Stella Blue Seaside Resort

"We recently stayed at Stella Blue and, while there were some definite highlights, there were also several areas where we felt the hotel fell short of expectations. The resort is beautiful and very aesthetic. It takes around 20-25 minutes to get there from Heraklion airport. It’s in the quiet town of Analipsi, with not much around, but a few tavernas approximately a mile away. Unfortunately, our room (128) cleanliness and general comfort were disappointing. The pillows were very uncomfortable, and the lack of soundproofing meant we could hear people walking around in the room above us, as well as toilets flushing. We didn’t really sleep well the whole week we were there. Cleaning also appeared to be quite superficial. The floor was dirty, glasses seemed to be rinsed rather than replaced, and both the toilet wall and bin were dirty on arrival and were not properly cleaned throughout our stay. There was also mould on the shower door. The minibar was not consistently replenished with water, meaning we regularly had to ask reception for more. We also found a few basic items missing that we would have expected to be provided, such as an ashtray and bottle opener. Food, drink and service The buffet felt relatively small considering the size of the hotel, with very limited choice and a lot of repetition between lunch and dinner. We struggled a few times and ended up going out for dinner. You are able to dine at each of the à la carte restaurants once during your stay, but when you’ve already paid for your all inclusive trip, it seems mad to pay to eat there again. We appreciate that the weather during early October caused difficulties outwith the hotel’s control, but there was not enough indoor seating to accommodate guests comfortably, and service was incredibly slow during this time. However, not all of the dining experiences were disappointing. Dinner at both Ocean and BLE was really good, and lunch at Anima was a particular highlight of our stay. Dinner service occasionally felt a little rushed, with us being asked to order all three courses upfront and not always being given enough time between courses to enjoy the meal at a relaxed pace. Poolside drinks service was another area that needed improvement. On several occasions, service was extremely slow or practically non-existent, which was frustrating when trying to relax by the pool. Other feedback We also heard from other guests that they had received €20 spa vouchers, but we were not offered the same. While this may have been part of a specific promotion or arrangement, the difference was noticeable and left us wondering why this had not been communicated to us. Rania in guest services is amazing and super helpful! Overall There were some genuinely enjoyable aspects of our stay, particularly the dining experiences at Ocean, BLE and Anima. However, the issues with room cleanliness, soundproofing, replenishment of basic amenities and inconsistent service took away from the overall experience. With improvements to housekeeping, buffet variety and the speed and consistency of service, we feel the hotel could offer a much better experience. Unfortunately, based on our stay, there were too many small but noticeable issues for it to feel as polished as we had hoped, and probably wouldn’t return."

"Such a relaxing resort! Low key, chill, just what we wanted. Rooms are fab, although would benefit from a set of drawers for undies. We chose a whirlpool room and glad we did. Had conversations with multiple people who paid for swim up rooms but had no sun this late in the year and were using the main pool anyway... food has been excellent, both a la carte restaurants were lovely, and always plenty in buffet regardless of what some have said on Facebook and previous reviews, i have no idea how much choice some want! Ble at lunch is fab but my favourite is Anima by the smaller quieter pool, the spring rolls and beef noodles, as well as the chicken skewers at lunch are so good. Drinks have been fine, although most cocktails are too sweet for my liking, there is a good variety. Aperol is my go to, the local beer is fine, and the usual G&T or rum n coke spot on. The hotel is only a short walk along the main road, and although not a "lively" place it has its share of local tavernas, a sports bar, and some really nice seafront bar/restaurants. Entertainment in the hotel is not what u usually get in mist hotels, but this suited us perfectly, saxaphonist, pianist, violinist, in bars is just enough. No loud crazy acts, or animation crews bothering you lol. Would highly recommend for a chill, low key holiday in a beautiful hotel."

"Stayed at the hotel for 12 days, and could have actually stretched to longer (even with not so great weather). Everything was absolutely top notch. I am not typically one to write reviews, however this hotel was exceptional. As much as we wanted to explore, and it was very easy to get public transport around, we were in a position where we did not even want to leave the hotel. The list could really go on, but everything was absolutely phenomenal; staff, cleanliness, facilities, rooms, food, drinks, friendliness, service, atmosphere, value. Would 100% recommend without a doubt. Went above and beyond expectations."