The first thing that struck me as I arrived in Rhodes was the light — that warm, honey-gold glow that seems to pour over everything, making even the simplest landscapes feel cinematic. The road from Rhodes Town to Kolymbia where SENTIDO Port Royal is situated winds past sleepy villages, olive groves, and the glittering Aegean on the horizon. I rolled down the window, breathed in the salty air mixed with wild thyme, and instantly knew I was somewhere special.
Rhodes, the island of Helios, feels like summer that never ends. Even in October, the temperature lingers around 24°C, the sea is warm, and the sunsets are a daily performance in pink and orange. It’s the kind of place that invites you to slow down — to forget time and simply be.
Everywhere I turned, there was history whispering in the wind. From the medieval streets of Rhodes Old Town to the hilltop ruins scattered across the island, you can almost feel the weight of centuries here — Greek, Byzantine, Ottoman, and Venetian influences layered like delicate brushstrokes on an ancient canvas. And then there are the beaches: wide, soft ribbons of sand and pebble bays where the water is so clear you can see your shadow move along the seabed.
But what truly captured me on this trip was my stay at SENTIDO Port Royal Villas & Spa, a five-star, adults-only resort that feels like it was built for peace seekers. Nestled along the calm bay of Kolymbia, the hotel blends perfectly into its surroundings — low, elegant buildings framed by palms and olive trees, all leading down to the blue expanse of the sea.
When I stepped out of the car, I was greeted with a cold towel, a glass of prosecco, and that quiet, effortless service that instantly makes you exhale. The lobby was open and filled with light — cream tones, natural wood, and the sound of fountains trickling nearby. It wasn’t just luxury; it was serenity designed with intention.
My room was a dream. I stayed in one of their Deluxe Bungalows with a private pool and sea view, and I swear it was impossible not to fall in love with it. Every detail was soft and calming — crisp white linens, smooth marble floors, huge sliding glass doors that opened straight onto my terrace. Each morning I had breakfast there, watching the sea shimmer while sipping my coffee in complete silence. For me, that’s the definition of bliss.
And then there’s the pool — the pool. Locals call it the “Stars Pool”, and it’s honestly as magical as it sounds. By day, it’s a vast expanse of glittering turquoise water; by night, it transforms, glowing under the lights like a constellation scattered across the surface. People actually come to SENTIDO Port Royal just to take a photo here — and I completely understand why. Floating there at sunset felt surreal, as if the sky and water melted into one.
The resort operates on an all-inclusive system, but it’s far from ordinary. The food is exceptional — fresh, creative, and full of variety. The main restaurant serves Mediterranean and international dishes that change daily, but it never feels repetitive or mass-produced. Everything tastes like it was made with care, from the grilled octopus drizzled with olive oil to the perfectly crisp Greek salads bursting with local tomatoes.
One evening, I dined at the Italian restaurant, and it was easily one of the highlights of my stay. It felt intimate, romantic, and the menu — oh, the menu! Fresh pasta, truffle risotto, seafood so delicate it melted in the mouth. There were also exclusive à la carte dishes you could order for a small supplement — I went for a lobster ravioli in saffron cream, and it was exquisite. Speaking of lobster, one night the resort hosted its famous Lobster Night — a full culinary event dedicated to the sea. It felt more like dining at a Michelin-starred restaurant than an all-inclusive resort.
When I wasn’t eating (which was rare), I spent hours in the spa, and honestly, it might be one of the best I’ve experienced in Greece. The design is soothing and elegant — dim lights, natural stone, a subtle scent of jasmine and eucalyptus in the air. I tried a signature full-body massage with essential oils and a deep-cleansing facial, both done by therapists who clearly knew their craft. The result? My skin glowed, and my body felt completely renewed.
For those who prefer to balance indulgence with activity, there’s also a modern fitness center and daily fitness & yoga activities in SENTIDO Port Royal. I loved sneaking in a short morning workout before heading to the beach. They offer everything from yoga mats to weight machines — but honestly, even a simple walk along Kolymbia’s shoreline feels like therapy.
On my last evening, I sat by the Stars Pool again, watching the water reflect the fading sky. The air was warm, the cicadas sang in the distance, and I remember thinking how rare it is to find a place that balances beauty and soul so perfectly. SENTIDO Port Royal isn’t just a hotel — it’s a mood, a rhythm, a feeling of being entirely at peace with the world.
As I packed to leave, I caught myself already planning a return. Because some places you visit once, and some, like this one, stay quietly in your heart, calling you back again and again.
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