St. Constantin Hotel

Though it doesn't live up to its advertised five-star rating, St. Constantin is an attractive hotel that appeals evenly to couples and families with its lovely atmosphere and variety of features. The lobby is done in warm, neutral colors and a minimalist design; varying textures, including glossy tile, wood paneling, glass inserts, brick walls and columns, and an accent wall all bring interest to the room. Chocolate brown couches are spread out around the room and a few bright accent pillows bring in pops of color. This neutral-tone design carries into the restaurants, which have an understated, pleasant design. The grounds are picturesque with cobblestone walking streets -- complete with lampposts -- and local plant life clustered in planters and against the ivory buildings. There's a disco and some activities on-site, but the hotel -- and town, for that matter -- is largely quiet and relaxing.

St. Constantin Hotel is located in the quiet town of Gouves on the northern coast of Crete, a 20-minute drive east of Heraklion. The hotel is a bit south of the beach, surrounded by farmland and resorts. A three-minute walk will bring guests to the beach, where there is a sandy area with rentable loungers. A couple of markets and restaurants offer a change of pace from the hotel grounds. There is a local bus stop a 10-minute walk from the hotel, and free parking is available on-site for those with a car. 

It is a seven-minute drive to CretAquarium, with a wide variety of displays featuring local ocean life. Crete Golf Club and Acqua Plus offer fun entertainment, and are a 16-minute drive from the hotel. The historic ancient ruins of Knossos are a 21-minute drive away. Heraklion Airport is a 14-minute drive from the hotel. 

Standard rooms are spacious and contemporary, but simply decorated with just a small piece of artwork over the bed and sometimes a touch of color in the drapes and accent pillows. The desk, wardrobe, and sitting area are functional, but lack style. In front of the desk is a well-lit mirror and wall-mounted hairdryer. All rooms also have a satellite TV, a larger-than-average mini-fridge, and a kettle with coffee and tea. The room safe comes with an extra charge, as does Wi-Fi. The bathroom has a shower/tub combo, wall-mounted soap dispensers by the sink and tub, and additional free soaps.

Upgraded rooms are a bit more appealing with darker wood accents and better furniture. Some include a simple kitchenette. Guests have access to additional services in upgraded rooms, such as private parking, a welcome basket, and twice-daily maid service. Unfortunately, these all come with extra charges, so the upgrade only includes free slippers. 

This all-inclusive resort offers guests plenty to do and enough choice in meals for an easygoing vacation. The main pool is small with a small wading pool for kids. It sits in a pleasant, cobblestone courtyard shaded by palm trees and surrounded with picturesque buildings. The second pool is larger and gets more sun. Each pool has a bar and is surrounded by comfortable, free loungers. The small indoor pool also has a wading section and a few loungers. Next door is a small, worn gym, and a sauna that comes with a fee to use, as do the ping-pong and billiards tables. Guests enjoy the relaxing massages offered at the curtained outdoor tables and simple indoor space. The disco and movie theater are underwhelming, basic spaces. Kids can enjoy a fun playground with a nice variety of toys. 

Food at this hotel gets mixed reviews, with some guest enjoying the variety and flavor, while others are less impressed and look elsewhere for meal options. Most agree that the food is well-presented and the restaurant is kept clean. Buffet-style meals at the main restaurant are served in a large porch-like room with white wood beams and large windows, or on a pretty, shaded patio. Guests may dine for free, once per stay at the rooftop barbecue restaurant -- additional meals are charged. For a fee, Wi-Fi can be accessed throughout the hotel.