The Athina Palace is located on a steep hill by the sea, offering breathtaking views throughout the property and creating a relaxed atmosphere. The modern architecture includes several village-like buildings painted in pink, yellow, tan, and white. The multiple levels mean many, many stairs, so stroller-aged children and persons with limited mobility should look elsewhere. The grounds are well-maintained with groomed plants and stone walls. A striking marble staircase entrance leads to the large lobby with patterned marble floors and a wood-accented reception desk. Especially in high season, the hotel can be full and bustling with both families and couples on vacation, creating lots of noise.

One thing all guests of the Athina Palace can agree on is that the views throughout the property are stunning. The hotel is situated on a steep hill in Mades, overlooking the sea and surrounding natural hillsides. It's a 23-minute drive southeast to the airport in Heraklion, the capital of Crete. Since parking is free, guests with cars can explore surrounding areas like the town of Agia Pelagia, a 14-minute drive northwest. The popular and historical Palace of Knossos is under a 30-minute drive southeast.

The 355 guest rooms at the Athina Palace range from small Promo Double Rooms to VIP Master Suites. The units are spread out throughout the property, with either sea or land views; rooms in the 100s are furthest from the main facilities and can be a bit of a hike. Spaces have either tile or wood flooring, Ikea-like wooden furniture, and earth-tone motifs. Most double beds are actually two twin beds pushed together and guests have complained of them being too firm. A vase with a fresh flower and prints like Van Gogh's "Sunflowers" are welcome touches, as is the free bottle of wine on arrival. All rooms have a mini-fridge, flat-screen TV, furnished balcony or terrace, and shower/tub combo -- but toiletries are scarce. Suites have spacious living and dining room areas, in addition to coffee/tea facilities. Note that rooms overlooking the pool can be noisy.

The private beach on the property is somewhat small and narrow, but the clear sea water is ideal for snorkeling. Lounge chairs and umbrellas are provided. A shuttle is available to take guests to and from the beach area. The resort also has an active pool with a whirlpool, a separate children's pool, and two relaxation pools. Guests have complained that the relaxation pools aren't monitored and can be lively and loud from music and playful children. An on-site spa offers a variety of services. A spacious but rather bare gym is available, as is a heated indoor pool during certain months.

For the all-inclusive option, guests can dine at the Zeus Main Theme Restaurant, where an ample buffet spread is served. The a la carte Hera Restaurant has panoramic windows with lovely views and outdoor seating. Guests can get drinks at the Poseidon Beach Bar, Artemis or Ermis pool bars, and Dionysus Lobby Bar, but even those with the all-inclusive package have to pay for their drinks after 11:00 p.m. A kids’ club and limited animation programs are offered for families, while a hair salon, jewelry store, and mini-market are also on-site.