Out of the Blue Capsis Elite Resort

Out of the Blue Capsis Elite Resort appeals to families and couples for its fun activities and pretty surroundings. It is organized into three sections -- Classic, Lifestyle, and Exclusive. Guests in each section have access to different parts of the resort, with some space common to all. The grounds are gorgeous and lush, with thick gardens full of tall trees, water features, and some statues and pillars. There are plenty of secluded areas with seating, many of which have stunning views to the sea. Buildings are often laced with blooming vines and giant sprays of beautiful flowers. 

The main lobby is a bright, open space with well-selected furnishings and embellishments that mix new and old-fashioned decor. The front desk, columns, and floor accents are white and russet-colored marble, while accents include a large candelabra chandelier, sculptures, and beautiful antique cabinets displaying pretty curios. Oversized arched windows and doorways bring in light. The bar and some rooms off the lobby have a similar design, but do not achieve the same balance and feel past their prime. While much of the hotel is impressive, some guests find it falls short of its luxury billing due to inconsistent service and maintenance issues. 

This hotel sits on its own small peninsula on the northern coast of Crete, east of Heraklion. A five- to 10-minute walk will bring guests to most areas of the nearby town of Agia Pelagia, where there are good restaurants and some shops for tourists, but no nightlife. A bus to Heraklion stops in front of the hotel, but for other trips a car is needed. It is a 16-minute drive to El Greco Museum, near the home of the famous Renaissance painter. It is a 32-minute drive to Knossos, an archaeological dig site of ancient Minoan ruins. A 40-minute drive will bring guests to CretAquarium, where local sea life is exhibited. It is a 30-minute drive to Heraklion, with its many museums, restaurants, and shopping to suit all tastes, as well as the Heraklion Airport.  

There are 56 types of rooms for guests to choose from across the three sections of the hotel. Classic rooms include bungalows and typical hotel guest rooms; the Lifestyle section is an all-suites building; and the gated Exclusive area offers suites, two-story units, and villas. Each room has unique design elements, many with a pleasant style featuring modern artwork, upscale furnishings, or a vibrant color scheme. Room options are endless, but some of the choices on offer include several bedrooms and bathrooms, multiple lounges, dining areas, and private pools. 

All rooms have air-conditioning and a furnished balcony or terrace, plus a minibar, flat-screen TV, robes, and slippers. Wi-Fi is free for one hour each day -- though guests say the signal is often weak -- and unlimited access can be purchased. A coffee machine is included in some rooms, while others may request one for a fee. Bathrooms also range in offerings: Some are small with a basic shower/tub combo, bidet, and free soap, while others are sleek and modern with rainfall showerheads, whirlpool tubs, vessel sinks, bath salts, and beautiful design.

Out of the Blue Capsis Elite Resort offers guests a variety of options for meals and relaxation, plus a range of entertainment options from the common to the unique. Breakfast is free, and guests may purchase the “Dine Around” package which includes meals in any of the a la carte restaurants. Options include a Mediterranean buffet, a traditional Greek restaurant, and Asian cuisine. Guests generally find the food acceptable, but not the gourmet experience one might expect for the price. 

There are five pools, though some are only available to guests staying in a particular section. Each has its own feel, but all are lovely and have free sunbeds with umbrellas. The private beach has a restaurant and bar, and water games are organized for kids and adults. Classic and Lifestyle guests have access to free sunbeds, while a separate section also has gazebos for Exclusive guests. On the other side of the peninsula, guests have direct access to the town’s public beach.

The kids’ club has a large indoor play space divided into rooms with entertainment appropriate for all ages and a separate space for teens. Also included are game rooms, a maze to explore, tree houses, and a playground. Kids up to 10 also have access to a large, on-site amusement park with a pool. For adults, there is a fabulous spa with a wide range of services and facilities, including massages, skin treatments, hydrotherapy, a sauna, and heated pool. The adjacent fitness room -- free or for a charge, depending on room -- offers additional services such as fitness classes, dietary programs, and personal trainers. Other options for entertainment include shopping, tennis and beach volleyball courts, and Escape Rooms where guests have a mystery to solve from clues and puzzles.