White Rock of Kos

5-Star? Questionable – Certainly Not Room 111 I have just returned from nine nights at White Rock of Kos and, having arrived with high expectations after reading the excellent reviews, unfortunately came home very disappointed. The positives: The staff are fantastic and genuinely want you to enjoy your stay. A special mention to Jenny and the dining team, who were incredibly friendly and attentive. The views across the bay are stunning, particularly from the restaurant and infinity pool. There were always plenty of comfortable sun loungers available, with no early-morning towel wars, and the adults-only environment makes it a peaceful place to relax. We stayed half-board à la carte and were pleased we did. The food was plentiful with enough choice to have something different each day. The resort is at the top of a very steep hill, so although the views are excellent, walking into the village isn't particularly convenient. I would recommend hiring a car if you want to explore or eat out regularly. The hillside location also means quite a trek between some rooms and the pool and restaurant. Something to consider if you have mobility issues, although golf buggies are available. The gym is disappointing, with fairly cheap and lightweight equipment, so don't expect much if you take your training seriously. The "spa" is essentially a massage room, although my €50 sports massage was good value. Now to Room 111 – the biggest disappointment of our holiday. Our room in the main building appeared to be one of the older rooms and was certainly not what I expected from a five-star resort. It was smaller than the room advertised by easyJet holidays, with mismatched furniture that was damaged, dented and stained. The hot tub had green staining and a visible green tide mark around the water level and, as far as we could tell, was never properly cleaned during our entire nine-night stay. The air conditioning leaked water onto the floor. Two days into our holiday, workmen entered our balcony area while we were at the pool and installed a new air-conditioning unit next to the patio doors and directly beside the bed. They left behind brick dust and mess across the fittings, which was never properly cleaned up during the remainder of our stay. I was told that the owner is developing another resort further down the road. Whether that has any bearing on the current property I cannot say, but Room 111 is clearly in need of investment and refurbishment. Overall, White Rock of Kos has some excellent staff, fantastic views and a lovely pool area, but our accommodation simply did not match the five-star rating or the expectations created when we booked. Perhaps the newer rooms offer the five-star experience reflected in other reviews. Unfortunately, Room 111 certainly didn't. At five-star prices, guests should expect five-star standards.

What can I say, absolutely fantastic hotel. It felt very luxe. From the moment we pulled up to the hotel and were greeted from the coach I knew it was going to be great. The staff could not have been nicer, from reception to waiting staff and cleaners. Everyone so friendly and kind and couldn't do more for you. We personally loved the food. Breakfast was buffet style and covered everything. Dinner was served from a menu and everything was cooked beautifully. The pool area has spectacular views of the sea and the loungers was the most comfy I've ever used. Our room was fantastic and spacious we upgraded to a hottub balcony with the best views. Double showers were a nice touch. The location is the only downside. It is on a massive hill. 10 mins to walk to the beach but on a steep dirt track. 45 mins to walk to the harbour. The hotel charge €10 per trip to take or pick you up at any time but I think it should be provided free but on an hourly schedule. Overall I will definitely return