softer underfoot. Views across the water and sunsets from the beachfront and pool bar terraces are often singled out as highlights of the stay.
Active travelers benefit from a range of outdoor sports facilities. These include tennis courts, a beach volleyball court, mini golf, a climbing wall and space for archery and organized games. Bicycle rental is commonly available for guests who want to pedal along the relatively flat coastal roads into Kos Town or neighboring villages. The combination of multiple pools, landscaped gardens and these sporting amenities creates a resort environment where it is easy to spend several days on site without feeling confined.
Spa, Wellness and Activities
The spa at Astir Odysseus is a dedicated wellness center that offers massages, facials and body treatments alongside hydrotherapy facilities. Within the spa zone, guests will generally find an indoor pool, whirlpool, sauna and steam room, while treatment rooms are used for individual or couple sessions.
Access policies can vary by season and package, but it is common for entrance to the thermal areas to carry a fee unless included as part of a booked treatment. The design favors soft lighting and a calm ambiance that contrasts with the bustle of the main pool decks.
A modest but well equipped fitness room provides cardio machines and weight training equipment for guests who wish to maintain their exercise routine while on holiday. Group activities, such as yoga, stretching sessions or aqua aerobics, are often organized by the animation team and promoted on the daily schedule. These sessions, along with sports tournaments and games, contribute to an active resort culture without turning the property into a party hotel. Noise from organized activities tends to be concentrated around the main pool during specified times.
Evening entertainment typically revolves around live music, themed shows or family friendly performances hosted in designated areas of the resort. While not on the scale of large theme resorts, the program aims to provide low key diversions for guests who prefer to stay on site after dinner. Children’s discos, quizzes and occasional cultural nights may appear on the calendar, especially during the high season months when the property hosts many families.
An updated and expanded kids’ playground, together with a supervised mini club, forms a key part of the family offering. The playground combines sand, shade and modern equipment, while the club organizes age appropriate activities that allow children to socialize and parents to enjoy quieter stretches of time. Combined with the shallow pools, sports courts and spacious grounds, these facilities make Astir Odysseus particularly attractive for multi generational groups looking for a resort that can keep different age groups engaged.
Service, Atmosphere and Who It Suits
Recent guest feedback consistently highlights the friendliness and professionalism of the staff as one of Astir Odysseus’s strongest assets. From front desk teams and porters to restaurant servers and housekeepers, service is often described as warm, efficient and genuinely guest focused.
The management emphasis on hospitality underpins much of the positive word of mouth the property enjoys, and many visitors comment that staff efforts significantly enhance the overall experience, smoothing over minor shortcomings in hardware or layout.
The atmosphere is that of an upscale yet casual resort, rather than a high fashion boutique or party centered hotel. Families with children of all ages are a prominent presence in school holiday periods, but couples and friend groups also form a significant share of guests, especially in shoulder seasons when the island is quieter. The design manages to carve out both activity zones and calmer corners. Those seeking near total tranquility may still prefer truly adults only hotels, yet many guests report being pleasantly surprised by how peaceful the resort can feel despite its scale.
In terms of positioning, Astir Odysseus appeals most to travelers who prioritize an all inclusive or half board stay with strong facilities, reliable food quality and a seafront setting a short transfer from the airport. It works well for first time visitors to Kos who plan a mix of on site relaxation and a few day trips to Kos Town, Tigaki Beach or island highlights such as Asklepion. Independent travelers who want to dine out every night in town, sample a wide array of off site bars or stay out into the small hours may find a more central urban hotel in Kos Town better aligned with their style.
Guests with mobility considerations often appreciate the relatively flat terrain of the property, though as with any resort of this size, room locations can involve substantial walking distances. When booking, those who prefer to be closer to specific facilities such as the main restaurant, kids’ club or quieter pools may wish to make special requests. Overall, however, the combination of attentive staff, comfortable rooms and comprehensive facilities gives the resort a broad, cross generational appeal.
Practical Tips for Planning Your Stay
When planning a stay at Astir Odysseus, one of the earliest decisions is whether to opt for an all inclusive package or a half board arrangement. All inclusive offers the greatest simplicity, particularly for families who value predictable costs and constant access to snacks and drinks on the property.
Half board, by contrast, can suit travelers who expect to spend more time exploring the island during the day and may wish to sample tavernas in Kos Town or Tigaki for select lunches or dinners. The semi secluded location means that off site dining without a car will generally require a bus or taxi ride.
Room selection can also have a significant impact on the experience. Travelers who cherish sea views and quieter evenings might prioritize higher floor rooms facing the water or peripheral gardens, while those who prefer direct access to the pool will gravitate toward ground floor swim up categories. Families with young children often appreciate being within short walking distance of the children’s pool and mini club. Because the resort is elongated, blocks closer to reception and the main restaurant tend to minimize walking times but may be busier at peak times of day.
Transport logistics deserve some thought in advance. While the local bus to Kos Town is affordable, it operates on a set schedule and can be busy in peak season. Taxis are available but can sometimes involve waits, particularly during the busiest weeks. Renting a car or bicycles for at least part of the stay opens up easier access to Tigaki Beach, mountain villages and archaeological sites, and also gives flexibility with dining and shopping. Parking is available at the resort for guests who drive.
Seasonal timing affects both atmosphere and pricing. High summer from late June through August brings the warmest sea temperatures, the liveliest entertainment program and the greatest concentration of families.
Shoulder seasons in May, early June, September and early October often deliver pleasant weather with fewer crowds and slightly cooler nights, which some guests prefer for active sightseeing and cycling. Travelers visiting on either end of the season should check in advance which facilities and restaurants are operating, as some services may follow seasonal schedules.
The Takeaway
Astir Odysseus Kos Resort & Spa has evolved into a polished, full service resort that balances family friendly amenities with relaxed, grown up comforts. Its seaside position near Tigaki, large pool network, dedicated kids’ facilities and extensive sports and wellness options create a self contained environment where many guests are content to spend long stretches on site.
The consistently praised staff, generally strong food and beverage offering and ongoing refreshment of key areas underpin its reputation as one of the more reliable five star choices on Kos.
At the same time, the resort’s semi secluded location, narrow and slightly pebbly beachfront and the inevitably busy pool scenes in high season may not suit every traveler.
Those who seek walkable nightlife, boutique level room design or an expansive sandy bay at their doorstep might prefer other corners of the island. For visitors who value warm service, an easy transfer, plenty of facilities and the option of all inclusive simplicity, however, Astir Odysseus delivers a well rounded and comfortable base for enjoying the sun, sea and history of Kos.
FAQ
Q1. Where exactly is Astir Odysseus Kos Resort & Spa located on the island?
The resort is situated on the northeastern coast of Kos in the Tigaki area, a short drive from both Tigaki village and the main town of Kos, with a seafront position facing the Aegean.
Q2. How long does it take to reach the resort from Kos International Airport?
The transfer time from Kos International Airport is typically around 20 to 25 minutes by car or taxi, depending on traffic and exact routing.
Q3. Is the resort suitable for families with young children?
Yes, the property is well set up for families, with family rooms and suites, children’s pools, an upgraded playground, a mini club and a generally relaxed, family oriented atmosphere.
Q4. What board options are available and is all inclusive worth it?
Guests can usually choose between half board and all inclusive arrangements. All inclusive tends to work best for families and those planning to spend most of their time on site, while half board suits travelers who want more flexibility to dine out at least some of the time.
Q5. What are the pools and beach like at the resort?
The resort has a large free form main pool, additional quieter pools, children’s pools and several swim up and sharing pools linked to specific rooms. The beach is a relatively narrow strip of sand and pebbles with sunbeds and umbrellas, offering calm swimming once past the initial stony entry.
Q6. Are there good spa and fitness facilities?
Astir Odysseus features a dedicated spa with an indoor pool, whirlpool, sauna, steam room and a menu of treatments, along with a fitness room equipped with cardio and strength training machines and various group activities such as aqua aerobics and stretching classes.
Q7. Can guests easily visit Kos Town and other parts of the island from the resort?
Yes, a local bus connects the resort area with Kos Town during the day, and taxis or hire cars can take guests to Tigaki and other island highlights. Many visitors choose to rent a car or bicycles for additional flexibility.
Q8. What types of rooms are best for couples seeking a quieter stay?
Couples often favor higher floor double rooms with garden or sea views away from the main pool area, or select swim up rooms in quieter wings for convenient pool access combined with relative seclusion.
Q9. Is the Wi Fi reliable throughout the property?
Wi Fi is available free of charge in guest rooms and most public areas and is generally considered reliable for everyday browsing, messaging and basic streaming, though speeds can fluctuate when the resort is very busy.
Q10. When is the best time of year to stay at Astir Odysseus?
High summer is ideal for guaranteed heat, warm seas and a full entertainment schedule, but May, June, September and early October often offer a good balance of pleasant weather, fewer crowds and slightly lower rates, which many guests find appealing.