Palazetto Suites Zakynthos - Adults Only

My expectations may be a bit skewed because I've stayed at some really good hotels outside the EU, and that shapes what I think a four-star hotel should be. Even so, I honestly wouldn't tell anyone to spend their hard-earned money here expecting a holiday. I also don't understand the high ratings in other reviews when those reviewers mention serious complaints.

Breakfast was included for us, served as a buffet in the restaurant at the other hotel across the road, and I thought it was excellent. The staff here were friendly and helpful, and the food at this place's bar and restaurant was pretty good, with cold beer, though it only opens for limited hours and closes around 6 pm. There are a couple of other bars and restaurants within walking distance too. It's a peaceful adults-only place, so no kids, which makes it ideal for older couples. The swim-up rooms on the ground floor cost extra, but the other rooms are good, and there's a handy lift. Check-in is at the Tsilivi hotel across the road, where staff show you to your room. Parking can be tricky if you have a hire car because space is limited and the road is narrow. One thing we hadn't realised is that the Tsilivi hotel is all inclusive. I'd ordered two drinks there and couldn't pay because we were staying at the wrong hotel. Since he couldn't put the draught beer back in the pumps, he just told us to enjoy it for free! All in all, a great place and highly recommended.

Zakynthos is a beautiful island to explore, and Tsilivi was a great base. We had a spacious sea-facing room with a balcony, and the smart TV connected to Netflix easily. Staff were polite and friendly, parking was available, the pool was decent sized without a scramble for seats, and breakfast across the road had a good selection. The building and facilities felt more like three-star than four-star, and were dated. We had flickering lights and an air conditioner that kept playing up, our key stopped working, and the bathroom sink stayed blocked for days. The dressing gown had several big rips, one curtain rail was hanging loose, and there was a sickly sweet smell in the building and linen. Reception was unmanned, so we had to go across the road for help. We enjoyed our stay, hiccups and all, but I'd say manage your expectations.

I loved being able to go for a swim whenever I wanted, with the ocean only a minute away. The location couldn't be beaten, and the price was excellent. What a great hotel!