Kalyves Beach Hotel

In contrast to its sister hotel Kiani Beach Resort, which is tailored to families, Kalyves Beach Hotel attracts a good mix of couples and families with its calm riverside and beachfront setting. The decor throughout varies between contemporary and dated, such as the old-fashioned red pleather sofas at reception, loud patterned tiling that continues into the restaurant, and red, green, and white-striped drapes by the lobby bar. Rooms, fortunately, look more contemporary and fresh. The setting is the standout here, with a freshwater river originating from surrounding mountains running by the alfresco restaurant terrace, and well-sized beach area. Note that there are wild geese here, often seen waddling along the river bed and beach. The hotel splits its accommodation across two buildings, separated by a quiet side street which leads directly to the beachfront area. Each building has its own pool, and the areas remain quiet and peaceful.

Kalyves Beach Hotel is located on a dusty, busy, local road in Kalyves, a delightful seaside village with authentic Cretan taverns, small shops, and local grocery markets -- including one right across the road. Local restaurants can be found within a few minutes’ walk, while the ancient city of Aptera, an archaeological site that dates back to the 14th century B.C., is just a 12-minute drive into the mountains. It’s a 25-minute drive to Chania, with its charming old town and historic Venetian port. The popular town of Rethymnon is a 45-minute drive east. Chania airport is a 30-minute drive, while Heraklion airport is just under two hours away by car. 

Refurbished in 2015, rooms at Kalyves Beach Hotel have a light, contemporary feel thanks to neutral tones, tasteful leaf-patterned wallpaper, and clean-lined furniture.  All have furnished outdoor spaces, with views of the sea, river, pool, or garden. Standard amenities consist of mini-fridges, flat-screen TVs with satellite channels, tea- and coffee-making facilities, free Wi-Fi, and sofa beds. Wardrobes have small safes that require a fee. Bathrooms, and particularly their jetted showers, tend to be on the small side. Toiletries and hairdryers are provided. 

The hotel’s pool and beach facilities are split across its two buildings, with one dedicated pool and beach area per building. Sunbeds and loungers are free, but there’s a nominal charge for beach towels. Guests are free to mingle and share facilities, and some may prefer the main pool, which is accompanied by a poolside bar serving drinks and light meals throughout the day. Its large outdoor terrace borders the freshwater river and beach. A wellness center offers massage treatments and another indoor pool. A hot tub, sauna, and gym are also available, but they're only free for those on an all-inclusive plan. 

The buffet restaurant offers decent variety and a well-sized outdoor deck by the river, but food does receive mixed reviews. All-inclusive guests get unlimited local beer, house wine, soft drinks, and tap water, and ouzo. A VIP all-inclusive plan adds extras such as welcome fruit baskets, free bottle of house wine daily, brand-name alcohol (limited quota), and faster Wi-Fi. Access to normal speed Wi-Fi is free for all guests. 

Daily evening entertainment includes traditional Greek dance, magic shows, live music, and live DJ’s, while hosted daytime recreation is primarily for adults and includes activities such as yoga, Pilates, water aerobics, and Zumba. With two outdoor playgrounds, a small game room (fee), kids’ pool, and light activities program, the hotel’s kid-friendly facilities are decent. Children are also invited to join the sister hotel’s outstanding activities program, available twice a week for free. There’s free street parking, though it may be difficult to find.