Arolithos Traditional Cretan Village

Lovely alternative to staying in downtown Heraklion, especially if you have kids as Arolithos is a charming, self contained complex and is very safe with a decent pool. Terrific views down to bay and up to fabulous mountains. Nice outdoor restaurant terrace. Delicious wholesome Cretan food menu for both breakfast and dinner. Rooms are charming with balcony terraces and air conditioning. However, the only negative, the beds and mattresses feel like they have been unchanged for thirty years and are especially uncomfortable. Time for the management to reinvest as for me it was the only serious negative criticism.

Overall it was a very pleasant experience. However, breakfast was very basic but the restaurant food was good, though a limited menu. The Greek night was misleading and offered only one option which was very expensive as far as food is concerned. The rooms were very basic and some of the site needed some work doing on it, but generally good. The swimming pool was excellent, by far the best feature. They do open the hotel to the public for parties etc and on two occasions this meant for a very crowded and loud swimming pool, not really what we were hoping for when we opted for a quiet 'village' experience. For anyone with disability issues this place would be a huge struggle... lots of steps. The hotel is a distance from the town and a good beach and the taxis were expensive. The staff were generally helpful and friendly but wifi was only available in the reception. Though we had a lovely rest, I wouldn't go again and wouldn't recommend any friends to go. As a family we made it work, but in truth it didn't really live up to the advertised expectation. It's a shame, with a bit of TLC this place could rock. The setting is wonderful and the idea excellent... but it didn't deliver. If they could run a 'cheap' shuttle bus to the city, that would be a huge win for them too.

The hotel caters to both families and youngsters with a good price value. It offers a restaurant and bar by the swimming pool. The rooms are nice, in particular the bathrooms. I was day for only a night but despite being out of the city it is self-sufficient to stay for longer and one can always take a taxi to the town for dinner or sight-seeing. I would certainly stay here again. One negative is the WiFi doesn't reach beyond the reception and restaurant, which is fine as you meet others checking their phones in the common area.