Aquila Elounda Village

We visiting Aquila Elounda Village for our honeymoon. We were very excited to book into a 5* hotel and we had high hopes as the TUI listing looks idyllic.

We checked in late as our flight was delayed, and were offered a glass of champagne which was appreciated. Reception staff were very pleasant and the lobby and views of the pools shouldering the dining and bar areas looked idyllic.

Upon reaching our room, we both commented that it was dated and there was some confusion about a cake with “Happy Birthday” written on it in the room. We called reception to ask if this was the correct room, who told us it was a cake for us celebrating our honeymoon. It was very confusing and didn’t really hit the right note as it seemed like an oversight.

We can’t fault the housekeeping. Everywhere was spotless, from the room to beach toilets. The toilet paper bins were emptied regularly and there were no smells at any time.

The room was pleasant enough but there were issues with the bathroom. The shower pressure was very poor, and the drainage in the bath and sink was slow. The plug did not work and we couldn’t fill either the bath or sink to hold water.

Our mattress was old and had broken springs which cause one side to collapse. I reported this and house keeping came with a mattress topper, and while this helped with the comfort, the mattress was still collapsed on one side. I reported again and the mattress was eventually changed.

The bottom sheet did not quite fit the mattress, so the mattress was exposed at your feet which overnight dislodged to expose a lot of mattress. This didn’t feel what is expected of a 5-star hotel.

The food available wasn’t great for pescatarians. The three out of 11 days fish was provided at dinner proved poor quality (small / overcooked). Many of the vegetable dishes had mince in and there was a lot of hidden pork in the salads. While this was clearly communicated through information cards, it meant that we were reduced to the same meals throughout our stay.

The beer was poor. It tasted as if it had been watered down. The wine was very pleasant.

Service could have been better in the dining hall. It would take a while for the staff to acknowledge you and take drinks orders or lay a table. It was also obvious that the staff were unhappy and argued amongst themselves. We overheard a member of waiting staff talking to a guest about being understaffed and overworked and how management doesn’t listen to their concerns.

The beach was very beautiful, but its usage was prohibited by broken sunbeds and dirty water. There were days we couldn’t swim because there was plastic, wipes and other discharge in the water. I understand this wasn’t caused by the hotel, however I would urge the hotel to do some enquiries into where on the bay is releasing discharge as it is impacting your resort and guest experience.

Beach bar was ok. Not a massive selection of food available but adequate.

Spa was lovely. I had a very pleasant experience with Nina and I was looked after well during my session.

The mini market was fantastic, albeit expensive.

All things said, we had a lovely time at Aquila Elounda Village and once you get over what you think should be expected and accept the reality of the hotel, we very much enjoyed our stay. I think its facilities fall at the lower end of a 5* hotel and maybe a good 4*. The rooms are 4* and the poor relation to the architecture and styling of the main hotel spaces.

The overall experience was completely relaxing, there was flow to the process and the Cretan massage was wonderful which was provided by Rupa who was very attentive.

Zero complaints! The most wonderful time at this stunning hotel.

• Firstly the staff. They are all exceptional - so hardworking, attentive and friendly. We were very well looked after all week. In particular the beach bar staff run a very impressive service delivering drinks to the pool/beach as well as running the bar all day long
• Spa - wow, wow, wow! I had an absolutely AMAZING massage with Nina - I highly recommend her! I was then given access to a stunning “private area” with various saunas and steam rooms.
• Food - always lots of great choice at the main restaurant. The beach bar is good for lunch too. The symposium à la carte restaurant was wonderful and a beautiful setting. The Greek night is a highlight!
• Room - spacious, clean and comfy with drinks in the mini fridge restocked daily.
• Bars - we loved the beach bar during the day and then the outside terrace at the lobby bar after dinner for the sunset.

Things to bear in mind:

• It is a beautiful hotel and surroundings but there are a LOT of steps to get down to the pool/beach so it’s not suited to those with mobility issues.
• It is a very chilled atmosphere with minimal entertainment so not suited to those wanting something more lively.
• There isn’t much to do/see in Elounda except pick up boat trips so not a lot going on in the immediate area, but Agios Nikolaos is great to visit.