Poseidon Hotel - Adults Only

The team made our stay at Poseidon Hotel feel special from the start. The reception ladies greeted us so warmly, the waiters were attentive and friendly, and housekeeping kept everything spotless. The food was fresh, tasty, and had plenty of variety. We enjoyed it so much that we’d gladly return, and this wasn’t our first visit.

The hotel itself was okay, but our holiday began badly. We’d booked a private taxi through EasyJet from Dalaman airport, and the driver raced along, tailgated, weaved across the road, passed on blind spots, and argued at traffic lights. It felt dangerous, and EasyJet needs to sort this out. Reception staff were polite and spoke reasonably good English. Our first room, 3017, looked out onto a tin roof, so we asked to move. Room 2007 was at the side and had a slight sea view. The rooms match the website photos. There seemed to be only one WC in the foyer, two lifts, and stairs to all floors. Each lift is in a separate block overlooking a small pool. The pool looks much larger in the pictures, and the water was nearly freezing, so it was usually empty. There’s an indoor pool that seemed a little warmer, plus a spa and gym, which we didn’t use. I believe the gym is free. There’s plenty of food and it’s always hot, though don’t expect a full English breakfast. A couple of bars are there, but only one was open during our stay. It’s table or counter service, so you can’t help yourself. Ask for Jimmy, that’s what he likes to be called, and he’ll look after you. There’s nowhere comfortable to sit and relax. Honestly, that was a real letdown for an adults-only hotel, especially for older guests who might want to chat with friends or family. There are only six chairs at reception, often occupied by reps selling trips, and some wooden benches with very thin cushions. We were there for nine days. A group played on the first Tuesday evening, then there was nothing else. Jimmy said entertainment was once a week, so bring cards, board games, or a tablet, or find something to do elsewhere. The TVs are fixed into wooden wall frames, so you can’t connect anything to them. Sun loungers are set out by the pool, but cleared away in the evening. At this time of year, the pool is in the shade by 15:30. The beach is decent, with gritty sand, and there’s a private hotel area with a floating platform and wooden deck. Try to get the far end for sun throughout the day. It’s raining now, and rain is forecast for the rest of our stay. With no entertainment, I’d suggest a trip on one of the larger boats, it’s a great day out. There are lots of bars and restaurants along the promenade, including an Irish bar said to do a good full Irish breakfast. You’ll understand why I suggest learning “No thank you” when you get here. The Wi-Fi isn’t great. Check that it’s still connected, since it can drop even when the signal shows full bars. Otherwise you may end up roaming, which costs £7-8 a day. Don’t bother downloading films for Netflix, it won’t let you play them here. The phone area is zone C, so check with your provider before you come. I’d turn roaming off before takeoff or set a spending limit. My provider texts you, and receiving the text costs £7.67. We’re bored senseless by now, as are many others, and I won’t return to this hotel.

The staff were so friendly and deserve a mention, especially Ilayda, Osman, and Ali, though everyone was lovely. The hotel was very clean and the food delicious. I’ve taken off a star because there weren’t enough sunbeds for guests and the entertainment wasn’t good.

The private beach and pier were a big plus, and I loved relaxing there with all-inclusive drinks. The floating area was fun too. We also enjoyed the pool and Turkish bath. The restaurant was large, with lots to choose from, and I never went hungry. We were lucky to get an unexpected upgrade to a sea-view room. The view from the balcony was gorgeous, and it was lovely to sit outside. I liked the room’s blue theme; everything worked, and it was extremely clean. Housekeeping did a fab job every time. Staff were always attentive, kind, and friendly with guests. As an animal lover, I was happy to see cats in the lobby, dining area, and outside. Guests and staff treated them kindly, and they were respected rather than chased away. If you don’t like cats or have allergies, this might not be the hotel for you. The bed and pillows felt a bit hard, and vegetarian choices were somewhat limited. Still, my partner and I had a fantastic time at Poseidon Hotel and I’d stay again.