Esperides Resort Crete captures island charm and offers a retreat. Rejuvenate with spa treatments or lounge by seasonal pools. Enjoy Italian cuisine at three restaurants and evening entertainment on the terrace. Bike rentals make exploring Lychnostatis easy.
Reviews
8.88.8 out of 10
Excellent
Popular amenities
Pool
Spa
Parking included
Free Wi-Fi
Restaurant
Air-conditioning
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Located in Hersonissos, Esperides Resort Crete, The Authentic Experience is in a rural area and near the beach. Crete Golf Club is worth exploring if an activity is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's popular attractions can visit Star Beach Water Park and Aquaworld Aquarium. Don't miss out on a visit to Acqua Plus Water Park. Scuba diving and snorkelling offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with horse riding and hiking/biking trails nearby. Visit our Koutouloufari travel guide
Costa Varnali Street, Koutouloufari, Hersonissos, Crete, 700 14
What's nearby
Aquaworld Aquarium
2 min drive - 1.6 km
Star Beach Water Park
14 min walk - 1.2 km
Lychnostatis
17 min walk - 1.5 km
Convention Centre Creta Maris
4 min drive - 2.7 km
Port of Hersonissos
4 min drive - 2.3 km
Getting around
Heraklion (HER-Nikos Kazantzakis)
22 min drive
Restaurants
Minos Restaurant
16 min walk
Coffee Island
13 min walk
Orion Lounge
18 min walk
Sweet Home
13 min walk
Dionissos
3 min walk
About this property
Esperides Resort Crete, The Authentic Experience
Luxury hotel remodelled in 2019 and located near Star Beach Water Park
Located close to Lychnostatis and Aquaworld Aquarium, Esperides Resort Crete, The Authentic Experience provides an airport shuttle, 2 poolside bars and a swim-up bar. Adventurous travellers may like the cycling at this hotel. Indulge in a hot stone massage, a facial and a body wrap at Creta Spa, the on-site spa. At the two on-site restaurants, enjoy breakfast, lunch, dinner and Mediterranean cuisine. In addition to concerts and live shows and a terrace, guests can connect to free in-room WiFi.
You'll also enjoy the following perks during your stay:
A seasonal outdoor pool and a children's pool, along with free cabanas, sunloungers and pool umbrellas
Free self-parking, plus valet parking (surcharge)
Bike hire, a round-trip airport shuttle (surcharge) and an electric car charging station
Express check-out, babysitting (surcharge) and a TV in reception
Guest reviews say great things about the helpful staff
Room features
All 106 rooms offer comforts, such as premium bedding and pillow menus, in addition to perks, such as laptop-friendly workspaces and air conditioning.
More conveniences in all rooms include:
LED light bulbs and eco-friendly cleaning products
Bathrooms with showers and free toiletries
40-inch LCD TVs with satellite channels
Furnished balconies or patios, wardrobes/cupboards and fridges
All-inclusive details
All-inclusive room rates at Esperides Resort Crete, The Authentic Experience are available. These rates are higher because they include on-site food and beverages in the room rate (some restrictions may apply).
Available in all rooms: Free WiFi and wired internet
Available in some public areas: Free WiFi
Parking and transport
Electric car charging station on site
Height restrictions apply for on-site parking
Free 24-hour offsite parking within 30 metres
Street parking available
24-hour return airport shuttle on request for a surcharge
Beach shuttle (surcharge)
Onsite parking available only on request
Free self parking on site
Secured, covered valet parking on site (EUR 5 per day)
Limited number of on-site self and valet parking spaces per unit
Food and drink
2 poolside bars
2 restaurants
3 bars/lounges
A swim-up bar
Coffee and tea in common areas
Couples/private dining
Snack bar/deli
Restaurants on site
Apollo
Erato
Klio
Lemoni
MAIN RESTAURANT 'NATURA'
Things to do
Bicycle rentals
Children's pool
Concerts/live shows
Evening entertainment
Full-service spa
Gym
Hot tub
Outdoor pool
Piano
Sauna
Steam room
TV in common areas
Winery release events
Family friendly
Babysitting (surcharge)
Children's pool
In-room refrigerator
Laundry facilities
Outdoor pool
Snack bar/deli
Soundproofed rooms
Conveniences
24-hour front desk
Laundry facilities
Lockers
Luggage storage
Safe at front desk
Water dispenser
Guest services
Concierge services
Dry cleaning/laundry service
Housekeeping (daily)
Multilingual staff
Porter/bellhop
Proposal/romance packages
Tour and ticket assistance
Turndown service
Outdoors
Free pool cabanas
Garden
In the mountains
Outdoor entertainment area
Outdoor furniture
Pool loungers
Pool umbrellas
Terrace
Full-service spa
4 treatment rooms
Aromatherapy
Body scrubs
Body wraps
Couples treatment rooms
Deep-tissue massages
Detox wraps
Facials
Hot stone massages
Hot tub
Manicures/pedicures
Outdoor treatment areas
Prenatal massages
Sauna
Spa open daily
Sports massages
Accessibility
If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
Accessible airport shuttle
No lift
Stair-free path to entrance
More
15 buildings
2 floors
At least 80% lighting from LEDs
At least 80% of food locally-sourced
At least 80% organic food
Built in 1990
Communal living room
Eco-friendly cleaning products used
Humane treatment of captive wild animals
Local artist showcase
Local culture and ecosystem education
Locally-owned and organised tours and activities
Mediterranean architecture
Reception hall
Renovated entire property - January 2019
Smoke-free property
Vegetarian dining options
Water dispenser usage encouraged
Room amenities
Bedroom
Blackout drapes
Down comforter
Egyptian cotton sheets
Pillow menu
Pillowtop mattress
Bathroom
Dressing gowns
Free toiletries
Hair dryer
Private bathroom
Shampoo
Shower
Slippers
Soap
Toilet paper
Towels provided
Entertainment
40-inch LCD TV with satellite channels
Food and drink
Champagne service
Electric kettle
Espresso maker
Free bottled water
Limited room service
Minibar
Refrigerator
Restaurant dining guides
More
Air conditioning
Cleaning products are eco-friendly
Desk
Desk chair
Energy-saving switches in guestrooms
Heating (climate-controlled)
Iron/ironing board on request
Laptop workspace
LED lighting
Phone
Safe
Soundproofed rooms
Water-efficient showers
Water-efficient toilets
Window screens
Policies
Check-in
Check-in start time: 3:00 PM; check-in end time: anytime
Contactless check-in and check-out are available
Minimum check-in age - 18
Check-out
Check-out before 11:00 AM
Contactless check-out
Late check-out subject to availability
A late check-out fee will be charged
Express check-out available
Special check-in instructions
This property offers transfers from the airport (surcharges may apply); to arrange pick-up, guests must contact the property 72 hours prior to arrival, using the contact information on the booking confirmation
Guests must contact the property in advance for check-in instructions; front desk staff will greet guests on arrival at the property
To make arrangements for check-in please contact the property at least 48 hours before arrival using the information on the booking confirmation
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools
Access methods
Staffed front desk
Pets
Pets not allowed
Children and extra beds
Children are welcome
Cots (infant beds) are not available
Payment types at the property
Important information
Fees
You'll be asked to pay the following charges at the property. Fees may include applicable taxes:
A tax is imposed by the city and collected at the property. This tax is adjusted seasonally and might not apply all year round. Other exemptions or reductions may apply. For more details, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
A tax is imposed by the city: From 1 November to 31 March, EUR 4.00 per accommodation, per night
A tax is imposed by the city: From 1 April to 31 October, EUR 15.00 per accommodation, per night
We have included all charges provided to us by the property.
Optional extras
Airport shuttle fee: EUR 55 per vehicle (one-way, maximum occupancy 4)
Valet parking fee: EUR 5 per day
Late check-out is available for a fee (subject to availability)
The above list may not be comprehensive. Fees and deposits may not include tax and are subject to change.
You need to know
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
The name on the credit card used at check-in to pay for incidentals must be the primary name on the guestroom reservation
Guests must contact this property in advance to reserve on-site parking
This property accepts major credit cards, debit cards and cash
Cashless transactions are available
This property uses eco-friendly cleaning products
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a smoke detector
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room
Property Registration Number 1178446
We should mention
This property does not have any lifts
Cash transactions at this property cannot exceed EUR 500, due to national regulations; for further details, please contact the property using the information in the booking confirmation
The seasonal pool will be open from April to November
Pool access available from 9 AM to 7 PM
Reservations are required for massage services and spa treatments; reservations can be made by contacting the property prior to arrival, using the contact information on the booking confirmation
Only registered guests are allowed in the guestrooms
Parking height restrictions apply
Children under 18 years old are not allowed in the swimming pool or fitness facility without adult supervision
This property welcomes guests of all sexual orientations and gender identities (LGBTQ+ friendly)
Property is also known as
Esperides Villas Apartment Chersonissos
Esperides Villas Chersonissos
Esperides Villas Apartment Hersonissos
Esperides Villas Apartment
Esperides Villas Hersonissos
Esperides Villas
Esperides Villas Hotel Chersonisos
Esperides Hotel Hersonissos
Esperides Villas Koutouloufari, Crete
Esperides Villas Hotel Hersonissos
Esperides Villas Hotel
Esperides Resort Hersonissos
Esperides Resort
Esperides Hersonissos
Frequently asked questions
Does Esperides Resort Crete, The Authentic Experience have a pool?
Yes, this property has a seasonal outdoor pool and a children's pool. Pool access is from 9 AM to 7 PM.
Is Esperides Resort Crete, The Authentic Experience pet-friendly?
No, pets are not allowed at this property.
How much is parking at Esperides Resort Crete, The Authentic Experience?
Self-parking is free at this property; nearby parking is also free.
What time is check-in at Esperides Resort Crete, The Authentic Experience?
Check-in start time: 3:00 PM; check-in end time: anytime.
What time is check-out at Esperides Resort Crete, The Authentic Experience?
Checkout is at 11:00 AM. Late checkout is available for a fee (subject to availability).
Does Esperides Resort Crete, The Authentic Experience provide a shuttle to the airport?
Yes, there's an airport shuttle that runs on request. A fee of EUR 55 per vehicle applies.
Are there all-inclusive benefits at Esperides Resort Crete, The Authentic Experience?
Some rate plans available at this hotel are all-inclusive.
Where is Esperides Resort Crete, The Authentic Experience located?
Situated in the mountains, this luxury hotel is within 1 mi (2 km) of Star Beach Water Park, Lychnostatis and Aquaworld Aquarium. Acqua Plus Water Park and Crete Golf Club are also within 6 mi (10 km).
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Reviews
Esperides Resort Crete, The Authentic Experience Reviews
8.8
Excellent
All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travellers who have booked a stay with us can submit a review. We verify reviews according to our guidelines and publish all reviews, positive or negative.More informationOpens in a new window
I recently had the pleasure of staying at Esperides in Crete, and I can confidently say it is a hidden gem that exceeded all my expectations. The hotel, or better yet the resort has everything you need. The staff are super friendly and helpful. The village area is very nice and full of restaurants.
Lovely resort. Helpful and friendly staff, great rooms and overall facilities. I also had a spa treatment that was outstanding. We were grateful for the late check out and that the additional cost also included lunch. Can't wait to stay again!
Tracy
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2024
6/10 Okay
Shailesh
19 Apr, 2025
Liked: Staff & service, amenities
Disliked: Cleanliness
We stayed at Esperides Resort in Crete and found it to be a decent option with both pros and cons. The amenities were really nice, and the staff stood out for their friendliness and helpfulness—they went out of their way to assist with taxi and rental car arrangements, and even saved us dinner when we arrived late at night, which was much appreciated. The breakfast spread was also excellent, with a wide variety of options to start the day.
However, the rooms were quite small, which made things feel a bit cramped, and we did experience some inconvenience from bugs or mosquitoes during our stay. Additionally, the toilet in our room didn’t flush properly, which was a bit frustrating.
The location is relatively close to beaches and other attractions, but having a rental car is essential to get around comfortably. All in all, Esperides offers good service and amenities, but there’s room for improvement on the room comfort and upkeep.
It was a lovely welcome , the staff were friendly , always smiling and really happy which made us happy. From the moment we arrived, we didn’t need to push our luggage as there was a concierge to help us. We were welcome with a buggy ride up to the entrance which really made us feel special and greeted with a cold plate as we got in late and dinner had finished which was considerate of them. By the time we arrived to our room, the luggage was inside.
The staff were always kind and asked if we were enjoying ourselves. The atmosphere was great, and calm even with families which was really appreciated . The scenery was lovely. We got given water melon and cold towels if we stayed over during the day rather than going out.
The first room we stayed in was split level which we found interesting, the adults had their own private space therefore which was nice and cosy. There was a smaller pool where we stayed. We booked late and had to move rooms so stayed in this room for 2 days. They made the transition between rooms really easy and helped us with our luggage.
Food was good. The snack/lunch at the bar was great and not too pricy. Loved the club ssndwich.
Things to improve : Possibly the main pool where the kids are could do with more shading as it got very hot at the main pool.
Drinks could be in a larger cup as we were given small tumblers and too much ice so that didn’t feel like we were getting a proper drink.
Night entertainment could be planned a bit better
I enjoyed the breakfast. The pool needs better control as people would put personal belongings on sun beds to reserve them and there was never an available for me to try.
Its vicinity minutes in most cases to the area’s activities and restaurants although their spreads and food choices at the resort were excellent too. The staff were excellent. Cleanliness of all areas. Lastly, the locals are just wonderful.
Great stay, lovely place and room was great. The only thing we did not like was a cat in the dining area every night. Apparently it lives there. Crete is full of cats and normally we did not mind but the cat kept on jumping on peoples laps trying to get food.
Wonderful relaxing stay. Everything was amazing! I would stay here again without hesitation.
Only suggestion would be to offer free water with meals and maybe free soft drinks. I understand alcohol cannot be offered free but at least water?
The hotel is settled in a small town that is walkable right outside the main gates. Lots of restaurants and cute shops. Not far from main town Heraklion (25 min drive) and also close to airport (20 min).
Staff is very friendly and accommodating. Pools were heated which was a lovely surprise. Very relaxing and peaceful
Melissa
Stayed 4 nights in May 2023
4/10 Poor
Evette
23 Aug, 2022
Liked: Cleanliness
Disliked: Staff & service, room comfort
a waste of money-Not a 5* hotel, food was bad.
even though the dining staff was nice, the food was horrible! we as a family ended up eating just the sweet/dessert but it was still bad, not much choices, even though we had 1/2 stay, we ended up eating out & willing to spend in restaurant than to eat there.
This place is not a 5* hotel is more like a 3.5*
Schone kamers, mooi goed onderhouden complex. Locatie is aan de rand van een pittoresk dorpje
: mijn kamer was vlak bij het zwembad. Er werd tot 19.00 ‘‘s avonds continue muziek gedraaid. Dat kon je in de kamer goed horen. Het ontbijt is basic met niet altijd de allerbeste ingrediënten (jus d orange uit pak, lage kwaliteit bacon, lage kwaliteit afbakcroissantz
L’accueil était au top, dès l’arrivée, nous avons été pris en charge par plusieurs personnes, pour la voiture, les valises et aussi un welcome en cas alors que nous sommes arrivés tard, ce qui était très appréciable.
Le personnel est très agréable, que ce soit au niveau de la réception, restauration, ménage etc
Le complexe est de l’extérieur très impressionnant, on dirait un petit village.
Nous avons cependant été extrêmement déçus du niveau général de l’état des lieux. Tout est vétuste et à un état dégradé assez important.
Nous n’avons même pas utilisé la piscine privée car le fond était pas propre, les murs étaient vieillissants, les meubles en ruine. On a pris plusieurs hôtels en Crete, et c’est de loin le pire qu’on a réservé. Je ne comprends vraiment pas la note de 5 étoiles, selon moi ça vaut un 2-3 étoiles maximum.
Sang-Hi
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025
4/10 Poor
jean-louis emile
15 Aug, 2025
Disliked: Staff & service
La formule all inclusive est Pas un vrai all inclusive pas d accès à toute la restauration ni à toutes les boissons de plus boissons payantes après 23h
Aucune boissons dans le mini bar de la chambre même la bouteille d eau est payante pour la formule all inclusive