Michelangelo Resort and Spa

Opened in 2009 on 45 acres of lovely grounds, this four-pearl resort offers a relaxing getaway for those seeking a dose of sun and beach time. Gorgeous views of the sea unfurl all around, perhaps the most stunning of which can be admired from the large infinity-edge pool. Clean-lined modern architecture reveals contemporary interiors, though decor is fairly bland and chainlike. The highlight here is the scenic location, and most of the hotel's public spaces do a good job in showcasing the sea views. 

The resort is composed of several buildings scattered around the beachfront property. Grounds are filled with manicured lawns studded with olive trees, palms, and flowering bushes, and there are plenty of spaces to relax in outdoors, be it around one of the pools or on the hotel's own private beach. The hotel is on a hill, however, so there are lots of steps to navigate, which might pose problems for those with mobility issues. Guests here are a mix of couples and families with kids -- mainly Europeans -- and the hotel does a good job at catering to both. 

Set on extensive beachfront grounds on the island of Kos, the hotel is located in the Agios Fokas Psalidi area. There's not much to see or do in the immediate neighborhood. The town of Kos can be reached in about 15 minutes by car (or the local bus that stops right outside of the hotel), where guests will find restaurants, bars, and shops. Area attractions include Neratzia Castle (12-minute drive) and the Ancient Agora ruins (15-minute drive), while the Embros therme springs are a seven-minute drive from the hotel. Kos Island International Airport is a 35-minute drive away. The port of Kos, for ferry service to other Greek islands and Bodrum, is 13 minutes away.

Rooms here are clean and pleasant, cloaked entirely in mauve. Floral-patterned accent wallpapered walls, armchairs, curtains, and bed skirts are all a variation of mauve, and are paired with cream tile floors that match the sleek and simple furniture. All rooms open onto private furnished balconies, some with beautiful sea views. Junior Suites add sitting areas with sofa beds.

Standard amenities include air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs, coffee- and tea-making facilities, safes, and free Wi-Fi. Bathrooms are fairly standard, covered in cream and beige tiling, and equipped with shower/tub combos. They also include magnifying mirrors, hairdryers, and toiletries.

Features at Michelangelo Resort and Spa are varied. The hotel has a private pebble beach with wooden walkways that lead to umbrella-shaded loungers. Guests can also relax around one of three outdoor pools and hot tubs, all surrounded by sunbeds and umbrellas. The massive infinity pool is a guest favorite, offering stunning views over the sea, plus there's a kids' pool. A heated indoor pool can be found in the spa area, which also includes a sauna, steam room, and three treatment rooms, as well as a beauty and hair salon. The spa area is also home to a fitness room equipped with a handful of machines, plus there's a multi-use sports court on-site, as well as a mini soccer field. 

There are two restaurants on-site: a buffet option that's open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and an open-air poolside restaurant that serves buffet-style breakfasts and Greek and Mediterranean fare for lunch and dinner. Half-board, full-board, and all-inclusive rates are available, as is room service. There are four bars on-site, including a swim-up bar and beach bars.

Other amenities include a mini-market, kids' club, and babysitting services. There's a conference room on-site that can accommodate up to 200 people. The hotel can host various events, including weddings. Nightly entertainment includes performances, live music, and themed nights. Wi-Fi is free throughout.