Phos Hotel Adults Only — Hotel in Municipality of Chania

I was initially a bit hesitant to book Phos Hotel due to its relatively high price, but a friend’s recommendation convinced us—and I’m so glad it did. We were looking for a relaxing getaway without too much hustle and bustle, and the promise of an adults-only environment sounded very appealing.

Our expectations were more than met. The hotel is gorgeous and feels quite new, beautifully maintained, and spotlessly clean. We booked a “Junior Swim-Up Suite” and loved having our own private terrace and a small pool area shared with only three other rooms—perfect for privacy!

The atmosphere was wonderfully quiet. Other guests were considerate, and the only background sound was the gentle flow of water from the upper pool. It was so peaceful that I was able to meditate by the water—something impossible in my busy home city.

The staff were exceptionally friendly and helpful. Every question was answered, and any issue was immediately addressed. For example, a thin bed sheet was quickly replaced with a thicker duvet, and recommendations for restaurants, car rentals, and day trips were thorough and always excellent.

Our room was spacious and beautiful, though there were a few minor inconveniences. It was not the most practical layout for tech-savvy guests: there were only three inconveniently placed power outlets, which meant I had to buy an extension cord to connect a game console to the TV. The bathroom mirror was placed awkwardly to the side of the sink rather than in front, making tasks like shaving cumbersome. Lastly, the bathroom/toilet lights operated on a motion sensor that turned off after 30 seconds of inactivity—small but slightly frustrating.

Eating at the hotel was also a highlight. Breakfast was delicious, with a surprising variety. The poolside snack bar was more extensive than expected, serving everything from sandwiches to pizza and pasta until 7 PM. The cocktails at the bar were crafted with care and truly enjoyable.

A note to keep in mind about the location: Platanias is very tourist-friendly, with plenty of restaurants, a bus stop just 100 meters from the hotel, reasonably priced taxis, and several car rental options. However, and the main attractions of Crete are a drive away. We used a car to visit Rethymnon (stopping at Lake Kournas on the way, about 1.5 hours each way). Beautiful natural sites like Samaria Gorge and Elafonissi Beach are 1–2 hours away, while major archaeological sites are often well over a three hours’ drive.

Overall, Phos Hotel Adults Only offered us a fantastic, serene escape with impeccable service, comfort, and privacy. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a peaceful and relaxing...

Just back from a wonderful relaxing time at Phos.|It was the first time I have never had to wake up early to secure a sunbed in peak holiday season. |All guests were respectful of the “no reservation” policy which was refreshing, with sunbeds still available around 10:30-11am most days .. on our last day only 40% were in use all day! ||Rooms clean and modern. (Deluxe Double) |Storage is a little lacking, only three draws and minimal hangers. However there is cupboard space above the drinks machine and fridge area. |Rooms also have a Full length mirror with back light. ||The shower and toilet are separate cubicles within the room and of good quality. ||Nespresso machine nice touch, capsules for the first day supplied FOC, 50c there after. However I took supplies, knowing they may be needed. |Again, Bottles of water supplied for first day but none there after which was a first for me at a 4* as these are usually refreshed daily. |No bathrobe or slippers, some reviews state you can obtain at reception but I never felt this was needed, but would have been a nice touch. ||Bar facilities lovely with plenty of choice both food and drink in line with most of the bars restaurants in the area. Staff always so welcoming and friendly.|Side note: If you choose to purchase your own alcohol to drink by the pool best to keep the receipt from the shop as a precaution.||All areas of the hotel are immaculately clean and the Hotel is in a Fantastic location with a short walk to the beach (mixture of sand and shingle) - with Amazing sunsets and plenty of bars / restaurants to choose from. |I would highly recommend NiSea beach bar, just a short walk away which was amazing excellent food and views.||They also have a shower area below the main pool for guests with late flights to utilise, they will supply fresh towels and toiletries for guests to use. ||Bus to Chania (€2 pp) effective and efficient if not a little overcrowded but to be expected if travelling at peak times (7pm onwards) ||Overall the hotel and the staff were brilliant and a great time was had. We hope to...

Swim up room is lovely but hotel is not luxury

TLDR: New hotel (1 year old) but very average. Swim-up room was lovely, polite staff, and location safe, but this is NOT luxury. Too many cost-cutting measures, poor WiFi, and basic amenities.

Pros: Polite, friendly staff

Safe area, walking distance to shops & restaurants (good for solo travellers)

Quiet, especially at night

Swim-up room ideal for relaxing (Room 142 gets morning/early afternoon sun)

Cons: Bathroom: Motion-sensor light/fan shuts off after 60 seconds (yes I timed it!) — even mid-shower. Bathroom always damp, already showing mold. Awkwardly placed bidet.

WiFi: I was told their WiFi didn’t like apple products and didn’t always connect. WHAT?! Manage to connect my iPhone, but the connection frequently dropped out and the only way to connect was to restart my device.

Room: -Bed was 2 singles with no topper, just a sheet + thin blanket (eventually got a duvet after asking). Also not very comfy, quite hard -2 Nespresso pods provided, replacements came with a charge, no milk/creamer provided -No wardrobe, just open rack -No iron unless you call reception -No vanity kit/shower cap -No tissues?! Hotel wouldn’t provide these on request either, only offering toilet roll -Hair left on outdoor drain on arrival

Breakfast: Basic, instant coffee, prepackaged honey (disappointing for Crete)

Pool Bar: Cocktails hit or miss, often watered down (€12 each)

Gym: Small, appointment required, no mats. Lights also on a sensor and shut off after 30 seconds-what if you need to stretch?!

Staff defensive when I shared feedback — asked me to list why it wasn’t “luxury”

I raised some of these issues with staff and was assured it would be shared with management. She was quite defensive, demanding I make a list of what isn’t ’luxury.’

So yeah it’s fine if you book a swim up room and are happy with budget level amenities. But don’t book for an overall luxury experience (with...