Kresten Palace

I stayed at Kresten Palace last year and had an amazing holiday, so decided to return this year. Unfortunately, the experience was very different, and the hotel’s standards have noticeably declined. Positive aspects There were still some positives during our stay. The entertainment team were fantastic and friendly, the cleaners were lovely, and I received the room I had requested. The gym was also a positive feature, and one of the younger reception staff members was particularly helpful, (blonde one). Room and cleanliness Unfortunately, we found cockroaches in our bathroom, which I reported to the cleaners. This was extremely concerning and not something you expect from a hotel. The bathroom also had a strong, damp, musty smell, which was unpleasant. The pool area was another major disappointment. There were flies everywhere, the floor was dirty, and it did not appear to be cleaned properly during our stay. This significantly affected our overall impression of the hotel. Food and dining The food was a major disappointment. There were very few dairy-free options, which made meals difficult, and much of the restaurant food was cold. I raised these concerns with the manager, but felt that they were not taken seriously. Although I was told that a report had been made, there was no meaningful attempt to resolve the issue. Even a complimentary meal would have shown that the complaint had been properly acknowledged. The restaurant staff also seemed less friendly and welcoming than they had been last year. Two female staff members who had been excellent during our previous visit were working separately this time, which was a shame because they had previously contributed so much to the atmosphere. (One has short blonde hair and wears lovely red lipstick, the other is a more mature woman with long darkish hair). Overall experience It is particularly disappointing because I genuinely loved Kresten Palace last year and returned expecting a similar experience. This year, however, it felt like a completely different hotel. Some staff members still work extremely hard, especially the entertainment team, cleaners and friendly reception staff. Nevertheless, the overall standards have clearly dropped compared with last year. I hope you takes this feedback seriously, as it has the potential to be a lovely place to stay. Unfortunately, during this visit, we felt that the standards were nowhere near those of our previous stay.

So before coming to hotel we were slightly worried due to the negativity . I need not have worried . I think some people have expectation way beyond what they are paying. We have stayed in 5 star hotels . For a half board hotel the price for our 10 night stay was very reasonable . We had a standard room near the main reception. Only problem was people let door slam now and then . But this is people not the hotel . Our room was cleaned and fresh towels daily . Bed will be changed if you leave the card on the bed . Some people have moaned about not having double bed we had one this may be down to people not stating that they require a double bed .Bed and room looks like new furniture. Bathroom was compact but did what we needed. All reception staff were great not sure how people could find them rude The manger is english guy and would be happy to deal with any issues or questions Pool area was spot on lagoon style with shallow area little cold but it is end of September. Pool bar staff are all great and service is spot on ,pool food is priced and of same quality and some of the other local tavernas . If you want to be waited on hand and foot book a high end 5 star but people should not moan . The animation team work so hard even at this late stage of the season they still come across with passion .They work none stop all season. Kiko and Maddy The buffet had different theme nights 4 times per week . Like most buffets some days were better than others Greek night was spot on and the baklava was amazing. We had had a couples treatment in the spar again this was very nice . The lady was one of the most humbling people I have ever met The beach area is a little tired but the island was hit bye big storm at start of the season . Which you can see effects at a lot of the bays . I was also told by a taxi driver that the local leaders. Are limiting beach development as some people have gone to far and spoiling natural features. However it was still crystal clear water nice to snorkel. If I was to make one suggestion would be for the hotel to take the path right to the end down to the beach as it is a little uneven. I would 100% come back

The location is convenient, but the room overlooked a busy, noisy road which significantly impacted rest. While the atmosphere in public areas was pleasant, the overall condition of the hotel felt tired and in need of refurbishment. Rooms were basic and poorly maintained: the sink tap delivered only a trickle, corridors echoed with every conversation and footstep, and there was a noticeable gap under the main door—concerning for what should be a fire door, and which allowed both light and noise to pass through. The air conditioning was difficult to operate and partly hidden by a cap on the unit. Beds were very soft; firmer toppers are available on request. Dining was a major let-down for vegans. Despite assurances that the team would “see what they could do,” breakfast offered no alternative yoghurt, no plant-based spread, and limited hot options (lukewarm beans, an inedible cold onion ring dish, a cake, salad with shared serving utensils alongside cheeses and meats, and fruit). Non-dairy milk was available, but that was the extent of consideration. Evening meals were inconsistent. The first night had some lovely options, but they were not well signposted; the chef kindly walked us through them, though only one dessert was available. The following night was very limited: no plant protein, no offer to bring out additional items, just salad, two hot vegetables, rice, fruit, and no dessert. When queried, the chef stated the set menu was sufficient and did not volunteer any resolution. As a meat-eater you’d likely be fine; as a vegan, you’re relying on luck—and ours ran out. Previous reviews suggest the hotel “caters for vegans,” but in practice only incidental items happen to be vegan, and even labelling is sporadic. Value for money was poor. There is a daily fee to use the in-room safe (must be to cover batteries) and a €10 towel hire fee—extra charges that feel miserly for a supposedly 4★ property. The on-site shop is limited and overpriced; the nearest supermarket with reliable vegan options (AB Foods) is 2.4 km away (35 minute walk each way) so we ended up buying our own supplies and subsidising our fully paid buffet meals. The extra price we’ve paid for half board was just not worth it. The manager commented that this level of provision is “standard” with other 4★ hotels in the area, but given the tired decor and basic facilities, the property would be lucky to merit 3★. The hotel is also a very long walk or bus ride from most sightseeing spots. Overall, if you’re vegan, be prepared for hit-and-miss dining and to bring your own essentials. I won’t be returning.

Any kind of stuff is amazing, friendly and helpful ( restaurant, bar, pool, cleaning,SPA!!!!!!! Strongly recommend!!) but reception stuff. Unfortunately, I did have very unpleasant experience with reception stuff,please have it in mind.

Have never felt so sad leaving a holiday behind! I visited with my son and the hotel and location were perfect - food was lovely with an excellent choice each day. Room was lovely and cleaned well and all the staff were extremely friendly. We also had a massage on the first morning which was very relaxing. The best part for us were the animation team and bar staff, particularly Lucas who went above and beyond to make us feel special - he couldn’t do enough for us - I will definitely be looking to coming back again