Guest User
May 31, 2025
We stayed for 6 nights in a Sapphire Cocoon Room 102. First impressions of the hotel were not good. We arrived around 9pm, not the friendliest welcome and no welcome drink offered (which is standard in 5* hotels). Receptionist was not very welcoming and when we enquired about booking the al la carte we were told via the app (which didn’t work) and when we asked again for her help, she wasn’t forthcoming so we gave up. Tourist tax is €15 per night and payable on arrival. Room We were expecting a full sea view having booked this specifically. We had a partial view over the restaurant roof. The cocoon rooms seem to be above the buffet restaurant or the bar, ours faced the back so it was quieter. All the cocoon balconies are a triangle shape. In hindsight we would prefer a room in the separate blocks facing the sea. We previously stayed at Domes in Elounda, Crete in a Tropical nest room which was tiny so we were glad of the additional space. Rooms were nicely decorated, neutral with all expected amenities; clothes steamer, safe, robes, nice toiletries. Mini bar only had water in but you can request (additional charge). Pool Absolutely freezing but the beach is stunning and warm. We hired paddle boards and even saw a turtle! No issues with sun beds. Food Buffet quality is great, especially if you’re a healthy eater and love salad. Greek meze restaurant was bookable, gorgeous food and setting - a real shame this doesn’t open in the evening. The grill restaurant was also lovely. We didn’t make it to the Italian as it was fully booked during our stay. Bar + Drinks Wine is good. Cocktails vary wildly. Mojito was great but often served in an old pint glass when they ran out of high ball glasses. We went to the cocktail masterclass which was fun. The bar manager made 3 of his own creations and we tasted them - a nice way to spend an early eve. Good selection of non alcoholic wine, beer and mocktails. Some low key evening entertainment in the evening, which we prefer. Though we arrived on a Saturday night with a DJ blasting out music and thought we’d made a big mistake. Thankfully this was as raucous as it got. Location Between Laganas and Kalamaki in a lovely quiet stretch of beach. Lovely to run down or go for a stroll. Turtle nests are protected on this stretch of beach. Worth a trip to Zante town and Cameo Island. Gym Good sized space with cardio and free weights. A programme of yoga, Pilates, strength training is on offer but we didn’t see where this was held. App The most frustrating aspect of the hotel. It just doesn’t work, gives error messages or forbidden pathways and reception staff are over reliant on telling you to do everything through the app even when it doesn’t work (and you explain this!). Would we return…yes. We had a lovely time - relaxing and the turtles made it even more special. The beach is gorgeous, as is the food. A perfect escape.