Royal Belvedere

Sprawling grounds and abundant facilities make Royal Belvedere an ideal all-inclusive option for families. Its sister hotel Imperial Belvedere is just next door, and together the two share facilities, including six outdoor pools and ample sunbathing terraces. Set into a hill overlooking Hersonissos, the steps and inclines may make getting around difficult for some, but the reward is beautiful views throughout. The lower-level kids’ pools and mid-level Olympic-sized pool, where hosted activities take place, have livelier atmospheres, while those seeking tranquility can find it at the spa or relaxation pool at the top level. Imperial Belvedere also has secluded terraces with elegant Balinese beds, which are freely accessible to guests of both hotels, and attract couples seeking a more private, low-key atmosphere. 

Interiors largely have dated decor and some visible wear and tear, but some of the rooms and outdoor terraces have contemporary furnishings. The overall look is simple and a bit bland, though mostly clean. There's tons of facilities to keep kids and adults busy, but many past guests have complained of mediocre food and drink quality. For a similar property closer to the beach, look into Star Beach Village & Water Park, while travelers wanting a quieter vibe should consider the all-inclusive Silva Beach.

Royal Belvedere is located in the hills above Hersonissos, a 12-minute drive from the center of town, where there are restaurants, bars, and shops. A closer village with similar dining and shopping options can be reached in about 15 minutes on foot. Star Beach Water Park and its beach can be reached in about a 10-minute downhill walk, but free shuttles are available for both the ride there and back. Heraklion International Airport is roughly a 25-minute drive away. 

The 330 rooms are divided into two types: Standard Rooms, which can accommodate up to two adults and two children with a sofa bed; and Family Rooms, which have separate sleeping areas for kids with three single beds. Most rooms are basic and dated, with simple wood furniture, old-fashioned linens, and bland color palettes. These units often have visible wear and tear. Some rooms, were updated with more contemporary decor such as light-wood furniture, white linens with blue-patterned runners, and beach photos on the walls. Regardless, all rooms have mini-fridges, flat-screen TV’s, free air-conditioning, and furnished outdoor spaces -- some with distant sea views. Straightforward bathrooms have either shower/tub combos or showers only. Wi-Fi is free in rooms, but use of safes requires a fee.

Most of the facilities at Royal Belvedere are shared between its neighboring sister hotel Imperial Belvedere are shared, including six outdoor pools spread across four levels. The top level is the relaxation pool at Imperial Belvedere, accompanied by a lounge bar which hosts a live pianist twice a week -- better suited to couples. The main, Olympic-sized pool has a separate kiddy pool and adjacent snack bar serving lunch and snacks. At the lowest level is Imperial Belvedere’s collection of kids’ pools, complete with fun fountains, slides, a separate toddlers’ pool, snack bar, and evening bar. 

Each hotel has its own buffet restaurant, which can only be used by guests of that hotel. Royal Belvedere’s restaurant serves international and Greek cuisine, with ample choices including live meat cooking stations and a special kids’ corner. While the all-inclusive plan doesn’t have a wide range of cocktails, it does include meals throughout the duration of your stay, local alcohol, wine, beer, and soda. On the whole, dining and drinks receive mediocre feedback. However, on the plus side, guests with a late departing flight are welcome to continue using the hotel’s facilities, including restaurants and bars, after check-out.

Ample kid-friendly facilities span both hotels, consisting of multiple outdoor playgrounds, a kids’ club, teens’ club, game room (fee), and various sports courts including volleyball, basketball, and tennis. Both hosted recreation and evening entertainment are available. For adults, a spa has a sauna and rooms for massages and beauty treatments. A small gym, mini-market, and clothing boutiques are also on-site. Wi-Fi is free, but the signal can be spotty in certain places. Parking is also free. The hotel provides a free shuttle bus to the nearest beach inside Star Beach Water Park, where there are popular foam parties.