I just returned from a 5 night stay in this hotel and going right to the point, it was materially better than expected. See below what I liked:
• Layout and views: I was staying in the entry-level room (deep blue) and it had a luxurious feeling (great bathroom, bed and toiletries), with an incredible sea view and a really nice terrace. I guess all rooms, regardless of price, have sea views, which is a great plus, at least for me.
• Beautiful beaches: I have been to Crete many times before and I thought this area did not have nice beaches, but I was wrong. Within the hotel there are 3 beautiful private beaches. Really clean, transparent water and some of them quieter than others. The bigger creek has a fresh water spring which makes it for an incredible experience. Access to the beach can be tricky in particular for those with reduced mobility.
• No fighting for sunbeds: I personally find quite annoying when staying in high-end hotels to find guests blocking sunbeds at 6 or 7 am and then only arrive later in the day. In this hotel I never had an issue in finding a nice spot either by the beach or by the pool. I personally preferred the beds by the beach but in the pool the staff was actively managing to ensure empty beds were clean and made available to guests. I did not count, but the ratio of beds to clients is extremely high and I guess it will always be easy to find a nice spot either with people or completely alone.
• Excellent food: I am really passionate about food