Dessole Malia Beach

This hotel is celebrated for its beautifully maintained gardens and direct beach access, offering a serene and picturesque setting for a relaxing getaway. Its prime location, while close to the vibrant nightlife of Malia, ensures a quiet and peaceful atmosphere within the resort, making it an excellent choice for couples seeking tranquility and families looking for a safe and engaging environment. The hotel's commitment to cleanliness and the generally friendly demeanor of its staff contribute significantly to a positive guest experience. For younger travelers and sightseers, the proximity to local attractions and entertainment options is a major draw. To make the most of your stay, consider arriving early to secure a preferred sun lounger spot and explore the convenient on-site car rental for excursions.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel boasts expansive and meticulously kept gardens, providing a pleasant environment for strolls and relaxation. Guests can enjoy multiple pools, including a large saltwater pool and a freshwater option, both complemented by convenient pool bars. While some guests noted that certain pool areas appeared less maintained, the main facilities are well-regarded. The resort also offers recreational amenities such as mini-golf and tennis courts, along with a game room for children, catering to various interests. However, a recurring concern is the limited availability of sun loungers, often leading guests to reserve them early in the morning, which can be a source of frustration for those seeking a spontaneous spot by the pool or beach.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guests generally find the rooms to be clean and appreciate the daily housekeeping service, though some mention that towels are changed only every three days. However, a significant number of reviews highlight that the rooms are quite dated and worn, with many features appearing to be from an older era. Common complaints include uncomfortable beds with hard or springy mattresses, and bathrooms that are small, feature old fixtures, and often experience leaks or issues with showers with curtains. Some guests also reported noise from adjacent rooms due to thin walls and issues with the air conditioning being noisy or ineffective, and occasionally leaking. The lack of modern sockets and basic toiletries is also noted.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's dining experience receives mixed feedback, though many appreciate the variety offered, especially for lunch and dinner. Guests frequently praise the fresh ingredients used in salads and the availability of grilled meat and fish. Themed nights and the option for outdoor dining are also positive aspects. The pizza served at the pool bar is a popular highlight. However, some guests found the menu to be repetitive over longer stays, with the pasta dishes often described as unappetizing for Italian palates. Concerns were also raised about the bland taste of some dishes, food being cold, and the overall quality of drinks, including watered-down alcohol and poor-tasting juices. Issues with dirty dishes and cutlery were occasionally reported.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's central location in Malia is a significant advantage, offering direct beach access and placing guests within easy walking distance of numerous shops, bars, and restaurants. Despite its proximity to the town's lively nightlife, the hotel grounds maintain a quiet ambiance. Its convenient position also makes it a good base for exploring Crete, with car rental services available directly from the reception. The hotel is also well-situated for transfers to and from Heraklion airport. However, the hotel's beach is described as small, narrow, and sometimes affected by seaweed or rocky areas. Limited parking availability is another point of concern for guests with rental cars.

Staff & Service
The majority of guests commend the hotel's staff for their friendly and helpful demeanor, noting their attentive and professional approach. Many reviews highlight the smiling faces of the service team, from the bar staff to the housekeeping crew, and appreciate the quick check-in process. The housekeeping staff is particularly praised for their diligence in maintaining cleanliness. However, some guests reported less positive interactions with certain reception staff, describing them as unfriendly, unhelpful, arrogant, or rude. There were also mixed opinions regarding the restaurant manager, with some finding him professional and others perceiving him as overly strict or unwelcoming.

Additional Information
Guests should be aware of certain aspects of the all-inclusive package limitations, such as specific alcoholic beverages requiring an extra charge and the absence of ice cream sticks outside meal times. The towel policy requires a deposit and towels are typically changed every three days, with some guests reporting issues if towels were left on the floor. The hotel offers convenient car rental service directly from the reception, and spa services are available on-site for those seeking relaxation. A notable point for some guests is the lack of elevators in the multi-story buildings, which can be challenging for individuals with mobility issues or those with heavy luggage. Excursions organized through the hotel are often perceived as significantly more expensive than those booked externally.