Blue Sea Holiday Village

Blue Sea Holiday Village, located in Afantou on Rhodes Island, Greece, is a sprawling hotel and lodging establishment that draws a range of guest experiences. From tranquil adult-only zones to family-friendly water slides, this resort aims to cater to diverse holiday needs.

Arrival and Check-in Experience 🛎️

The initial impression upon arrival can be varied. Some guests have reported a remarkably warm welcome, including being offered a late-night snack upon arrival, which was highly appreciated. Others, arriving late, experienced less enthusiastic greetings, including being placed in a "fridge-like" room, although staff were quick to rectify issues and move guests to more suitable accommodations when concerns were raised. This suggests that while initial hiccups can occur, the staff are generally responsive to guest needs.

Accommodation: Rooms and Cleanliness ✨

The hotel features both older and newer sections. Rooms in the newer part are described as "exceptional," "nice and modern," and very peaceful, especially in the adults-only areas. These new rooms often boast a higher build quality. However, some guests noted that the brand-new sections were still undergoing construction during their stay, with minor issues like unfinished details (e.g., plastic coverings, non-working TVs, locked safes) and thin walls contributing to noise concerns. Despite these points, daily room cleaning, fresh towels, and made beds are frequently highlighted, contributing to a generally clean environment. One reviewer noted that initial cleanliness upon arrival was not perfect but was promptly addressed by staff. There is a general sentiment that housekeeping could benefit from more staff and higher standards to fully match the quality of the newer rooms.

Staff and Service Excellence 🙌

A consistent highlight across many reviews is the exceptional and friendly staff. Numerous team members, including SOTI, Elli, Anna, Charoula, and the visible "big boss" of the hotel, are singled out for their delightful demeanor, willingness to help, and genuine engagement with guests. Their efforts contribute significantly to a memorable and special stay. Guests noted that the staff are hard-working and quick to resolve any issues that arise. It's also observed that the positive staff interactions often correlate with guests treating them with respect, suggesting a reciprocal relationship.

Dining: Food & Beverage Offerings 🍽️

The food experience at Blue Sea Holiday Village generally receives positive feedback, with a wide range of options available from early morning (7 am) until late at night (9:45 pm). The pizza, made from scratch and to order, is consistently praised as "amazing" and "always hot." Fresh salads and vegetables are abundant, and desserts are often described as delicious. However, some common criticisms include food being "a bit cold at times" and the dining hall becoming crowded, especially during peak hours (suggesting early arrival is beneficial). The alcoholic drinks are considered "ok" but sometimes described as "heavily watered down and disguised with sweet cordials," with wines and simple Gin & Tonics faring better. A notable point for improvement is the lack of fresh orange juice, with only concentrated, sugary options available. One particularly negative review stated the food was "terrible" and "not even close to being Greek."

Pools and Amenities 🏊‍♀️

The resort boasts an impressive number of pools, leading to a relaxed atmosphere where overcrowding is rare and there's no need to reserve sun loungers. This contributes to a peaceful and chilled stay. A significant plus is the dedicated adults-only section with multiple pools (up to five in one area), providing a quiet retreat away from families. For those with children, the waterslides in the kids' section are a major draw, keeping youngsters (and even adventurous adults) entertained for hours. Even with ongoing construction in newer areas, the pool environments are generally well-regarded.

Location and Local Area 🚌

While the hotel itself offers many amenities, the immediate surroundings receive mixed reviews. The beach is described by one guest as "too gritty and not inviting," and the nearby town as "run down." However, the hotel benefits from an excellent bus service just a few minutes away, providing convenient access to other parts of Rhodes Island.

Overall Verdict and Recommendations ✅

Blue Sea Holiday Village offers a diverse experience that caters to both families and couples seeking a relaxing getaway. While some guests experienced initial room issues, challenges with ongoing construction, or minor food and beverage criticisms, these were often overshadowed by the exceptional staff, abundant pools, and generally good facilities. Many guests express a strong desire to return, highlighting the hotel's ability to create special and memorable holidays. For those considering a stay, being mindful of potential construction in newer areas and managing expectations regarding the immediate local surroundings might be beneficial. However, the overall consensus points to a highly recommended destination, especially for those valuing friendly service and a wide array of pool options.