If you're on the hunt for the perfect getaway in Crete, let me tell you about a hidden gem that will exceed your expectations: Harmony Rethymno Beach

Now, I know what you're thinking - how could this be any different from the countless other options out there? Well, I’m here to share my experience and make a case for why this hotel should be at the top of your list for a lower-cost Greek getaway.

Firstly, let's address the elephant in the room: online reviews. I’ll be honest, some of the reviews I stumbled upon were less than flattering, and I almost let them sway my decision. But I’m so glad I didn't because Harmony Rethymno Beach turned out to be an absolute delight from start to finish. It actually made me quite cross to think people had gone out of their way to spread negativity on a place that has so much going for it - The joys of the internet, eh!

We have some exciting trips coming up so follow me on @MotherOfGrom on Instagram to keep up with our adventures and watch reels of our time at Harmony Rethymno Beach Hotel.

We booked our stay through TUI for a week of all-inclusive luxury, and I can't rave enough about our experience. The staff at this hotel are a ray of sunshine. They’re not just friendly - they're genuinely joyful, and their positive energy is infectious. Every corner of the hotel was spotless, thanks to the hardworking housekeeping team who maintained impeccable cleanliness in some pretty hot conditions.

The hotel itself is a stunning beachfront property, with a beautiful pebble beach right at your doorstep. The beach is a charming mix of pebbles and clear blue water, with a convenient walkway leading out to the sea. This walkway lets you leave your shoes behind, saving your feet from the discomfort of the pebbles. If you're into snorkeling, take your gear with you - there’s lots to explore with plenty of fish and crabs. Just be cautious of the sea urchins that were in the water in mass; water shoes are a must for a worry-free swim.

Now, let’s talk about the food. As a vegan, I was thrilled to find that Harmony Rethymno Beach had plenty of options for me. The fresh salad bar, pasta with rich tomato sauces, and endless loaves of freshly baked bread were delicious. While the dessert options might not cater to a vegan diet, there were still plenty of choices of fresh fruit and I could happily enjoy my post-meal coffee, as the restaurant had almond or oat milk available. One of the standout aspects of our stay was the dining experience. The restaurant runs like clockwork, with everything always fresh and beautifully presented. Special shoutout to the hotel manager Stelios and the waitress Maya, who made a significant impact with her warmth and dedication. She went above and beyond to ensure that everyone felt welcome and special, especially the kids and always with a huge smile on her face.

A word of caution if you’re booking through TUI: there was a mix-up with our room arrangement, and we were initially put in separate rooms. However, the hotel’s reservations team quickly resolved this. You can reach them at reservations.harmonyrethymno@concepthtls.com. They kindly sorted us out with a family room, and to be fully transparent, the family room was later upgraded to a private pool room for the purpose of this review. A further shoutout to the amazingly friendly (and all knowledgable) hotel receptionist Evangelia. Although we didn’t use the private pool much (the main pool and the kids’ new friends kept us busy), the sunset views from our balcony were absolutely breathtaking. Evangelia on the front desk was the sweetest lady!

The bar staff also deserve a mention. They were incredibly friendly and made the experience enjoyable. A little observation: while the cocktails and beers were delicious, I couldn’t help but wonder if they were a bit light on the alcohol. Maybe it’s a strategy to keep everyone hydrated and happy while indulging in the hotel’s all-inclusive offerings!

To top it all off, the hotel hosts themed nights like Oriental and Greek nights, complete with local entertainers who involve guests in their lively shows. These events added a touch of cultural immersion and were a blast for everyone involved.

For those wanting to explore beyond the hotel, a visit to the town of Rethymno is a must. Just a short and inexpensive bus ride away, Rethymno is charming with its handmade stores, Greek gifts, and a lively market on Thursdays. It’s a great place to pick up souvenirs and experience local culture.

In conclusion, Harmony Rethymno Beach is a place I highly recommend. The combination of excellent service, a pristine environment, delicious food, and memorable experiences make it a standout choice. We left with new friends and a treasure trove of happy memories. If you have any questions or need more details, feel free to reach out to me on Instagram at @MotherOfGrom. I’m always happy to share more about this fantastic spot!

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Harmony Rethymno Beach in Rethymnon | TUI.co.uk

Instragram: @harmony_rethymno_beach_ hotel