"Tucked slightly away from the busier heart of the Grecotel Riviera Olympia complex, Ilia Palms offered a quieter base while still giving guests access to the extensive facilities and beautiful beachfront of the wider resort. From arrival, it felt different to many modern, high‑gloss properties: instead of a sleek, ultra‑contemporary lobby, you walked into a hotel with a distinctly retro, 70s‑style soul. The architecture, original furnishings and simple layout created a nostalgic, almost time‑capsule quality that many guests found charming, especially those who appreciate a sense of history.
The focus here was never on cutting‑edge design or ultra‑luxury finishes, but on generous spaces, a calming atmosphere and the benefit of being integrated into a much larger complex while keeping a more tranquil, self‑contained identity. A highlight was the quiet pool area, which felt sheltered from the livelier parts of the resort, with ample space for swimming and relaxing without the crowds.
However, it is important to acknowledge that Ilia Palms was ready for renovation. Over time, furnishings naturally showed wear and tear, and bathrooms in particular felt dated compared to more recently refurbished hotels. For guests willing to embrace its nostalgic character and accept that some elements were tired, Ilia Palms provided a peaceful, good‑value way to enjoy the full Riviera Olympia experience. For those seeking very modern interiors, one of the newer sister properties would be better"