Brown Beach Evia Island, a member of Brown Hotels

The water park kept the kids happily occupied throughout our wonderful stay. Getting here was easy too, about an hour's drive from Athens. Our only bad experience was before arrival, when someone in the reservations department was rude and unprofessional. It seemed like an isolated incident, though. Once we got there, service at the hotel, restaurant, and bar was excellent. The staff were warm and helpful, and seemed to enjoy their work.

The water park is a minute away on foot, and the kids loved it. The beach was clean, with loungers included, a nearby bar for drinks and snacks, and clear water. There were a few rocks or pebbles at the entry, then sand. We also walked about 15 minutes to town, where there were lots of seaside restaurants and patios, and an entertainment park for kids with trampolines, video games, and table games like air hockey. We enjoyed our three nights here before heading home, especially the two full days on site. After a long drive from Thessaloniki, check-in was quick and easy. We had all-inclusive, and the large restaurant had indoor and outdoor seating. Food choices changed daily and were generally very good. Breakfast was excellent, lunch too, and dinner was great on our last day, especially the Gyros and souvlaki. The premises were clean and nice, and I liked the little church near the entrance or lobby. Our double room with partial sea view was clean, with a nice bathroom and a lovely balcony view, but it was tight with two suitcases. Friends said their family rooms were spacious. The bigger issue was the AC. It wouldn't cool the room despite its small size, staying at 24 even after I lowered the setting. I asked the front desk after an uncomfortable first night, and they sent a technician. It improved a little, but never as much as I'd expected. We managed, but it wasn't ideal.

The room looked just like the pictures, though we'd have liked a bit more space. Breakfast and dinner both had a great selection and were well prepared. Being right beside the beach was lovely, and the water is shallow, which works well for kids and adults.

The all-inclusive food and drinks had plenty of choice, and the beach was tidy, clean, and always had sunbeds available. Staff at the pool bar were cheerful and helpful. Some restaurant staff seemed disinterested and rude, but that doesn't take away from the other good things. The hotel has beautiful, modern decor, and it was very clean, with daily room cleaning and fresh towels.