SunConnect Kolymbia Star

It is all about the outdoors at the Hotel Kolymbia Star's expansive complex, and the pools take center stage. There are six pools altogether, three of which are aimed at children and where daytime kids' club activities are sometimes held; of the other three pools, one is set apart for adults, one is for adults but has a designated kids' area, and the third is perfect for parents who want to swim with or keep an eye on their children. While the central pools can be lively, the second adult pool, known as the Relaxing Pool, is a bit shadier and quieter, with mountain views.

Aside from the pools, the common areas of the hotel are modestly designed. The lobby sitting area, with its black sofas and colorful mod furnishings, doesn't attract much socializing, as the grassy lawns and many activities are more appealing. Every evening, there's a show on the outdoor stage, including dance and music performances.

A six-minute walk from the nearest rocky beach, the hotel sits on the edge of the picturesque Tsampika Psili forest, whose hiking trails are a popular local excursion. There's a bus stop right outside the hotel to take you into the town of Rhodes, though it's worth noting that the historic town of Rhodes, with historical walking tours and ancient ruins, is a 36-minute drive away. A well-stocked market is around the corner from the hotel. Lindos, popular for its shopping and nightlife scene, is 34 minutes by car. The airport is 41 minutes away. The sandy beaches of Tsampika are a 13-minute drive from the hotel.

Rooms are filled with simple, mostly white decorations with an Ikea flavor, that are only accentuated by the few pops of color. Most rooms have flat-screen TVs and mini-fridges, although some rooms have old tube televisions and outdated telephones. Walls are mostly bare and feel unfinished, lending a spartan feel to the rooms, but the cleanliness is notable. Bathrooms are standard with combination shower-tubs and basic fixtures. All rooms have balconies, which have casual patio furniture and, from many, views of the mountainside -- some have sea views. Air-conditioning is available during select months in the summer.

The hotel is geared toward families, with an outdoor kids’ club, located next to a playground and a grassy field for organized games. Outdoor activities like tennis, mini-golf, volleyball, air hockey, darts, and ping-pong are all available for free. Of the six pools, three are aimed at children, including a heart-shaped shallow pool, entertainment pool with water slides, and one with a water playground and surrounding fountains.

As for dining options, there are two casual bars and two restaurants. The main restaurant -- bright, with large windows and white chairs -- has a buffet and white-tablecloth seating, and the specials change nightly. The pool bar has colorful bar stools and an ice cream vendor. The snack bar -- with poolside and indoor seating -- is stylish and well-lit, and serves food a la carte. The main bar is modern with beige bar stools. There's an all-inclusive rate option, but it does not include snacks like ice cream by the pool. Note that Wi-Fi is free in the lobby, but not in the rooms, and the computers in the business center cost to use. Parking is also free.