Perched above the deep blue Aegean on the quiet Agios Fokas coastline, Michelangelo Resort & Spa is one of Kos Island’s most visually striking five star properties. Its tiered, whitewashed buildings tumble down a hillside toward a private pebble beach, anchored by a showpiece infinity pool that seems to melt into the sea.
Guests come for the all inclusive simplicity, the spa and the views across to Turkey, but they stay for the laid back, grown up atmosphere and consistently warm service. This in depth review looks at what Michelangelo does best, where it falls short, and which types of travelers will get the most from a stay here.
Location & First Impressions
Michelangelo Resort & Spa sits on the southeast side of Kos near Agios Fokas, about 7 to 8 kilometers from Kos Town and roughly 32 kilometers from Kos International Airport. The setting feels nicely removed from the island’s busiest strips, with open sea on one side and gently sloping hills on the other. That sense of escape is a major part of the resort’s appeal, especially for travelers seeking a more tranquil base than you will find in the heart of Kos Town or along the busiest resort beaches.
Arrival is via a sweeping driveway that delivers you to a glass fronted lobby and terrace looking straight out to the water. First impressions are dominated by light and views. Floor to ceiling windows frame the Aegean, and the design favors clean lines and a palette of whites, creams and blues that read as contemporary Mediterranean rather than ostentatious luxury. The architecture makes good use of the hillside, with layered sun decks, pools and gardens cascading down toward the beach.
Michelangelo was originally built in 2009 and has undergone a full renovation completed in 2023, which is evident in public spaces and many room categories. Furnishings feel fresher than earlier review photos might suggest, and there is a more unified design language across the property. The overall mood is upscale but relaxed, attracting a mix of couples, honeymooners and European families rather than party focused crowds.
One important first impression that continues throughout a stay is the terrain. The resort is spread across roughly 10 acres of hillside, connected by steps and sloping paths. The views this creates are spectacular, but guests with mobility issues, small children in strollers or anyone who dislikes climbing stairs should consider this carefully before booking.
Rooms & Suites
Michelangelo offers a wide range of room types, from entry level doubles with garden views to premium sea front rooms and junior suites. All feature private furnished balconies or terraces, many angled toward the sea. The best views are from the higher categories closest to the water and the infinity pool, where balconies look straight out across the Aegean toward the Turkish coast.
Following the renovation, rooms lean into a soft, contemporary aesthetic. Expect neutral tones, light woods, and simple lines, with accents in mauve, beige or sea blue. Floors are typically tiled, which keeps spaces cool in the summer heat. Standard amenities include air conditioning, flat screen televisions, safes, minibars or mini fridges, and tea and coffee making facilities. Bathrooms generally have shower and tub combinations, hairdryers and branded toiletries, with some updated units featuring walk in showers.
Space and layout improve noticeably as you move up the categories. Premium and sea front rooms often feel airier, with more generous balconies and better sight lines toward the water. Junior suites add seating areas or sofa beds for families, and some units are configured to accommodate two adults and one or two children comfortably. Soundproofing is broadly solid for a large resort, though, as with many Mediterranean properties, doors and balcony areas can transmit hallway and outdoor noise at busy times.
On the downside, not every room has the same level of recent updating, and in some blocks you may still notice slightly older color schemes or fittings that feel less sharp than the public areas. A portion of returning guests and recent reviewers mention that while they find rooms clean and comfortable, decor in certain categories does not quite match the wow factor of the pools and outdoor spaces. If modern design is a priority, it is worth requesting a renovated or premium sea view room at the time of booking, even if that carries a supplement.
Pools, Beach & Outdoor Spaces
The aquatic centerpiece of Michelangelo Resort & Spa is its enormous infinity-edge pool, one of the most photographed pools on Kos. It stretches along the cliff edge with unobstructed views over the open sea, creating a dramatic horizon line that is especially beautiful at sunrise and sunset. A swim up bar serves drinks throughout the day, and surrounding decks are lined with loungers, umbrellas and a few shaded seating areas.
In addition to the signature infinity pool, the resort has other outdoor pools on different levels, including a separate children’s pool. This multi tiered layout spreads guests out to some degree, though in high summer the infinity pool area in particular can feel very busy and sunbeds may be quickly claimed in peak hours. Multiple recent guest reviews note that, even when the pools are crowded, the beach remains a reliable place to find available loungers.
Down at sea level, a private shingle and pebble beach offers clear, calm water and classic blue and white sun loungers beneath umbrellas. Wooden walkways help guests navigate the pebbles, and the water clarity appeals to swimmers. The beach atmosphere is quieter than the main pool terrace, and a beach bar provides drinks and light snacks. Families should keep in mind that pebbles can be tough on younger feet, so water shoes are a smart addition to your packing list.
Across the property, manicured gardens with olive trees, palms and flowering shrubs create leafy pockets of shade and color between buildings. These landscaped areas, together with numerous terraces and quiet corners, give guests space to escape the busier hubs. That said, the resort’s hillside design means that reaching the beach from a room near reception, or returning uphill after a swim, can involve a fair number of steps. There are ramps and paths, but steps remain an unavoidable part of the experience.
Dining, Bars & All Inclusive Experience
Michelangelo’s dining scene is anchored by David’s Hall, the main buffet restaurant located near the lobby level. It serves a substantial American style breakfast, followed by Mediterranean and international buffets at lunch and dinner. Rotating theme nights, such as Greek, Italian, Asian and seafood focused evenings, add some variety across a week long stay. Guests consistently praise the breadth of choice and the freshness of salads and cold options, while noting that hot dishes can occasionally feel repetitive, particularly for those on longer stays.
Two à la carte venues complement the main buffet. Mediterraneo is positioned just above the infinity pool and faces the sea, offering an à la carte champagne breakfast and romantic dinners built around Greek and Mediterranean flavors. Soya Asian Fusion, next to the infinity pool area, introduces a menu of contemporary Asian dishes for dinner. For all inclusive guests, stays of at least seven nights typically include at least one complimentary dinner at each à la carte restaurant, subject to reservation and availability. Smart casual dress codes apply in the evenings, with beachwear and wet clothing not permitted.
Bars are thoughtfully spread around the resort. In addition to the swim up bar at the infinity pool, there is a lobby bar with expansive sea views and more of a lounge atmosphere, plus a beach bar for drinks close to the water. Drinks selections for all inclusive guests cover local wines, beers, basic spirits, and soft drinks, with premium labels and certain cocktails often available at a surcharge. Recent guest feedback suggests that bar service remains friendly and efficient even at busy times, though queues can form around sunset and post dinner when many guests congregate in the same spaces.
Board options commonly include half board, full board and all inclusive packages. Half board guests typically take breakfast and dinner in the buffet restaurant, sometimes with flexibility to swap dinner for lunch depending on the chosen package and season. Travelers who plan to explore Kos Town or dine at local tavernas several evenings may find half board a better fit, while those who want a contained resort experience will get more value from all inclusive. Across both 2024 and 2025 reviews, the general consensus is that food quality is good to very good for a large resort, though not at the level of a dedicated fine dining hotel.
Spa, Wellness & Activities
The Therme Spa at Michelangelo is designed as a tranquil counterpoint to the resort’s lively pool decks. Facilities include an indoor heated pool with hydromassage, a sauna and steam room, relaxation areas and several treatment rooms. A small but well equipped fitness center offers cardio machines and basic strength equipment, and there is also a multi use sports court, tennis court and mini football facilities, creating a rounded wellness offering for guests who want to stay active.
Treatments at the spa range from classic massages and facials to body rituals and beauty services, including a hair salon. The indoor pool and thermal facilities are a welcome option on cooler or windier days, and can feel especially indulgent outside the peak summer months when the main draw is sun and sea. Many guests report positive experiences with both the quality of treatments and the general ambiance of the spa.
It is worth noting that some recent visitors have highlighted occasional issues with spa administration, including appointment mix ups and limited flexibility in resolving scheduling errors on the day of treatment. These appear to be exceptions rather than the norm, but they underscore the importance of confirming bookings in advance at the spa desk and rechecking times a day before your treatment. Given the resort’s overall high service marks, these hiccups are more noticeable, though they do not define the typical experience.
Beyond the spa, Michelangelo organizes a program of light entertainment and activities, with options that can include tennis, table tennis, fitness classes and evening shows or live music. The animation team tends to keep things relatively low key compared to more boisterous all inclusive resorts, which suits the property’s romantic leaning atmosphere. Guests looking for high energy daytime pool games and loud nightly shows may find the pace subdued, while those who prefer gentle music and the option to join or simply watch from the sidelines will likely appreciate the balance.
Service, Atmosphere & Guest Profile
Across multiple recent review platforms, service is one of Michelangelo’s strongest points. Guests frequently praise staff at reception, housekeeping, bars and restaurants for their friendliness, professionalism and willingness to accommodate special requests. From efficient check in after late night flights to attentive support for families with children, the human element receives consistently high marks and often features prominently in repeat guest feedback.
The overall atmosphere is that of a relaxed, slightly upscale beach resort that manages to cater both to couples and to families without feeling dominated by either group. During school holiday periods, families with children are more prominent, particularly around the children’s pool and at the buffet restaurant during peak hours. Outside of those times, the mood skews more toward couples, including honeymooners and anniversary travelers drawn by the infinity pool views and the romantic terrace settings.
Multilingual staff reflect the resort’s largely European clientele, with many guests arriving from the United Kingdom, Germany, Switzerland, the Netherlands, Israel and other markets. English is widely spoken, and information boards and menus are generally presented in multiple languages. The resort’s size means it can feel lively during high season, but because accommodations and amenities are spread across the hillside, it is usually possible to find quieter corners for reading or an undisturbed drink.
Noise levels at night are generally moderate for a resort of this scale. Evening entertainment is present but not excessive, and many guests retire by midnight. Those seeking the nightlife of Kos Town will find bars and clubs within a 10 to 15 minute drive or convenient bus ride, allowing visitors to dip into the island’s party scene while returning to a calmer base.
Pros, Cons & Who It Is Best For
Every resort has trade offs, and understanding Michelangelo’s strengths and weaknesses will help you decide if it is the right fit for your trip. On the positive side, the property’s clifftop setting and infinity pool are genuinely standout features on Kos. Views from terraces, pools and many rooms are breathtaking, and the combination of sea, sky and tiered architecture creates a dramatic backdrop that photographs beautifully. The private beach, clear water and multiple pool areas add to the resort’s appeal for sun seekers.
Service levels are another major plus. Recent guests consistently describe staff as warm, proactive and solution oriented, noting helpfulness at check in and check out, in restaurants and bars and throughout the resort. The 2023 renovation of public areas and many rooms means common spaces feel fresh, and amenities such as the spa, sports courts, children’s facilities and spread of bars and restaurants provide enough variety to keep most guests content for a week or more without needing to leave the property daily.
On the downside, the hillside layout and large number of steps can be challenging. Travelers with mobility issues, very young children in strollers or anyone who prefers a flat resort should think carefully before booking. While the renovation has updated much of the resort, some room categories are still occasionally described as slightly dated in comparison with the glamorous pool areas, so travelers particularly sensitive to interior design should consider booking a higher category or recently refurbished room. In peak season, the infinity pool area can feel crowded and sunbed reservation behavior is sometimes mentioned in reviews, a common challenge at popular Mediterranean resorts.
Michelangelo is best suited to couples and friends seeking a visually impressive, full service resort with strong all inclusive or half board options and easy access to, but not in the middle of, Kos Town. It also works very well for families who want resort style facilities – including kids’ pools, a kids’ club and evening entertainment – without sacrificing a certain level of style. Travelers whose top priorities are walk out sandy beaches, extreme nightlife or absolute mobility ease may be better served by properties closer to Kos Town center or along flatter, sandier stretches of coast.
Practicalities, Pricing & How to Get the Most Value
Michelangelo Resort & Spa operates seasonally, with the main season typically running from spring through late autumn. Rates vary substantially depending on month, room category and board basis. All inclusive packages obviously carry higher nightly rates than bed and breakfast or half board, but can represent good value for guests planning to spend most days on property. Families, in particular, may find that budgeting is easier with meals and most drinks bundled into one upfront cost.
To maximize value, it is worth comparing the price difference between half board and all inclusive against your likely off site plans. If you expect to explore Kos Town several nights, eat at local tavernas or rent a car to tour the island, half board may make more financial sense. On the other hand, if your goal is to spend as many days as possible around the infinity pool and beach without thinking about restaurant checks, the convenience of an all inclusive stay will be compelling.
Transport connections are straightforward. The airport is around a 40 to 45 minute drive, depending on traffic and route, and the resort can be reached by pre arranged transfer, taxi or rental car. A local bus stops near the hotel and connects to Kos Town in roughly 10 to 15 minutes, making it easy to visit the harbor, old town, shops and restaurants without a car. Taxis are also readily available, with fares typically reflecting the short distance to town.
Booking strategies that can improve your stay include requesting sea view or premium rooms if views are a priority, checking spa appointment availability early in your trip, and making à la carte restaurant reservations soon after arrival, particularly during July and August. Bringing water shoes for the pebble beach and being realistic about the number of steps involved will help set expectations and ensure that the resort’s many strengths are front and center during your stay.
The Takeaway
Michelangelo Resort & Spa is, above all, about its setting and its views. The vast infinity pool appears to pour directly into the Aegean, the private beach sits framed by headlands, and terraces at every level look across to the distant Turkish coast. Combined with thoughtful service, a solid all inclusive program, a recently refreshed look and a good range of facilities, the resort earns its reputation as one of the more memorable five star options on Kos.
It is not perfect. The steps will be a deal breaker for some, certain room categories still lag behind the public spaces in terms of design polish, and guests in peak season must be prepared for busy pool decks and the occasional challenge of securing prime sunbeds. Yet for many travelers – especially couples and families who value views, atmosphere and convenience over absolute cutting edge luxury – these drawbacks are outweighed by the overall experience.
If your ideal Kos holiday involves waking to sea views, lingering over breakfast terraces, splitting your days between an iconic infinity pool and a clear water beach, and dipping in and out of nearby Kos Town rather than staying in the thick of it, Michelangelo Resort & Spa is an excellent candidate. With realistic expectations about the resort’s hillside layout and a little planning around dining and spa bookings, it can deliver the kind of sunsoaked, horizon filled stay that many visitors to the Greek islands have in mind.
FAQ
Q1. Is Michelangelo Resort & Spa suitable for families with children?
Yes. The resort offers family friendly facilities including a children’s pool, kids’ club, mini football and other activities, and many room types can accommodate families. However, parents should be mindful of the number of steps around the property and the pebble beach when traveling with very young children.
Q2. How far is the resort from Kos Town and the airport?
The resort is roughly 7 to 8 kilometers from Kos Town, usually a 10 to 15 minute drive or bus ride, and about 32 kilometers from Kos International Airport, which typically translates to around 40 to 45 minutes by car or transfer.
Q3. What board options are available and is all inclusive worth it?
Guests can usually choose from bed and breakfast, half board, full board and all inclusive packages. All inclusive tends to be most worthwhile for travelers planning to spend most days on site, while half board may be more economical for those who want to dine out in Kos Town or explore the island regularly.
Q4. Are the pools and beach sandy or pebbly?
The main outdoor pools, including the iconic infinity pool, are standard tiled hotel pools with sun decks and loungers. The private beach below the resort is primarily shingle and pebbles, with very clear water. Many guests recommend bringing water shoes for added comfort when entering the sea.
Q5. Is the resort accessible for guests with mobility issues?
The hillside layout means there are many steps and slopes throughout the property, especially between higher level rooms, the infinity pool and the beach. While there are paths and some ramped areas, guests with significant mobility concerns may find the terrain challenging and should discuss specific needs with the hotel before booking.
Q6. What is the dress code for restaurants, especially in the evening?
The resort generally follows a smart casual dress code for dinner. Beachwear and wet clothing are not permitted in the restaurants in the evening, and guests are expected to wear appropriate attire such as dresses, skirts, trousers or smart shorts and shirts or blouses.
Q7. Do all rooms have sea views?
No. While many rooms offer full or partial sea views, entry level categories may face the gardens or inner areas of the resort. Guests who prioritize views should book a sea view or sea front room and confirm the view type when reserving.
Q8. Is there entertainment in the evenings and is the resort noisy at night?
The resort offers evening entertainment such as live music, themed nights and shows, but the overall atmosphere is relatively low key compared with some all inclusive properties. Most guests find noise levels manageable, with activity typically winding down by around midnight, although sound can carry to rooms closer to entertainment venues.
Q9. How is the food quality and variety at Michelangelo?
Guest feedback indicates that food quality is good to very good for a large resort, with plentiful buffets at the main restaurant and additional variety at the à la carte Mediterraneo and Soya Asian Fusion venues. Breakfast is widely praised, while some guests on longer stays note that buffet options can become somewhat repetitive over time.
Q10. Who is Michelangelo Resort & Spa best for?
The resort is particularly well suited to couples, honeymooners and families seeking a stylish yet relaxed base with strong views, multiple pools, a private beach and convenient access to Kos Town. It is a strong choice for travelers who value scenery and an all in one resort experience, and a less ideal option for those who require flat terrain, a wide sandy beach or a highly party oriented atmosphere.