"We had a pleasant time at Sirios Village.
The Location was very good, not surrounded by large resorts but rather smaller hotels. Walking outside felt more local then other touristy locations which we were happy with. Tavernas off the main and side roads, large supermarket and several different beaches were walking distance. Bus stop is a short walk away. Ask for tips at reception, a very helpful lady explained what bus to take to a location also suggested by her.
We spent most of our time on the hotel grounds though, as we had two children who loved splashing in the pools and we had to bribe them to get out to explore the beaches :)
The pools were nice, good water temperatures. The only thing we missed little bit is an actual swimming pool as all the pools on site are suitable for water play rather than actual swimming. But it wasn't a dealbreaker..
There are different beaches within walking distance. We were recommended Golden Sand beach by our rep (it's a long beach nearest to Chania). We only saw it in the evening after dusk but it appears to be a long stretch of sand with Chania views and watersports. We will check it out next time.
We went to the beach nearest to our hotel, it is just a straight walk down through the hotel bungalows or on the side path behind the hotel shop and down the hill. It is nice clear very suitable for families. There are two smaller beaches too. Nice local playground in the park by the smallest beach.
The food was nice and fresh, more seasonal fruit could be offered though as we were less excited by melons after a few days and would have welcomed other options.
The free popcorn and snack area was very popular with our kids as was the ice cream machine :)
I read raving comments about the kids club but we struggled with that a little bit. I saw sessions going in the playground in the morning - arts and crafts which did seem sweet. There was a short disco for mini kids in early evening which toddlers seemed to enjoy. Our kids are slightly older now so didn't join in but the one thing they could participate in was the pinata smashing.
This didn't go down very well however as the young lady running the session was perhaps overwhelmed by the number of kids turning up for it and lost track of who had a turn. After us queueing to have a go for quite some time, she dismissed us and picked cute toddlers from behind us to come forward. When their mum pointed out we were also waiting and didn't have a go yet, the animator sent my daughter to the next queue because that one is for girls :)) At which point we lost interest and just went for dinner instead.
So yes. At few points we felt like aliens not quite fitting in but on the other hand, it suited us at that time. And the overall atmosphere of the resort was relaxed, not overwhelming with sounds and noises of different animations or music. We realised throughout the week that that is what we needed and didn't miss it. The evening entertainment was subtle, lovely and non intrusive. The saxophonist was very good and so were the circus people and the band.
Our room was a large family room located in the larger block just off the main block. 627 I think? First it felt like being 'left out' right at the corner of the hotel but it was a lovely room that worked for our situation perfectly. It has a large balcony, beautiful sea views and privacy.
Make sure you leave your do not disturb sign outside your door overnight as the cleaning ladies come quite early in the day and our kids were still sleeping when they first came :))
Our cleaner was lovely and understanding though, I can't remember her name now but we wanted thank her in person on the last day but unfortunately that's when a different person came.
The hotel itself is well kept, clean and full of hard working staff that were on their feet from early to late evening. They may have appeared too efficient sometimes, circling your tables hunting for finished plates :)
This amused us but also it's understandable when you have a busy kitchen and so many guests and needing to get ready for the next buffet hours.
The bar was OK, we appreciated the water on tap. There were also a couple of drinking water fountains where you could refill your water bottles so to the families complaining about water in their reviews - our flask like refillable bottles worked perfectly and you don't need to keep them in the fridge.
Another previous comment I'd to question is the downstairs bathrooms. These are not for a private use as they are cubicle toilets. There is a shower you can have your privacy in but I happened to walk in on a naked lady by the sinks. While I understand the bathrooms are used when you are out of your rooms on the last day, they are also toilets for other guests use so please do not put a lock on the whole room :)
Summary:
Even after doubting my choice of a hotel and location at the start of the week, I changed my mind throughout the holidays. We might be returning, purely for the lovely set out hotel grounds, some of the staff positive attitude, location and overall quieter vibe. It's a great base for exploring the island too, which we are hoping to do next time.
We found ourselves in an unfortunate unexpected situation midway through holidays but the senior reception lady has very efficiently helped us with extended check out on our last day.
And another lovely receptionist has helped with suggestions for things to do."
