The Noverian Scenic Crete 5 Star Hilltop Villa Resort & Spa

The hotel offers a serene and luxurious escape, distinguished by its stunning panoramic views over Malia and the sea, and the prevalence of private villas with their own pools. Guests consistently highlight the exceptional staff friendliness, the peaceful and quiet atmosphere (especially during weekdays), and the high standard of cleanliness throughout the property. It is an ideal destination for couples seeking a tranquil getaway, families who appreciate the space and private pool options, and wedding guests due to its beautiful event facilities. It also suits sightseers and those seeking relaxation who want to unwind away from the bustling town. To enhance your stay, many guests strongly recommend renting a car for exploring the area and advise taking a taxi for the uphill journey back to the hotel from town.

Facilities & Amenities
Guests frequently praise the extensive facilities, particularly the large main pool which is rarely crowded, and the dedicated shallow pool for younger children. Many accommodations feature private swimming pools, offering an exclusive and relaxing experience. The gym is noted as being well-equipped and spacious, though some mention it's closed on Sundays. The spa offers treatments, but feedback is mixed, with some finding the Hammam-Sauna disappointing or noting issues with the indoor pool not being heated and some changing room facilities needing maintenance. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout, generally reliable in villas but occasionally weak. Other conveniences include a pool bar with good service and a playground for children.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
The hotel receives consistent praise for its pristine cleanliness across all areas, with rooms and villas described as spotless and meticulously maintained by daily maid service. Guests appreciate the spacious rooms and villas, often featuring kitchenette areas with fridges and freezers, which are convenient for self-catering. While many find the beds comfortable and the bedding high-quality, some guests report hard mattresses or uncomfortable sofa beds, particularly in older villas. Bathrooms are generally clean, but some older villas show signs of wear, with mentions of calcified fixtures, leaking taps, and tiny shower enclosures. Noise levels are generally low, contributing to a quiet and peaceful stay, though some guests note occasional thin walls or weekend noise from events.

Dining & Food Quality
Feedback on dining is generally positive, with guests highlighting the excellent restaurant and bar service. The breakfast buffet offers a wide variety of options, including fresh ingredients and made-to-order eggs, though some guests find it standard or wish for more healthy alternatives. The dinner menu is frequently praised for its exceptional quality, offering authentic Greek dishes and international selections, often enjoyed with fantastic views from the dining terrace. The food is described as super-fresh and well-presented, with many appreciating the vegetarian-friendly options. The pool bar also provides good service with a variety of drinks and snacks. Some guests, however, felt the breakfast quality did not always meet 5-star expectations.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's elevated position on a hill provides magnificent sea views and a tranquil escape from the bustling town. While offering a peaceful setting, its location means a car is highly recommended for convenience, especially for exploring the wider area or reaching beaches. The walk down to Malia town is manageable, but the uphill return journey is steep, making a taxi a preferred option for many. A large parking lot is available, often directly in front of villas. The hotel offers a shuttle service to town, though its availability can be limited. Guests note the hotel is about a 25-minute drive from the airport and that nearby shops or supermarkets are not within easy walking distance.

Staff & Service
The staff consistently receives overwhelming praise, being described as exceptionally friendly, attentive, and helpful. Guests frequently highlight their warm welcome and the personalized service that makes them feel like family. The check-in process is smooth, and staff are proactive in assisting with requests, from arranging food for late arrivals to providing local advice and booking excursions or car rentals. Housekeeping is efficient, ensuring rooms are spotless daily. The restaurant staff are noted for their welcoming demeanor and attentiveness, while the driver service is appreciated for its helpfulness and local knowledge. Overall, the staff's commitment to going above and beyond significantly enhances the guest experience.

Additional Information
A notable aspect of the hotel is its frequent hosting of weddings and events, which, while showcasing its beautiful setting, can lead to increased noise and crowding around the main pool area, particularly on weekends, as non-guests are permitted to use the facilities. This "open door policy" can disrupt the otherwise peaceful atmosphere. Some guests staying in villas with private pools expressed concerns about the lack of security measures around the pools for young children. While the hotel offers a car rental service, guests should be aware that pick-up often involves being driven to an off-site location. There is also no on-site shop for basic necessities, requiring guests to travel to town.