Minos Palace Hotel & Suites - Adults Only

Very nice hotel in a stunning location, with uninterrupted views across a beautiful bay. Total peace on the side facing the bay, as you can't see any of the other hotels in the area from that side. The private beach is the best bit - a tiny little cove, perfect for swimming and just watching the day go by, that is genuinely only for guests (we saw a group who swam round the corner from the next hotel being politely told to swim back). The pool looks stunning but the water got pretty warm and it lacks shade, so tended to be busier later in the day when we stayed. It's probably perfect early and late in the season. Similarly the Nao wellness facilities would be more welcome outside summer. The housekeeping and restaurant staff really make the experience - they are all so friendly and lovely and make the effort to remember preferences. The hotel is bigger than boutique so not everything feels personalised, but it's small enough to feel like you're not just part of a crowd. Nick who runs the watersports rental on the beach and provides boat tours, is great and a fount of local knowledge. We ate from the buffet on a half board basis and it was amazing - very fresh and varied every day, plenty of salad and fresh fruit, lots of breakfast choices too. The evening patisserie selection is a highlight. We were glad we'd booked half board as there aren't that many options close to the hotel, although it's not too far to Agios Nikolaos (walkable but it's along a fairly busy road). There are a couple of mini supermarkets nearby if you run out of anything. One slight criticism is that some reception staff really don't seem bothered about providing a welcome and we literally got a shrug when we dropped our keys off on departure.

We had an absolutely wonderful stay at Minos Palace. We stayed in the Sea View Bungalow, which felt private and secluded, a few steps from the beach. Incredible views. Comfortable bed. The room was quite hot when we arrived, but with a fan it was perfect. Little things like fast, strong WiFi throughout the property, so you can easily order drinks and food without needing to find a waiter. Chill live music at dinner that sets ambience without overwhelming conversation. Beautiful layout, plantings, aesthetics. The staff are unfailingly warm, hospitable and professional. Overall vibes at the hotel are very laid-back; this is not a party scene. We didn’t hear one person speak in a raised voice or play loud music the entire week. Of special mention is the food. We had planned on exploring the town for dinner, but we loved the buffet so much that we ate on property every night. We were blown away by how fresh and varied the food was, particularly the Greek/Cretan classics. As someone who frequently evaluates properties as part of my job, this just feels like a place that is very well managed and designed. We were very happy to spend our vacation here and would certainly come back.

Fantastic location, beautiful five stars resort with amazing staff. The food is delicious. Very nice minimalist design. Absolutely fabulous 360’ view on the sea.,Very unique beach with a lot private spots. Definitely come back next year