Domes of Elounda, Autograph Collection

I have not done a review in ages but this resort warrants one. The rooms are lovely, the views are ideal and the staff are great, BUT there are a few things to be aware of: 1. If you like your food - Half board is just the very limited buffet (which kids were helping themselves from with their hands), or in the other restaurants you just get a set menu with 2/3 basic options, plus a couple of upgrades (like beef fillet +20 euro extra but it is literally 4 strips of beef on a board and that is your whole main course), with salad as starter option and tiramisu or ice cream as dessert. If you want to choose from main menu be prepared to pay extortionate prices on top of your 20 euro allowance (upto 140 euro for lobster or 130 for t-bone in Antonios, but is actually cheaper in Makris the michelin star restaurant). 2. If you like a drink - a single spirit and tonic is 17.5 euro, Prosecco 25 euro, soft drink 6.5 euro. Even if you want more water in your room than the 2 free welcome bottles you get, they are 5.5 euro extra each (you even have to request extra tea/coffee/milk for your room and our mugs vanished on day 4, perhaps that was a hint!). 3. If you like quiet / romantic meals, no chance - we went 6th October and even the Michelin star restaurant had screaming young kids running around. There are a few adults only areas, BUT they are within 2 feet of the main children areas. 4. Be prepared to walk a lot - we averaged 2miles a day on resort and 19+ floors in inclines as it is spread two sides of a steep hill (fabulous views though). There are 3 or 4 buggies driving around all day but even in October they were flat out, with people queuing at the stops (but we liked the workout ourselves). We spent an average 72 euros extra per night on evening meal upgrades and just one alcoholic drink plus one water each a night (we did not have lunches). Don't get me wrong it is a clean and lovely resort with great views, but we wish we had known the above before we booked, hence the review.

We had an enjoyable week here. To be honest a week was enough. Beautiful location and cool design . However, we found the staff to be very sullen. Management were always helpful but staff seemed to have an attitude. Not sure if that is the Cretan way or simply because it was end of season. Drinks and food are expensive but Plaka is a pleasant 15 min walk for lunch. Take the buggy to Makris restaurant and walk from there. The beach restaurants are lovely and the beach very safe for little ones. Resort very hilly and spread out. Not suitable for wheelchairs or the elderly despite the efficient buggy system. Some footpaths not lit at night. All toilets on lower level and accessed by steps. No entertainment after 9.30pm so adults may find it a little boring. Shame they don’t have piano music in the bar every night . Im sure it would make the bar more popular. We went into Elounda one night for a little life; 10 minutes on a taxi. You can swop dinner for lunch if you ask at reception. Allergy awareness a bit erratic , so you have to ask questions to be sure. Housekeeping service excellent. 1.5 hour transfer time . To summarise; stylish true 5 star hotel , very family orientated , but a little soul less.

Absolutely outstanding experience. Stunning views, impeccable service, and a luxurious atmosphere that makes every moment special. The team goes above and beyond to make you feel welcome. A truly exceptional resort that I would happily return to. Highly recommended!

A super duper 5* property in Crete. Our room with a private pool 923 was a top notch for the whole family all day long. Tholos main restaurant offers a huge variety of delicate fresh food. Breakfast was a highlight for the kids . Vilebrequin beach bar is a must for visit after your swim. The core was the place to be for us including the “”Greek Monsters” tiny museum . All in n all a lovely stay for families!

Great location, stayed in adult section which was bliss as first holiday without ours 😎 Room big and spaceous aswell as large door area Relaxed yet professional atmosphere What stood out for us was the great customer service from everyone working there, very professional yet great humour