Kresten Palace Hotel

3 readers found this review helpful

With a rating of 10, it's obvious we found the hotel, island and people exceeded expectations. So much so that we went back two years later and took friends! A mark of the quality is that the first evening of the second visit, the Restaurant manager came over to greet us and welcomed us, having recognised us from the previous stay.
But back to the basics. The hotel is on the 'right' side of the island - ie away from the airport - but close enough to get there in 20 mins self drive. Taxis are fixed price and bus fares very acceptable, particularly into Rhodes Town from right outside he Hotel if you intend to enjoy the wines and beers. The facilities in the Hotel include a games/fitness room etc and you don't have to leave with choices for eating, both through the day and evening with a mixture of waiter/ess and buffet service and excellent choice of wines [House wines very acceptable]. Rooms are with or without sea view but the inland views across the hills or up to Rhodes are equally impressive. Sea view rooms give a more inclusive feel as you see the whole of the impeccable grounds and can watch the evening entertainment from your balcony if you prefer. The Hotel is generally quiet and appreciates not everyone is a night owl but bars are lively and friendly. We found that hiring a car for two/three days at the Hotel gave us as much freedom as we needed and local rates can be negotiated with reputable companies. The brochures and guides will suggest trips and visits - Rhodes, Lindos and the west coast drive were our favourites. Falaraki is only for the brave. A day trip to Turkey is available but be prepared to be pestered to death and try to avoid using a 'guide' unless you want to meet all their relatives who invariably have the "best prices" in town! I could go on but I suggest you give it a go for yourselves.
PS Brush up on your German - the Hotel is a very popular German resort and I believe this contributes to the exceptional standard and service provided.