Domes Aulus Elounda All-Inclusive Resort, Curio by Hilton

Perched dramatically on a hillside with breathtaking views over the bay and the historic island of Spinalonga, this hotel offers a serene escape, making it an ideal choice for couples and honeymooners seeking relaxation and tranquility. Its signature feature is the tiered layout, providing stunning vistas from many vantage points, particularly from the exclusive "Cool Living" areas. Guests consistently highlight the exceptional staff and the overall quality of the food, especially in the à la carte restaurants. The hotel caters well to those desiring a peaceful, adults-only environment. To ensure the best experience, guests are advised to book specialty restaurants immediately upon arrival due to high demand, and to be mindful of the hotel's hilly terrain, though convenient shuttle services are provided.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel offers a range of facilities, though some aspects receive mixed feedback. The "Cool Living" section features two infinity pools with spectacular views, which are highly praised, though some guests note the water can be cold. There is also a main pool near reception, but some find it to be tired or small for the number of guests, with occasional issues like peeling paint or algae. Sunbed availability is a recurring concern, with many guests reporting difficulty securing a sunbed by the pools, often due to early morning reservations. The gym is well-equipped and air-conditioned, offering a good range of equipment. Grab-and-go fridges stocked with water, soft drinks, and beer are appreciated for their convenience. While Wi-Fi coverage is generally excellent throughout the property, some guests mention a lack of sufficient seating in common bar areas.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guests generally find the rooms to be clean and well-maintained, with comfortable beds and high-quality linens ensuring a restful stay. Many rooms boast magnificent sea views, enhancing the overall experience. Amenities such as Nespresso machines and well-stocked mini-bars are appreciated. However, feedback on room comfort varies, with some guests describing rooms as spacious and elegant, while others found them to be small or cramped. Issues noted include musty smells upon arrival, loose fixtures, and paper-thin walls leading to noise from neighboring rooms. Some private pools are described as being in constant shade, making them too cold for use, and some bathrooms are noted for their small size or awkward shower setups that can lead to water splashing.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel offers a diverse dining experience, with food quality generally receiving positive feedback, particularly in the à la carte venues. The buffet restaurant provides a wide selection for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with fresh salads and varied options, though some guests find the choices limited or the food to be lukewarm. The sushi restaurant is frequently highlighted as a standout for its delicious offerings. Other à la carte options, including Italian and Greek cuisine, are also praised for their quality and atmosphere. However, a significant and recurring issue is the difficulty in securing restaurant reservations, with many guests unable to book their preferred dining times, especially for shorter stays. Bar service is generally good, with a wide selection of cocktails and branded drinks, though some guests note long waits at busy times due to understaffing.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's hillside location provides stunning views over the bay and Spinalonga island, making it a picturesque retreat. However, its position on a very steep hill means guests often rely on the hotel's shuttle service, which includes minibuses and golf carts, for transport around the property. While drivers are consistently praised for their helpfulness and efficiency, some guests report waiting times for these services, especially during peak hours. The hotel is conveniently situated between the towns of Elounda and Plaka, both accessible by a pleasant walk or a short taxi ride. The private beach is located across a road from the main hotel area and is generally well-regarded for its comfortable sunbeds and beach bar, though some note it is a shingle beach and can become overcrowded.

Staff & Service
The staff at the hotel consistently receive overwhelming praise, being described as the true highlight of the guest experience. Guests commend their exceptional helpfulness, friendliness, and attentiveness across all departments, from reception and concierge to drivers, wait staff, and housekeeping. The check-in process is often noted as smooth and efficient, with staff providing clear explanations and warm welcomes. Many reviews highlight the staff's proactive approach to guest satisfaction, often going above and beyond to resolve issues or accommodate requests. The valet service for transport around the hilly resort is particularly appreciated for its promptness and the drivers' pleasant demeanor. Overall, the dedication and positive attitude of the staff significantly contribute to a memorable and enjoyable stay.

Additional Information
The hotel operates as an adults-only establishment, providing a peaceful atmosphere for guests. However, some reviews mention instances of non-hotel guests or children accessing areas intended for hotel guests, particularly the beach or exclusive "Cool Living" facilities, which can detract from the advertised exclusivity. The hotel offers various wellness activities, including yoga and Pilates sessions, which are highly recommended by guests for their quality and the engaging instructors. Some guests note a destination fee or climate resilience tax payable upon check-out, which may not always be clearly communicated beforehand. While the hotel aims for a premium all-inclusive experience, some guests found that certain premium drinks incurred an additional cost, and room service was not fully included.