Castello Boutique Resort & Spa

We have just returned from our fifth stay (in the last ten years) at this charming boutique hotel. One might argue that it is not quite five stars, there is no longer a porter or night turndown and the breakfast was probably a little bit less varied than before although there are now hot options available to order. These were things from the SLH days some years back. Room 213 overlooks the pool area, is spacious with a decent walk-in shower, double sinks and a large balcony to sit on in the afternoon. The room was exceptionally clean and we found the housekeeping standards exemplary. Clean towels and linen most days, two of the service ladies are long servers and know what is required. Of the other staff very few seem to stay for multiple seasons, it is only a short season and they go off and do other jobs and generally do not come back unfortunately. Katerina the Assistant Manager was extremely friendly and helpful and she has worked for the resort in other roles in the past. Miltos and Alexandra on reception were charming and a joy to talk to at all times. The criticism we read about the Wi-Fi was not something we experienced, we both need to be in contact for our business activities and had no problems at all. The pool area is lovely and they have stopped flooding the grass now making it more pleasant to sit on and there is no intrusive entertainment which takes place exclusively in the Castello Village opposite. Some of the pool sunbeds are getting a little tatty but a bit of restorative work and varnishing over the winter would sort this. The position is very good and it is only a short walk into the village itself where there is a wide choice of good restaurants and a few shops, we did not find traffic noise a disturbance. It ticks the boxes for us and we will certainly return.

Not a review of the hotel as such,. but in over 50 years of travel have never experienced staff that were so friendly, kind and supportive lead by the assistant manager Katerina. My wife had a fall and Katerina arranged for her to see a doctor at the hotel . .The doctor referred her to a clinic in Heraklion 45 minutes away. Katerina had the hotel driver take us, wait 3 hours and bring us back. The next day I had a medical emergency at the pool again Katerina arrived and phoned for an ambulance and I was taken to hospital. Katerina was able to retrieve my passport and insurace for the hospital. She was also in regular contact with my wife offering emotional support and followed this up for the rest of our stay. Telling us anything we need just let he know we were so grateful because we knew she meant it. She also contacted us when we had returned home to check we were ok. Have to mention the rest of the staff who all showed genuine concern for my health. The Restaurant Manager, Bolavesh Jennifer ,Heghline apologies to the names I forgot. Special mention to Dora who was so kind and was always bringing drinks etc to our room Be assured if you need help or assistance the staff here will help you.

Just home from an excellent stay at Castillo boutique hotel. This was our 3rd visit and we were not disappointed. The hotel is friendly and staff very kind. Our room was beautiful with an individual pool, and was peaceful and private. Breakfast was adequate. We ate out for other meals where we were spoiled for choice at the wonderful restaurants, reasonably priced. Taverna Anatoli and Anixi were firm favourites. The main pool in the hotel is beautiful and so peaceful to swim in. The gym is small but functional. The value for money is good. We cannot fail to highly recommend the amazing spa. Both my husband and I had the best massages we have ever experienced ( and we’ve had many!). The therapists were excellent and thorough and provided a nurturing environment. Konstantina was wonderful. She welcomed us and explained our options so well, taking time to meet our individual needs. She was so kind with a lovely aura, and was caring and genuine. I also had a facial which left my skin glowing and my skin still feels the benefit. A very small negative of our stay at Castillo boutique is the room cleaning was not quite as attentive as previous visits, however it is still to reasonable standard. Last year the cleaning service was impeccable. We cannot wait to return to this sanctuary next year.

We had an absolutely wonderful stay at Castello Boutique Resort & Spa and couldn’t have chosen a better place for our honeymoon. From the moment we arrived, we were warmly greeted by Katerina, who gave us such a lovely welcome and congratulated us on our recent wedding. Her warmth and genuine kindness immediately made us feel at home and set the tone for what was a fantastic stay. Katerina would also check on us every day to make sure we had everything we needed. The staff really are one of the highlights of Castello Boutique Resort & Spa. Everyone we encountered was genuinely friendly, attentive and happy to help. Nothing was ever too much trouble, and their warm Cretan hospitality made our honeymoon even more special. Miltos and Alexandra at reception were equally fantastic. Isidoros, the restaurant manager, was also incredibly accommodating and welcoming. Jennifer and Dora, who worked as waitresses and behind the bar, were also amazing. They were always friendly, attentive and made us feel very welcome throughout our stay. The hotel itself is beautiful, with a relaxed and peaceful atmosphere, lovely surroundings and excellent facilities. Our room was comfortable, beautifully presented and perfect for a romantic getaway. The food was very good and everything was fresh, healthy and well prepared. The buffet has everything you need, although the choice is somewhat limited compared with larger all-inclusive resorts. At breakfast, you can also order freshly prepared omelettes and pancakes, which were a lovely addition. The all-day snack menu offers plenty of choice, from burgers and other lighter options to a delicious salmon salad, so there was always something available if you fancied a bite to eat during the day. These options are available at an additional cost, which is worth bearing in mind. The location is also excellent. There are lots of local restaurants within easy walking distance of the hotel, as well as a supermarket right next door, which is very convenient. There is also a beautiful local beach just a 10-minute walk away, making it easy to enjoy the sea and surrounding area without needing a car. We really appreciated all the thoughtful touches and attention we received during our honeymoon. The entire team went above and beyond to make our stay memorable, and we are genuinely grateful to every one of them. A beautiful hotel with wonderful people, great food, an excellent location and exceptional hospitality. We had an amazing honeymoon and will be back next year. Highly recommended! Mr and Mrs Barbour

We have just returned from Sissi and I just wanted to write make a few notes concerning our stay and the facilities. Firstly, to agree with all the good things that others have written about the staff; from the lady who cleaned our room daily, to the reception and dining staff, they were fantastic. The rooms were clean and very comfortable. There were minor issues with availability of sun beds but the management soon sorted this out – I can never understand why people put towels out and then not occupy them! The issue I have with the hotel, was the food. Although well presented, it was hugely dependent on carbohydrates and sugar and it was clear that the chef, clever though he was, was working on a limited budget. It also appeared, to me anyway, that materials were being recycled e.g. chicken to curry next day. I also love fish but what seafood there was poorly cooked or presented. We met new friends who had been to the hotel for four year's running and they confirmed my impression. I don't want to put people off from going to the hotel, we were looked after and cared for but I do think the catering needs to be reviewed. If I was holidaying now, I would half board with breakfast and lunch; then eat out in one of the many restaurants Sissi, in the evening.