Rethymno Palace

Andreas, the Hotel Manager at Rethymno Palace, deserves a big thank you. He’s professional, always around, and goes above and beyond to make guests feel special. His leadership shows in the details throughout the resort, and that personal attention stands out in such a grand setting. We had an amazing experience and highly recommend it.

The spot is quiet and relaxing, about a 20-minute walk from Platanias Adeliano campos. We have indoor and outdoor pools with a SPA, and I suggest trying the deep massage if you want to unwind. The Terraza Bar by reception looks out over the pool; the Beach Bar serves snacks and restaurant meals, and the drinks and virgin drinks at the bars are amazing. There’s a main buffet, plus the private restaurant Marilena and an Italian à la carte restaurant. The food is amazing. We also have a mini market and guides who can show you the best places on the island. The staff are friendly and ready to welcome you, and we offer fitness and sports along with soft animation for adults and kids. We don’t have babysitting or mini club activities. For evening entertainment, there are shows on Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday: DJ night on Tusday, belly dancing on Thursday, and Greek night with dancers and singers on Sunday. Hi everyone, I’m Davide, the hotel’s lifeguard and animator. You can find information on my Instagram page, @the.deo.d, and feel free to contact me if you need anything.

The beach was stony and uncomfortable to walk or swim on, and crossing the fast main road outside the hotel felt dangerous because visibility was poor. Inside, doors kept slamming, so getting a proper night’s sleep or relaxing during the day was impossible. The buffet was basic and repetitive, and the atmosphere felt unfriendly. It didn’t feel anywhere near five-star quality, and I wouldn’t recommend it.

It was my first trip to Greece, and the holiday turned out far better than I expected. The grounds are beautiful, and the room was spacious and clean. The beach is stony, though you get used to that quickly. The food was excellent and genuinely flavorful, unlike what I’ve had at top all-inclusive hotels in Turkey and Egypt. One of the best hotels I’ve ever stayed in.