Nathan R
We recently stayed at Fodele Beach Resort in Crete with our family and had mixed feelings about the experience.
The biggest disappointment was that the rooms did not match the appearance or quality shown on the website photos. The marketing images present a much more modern and polished experience than what we actually received. The room felt dated and worn compared to expectations set online.
Another major issue was the waterpark and pools. It was not made sufficiently clear before booking that most of the pools and waterpark areas would be extremely cold and effectively unusable for families during our stay. Only the smallest pool was heated, and even that seemed to be heated inconsistently on certain days rather than throughout the entire trip. For a family-focused resort, especially one promoting its water facilities so heavily, this was frustrating.
The food offered a wide variety of choices, which we appreciated, but much of it lacked flavor and felt very mass-produced or “run of the mill” rather than authentic or high quality. There was quantity, but not much distinction or memorable taste across several cuisines.
That said, there were positives. The kids club was genuinely a delight. Our children really enjoyed their time there, made friends, and looked forward to participating each day. The staff there deserve recognition for creating a welcoming environment for families.
The beach itself was also enjoyable, and the surrounding rocky mountains created beautiful scenery and memorable sunsets in the evenings.
The staff overall were generally polite and hardworking, and the location itself is beautiful. However, based on our experience, this did not feel like the luxury resort it is marketed to be. In our opinion, the overall experience aligned more closely with a typical 3-star family resort rather than a true luxury property.
Overall, the resort did not fully meet the expectations created by its advertising and pricing. Greater transparency about room conditions and pool heating policies would go a long way toward improving the guest experience.
Skylar Wickhorst
Incredible experience. Amazing location, fantastic customer service. They made sure our stay was comfortable and that we had everything available that we needed or wanted. I wish I could give 100 stars because our stay was that enjoyable! They have something for literally everyone from my 70 year old father to my 5 year old daughter. Absolutely amazing.
Ben Jones
Absolutely loved it here.
The rooms were great and the view is unspoilt across the bay. Very quiet area too. The pools were nice to chill by however somewhat ruined by children playing in the pools with inflatables, it's family friendly but it's somewhat bipolar with how it's so luxurious and perfect to relax with a cocktail at the pool, but then a screaming child goes past on an inflatable pizza.
However the staff throughout were fantastic and friendly and the food! The food was delicious, we ate in all the restaurants and even the main buffet was outstanding
Sean McSween
Amazing holiday, rooms are being refurbished otherwise would have been five stars. Food great, awesome beach which is basically private as not many people there, it’s blue flag. Pools look small but actually fit everyone in perfectly, the downstairs pool was always empty. Waterpark was great with kids, train takes you up and down the hill every 5mins all day long. Service team go out of their way to make sure you’re happy
JaniP
If you're looking for an awesome, laid-back holiday where you can truly switch off and relax, Fodele Beach is the place!
The resort allows you to completely switch off your brain and simply enjoy the excellent food, drinks, service, and evening shows. Everything is top-notch.
Location: Peaceful but Remote
The location is superb and peaceful, set on a hillside with wonderful views, offering a great escape from the hustle and bustle.
A small drawback is that it is quite off, so getting around to other parts of the island requires some planning (or a rental car).
It works perfectly for both families with children and couples. The on-site Water Park is a huge highlight and makes the resort definitely worth a visit!
