Vasia Sea Retreat

I had such a wonderful experience at this hotel. Initially I was staying at another hotel which was really disappointing and after finding the Sea Retreat online I went to have a look before moving. Mario couldn't have been lovelier in patiently showing me three different room types to ensure I found one that met my needs - I was keen for a sea view. After moving hotels, I had the most relaxing experience in a junior suite. Room is well equipped with both AC and ceiling fan (with a timer which was great at night). The private jacuzzi is a real treat, and the pool, with the most comfortable sun loungers I've ever experienced, is only few steps away. All staff are friendly and welcoming with big smiles - even at the end of the season! I was treated to a thoughtful fruit platter and bottle of prosecco on my birthday, and this is illustrative of the care you receive there. You can use the spa and gym at the sister hotel - 5 mins walk away. The spa is heaven - although a little pricey (however you get a money-off voucher on check in). The gym is well equipped with a combination of free weights, and a range of resistance and cardio machines. The daily yoga/Pilates was really special. Listening to Anna's calm instructions with the sounds of the ocean in the background was gorgeous. I would thoroughly recommend this hotel, especially if you are looking for something peaceful and relaxing with caring, attentive staff.

Just returned from a week at the Vasia Sea Retreat in Sissi. Although a few things weren't that great, we still enjoyed our stay and would recommend it as a quiet, well-kept hotel on the edge of the Sissi area. On arrival, we were greeted with a glass of fizz before being taken to our "Premium Inland" room, booked via our UK travel agent - this room type was not an option on the hotel website (only Premium or Inland), so we weren't sure what we would get. It was a first-floor Inland view room overlooking an old shack / junk pile with a partial sea view. It was not the "Premium" style as per the website pics, but it had been renovated. The bed and air con were great. There was a small fridge, ceiling fan, large TV, coffee machine, safe and a hairdryer. Bathroom sink and mirror in the bedroom (we didn't like this). Also, there are only 10 hangers. Rooms cleaned daily and given plenty of water bottles. Room towels were replaced every other day. Pool towels were also provided. Three nice pools - two for lounging and one for swimming. Pool beds were great, but by 8am, at least half were "reserved", and many remained so until the afternoon or occasionally all day (with nobody coming to use them at all) which was selfish and awful for those who couldn't find one for a few hours in the morning. Wished the hotel had a stronger policy on preventing this. Breakfast was a basic continental selection, same every day. Anything that was supposed to be hot was lukewarm at best, usually cold. The better items were the Greek yoghurt, honey, fruit, and bread. Evening meals were a la carte, and dishes were well prepared. They also have daily specials, which are worth considering. Drinks at dinner, even bottled water or soft drinks, are not included in the half-board package and were pricey. The pool bar was over-priced, so we only used this a couple of times. Despite the issues, the staff were exceptional. The housekeeping team were friendly and respectful, and the restaurant staff were warm and welcoming to everyone. So... unless you have an issue with leaving the resort (nothing is too far in Sissi), then I would recommend eating elsewhere. If you can, book a Premium room (or better) unless you are fine with what could be a disappointing view. Being on the edge of Sissi meant it was quiet at night - but shops, car rental and tour agencies, bars, and restaurants are all a short distance away.

I was between 4 and 5 stars but looking at overall experience, I am rating 5 Reasons: Cleanliness 5/5 - hotel is spotless Rooms 5/5 - we stayed in premier room with sea view and jacuzzi. Very comfortable bed Amenities 5/5- three swimming pools, no problem with sun beds Breakfast - 5/5 - good selection Dinner 4/5 - we didn't like that water/soft drinks were not included in half board dinner offer, menu is the same every day but they do have special of the day that saves the situation Prices - 3/5 - expensive as for Crete and comparing to tavernas and coffee shops around. Again, we don't mind to pay for water but not 5 EUR for large bottle of water to dinner. Service - 5/5 - amazing team, they work very hard and make every guest feel special Reception - 2/5 - some ladies there, especially blond one do not have any people skills and may seem rude. Dont know how she could be put in customer facing position Management 5/5 - very helpful always Location 5/5 - walking distance to Sissi.