Giannoulis - Grand Bay Beach Resort (Exclusive Adults Only)

First of all, I think it is important that you name the hotel Grand Bay, not Giannoulis Grand Bay. As we had booked a transfer, we were directed to the waiting coaches. Initially our names did not appear on anyone's list and when I said "Giannoulis" the drivers all just looked blank. We had not appreciated that Giannoulis is a group of hotels, like TUI, or First Choice. We finally found a driver with our names on his list and we arrived at the hotel. I had written two weeks before to the hotel requesting a ground floor room as we both have mobility issues. I received a very nice reply saying they would do all they could to accommodate us and if no ground floor room was available, they would make sure we were near a lift. This did not happen and our first floor room was a long way from the lift. We spent the first night in this room but in the morning discovered that, because of the fixed glass screen at the side of bath in which the shower was located, I could neither get in nor out of the shower. We met with Spyros, the manager, and he apologised for the mix-up and said he would find us a ground floor room which he did. This room benefitted from a wet-room shower, and 2 allocated sun-beds in front of the room, so we were much happier ... except ... because of the position of the new room and its proximity to the pool bar, it was not possible to position the sun-beds perpendicular to the room in the same way as all the other rooms, but they had to be horizontal to our room, very close to the bar, with people virtually touching us as they passed by all day long. However, we felt this was a reasonable compromise and we appreciated the closeness of the pool, the restaurant and the beach to our new room. What we hadn't factored in was that because of the extreme heat, many guests spent a great deal of the day keeping cool in the bar, and at times the noise was quite unacceptable. We ventured down to the beach, wearing our beach shoes as recommended. We had been warned that the beach was stony but not that it was extremely steep to get in and out of the water. We went in (with difficulty), enjoyed a swim, but then were quite unable to get out as the stones on the steep incline kept travelling backwards ! We had to call out to other guests to come and rescue us which was extremely embarassing ! We made our way up the beach to shower before getting into the pool and found that the step to reach the shower was at least 50 cm high and quite inaccessible to us. (I believe that later in the week, an additional step was added.) We approached the pool and were shocked to find that the only access to the pool was a vertical ladder of four steps. At this point, I said to my partner "If I can't get in and out of that pool I am going home". Fortunately I could access the pool and made much use of it during the next two weeks, but would suggest that the small pool (which nobody used) be replaced with gently sloping steps and a handrail. This is the la

Me and my partner stayed in the hotel for 10 nights. I cannot express how much I would recommend this hotel to anyone. There is not a single thing that I would change or complain about. We arrived at the hotel around 9 pm as the restaurant was closed, the reception staff made sure we got some cold snacks delivered to the room for us to eat something which is a small detail but it made a good first impression. The bar was open till 12 pm, however last order for an all-inclusive was at 11 pm after that you had to pay for the drinks. However, that did not affect our pleasant time in any way as the pool bar was opened from 10 am meaning there was plenty of time to enjoy the drinks. Big shout out to the bar team which made this stay more fun and welcoming as everyone was so friendly and the drinks they were making were outstanding. The choice of drinks wasn't limited at all, especially with the cocktails as there were around 20 different cocktails you could choose from, the drinks included an amazing range of soft drinks, beers, hot drinks, local spirits and wines. Moving on to the food, the times when breakfast, lunch and dinner were being served were ideal and you had a 3 hour period where you could help yourself to food, as well as in between those hours there were snacks provided as well in case you got hungry and ice cream selection was available through the day. The selection was big with plenty of choices with hot and cold food and desserts. On Sunday I loved the champagne breakfast. We didn't go for the al l carte menu so cannot say much about however on one of the nights we decided to do the olive oil night which was outstanding so if you want a romantic dinner I would recommend this. Overall it was very delicious. The hotel itself was very clean and hygienic. Room service was regular and outstanding. Beach towels were regularly changed which was amazing. The hotel's reception was open 24/7 meaning that if you have any questions or queries there was always someone in reception. Not only do they offer help on transportation they offer a range of trips. We went on a jeep safari which was the best trip ever, highly recommended. Most of the night there was entertainment provided in the form of music so we had someone who played the violin, a saxophone, and a DJ. Also, there was always plenty of sun lounges on the beach and around the pool so you did not have to worry that if you didn't wake up early you would not have a sun lounger to chill on. The area around the hotel does not offer much but personally, that was a benefit as it went well with the relaxed environment of the hotel. As two individual in their 20's, I loved this hotel however there aren't many activities like parties or anything but you can always go to Platanias (20 min bus ride) or Chania (40 min bus ride) and that's where the nightlife happens which was very fun. The bus runs all day long and it's only 3.60 euros to go to the Chania bus station. Honestly one of the best

Just got back from my 3rd visit to this gem of a hotel. Even when full it never seems crowded as there are so many places to relax and a lot of rooms have their own sunbeds. What really stands out at Grand Bay is the staff; as mentioned in other reviews they go above and beyond, and I can't mention just one or two names as they all deserve a mention. This year I had to go all out for the best room with sea view and private pool, just stunning. Really hope to be back in the future.

On arrival our check in was quick and easy, the reception staff very helpful and efficient and no wrist band required for all-inclusive is evidence of how personalised their service is to each guest. The hotel is adult only, has a very relaxed atmosphere, no fighting for sun beds in a lovely quiet location, with low key evening entertainment that finishes by 11pm. So not for those that are looking to party. We chose a seafront junior suite with balcony which was spacious, clean and had all the amenities that you would expect (fridge, kettle, pod coffee maker, safe “at extra cost”, ample storage space, bathrobes, slippers etc.) bath and shower and nice size balcony with amazing views of beach and mountains. These rooms are located above the seafront pool access rooms that have their own dedicated sun loungers but as we spend most of our time on the beach, we opted for the views offered on the upper floor accessed by stairs or lift. Rooms are serviced twice daily and the evening maid Georgia was superb (she will change your pool towels on request). The buffet restaurant food was plentiful and varied at all meal times offering an excellent choice of salads and hot food including a selection of Cretan dishes (although in our opinion not utilising enough herbs)! It offers indoor or outdoor terrace dinning which was wonderfully relaxed looking out over the sea, service was prompt and all of the staff very attentive, a special mention must go to Zoe and Mataeo who welcomed us personally at each mealtime to check if all was well and if they could be of any assistance. We can’t comment on the Al La Carte restaurant as we did not need to use it The Beach is sand and shingle so beach shoes are recommended and is not the cleanest, also some of the surrounding derelict properties leave a lot to be desired but I guess this is more to do with the local authority than the hotel. Just 500 yards up the road is a small supermarket and ATM and just a bit further along a few small tavernas, larger supermarket, bank and more ATM’s. Bar service we found to be good (although some long wait times due to only one barman having to make coffees and cocktails) but a special mention must go to Andreas on the beach bar and Costas on the lobby bar for their hard work, skill and politeness For a day out you can catch the bus (which stops right outside the hotel) to the lovely picturesque town of Chania at a cost of 3.90epp each way and takes an hour, they run frequently and times can be obtained from reception. All in all a very relaxing holiday and we look forward to returning.

First impressions were excellent. We were offered an upgrade to our room which we took, lovely room with outdoor space and a share of a pool outside our sliding doors, with access straight onto the beautiful beach. Food was amazing as was the service, staff very friendly and relaxed especially Zoe, she was lovely to talk to with her knowledge. Nothing was to much trouble asked if bedding was satisfactory as we could have changed if need be. Rooms cleaned everyday which doesn't always happen now. Have to say it was the most relaxing holiday we have had. Thank you so much 💓

This hotel has every we need, relaxation, location, wonderful staff and management!.The hotel is on a pebbly beach and close to the small harbour and within walking distance from the shops and restaurants close by. Let me talk about the staff, each and everyone of them are friendly, helpful and can't do enough for you and this is why its our 3rd visit, we are still here and enjoying the peaceful feel of the hotel. The food is varied and delicious for a small hotel and plenty of choice. We're in room 311 which overlooks the beach and has a shared pool between another 4 rooms..The hotel has sunloungers dotted around and theres no scrambling for beds in the morning. Also they have sunbeds and parasols on the beach. The rooms are kept clean and tidy with the housekeepers calling twice a day. Improvements and upgrades have been made since last years visit (which was equally fabulous) and these have been noticed by us..everything about this hotel is just great..which is why we've come back and will continue to do so. Another plus for us is that it is an adult hotel .Well done to Spyros and ALL the staff for continuing to work hard to achieve such a little gem in Kolymbari. Thank you Helen and Laurence

We were already here last year in May and this year due to bad coincidences with our travel agency, we came here again, luckily. Everything was as great as last year. Clean and large rooms, the cleaning lady comes twice a day. The pool was clean and it was only a few meters to the sea. The hotel is quiet and at the end of the island, but it is a short bus or bike ride to the town. Perfect location for me, I ran in the local hills in the morning and didn't have to run on the city streets. I am an extremely picky eater and here I have never been unable to choose or didn't like something. The best cinnamon rolls for breakfast. My sister has a gluten allergy and the hotel was prepared for this so that she could eat in peace. We are very picky about our coffee and it was excellent here at the bar. Drinks too, special thanks to the bartenders. The only "flaw" is the fitness, which is really small, but nothing you can't compare to. I don't think it's a reason not to go here again, at least I got more rest. But mainly and that's the most important thing, it's all about the people and they are extremely accommodating and helpful and I have not experienced such an attitude in any other hotel. You really feel that you are not just another visitor, but that they really care about your satisfaction. Please keep it up a huge difference compared to other hotels and we hope to come again. Thank you.