This hotel stands alone as truly one of the most beautiful we've stayed in. Without the sterility of a five star resort, its truly impressive architecture and foyer design will somehow cast a spell. Our room was as close to the beach as you could get, and at night we slept to the sound of the waves. Our family room allowed us an enormous bed, and our two boys (6 and 3) a separate bed each in a separate section. Initially worried about privacy, it quickly became apparent that after such active days they slept the moment their heads hit the pillows.
The buffet-style restaurant which catered for our All Inclusive package was superb, with display cooking and excellent service for drinks. Staff were not naturally over-friendly though I must say, and at times we felt as though we were inconveniencing them. (Perhaps this can be expected of reasonably new tourism in any country?) The pool is second to none we've ever seen (and often stay in four and five star resorts). Not only freeform and generous in size, it offers shady sections with islands of trees/bushes. Animation team around the pool and at night time were motivational and seemed to be genuinely enjoying themnselves. Miniclub was well resourced, and while adequate, staff could have shown a little more genuine care and involvement. Gardens and paths were maintained immaculately, and lighting from our room to main restaurant complex beautiful at night. Biggest disappointment after arriving was that despite an impressive display of all cocktails on offer, only two were available as part of the all-inclusive package. Both used local fig and date liqueur, and while not unpleasant became tiresome. 'Camel' was made with the aforementioned spirits and lemon juice, while 'Sunset' was smoother with orange juice instead of the lemon. Crepes, fruit salad, ice-cream for the children, etc. etc. were readily available. Local taxis are very reasonable and we felt safe with them. We hired a car one day and drove to the neighbouring island of Djerba, and were more than satisfied to find that no other resort there matched up to the Odyssee Zarzis. The local camel ride was excellent - around the streets and down onto the beach - an hour is more than enough. Avoid the horse-riding that is on offer from the hotel - despite haggling still quoted £100 GBP for half an hour's ride for two adults and two children!!! All in all, a fabulous and relaxing holiday.