Esperides Resort Crete, The Authentic Experience

We had a lovely stay at Esperides Resort. Our room was stylish and comfortable. Nothing major to note, but we were really pleased with it overall. There was the occasional ‘eggy’ smell from the bathroom, and we did come across one cockroach during our stay, but these were small blips in an otherwise pleasant experience. A standout moment was receiving a bottle of champagne and a plate of chocolates and fruit in our room for our anniversary, a thoughtful touch that made our stay feel special. We only booked bed and breakfast but found the food to be great. There was a good variety. Hot/fried options, fruit, cereal, toast, pastries, meats, and cheeses and the restaurant itself is absolutely gorgeous. The resort’s layout and design are beautiful, with lots of different levels and an open, airy feel. The bar was lovely too, we personally found it more relaxing when there wasn’t entertainment on, but that’s just down to taste. We mainly stayed at the adults-only pool, which was quiet and perfect for us. The water was cold (certainly not heated) but refreshing in the heat. The main pool was much livelier, so we preferred the more relaxed vibe of the adults-only area. One thing we really appreciated was the hotel’s car rental service. It was fairly priced and really straightforward. We just spoke to reception the day before, and it was all easily arranged. The location is great too. There’s a little village a 2-minute walk away with plenty of good places to eat (where we ate most nights) and a lovely waterfront town about 15 minutes away on foot. On the day we checked out, we were impressed with how accommodating the resort was. Even after leaving our room, we were still free to use all the facilities, which made a big difference as we had a very late flight. They even have a designated room with showers and changing space for guests who’ve already checked out, such a thoughtful and convenient touch that allowed us to relax and enjoy the day without feeling rushed. Staff at the resort were friendly and always greeted us with a smile and a joke as we passed by. Overall, a relaxing and enjoyable stay. We’d happily return!

One thing was really outstanding: The service. The staff is very attentive and accommodating. Always willing to help and having a smile on the face. English is spoken very well, partly also German and French. The effort the staff does with cleaning is stunning. Every morning the whole area is swiped wet, all sun beds as well. Further recommended: Booking a massage! If you do not want to book half or full board there are plenty of very nice and reasonably priced restaurants in walking distance. For my taste breakfast could have a little more variety, also if you want to have "premium" espresso you have to pay extra. Sufficient sun beds are available at the 2 pools. If you are a traveller without children consider visiting outside school holidays, as not all children are well behaved in the pools and the pools are not olympic sized...

Esperides resort is a fantastic spa resort nestled in the small village of Koutouloufari. We travelled as a family of four with late teen children. We had a one bedroom suite which was spacious and pleasantly decorated. To accommodate our second child an additional sofa bed was added which did take up some space in the living area. The hotel has two main pools. One being an adult only chilled pool area and the second being lively with continuous music throughout the day. The hotel offers a B&B, half board and all inclusive option. During our stay we opted for half board. The hotel gives you the option to select whether you have lunch or dinner, but you are required to inform the hotel of your choice the evening before if you opt to change, however be aware that the half board option does not include drinks at lunch and dinner. We had opted for half board on the basis we prefer to go out on an evening and explore the local bars and restaurants. During our stay we ate at lunch time once. We found the food option was limited and didn't compare to a meal you could purchase from the pool bar or cocktail bar. It was just your standard buffet style food. Breakfast was much better with a large choice of English and continental breakfasts available daily. One down fall with the hotel was a misunderstanding over a room charge for the spa treatment which in my opinion wasn't dealt with in the greatest of ways. A note to the hotel is when giving a receipt to the client regards the agreed treatments add the total to the receipt signed for. Not a tiny 2x that no one will see in the corner. All in all the hotel is a fantastic resort which we thoroughly enjoyed. At some point we will re - visit Esperides resort.

We booked a holiday to have a good, relaxing break. No tourist spots, just a chance to sit by a pool with a good book, and just shut the world out. This place definitely helped! Once we got through the gate, everyone was accommodating, friendly and helpful! Shout out to Nikos and Manos for the welcomes, the chats and the friendly banter, definitely seek these two out! The pools are heated and relaxing, lots of space to lay out, we had a jacuzzi in our room which definitely helped during some of the (rare) cool evenings! Thanks a lot for a great week! When can we come back?!

Stayed for a week at the end of June/ early July and had a great time. Hotel is approx 30 mins from the airport which makes for a very quick and easy transfer. Slightly unusual layout, due to the hotel being built into the side of the hill so quite a few steps, but it gives amazing rooftop bars and dining with spectacular views all day and night. ALL of the staff are super friendly and helpful, big shout out to Orgito who ran the ‘lively pool’ bar when we were there. Really friendly helpful guy, but can’t stress enough how good all of the staff are at this hotel. Rooms are cleaned thoroughly every day, not a spec of dust to be found. We went for the all inclusive package and it was definitely worth it, good selection of drinks included. Great variety of food each night at the restaurant buffet as well. The two pools aren’t huge to be honest but this didn’t bother us, the in-pool bar is great and gets the sun most of the afternoon. ;