Paradise Matala Hotel

Matala is a special, beautiful place that shouldn’t be missed on a Crete trip. The hotel was spotless and cosy, with basic but good facilities and a good breakfast. The pool was very nice and clean, and Matala beach is a short walk away. Would I come back? Big yes!

The manager’s attitude was arrogant from check-in onward. I’d asked to add details to my invoice as stated on Booking, but he said he didn’t have time, despite having three days and knowing about the booking months in advance. At checkout I tried again to get the proper invoice, and got the same lack of help and arrogant attitude. He acted as though he couldn’t speak or understand English. Never again! The room had several problems: the AC didn’t work properly, the balcony door lock was broken, and I had to brace the door from inside with a chair. The bathroom door lock was broken too, and my wife got stuck inside at night and had to wake me by screaming. When we complained, the manager again said he had no time, said all the rooms were booked, and told us we could leave for nearby hotels at 250/night. That’s what he called customer experience and support. This was my worst experience in Greece so far, very strange after traveling so often, especially in Crete.

We asked calmly if we could move to another room, and the manager reacted angrily. He came within about 30 centimeters of us, shouting and pointing at us while calling us liars. My wife felt unsafe, so we had to leave at 2100. I can't recommend this place at all.

We loved having a terrace and a view over the pool from our spacious room. The hotel has been renovated, and everything was really clean. The bathroom was small in the usual Greek style, but more than okay. Breakfast was a favorite, and the owner was friendly. The village is an easy, pleasant walk away. We'd recommend Paradise Hotel.