Malena Hotel & Suites

This hotel offers a tranquil adults-only oasis, distinguished by its inviting swimming pool area and the option of rooms featuring private jacuzzis or private pools. It provides a serene escape, making it an ideal choice for couples seeking a relaxing getaway and relaxation-seekers who appreciate a peaceful environment. For explorers, its central location serves as a convenient base for discovering the island, while pet owners will find the hotel accommodating. Guests consistently highlight the friendly and helpful staff, as well as the overall cleanliness and comfort of the accommodations. To maximize your stay, consider booking a room with a private pool for an enhanced experience, and plan to utilize the readily available public transport or a rental car to explore beyond the immediate vicinity.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel boasts a large and well-maintained swimming pool area, often described as an oasis of calm, complete with ample sun loungers and daybeds for relaxation. While the main pool is unheated, some guests noted it could be quite cool. Many rooms feature private jacuzzis or private pools, offering an exclusive relaxation experience, though some communal jacuzzis are also available. The hotel provides reliable Wi-Fi throughout the property, ensuring guests stay connected. For those with vehicles, private parking is plentiful and conveniently located on-site. A fitness center is present, though some reviews suggest it is basic and could benefit from upgrades. The reception is available 24/7, contributing to guest convenience.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guests generally find the rooms to be clean and well-maintained, with daily housekeeping services. The comfortable beds are frequently praised, contributing to a restful stay. Many rooms are spacious and equipped with modern amenities such as effective air-conditioning, a fridge, and a television, with some even offering a Nespresso machine. However, some guests reported minor issues, including occasional mold in the bathroom or initial oversights in floor cleaning. While some rooms offer a quiet retreat, others experienced road noise or sounds from adjacent jacuzzi pumps. Some feedback also indicated a lack of sufficient towel rails, hangers, or drawer space in certain accommodations.

Dining & Food Quality
The buffet breakfast receives mixed but generally positive feedback, offering a variety of options including fresh bread, pastries, and hot dishes. A fresh orange juice machine is a popular feature, though it occasionally experiences issues. The coffee machine is often cited as producing poor quality coffee. For dinner, the hotel typically offers a set five-course menu, which some guests found to be of high quality and good value, with the chef accommodating dietary preferences. However, others expressed disappointment with the lack of choice or found the food to be inconsistent, sometimes served cold. The bar is well-regarded for its friendly staff and excellent cocktails.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's central location makes it a convenient base for exploring the island, particularly with its proximity to Heraklion and the airport, which is a short 10-15 minute drive away. A bus stop directly opposite the hotel provides easy access to the city center. Private parking is available on-site. The immediate surrounding area is characterized by busy main roads, which can lead to road noise, and is more industrial/commercial than a traditional resort. While a beach is within a 5-10 minute walk, some sections have been described as dirty. Conveniently, a large supermarket and a bakery are within walking distance, along with several local restaurants.

Staff & Service
The hotel staff consistently receives overwhelmingly positive feedback, described as incredibly friendly staff, helpful staff, and attentive service. Guests frequently highlight their willingness to go "above and beyond" to ensure a pleasant stay, from assisting with car rentals and excursions to addressing room issues promptly. The check-in process is generally smooth, though some minor initial delays have been noted. Housekeeping is performed daily, maintaining room cleanliness, although a few guests mentioned minor inconsistencies. The hotel's pet-friendly service is particularly praised, with staff showing genuine care towards animal companions, making it a welcoming environment for those traveling with pets.

Additional Information
The hotel operates under an adults-only policy, contributing significantly to its peaceful and quiet atmosphere, which is highly valued by guests seeking relaxation. A unique and charming feature of the property is the presence of friendly resident cats that roam the grounds, often interacting with guests. Some reviews mention that smoking is prevalent in certain areas, which can be a minor disturbance for non-smokers. A recurring technical issue noted by several guests involves key card issues, often requiring frequent reprogramming. While pool towels are generally available, some guests reported instances of them being out of stock.