Domes of Elounda

My review from June upset the very people who had made our vacation so wonderful. That is why I promised them that, upon returning home, I would write another—and hopefully objective—review. Our family consists of five people. Our youngest child is two and a half years old, so naturally, everything revolves around him—including our choice of hotel. This was our third visit, which speaks to how comfortable we feel here. Our accommodation—a Deluxe Residence—was perfect for us, featuring two bedrooms, a living room, and a lovely outdoor area with a private pool. The hotel provides whatever is needed upon request; for our child, they supplied a crib, a stroller, a bottle sterilizer, a milk warmer, and a baby monitor. The unit was equipped with a kitchenette and a dishwasher, and the availability of a blender made it easy to prepare the food our child needed. In short, we had absolutely everything necessary. If we needed anything else, we could simply ask the staff; they would do the possible—and the impossible—to help. I’m not saying this to flatter them, but so that future guests understand that the staff truly listens and strives to meet their needs. Many people mention that the hotel is spread across both sides of a hill. However, walking around after a meal was actually quite pleasant, and club cars run constantly anyway. When choosing a room, keep in mind that if your window faces the main hotel path, the constant traffic from these vehicles might be a disturbance. We were also completely satisfied with the beach. While there isn't much space for long walks, there is plenty of sand for the children to play in, as well as sun loungers shaded by trees. Towels are available in unlimited quantities. Returning to my initial review: during the first few days, we tried various fish dishes that, in my opinion, could have been prepared better. The head chef spoke with me personally; she listened to my feedback, and sure enough, when we tried those same dishes again, the taste was vastly improved. I think it comes down to quality control. Everyone has different tastes, but I can say that some dishes were simply exquisite (the moussaka, for instance). You tend to pay extra attention to the food here since dining is practically the only form of entertainment at the hotel, so naturally, one would like to see more variety—for both adults and children. There is a bubble show for young guests a few times a week, but unfortunately, that’s about it; there isn't even a mini-disco. I’m ashamed to admit I’m not great with names, but I’d like to once again thank the people who make me want to come back here again and again: the guys driving the club cars (always smiling); our housekeepers (our room was always impeccably clean); the Heute Living managers (thanks, Sarah) and the staff who kept the room clean and cozy; the chefs, waiters, and restaurant managers (thanks, Costas)—at breakfast, you could even ask for items not on the buffet; the guy who got the beach ready first thing in the morning; and the hotel management. Thank you very much. We will definitely return if the opportunity arises.

I am beyond devastated by how this property has ruined a very very special trip for us coming up. We are Ambassador and lifetime Titanium and I had reached out to try to get a special dinner, boat ride, spa appt, etc…scheduled. We arrive now in a week. Beyond this being a significant milestone birthday for my husband, this is also going to be a “going away” of saying goodbye to his father who was from here and I wanted to do something special. I have been calling and calling and emailing the property multiple times and I reach the front desk and then they say they will write me or what’s app me and I email, and nothing. Or, I get a form response saying they are really busy and will respond when they can. I had no choice but to ruin what was supposed to be a lovely surprise to get my husband involved to try to help so he didn’t think I wasn’t trying to celebrate him and now it’s all ruined. I don’t want us to stay here anymore as I’m so upset that I can’t imagine staying a week here. And, now my husband is working with his Ambassador to fix what was supposed to be for him and now he’s like planning his own special holiday. They even admitted to the Ambassador that they just hadn’t responded and said they would today but, of course, did not. I’m so sad and disappointed. I’ve never dreaded more going to a property so we are trying to move. I’m sure it’s lovely, but our trip has been ruined.