Aegean Melathron Thalasso Spa Hotel

This sprawling resort appeals to couples and families for its relaxing atmosphere and solid list of on-site amenities. The property straddles the main road through the area, with a passageway under the road for guests to access all the facilities. Guest rooms are spread out in smaller buildings around the expansive property, each with a pool nearby. Guests in rooms on the far side of the street have a bit of a walk to get to the beach, though carts are available to those willing to wait. Outdoor spaces are lovely, with trim gardens, topiary, and an overall lush look., plus terraces at restaurants have a lovely ambience. Despite the size of the property, many areas maintain a smaller village-like feel with smaller pools surrounded by a cluster of buildings, and pathways winding between areas to the greater property. 

This hotel is in Greece’s mainland, on the western coast of Kassandra -- Halkidiki’s westernmost peninsula. It's in a quiet spot, surrounded by trees and open land. There are a few other hotels in the area, and a mini-market a five-minute walk down the street. The hotel is on the main road down the coast, making it easy to access sites farther away. A local bus stops on the road in front of the hotel, as well.

The hotel is between the small villages of Kallithea and Kriopigi, each a three-minute drive away. They are tourist-friendly towns with restaurants, bars, and shops to explore. A two-minute drive away, Space Bowling offers entertainment in the form of games, drinks, and bowling. It is a six-minute drive from the hotel to the coastal ruin of the Temple of Ammon Zeus. The nearest major city is Thessaloniki, an 80-minute drive from the hotel. Thessaloniki International Airport is an hour drive from the hotel, and the port is an 80-minute drive away. 

Standard rooms are comfortable and traditionally outfitted, though some of the furnishings are underwhelming and border on dated. Neutral colors create a relaxing space, and pops of cool earth tones come from bed runners or bedspreads, and a small painting or two. All rooms have a flat-screen TV, mini-fridge, and kettle, as well as a safe that requires a deposit. Furnished balconies have either pool or sea views. Upgrades offer second bedrooms, a sofa bed in the living area, a second bathroom, and shared or private pools. Bathrooms are modest and clean, with a glass-enclosed shower stall or a shower/tub combo. Some higher-category rooms have a whirlpool tub. Hairdryers and robes are provided, and free toiletries include soap, shampoo, shower gel, and lotion. 

A solid list of on-site amenities makes this hotel a good choice for a relaxing vacation. Several small pools are spread around the property, some with wading sections, and each surrounded by clusters of rooms. All have sunbeds and umbrellas, and there are three snack bars situated at the larger pools. Even at peak times, there are quiet spots to be found throughout. The beautiful stretch of beach has a bar serving drinks and snacks. Sunbeds and umbrellas are available, but unfortunately they require a fee, and beach towels are available from the hotel reception desk for a deposit. 

Guests generally find the food good at the four restaurants, but lacking in variety. International dishes, plus a few Greek specialties fill the breakfast and dinner buffets at two restaurants, and an a la carte serves Mediterranean cuisine and fresh seafood. There’s also a self-service option for lunch and snacks with light meals and salads on the buffet.

The spa offers a wide range of services -- the menu is typical of Thalasso spas -- which guests find to be of good quality. An indoor pool, sauna, whirlpool, and fitness area are available -- some with a fee to access. A mini-club and small playground are on-site for children. There’s little entertainment for adults, aside from live music in the main building at night. Water sports are available at the beach and there are tennis courts, though these come with extra fees. Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel, but the signal is not strong everywhere.