Asterias Village

My husband and I have just returned from a wonderful week at this amazing hotel. Upon arrival, we were greeted by the owner of the Spar shop where we bought some nibbles. Whilst checking in, we were offered a refreshing glass of homemade lemonade. Our maisonette was spacious, very comfortable and had a view of the sea. The staff were very friendly and nothing was too much trouble. The loungers were very comfortable and it was all too easy to just sit back and read whilst listening to the music. There is plenty of choice at breakfast should you choose to go half board and the charming Olivia Restaurant for dinner though the food at the bar is also very tasty. Just down the road is a very lovely woman who owns and runs a tour and excursion company where you can book day trips. You decide where you would like to go and she will arrange it for you. Situated up in the hillside, you can organise a shuttle bus or book a taxi through reception to take you down into town.

We had a lovely stay at the Astorias. Its was our first time here, and First time in Crete. Firstly, you should visit Michael at the Nautilus Spa (onsite by the pool) for a massage. Fantastic massage and a very nice man. I had a neck and back massage (twice) and it is well worth doing and very relaxing. He offers lots of other treatments there, so definitely go and visit him when you are there. We had a sea-view room with a balcony (large balcony) which was located near to the top of the stairs. Room was spacious and clean, two singles pushed together. There were additional single beds there, with a dining table and chairs. Fridge, hotplate and sink completed the kitchen area. We had a bath and overhead shower. This was clean – although some would describe it as “tired”. Please note that toilet paper would need to be placed in the bin beside the toilet – and not flushed. This is the practice for much of Crete, I’m told. There was Free Wi-Fi – which was very good. As many reviews have advised, there are 60 stairs from the pool / reception area to the town / hotel entrance. Also, your hotel room could be located anywhere on the complex, so please contact the hotel if you have any mobility or health issues. Outside the Hotel there is an abundance of place to eats and drink. At the top of the stairs / entrance, you can turn left to Koutouloufari town or right to Piskopiano town. Both are lovely for a walk and explore. If you continue right, through Piskopiano, then follow the road for 20 mins and you will reach Hersonissos Old Town. This has a nice square surrounded by restaurants – best visited when lit up at night. The hotel runs a daily minibus to Hersonissos City (not to be confused with the Old Town). This is by the sea and a much larger town for souvenirs shops, etc. There is a Café / Bar at the Pool which serves good food. If you are of the older generation, they can provide a paper menu – and save you having to use a code to read it on your mobile phone. I can only advise that the hotel keeps the paper menus as not everyone has their mobile phone constantly on their person! By the way, the special omelette there is HUGE! Easy enough for 2/3 people and tastes fantastic. There are enough sun loungers to go around, and please don’t be like most Europeans on holiday and commandeer the loungers (early in the morning – before you have had your breakfast) as there is no need to. You just look stupid if you do! There are two Pools – a Large Pool and a Children’s Pool. Please be aware that the Pool is very slippery when walking in via the steps. Whilst we were there, we saw a few people slip over when getting in the pool. Water is not very deep, but we feel its dangerous and should be looked at. Also, some of the plastic was coming off the pool tiles. Again, something the hotel should investigate. Hotel Safe is 10 Euro deposit (undefendable) and each Pool towel is 10 Euro deposit (refundable). There is also a 10 Euro per day (per room) Hotel tax – pa

We have visited the villages many times and stayed at Asterias Village on many occasions. We come to Koutoulafari to enjoy the lovely food and atmosphere. As usual,after arriving on a late flight, we checked in and went straight to the bar and met Nikos. We had lots of drinks and lots of laughter. Nikos is a genuinely nice guy who wants everybody to enjoy themselves, so very surprised that Sharon didn't feel the same. I can only role on September. We will see again soon Nikos, my good friend.

Firstly I want to give my hats of to all the team they are so nice and welcoming, but most of all nikos the bar man wow wow wow what a lovely man excellent customer service and so polite. Very hard working and always go that etc mile. To make sure all the customers are very. Happy Thankyou so much second time visiting and we will be back.

Last minute stay at Asterias so ended up in a small studio which had no view, no fridge but we didn't expect anything else. We asked for an upgrade but the hotel was full. I'm sure we would have had one if possible. That said, comfy beds and good AC so happy overall. Yes, there's a lot of steps but if you've done your research, you'll know this. Perfect location for getting about the villages. Poole areas are fabulous, never had an issue getting a spot. Upgrades were happening all the time . It's a lovely peaceful space to relax. Just be careful of entering the pool, its a tad slippy and probably needs emptying, deep cleaning and all would be well. The staff are great, very helpful when needed, smart and happy. Special mention to Tina on reception who was new and always happy with a lovely smile. Also to the evening barman Nikos. A gentleman, expert cocktail maker and now friend. He keeps that bar pristine, organised and a chilled place to be. He's full of knowledge of the area he grew up , join in a conversation, you'll see. Many times he works past his finish time if there are people still at the bar. I asked why and he said he just wants people to enjoy their holidays they've worked hard to save for. So Sharon (June 2025) let Nikos do his job of emptying and refreshing you with a clean glass, he's proud of his work. No need to be so negative. Finally, a fab hotel that's being updated continuously and will be absolutely fantastic once completed. We shall return again but for now, off to investigate more Greek islands. The best people, seas, food and relaxation