Guest User
June 1, 2024
We wanted to book a break away to relax and chill, but also to visit some of the big archaeological sites like Knossos and Malia Palace. So we chose the Arminda to stay AI in, booked via EasyJet package holidays. When deciding on the hotel we looked for somewhere quiet but not isolated, and on the coast. When holidaying we don't normally stay AI, or even in a hotel, so this was a big change for us as we normally go self-catering in a villa. We read the TripAdvisor & Google reviews for the Arminda looking firstly at comfort and cleanliness as well as where situated. The reviews are mostly glowing and we have to agree with them. The staff are lovely and always very helpful, ask and you shall receive. We're vegetarians and although the hotel food was more 'international' than Greek it was mostly reasonably varied and there was always good choices, if sometimes making slightly unusual combinations. The chef was very helpful and we even asked for one of his recipes. We thought overall the hotel more suited to families, but there were more 'adult' places to sit and chill and enjoy the surroundings, so we didn't regret our choice at all. There were various swimming pools to chose from that were more 'adult' too, but it was a bit too cool for us! Although we did go for a paddle at Potamas Beach, and a stroll or two along the coast from the hotel. We loved, loved, loved Elena's Kafenion, she has made the area into an authentic Cretan cafe. There was also a small 'Crete section' in the restaurant. It was good to be able to eat and drink more typically local products. The AI drinks are very pleasant drinks, the Minoan beer is a decent session drink and Spyro runs a mean bar too, just opposite the cafe. The cocktail of the day was fun and although lacking in cherries and umbrella's they certainly hit the spot! :D When we went out visiting sites there was also the option to book a lunch to take with us. We did try it once, and found a cold veggie burger in a bun a little odd, I think there needed to be a way to just ask for a cheese salad cob. :) There was always lots of fresh salad in the restaurant and the food areas of the bars. Anyway overall we had a great time, a very positive fun holiday, and we loved that side of Crete, we'd only previouly been over near Rethymnon and Chania. Yamas to all the lovely staff at the Arminda, NS & AJ.