Aelius Hotel and Spa

Gouves, Nikos Kazantzakis str35.329618,25.301691(Show on Map)

8.2

Very Good

+5 Photos

+ 3 Photos3

Checkin - Checkout datesFri, 04 Sept - Sat, 05 Sept04 Sept - 05 Sept

Info

The Aelius Hotel & Spa, a part of Lavris Hotel Group, offers modern amenities and technology in its 170 rooms catering to different age groups, including additional amenities in the deluxe rooms, junior suites and private pool rooms. Lavris Hotel Group, a family-run business, prioritizes Cretan hospitality, offers a relaxed holiday experience and demonstrates social responsibility through sustainable practices and support for the local community affected by natural disasters. The group's CEO, Titos Smyrnakis, emphasizes the importance of providing guests with experiences and information that broaden their horizons.

Summary of reviews

Summarized by AI

Overall, Aelius Hotel & Spa is a great choice for those looking for a four-star stay with convenient access to the airport and beach. The hotel staff received high praise for their friendly and helpful service, while the spa was considered heavenly by guests. The private pools available in some rooms were also a highlight for many guests. However, opinions were mixed on the breakfast and dinner options with some finding the selection repetitive and unseasoned. While some guests enjoyed the bed comfort, others experienced issues with the quality and noise. Despite any minor issues, the hotel is a great base for beach lovers to explore nearby dining options and further beaches on the island.

Categories

Pool

Heated Pool

Indoor Pool

Children's Pool

Private Pool

Outdoor Pool

Questionnaire

Answers last updated by Aelius Hotel & Spa

Number of pools3

Pool 1 information

Name of the pool:Main Pool

Location of the pool:Outdoor pool

In the pool there is also:

an area designated for children

When is the pool open?From 6 April to 1 November

Opening hours:10:00 - 19:00

The pool also has:

Pool bar

Lifeguard supervision

Lifesaving equipment

Around the pool, there are also available:

Showers

Changing facilities

Towels

Sunbeds

Umbrellas

The water of the pool is sanitized using:

Chlorine

Are there written rules guests should follow before entering the pool?Yes

Is the pool accessible to persons with disabilities?No

Pool 2 information

Name of the pool:Quiet Pool

Location of the pool:Outdoor pool

In the pool there is also:

an area designated for children

When is the pool open?From 6 April to 1 November

Opening hours:10:00 - 19:00

Pool activities available:

Water sports

Around the pool, there are also available:

Showers

Changing facilities

Sunbeds

Umbrellas

The water of the pool is sanitized using:

Chlorine

Are there written rules guests should follow before entering the pool?Yes

Is the pool accessible to persons with disabilities?No

Pool 3 information

Name of the pool:Indoor Pool

Location of the pool:Indoor pool

Is it a pool of special type?

Heated pool

When is the pool open?From 6 April to 1 November

Opening hours:10:00 - 17:00

Around the pool, there are also available:

Showers

Spa facilities

The water of the pool is sanitized using:

Chlorine

Are there written rules guests should follow before entering the pool?Yes

Additional information about the pool:Heated only in April and October.

The hotel also has:

Rooms with private pools

Accessible

AI-generatedAelius Hotel and Spa offers facilities for disabled guests, including wheelchair accessibility, a lift, lower bathroom sinks, and toilets with grab rails. 80% of the hotel's outdoor areas are accessible for people with mobility difficulties, with ramps in outdoor areas and easy access to the restaurant and bar. They also have 4 ground floor rooms with bathrooms suitable for disabled guests.

Questionnaire

Answers last updated by Aelius Hotel & Spa

To whom is your hotel/accommodation accessible?

People who use a wheelchair

Is there level-access route (might include lifts) from the road to the rooms?Yes, to certain rooms
Please specify: 2 Double room, 2 Deluxe room

Are there any facilities that guests who use a wheelchair cannot reach?No

Are there designated parking spaces for people with disabilities?No

If you offer free transfers to guests, do you have a wheelchair accessible vehicle?No

Are assistance/guide dogs allowed in the hotel/accommodation?Yes

In the rooms, is there a level-access (roll-in) shower?Yes, in certain rooms
Please specify: 2 Double room, 2 Deluxe room

In the rooms, does the toilet have support handrails?Yes, in certain rooms
Please specify: 2 Double room, 2 Deluxe room

Are wheelchairs offered to guests who do not come with their own?Νο

Health & Safety

AI-generatedHotel with spa facilities that likely emphasizes personalized hygiene. Should offer enhanced cleaning and safety measures to guests.

Questionnaire

Answers last updated by Aelius Hotel & Spa

Arrival

Do visitors need a health certificate (i.e. a test) prior to arrival?No

Do you perform temperature checks upon guests' arrivals?No

Do you ensure contactless check-in/check-out?Other
online web check in

Do the hotel's main entrance doors open automatically?No

Can guests access their room entrance directly from outside the hotel without entering the lobby?Yes, certain room types. depends on location of the rooms

Cleaning

Are the rooms left vacant for a minimum period of time after a guest checks out?No

Is there an option for no in-room housekeeping during a guest's stay?Yes

Do you allow fresh air to enter the rooms by leaving the windows open between departures and arrivals?Yes

Does the cleaning crew wear appropriate personal protective equipment?Yes

Do you sanitize the common areas?Yes, daily

Are guests' luggage and belongings disinfected upon arrival?No

Are luggage trolleys sanitized after each use?Yes

Do you sanitize guests' keys/cards?Yes

Do you provide thorough cleaning of the rooms?Yes

Are all employees trained and monitored to follow a cleaning protocol?Yes

Do you use disinfectants approved by regulatory authorities that kill the COVID-19 virus?Yes

Do you use electrostatic sprayers with hospital-grade disinfectant to sanitize surfaces?No

Do you disinfect high touch areas in guest rooms including light switches and door handles?Yes

Limitations

Are elevator rides limited?No

Is furniture in public areas arranged to allow more space for distancing?Yes

Are guest rooms allowed to be accessed until check-in after they were cleaned?No

Does the hotel operate at a limited capacity?No

Does the hotel accept domestic bookings only?No

Do you allow people who don't stay or work at the hotel to enter its premises?No

Do you allow people who don't stay at the hotel to enter the rooms?No

Have you altered check-in / check-out hours to allow more time between departures and arrivals?Yes, New hours: Check-in: 15:00 - Check-out: 11:00

Accessories

Do you provide medical kits (masks, gloves and sanitizer) to the staff?Yes

Do you provide medical kits (masks, gloves and sanitizer) to the guests?No

Do you provide disinfecting wipes in each room?No

Are there hand sanitizing stations throughout the hotel?Yes

Is there a sanitizing sprayer for shoes outside each room?No

Do you have any signage in lobbies to remind guests to maintain social distancing protocols?Yes

Do you use physical distancing markers?Yes

Do you use delivery robots to get stuff to guests' rooms?No

Is there an individual air-conditioning/heating unit in each room (no central air-conditioning/heating system)?Yes

Are rugs removed from guest rooms?Yes

Are unnecessary items removed from guest rooms, such as decorative pillows, bed scarves/throws , paper notepads and pens?No

Are air purification and sanitization devices installed?No

Are linens, towels and laundry washed in accordance with the official guidelines?Yes

Is dirty linen bagged in the guest room to eliminate excess contact while being transported to the laundry facility?No

Food & Beverage Service

Do you offer pre-made boxed meals to guests?No

Do you offer single-serve options instead of buffets for breakfast?No

Do you offer contactless delivery for in-room dining?No

Protocols & Certifications

Do you follow any of these protocols or have you obtained any of these certifications?

"Health First" certification issued by the Hellenic Chamber of Hotels / Ministry of Tourism in Greece

Has there been a person appointed to supervise the correct implementation of the measures?Yes

Do you check temperature for all onsite staff on a scheduled basis?Yes

Do your staff practice social distancing guidelines?Yes

Are there dedicated isolation zones on property?Yes

Do you have clear guidelines on how to handle suspected or confirmed cases of coronavirus (COVID-19)?Yes

Is there a doctor available either on-site or on-call?Yes

Has the hotel closed during the pandemic?No

Sustainability Journey

Questionnaire

Answers last updated by Aelius Hotel & Spa

Certifications:

Travelife

Spa

Questionnaire

Answers last updated by Aelius Hotel & Spa

Spa facilities:

Indoor pool(s) - Number: 1

Outdoor pool(s) - Number: 2

Private massage and treatment room(s) - Number: 2

Sauna(s) - Number: 1

Steam room(s) / Hammam(s) - Number: 1

Fitness area

Sun loungers

Spa facilities opening hours:10:00 - 19:00

Spa services:

Facial treatments

Body treatments

Signature treatments

Full body massage

Back massage

Head massage

Neck massage

Hand massage

Foot massage

Detox massage

Sports massage

Signature massage

Body wrap

Manicure

Pedicure

Spa services hours:10:00 - 19:00

Is your hotel located in a spa town? (a town visited for the healing properties of hot spring water)No

Family

Questionnaire

Answers last updated by Aelius Hotel & Spa

What percentage of your guests are families?Under 50%

Family-Friendly room types:

Family rooms. Number: 6

Connecting rooms (with intermediate door)

Triple rooms

Quad rooms. Number: 2

Please suggest which room type a family with one child should choose and where the child will sleep:Double room, Superior room, Deluxe room, Junior Suite, Double room with Individual Pool, Superior room with individual pool

Please suggest which room type a family with two children should choose and where the children will sleep:Junior Suite with double sofa bed, Family room with separate bedroom (double bed main bedroom closing with door, and living room with 2 normal beds and 1 sofa bed)

Please suggest which room type a family with three children should choose and where the children will sleep:Family room with separate bedroom (double bed main bedroom closing with door, and living room with 2 normal beds and 1 sofa bed)

Please suggest which room type a family with one baby should choose and mention if baby cots are provided and the cost:Double room, Superior room, Deluxe room, Junior Suite, Double room with Individual Pool, Superior room with individual pool - baby cot free of charge in all rooms upon request

Please suggest which room type a family with one child and one baby should choose and mention if baby cots are provided and the cost:Double room, Superior room, Deluxe room, Junior Suite, Double room with Individual Pool, Superior room with individual pool - baby cot free of charge in all rooms upon request. Family room with separate bedroom (double bed main bedroom closing with door, and living room with 2 normal beds and 1 sofa bed)

Please suggest which room type a family with two babies should choose and mention if baby cots are provided and the cost:Family room with separate bedroom (double bed main bedroom closing with door, and living room with 2 normal beds and 1 sofa bed)

Baby cot details:Max age:2 Cost: Free

Can the baby cot be placed in the same room with the parents?Yes

Can the baby cot be placed next to the parents' bed?Yes

Is there a kids' club?Yes
Age from:4 - Age to:12

Is there a playground?

Outdoor Playground

Do you offer babysitting/child services?Yes, at an hourly charge

Additional amenities for children:

Books for kids

Swimming pool suitable for children

Table tennis

Sport activities for kids

Parking

Questionnaire

Answers last updated by Aelius Hotel & Spa

Location of parking spaces:

Outdoors, not covered (inside the premises).

Cost of parking:Free

Should the guests notify you about reserving a parking space before checking in?Not necessarily

Beach

The hotel is located 600 meters from the beach, offering free shuttle bus 4 times a day for all its guests.

Business

AI-generatedThe hotel features spa facilities that provide relaxation options for business travelers after a long day of meetings. It is located in Gouves, which is close to Heraklion.

Yoga

AI-generatedFeaturing a spa, Aelius Hotel and Spa offers a relaxing environment for guests. Although specific yoga provisions aren't mentioned, the spa facilities and peaceful setting can be suitable for personal yoga and wellness activities.

4 Star

Two outdoor pools and an indoor heated (April and October) pool, a restaurant with traditional Cretan cuisine and bars with delectable cocktails and your favourite drinks, spa and gym facilities, comfortable and elegant rooms and interiors, as well as unparalleled hospitality and excellent services are only some of the hotel's 4-star amenities and facilities which are available to all guests.

Outdoor Pool

AI-generatedAs a hotel with spa facilities, Aelius Hotel and Spa is expected to offer well-maintained outdoor pools for guests seeking both recreation and relaxation.

Private Pool

Aelius Hotel & Spa is an ideal place for those seeking an exclusive and luxurious holiday experience. With 170 rooms that cater to different age groups and with state-of-the-art technology, this 5-star hotel is sure to provide you with the ultimate comfort, relaxation and privacy.

Among the different room types offered by this hotel, there are two that stand out: the Standard Double room and the Superior Double room, both of which come with a private pool. These rooms offer the perfect balance of comfort and luxury, with upgraded accommodation facilities and services.

The private pools in both rooms are spacious and come equipped with sun loungers, towels and a relaxing space where guests can unwind in complete privacy. These pools are accessible from each room's bedroom, ensuring that guests can take a dip whenever they want, without any disturbance.

Indoor Pool

AI-generatedThe hotel offers an indoor pool as part of its spa and wellness facilities, enhancing the relaxation experience for guests.

Dog Friendly

AI-generatedThis hotel may accommodate dogs and offers spa facilities. Guests can enjoy relaxation and wellness services while traveling with their pets.

Children's Pool

All-Inclusive Packages

Free Wi-Fi

Romantic

Honeymoon

Heated Pool

Room Types

Standard Double or Twin RoomOverlooking the garden, the pool, this air-conditioned room is equipped with a mini fridge, a TV with satellite channels and a hairdryer. Connecting rooms are available on request (subject to availability).

Family RoomThis air-conditioned family room opens to a balcony. It offers a satellite TV and a mini fridge. Free toiletries and a hairdryer are included. Please note that an extra bed cannot be accommodated in this room type.

Standard Double Room with Private PoolThis double room features a pool with a view. This air-conditioned double room is comprised of a flat-screen TV with cable channels, a private bathroom as well as a terrace with garden views. The unit has 2 beds.

Superior Double Room with Private PoolGuests will have a special experience as the studio provides a pool with a view. This air-conditioned studio includes a flat-screen TV with cable channels, a private bathroom as well as a terrace with garden views. The unit offers 1 bed.

Deluxe Double RoomThis air-conditioned double room is comprised of a flat-screen TV with cable channels, a private bathroom as well as a balcony with garden views. The unit has 1 bed.

Junior SuiteBoasting a private entrance, this air-conditioned suite includes 1 bedroom and 1 bathroom with a shower and a hairdryer. Featuring a balcony with garden views, this suite also offers a tea and coffee maker and a flat-screen TV with cable channels. The unit has 1 bed.

Executive Double RoomThis air-conditioned double room includes a flat-screen TV with cable channels, a private bathroom as well as a balcony with garden views. The unit offers 2 beds.

Premium Double RoomThis air-conditioned double room includes a flat-screen TV with cable channels, a private bathroom as well as a balcony with garden views.

Budget Double or Twin RoomThis air-conditioned twin/double room includes a flat-screen TV with cable channels, a private bathroom as well as a balcony with garden views.

About Aelius Hotel & Spa

Aelius Hotel & Spa, part of the Lavris Group, offers a high-quality accommodation experience with modern amenities and technology. The hotel features 170 rooms, catering to various age groups and offering a unique holiday experience. All rooms come equipped with a range of facilities, such as free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, safe deposit boxes, air conditioning and private balconies or terraces. The deluxe rooms, junior suites, and private pool rooms offer additional amenities, including smart satellite TVs, bathrobes, slippers and welcome packages. Lavris Hotel Group is a family-run business that embodies the essence of Cretan hospitality. It offers the perfect destination for families and couples alike to enjoy a relaxed holiday in beautiful Crete. The hotel group's CEO, Titos Smyrnakis, shares his passion for travel and cultural exploration in a welcome letter that highlights the importance of providing guests with experiences and information that broaden their horizons. Lavris Hotel Group demonstrates a strong sense of social responsibility by taking steps to protect the environment and support the local community. The group uses sustainable practices, such as reducing water and energy consumption and has installed solar panels to heat water for the hotels. The hotel group also supports the local community by offering free accommodation and household items to those affected by the earthquake in the greater area of Arkalochori.

Registry or License or Notification Number: 1039K014A0204900

Guest Reviews

8.2

Very Good

Review Summaries

Summarized by AI

Location

Aelius Hotel & Spa has a great location for easy access to Heraklion airport and the beach. Some guests found the area surrounding the hotel had limited options for activities, while others enjoyed the quiet location within walking distance to the beach. The hotel offers a shuttle service to the nearby beach for those who find the walk too far. Overall, the location of the hotel was thought to be convenient for those in transit, but renting a car is recommended for guests who want to explore the island.

Breakfast

The breakfast at Aelius Hotel & Spa has received mixed reviews from guests. Some say it was tasty and rich with a huge buffet, while others found it nice but nothing special. The breakfast was well organized and had a good variety of food available. However, some guests wondered why fresh juice wasn't served. Dinner options were also praised for their nice variety. For those on all-inclusive or half-board, the food options were great and had a wide variety of dishes. Despite this, some guests found the selection to be repetitive and not well-seasoned with some describing it as cafeteria-like. Vegetarians were pleased with the options as well. Overall, the food quality and selection had mixed opinions.

Dinner

The dinner at Aelius Hotel & Spa receives mixed reviews from guests with some describing it as tasty and rich with excellent, high-quality food that had something for everyone. Others advise to have dinner outside the hotel and mention repetitiveness and limited variety in the buffet with some guests finding the food unappetizing or unseasoned. Despite this, some guests enjoyed the varied and high-quality food, especially during the Greek-themed dinner. The breakfast selection, on the other hand, received positive feedback with a great variety of food to choose from. It is important to note that access to the spa is not included in the hotel description and may require an additional fee. Overall, the quality of the food may vary, but the hotel staff receives praise for their efforts in service.

Rooms

Many guests were impressed by the cleanliness and spaciousness of the rooms at Aelius Hotel & Spa. The hotel offers a variety of room types from basic to deluxe, some with private pools and rooftop hot tubs. Beautifully decorated modern rooms were a highlight for some, but others found the rooms to be old-fashioned and in need of renovation. The hotel staff were generally accommodating with some guests reporting successful room upgrades upon request for a quieter or more up-to-date space. However, some guests experienced issues with room cleanliness and maintenance and there were mixed reviews of the service at the reception desk. Those seeking a room with shade and enough sun loungers may want to keep in mind some feedback about limited availability.

Beds

Guests have mixed opinions about the beds at Aelius Hotel & Spa. While some have found the beds to be comfortable and the rooms big, others have had minimal comfort and even described the mattresses as "the mattresses from hell". One guest complained about the pillows and even had neck pain from using them. Some rooms only provided two single beds pushed together, while others had a crib or three children's beds. Another room had a large bed for parents. However, not all guests had a good experience with the beds with some describing them as a "catastrophe" and causing back pain and stiffness. There were also complaints about noise and the quality of the bedding with one guest saying they could feel every spring in the mattress. Nevertheless, some guests found the beds and pillows to be very comfortable.

Cleanliness

For travelers who prioritize cleanliness in their accommodation, Aelius Hotel & Spa is a top choice. The facility is consistently described as very clean with a sustainable approach to changing towels and strict COVID rules followed. The hotel grounds are also very well kept. Guests appreciate the friendly and helpful staff, although there were some instances of subpar cleaning services in a few rooms. However, any issues were quickly resolved upon request. The pool and rooms were generally described as clean, although some guests mentioned dirty foam pads on the pool loungers. Despite the occasional hiccup, Aelius Hotel & Spa maintains a reputation for providing clean and comfortable accommodations.

Staff

Aelius Hotel & Spa's staff have received rave reviews from guests with many describing them as amazing, friendly and helpful. Guests have praised the whole team for their attention and care with many singling out specific individuals for their exceptional service, such as Nenna Savvidou from the main restaurant and Fanny for her attentiveness to customer satisfaction. From reception to housekeeping, guests have felt welcomed and well taken care of with some even saying the staff went above and beyond. The quality of service, competence and kind, smiling demeanor of the staff have been consistently highlighted by many guests. Though a few negative reviews mentioned some poorly trained or condescending staff members, the majority of guests had overwhelmingly positive experiences and appreciated the warmth and hospitality of the Aelius Hotel & Spa staff.

Spa

The spa at Aelius Hotel & Spa is heavenly with guests praising the spa personnel as 'angels' and calling the masseuses 'just great'. Couples can enjoy massages together with 15 free minutes offered for first-time treatments. The spa facilities provide instant relaxation with multiple pools and packages for massages and body scrubs available. However, some reviewers mentioned that the spa prices were a bit high and that the indoor pool and spa were unavailable due to Covid. Guests also noted that sauna and hammam were available at extra cost and that booking spa treatments within the first two days of stay was necessary. Overall, guests agree that Elisa and Fiori are the go-to masseuses and that the spa experience is worth the price.

Pool

The Aelius Hotel & Spa boasts a range of different pool options, including indoor and outdoor heated pools, private pools for some rooms and multiple children's pools. Some guests enjoyed the convenience of having a mid-sized pool in the Sensus building, while others appreciated having several pools to choose from. However, some guests found the main pool to be overcrowded with limited availability of pool beds after 7pm. The pool areas themselves were described as being nicely maintained and the pool bar offered a good variety of mixed drinks. Some guests did note issues with the pool water with some pools turning green or not being properly taken care of. Despite this, many guests enjoyed their time at the various pools available at the hotel.

Beach

The Aelius Hotel & Spa is conveniently located within walking distance to the beach, which is about a 10-15 minute walk away. Although Gouves doesn't offer a nice beach, there are options for a great beach experience if you travel a little further, although a car is recommended. The hotel boasts a great view of the sea and also provides a free shuttle to the nearby beach. However, some guests found the distance to the beach a bit far or disappointing due to the beach being too windy or rocky. Despite this, the hotel's location near restaurants and taverns provides guests with plenty of dining options after a stroll to the sea. Access to the beach may be difficult for those with mobility issues. Overall, the hotel's proximity to the beach and surrounding dining options make it a great base for beach lovers to explore Crete.

4 Star

The Aelius Hotel & Spa offers a comfortable stay with many amenities, although some guests found the beds to be minimally comfortable. The hotel is well-organized and deserving of its four-star rating, but some reviewers expressed disappointment and expected better based on the rating. Despite some negative comments, overall the hotel is a great choice for a four-star stay.

Private Pool

If you're looking for the ultimate luxurious stay, Aelius Hotel & Spa might be the perfect place for you. Many guests have raved about the private pools available at the hotel with some rooms even featuring their own private pool. One guest described their room as "lux with private pool", while another said "la nostra stanza aveva una piscina privata". If you want to step it up even further, there are new rooms with a private rooftop hot tub and chill area. However, even if you don't have a private pool in your room, you can still enjoy one as some rooms offer "accès piscine depuis la chambre" and "la piscine privée devant la chambre". The hotel also features a beautiful "piscine privé et le buffet" where you can take a dip and enjoy some refreshments. Although one guest had an issue with their booking and received a whirlpool room instead of a private pool, overall the private pool option seems to be a hit as many guests have enjoyed their "piscine privée" and "private pool".

Outdoor Pool

The Aelius Hotel & Spa boasts a lovely outdoor pool area with three separate pools, including a heated pool and a private pool for guests in suites. Families with children will appreciate the children's pool. Guests rave about the cleanliness of the pools and the overall beauty of the pool area. However, some guests note that the foam pads on the loungers can be wet and dirty. While the Pool bar for suites is good, the drinks at the normal pool bar are sweet and artificial-tasting due to syrup from hoses. Additionally, the beach is not ideal for lounging due to wind and rocks.

FAQ

Yes, Aelius Hotel & Spa has pool(s) that belong to one or more of the following categories: Heated Pool, Indoor Pool, Children's Pool, Private Pool, Outdoor Pool. For more information, read the answers to the Poolquestionnaire

Yes, a spa is available at Aelius Hotel & Spa. For more information, read the answers to the Spaquestionnaire

Yes, Aelius Hotel & Spa welcomes dogs.

Yes, parking facilities are available at Aelius Hotel & Spa. For more information, read the answers to the Parking questionnaire

No, Aelius Hotel & Spa doesn't have a gym.

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