Panorama Village Hotel

The stunning sea views are a signature feature of this hotel, captivating guests from various vantage points across the property. It is particularly well-suited for couples and sightseers seeking a relaxing getaway with picturesque backdrops. While many guests praise the friendly and helpful staff and the overall cleanliness, some note inconsistencies in room maintenance and the repetitive nature of the entertainment. The hotel's location on a hillside provides breathtaking vistas but also means numerous steep hills and steps, making it less ideal for guests with limited mobility. To make the most of your stay, consider utilizing the hotel's shuttle service to the beach and be prepared for early mornings if you wish to secure a prime sunbed by the main pool.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel features multiple outdoor pools, though many guests report the water is cold and not heated, requiring a bracing dip. While some pools are described as clean and modern, others are noted to be older with signs of wear, including grimy surfaces and peeling paint. A significant recurring issue is the difficulty in securing sunbeds, as many are reserved with towels from very early in the morning, despite hotel policies against this. The hotel also offers a fitness center and a tennis court for guest use. Free Wi-Fi is available, and there is a small shop on-site for convenience. Some guests mention the presence of kettles in rooms but note a lack of accompanying mugs.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Most guests find the rooms to be modern and clean, with many appreciating the daily cleaning service and fresh towels. However, a notable number of reviews indicate inconsistencies, with some rooms described as dirty, run-down, or having issues like mould or sewage smells. While some beds are found to be comfortable, others are reported as hard. Room amenities are mixed; some guests note a lack of basic items like hand soap or shampoo, and the absence of bottled water. Noise can be an issue due to poor sound insulation, with guests hearing neighbors or loud music from entertainment areas. Some rooms also experience problems with air conditioning or a peculiar motion sensor system that turns off electricity.

Dining & Food Quality
Feedback on dining is mixed; many guests describe the food as good, varied, and delicious, with a wide selection of seafood and meat dishes, and praise for the desserts. However, a significant number of reviews mention the food being repetitive, lukewarm or cold, and sometimes lacking in flavor. Many guests found the all-inclusive drinks to be watered down or overly sugary, and noted that fresh orange juice often incurs an extra cost. There are frequent complaints about the all-inclusive bar closing at 11 PM, requiring guests to pay for drinks afterward, and long queues at the bar due to understaffing. A common suggestion is for better food labeling to assist with dietary needs. The hotel also features a separate à la carte restaurant which receives positive remarks for its quality.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's elevated location provides stunning panoramic views of the sea and surrounding area. While this offers beautiful scenery, it also means the property is characterized by numerous steep hills and steps, making it challenging for guests with limited mobility or those pushing strollers. The nearest beach is approximately a 10-15 minute walk downhill, with the return journey being a significant uphill climb. To mitigate this, the hotel offers a free shuttle bus service to the beach multiple times a day. Additionally, a bus service to Heraklion is available for a fee, providing convenient access to the city. Parking availability receives mixed comments, with some guests noting a lack of sufficient spaces during peak times.

Staff & Service
The staff generally receives high praise for being friendly, helpful, and attentive, with many guests highlighting their willingness to assist with various requests. However, the check-in process is frequently mentioned as being cumbersome, requiring guests to download an an app and self-register, which can be particularly inconvenient after a long journey. Some guests report initial issues with room assignments not matching bookings, and a few instances of rude or dismissive reception staff. Despite these isolated incidents, the overall sentiment towards the service, particularly from the bar staff and restaurant team, is positive, with many appreciating their hard work and cheerful demeanor. The entertainment staff also receives mixed reviews, with some finding them engaging while others note repetitive activities.

Additional Information
Guests should be aware that the hotel's design, with its multiple levels and numerous stairs, may pose challenges for those with mobility issues. A common point of feedback is the prevalence of smoking in public areas, which can be bothersome for non-smoking guests. The hotel provides a shower room for guests with late departures, allowing them to freshen up after check-out. While car rental is available on-site, guests are advised to use reliable navigation apps for exploring the island. Some reviews mention an unexpected tax bill upon arrival and a lack of bottled water provided in rooms, with water typically served in glasses or available for purchase.