On our recent trip to Crete, we spent a night at The Royal Senses Crete, part of Hilton’s Curio Collection. This was just one stop on a bigger adventure that also took us to Chania (where we stayed at Domes Zeen Chania, a Luxury Collection Resort) and Elounda (Domes of Elounda, a Marriott Autograph Collection Resort). Although our stay at The Royal Senses Hotel was short, it gave us plenty to talk about—from stunning views to some quirky features.
Location: Gorgeous Views, But Not Much Nearby
The Royal Senses Crete is perched high on a hillside, with views of the Cretan Sea. Every room has some sort of sea view, which really sets the tone for a peaceful getaway. If you’re looking to unwind and soak up the scenery, this place delivers.
But—and it’s a big “but”—it’s remote. There’s almost nothing in walking distance, and the charming town of Rethymnon is about a 20-minute drive. If you don’t plan on renting a car, you might feel a little stranded.
The hotel does offer a shuttle to a beach at its sister property, but we spent most of our time in Rethymnon, wandering cobblestone streets, shopping for local goodies, and indulging in some seriously good Greek food.
Arrival: A Warm Welcome
We arrived by car and parked just outside the main entrance. From the moment we stepped in, the staff couldn’t have been friendlier. Check-in was smooth and quick, and they gave us a nice little rundown of what to expect during our stay.
The property is built into the hillside, and navigating its steep paths would be a challenge without help. Thankfully, we were whisked to our rooms by golf cart—a small but thoughtful touch that made us feel instantly at ease.
As a Hilton Diamond member, I was upgraded to a King Deluxe Room with a Sea View and Private Pool. The private pool was the cherry on top—a secluded oasis where I could sip coffee in the morning and watch the sunset at night. My wife and daughter, who stayed in a standard Deluxe Sea-View Room, were less spoiled, but their room was still modern and comfortable.
Rooms: Modern, Comfortable, and All About the Views
The rooms at The Royal Senses are sleek and well-designed, with lots of natural tones that fit the Cretan vibe. My upgraded room with a private pool was the real showstopper. There’s something magical about stepping out of your room into your own pool while gazing out at the sea. It made our evening extra special, whether we were relaxing with a glass of wine or just soaking in the peace and quiet.
A Quirky Design Feature: The Funicular
The hotel is built into the hillside, so instead of elevators, they use a funicular—a small cable car—to move guests between the different levels. It’s definitely a unique touch and makes for a fun Instagram story, but there’s a catch: it’s slow.
During busy times, like mornings, the wait can get a little frustrating. It’s charming, sure, but not the most practical setup if you’re in a hurry to catch breakfast or head out for the day.
Amenities Review: Hits and Misses
The Royal Senses has all the trappings of a luxury resort—multiple pools, a spa, and several dining options. We didn’t get to try everything, but a few things stood out.
The communal pools are large and inviting, with plenty of loungers to go around. However, we found ourselves sticking to the private pool in our room, which offered a more intimate experience.
One downside was the noticeable dampness in certain areas, like the hallways. Whether it was due to recent rain or just the hillside setting, it gave off a slightly musty vibe. Not a dealbreaker, but something to be aware of.
Dining: Breakfast
The breakfast buffet was a feast, with something for everyone: fresh fruit, local pastries, creamy Greek yogurt, eggs made to order, and even hearty meats. The use of local ingredients like olive oil and honey made it feel special.
Beach Access: A Letdown
The beach situation is... underwhelming. It’s across the highway from the hotel, and you either take a shuttle or drive yourself to get there. Once you arrive, you’re greeted by a small, enclosed stretch of sand bordered by a wave breaker. It’s functional but far from the idyllic Cretan beaches you dream about.
After one quick visit, we decided to explore Spilies Beach, a pebble beach not too far away. It turned out to be a hidden gem, with crystal-clear water and dramatic cliffs. Sure, it wasn’t sandy, but it felt authentic and far more scenic.
Overall Experience
Our stay at The Royal Senses had its highs and lows. The stunning views, serene private pool, and stellar breakfast were definite highlights. The staff were lovely, and the design of the property felt modern and unique
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On the flip side, the remote location, damp hallways, and lackluster beach were disappointing, especially given the price tag (€400–500 per night or 90,000 Hilton Honors points).
Final Verdict: Should You Book?
The Royal Senses Crete, Curio Collection by Hilton is perfect if you’re looking for a quiet, scenic retreat with a modern twist. The private pools and breathtaking views are worth it if relaxation is your main goal.
However, if you want a more central location, livelier surroundings, or a more polished luxury experience, you might want to look elsewhere. Crete has no shortage of incredible places to stay, and it’s worth exploring your options.
For us, The Royal Senses was a memorable part of our journey through Crete. While we probably wouldn’t return, it offered moments of calm and beauty that we won’t forget anytime soon. If you do decide to stay, just know what you’re getting into—and don’t skip the breakfast!
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