An evergreen holiday haunt that’s been a hit with British tourists since the 1970s, Corfu has managed to retain its charm and cater to a range of different travellers; whether you’ve come to party, switch off at a high-end all-inclusive, or get off the beaten track and discover the ancient charm held within the shores of this Ionian island. Aim for the north if you prefer a quieter, more authentic Corfu and stay in the south for lively beach resorts, waterparks and nightlife. Corfu Town – the island’s capital – displays the island’s past, with a 15th-century fortress, winding cobblestone streets and pastel-coloured Venetian-style architecture.
Grecotel’s LUXME Daphnila Bay
Grecotel’s LUXME Daphnila Bay is set on the exclusive Kommeno peninsula, a standout amongst Mediterranean resort developments. This resort boasts a prime spot overlooking the tranquil Dassia Bay, surrounded by fragrant olive, cypress, and pine trees. One of its major attractions is the protected sandy beach, offering year-round swimming without the need for umbrellas, thanks to the natural shade provided by tree-lined lawns. Guests stay in a selection of accommodation types; from guest rooms, suites and bungalow-style villas, tucked among the lush gardens and towering trees.
A sports enthusiast’s paradise, the resort features seven tennis courts and a padel court, complete with coaching, along with many other sporting activities including a freshwater pool, children’s pool and a heated indoor pool. Watersports like snorkelling and water polo are readily available, and the waterpark at the sister resort Costa Botanica offers additional fun.
Dining options include six a la carte restaurants and casual spots for light bites and snacks. Guests can enjoy sailing trips around the peninsula to explore other Grecotel properties and visit Danilia Village, a reconstructed 1930s Corfiot village built by Grecotel to celebrate local culture and provide unique dining experiences. The hotel is family-friendly however there is an adult-only zone at the beach, and at Antica Cucina restaurant whilst Gattopardo’s fine-dining restaurant is adults-only.
Angsana Corfu
Angsana is set on a hillside beside Benitses Bay, creating a panoramic outlook best viewed from its infinity pool. There’s also an indoor pool catering for the winter season, a spa, a salon, a gym, a kids’ club, three restaurants, multiple bars (including a sky bar), a gallery and a fashion boutique on site. A short buggy ride will bring you to the resort’s own private beach with clear waters and a casual eatery. The hotel, which encompasses Asian hospitality along with Greek, has 159 contemporary rooms and suites, as well as 37 villa homes. Designed in keeping with the local architectural style, it is surrounded by gardens with olive tree groves.
Domes Miramare, a Luxury Collection Resort
This adults-only resort is nestled at the base of a hill, wrapped in a five-century-old Venetian olive grove and overlooking the neighbouring bay. Modern yet regal, art-filled and often bringing the outside in, the hotel’s interiors have been designed by Kristina Zanic. Guests are greeted by a white marble lobby, with a grand piano, a gold mosaic path leading to the promenade and an olive tree, but the glamour doesn’t stop there; suites have features like private pools and jacuzzis. Guests can dine at the Raw Bar, on the degustation menu at Markis, or at one of the stunning pool bars.
MarBella Corfu Hotel
Just half an hour from Corfu Town, this five-star beachfront establishment has repeatedly been named one of the top 10 Resorts in Greece and Europe at the Conde Nast Traveller Readers Choice Awards. Guests have the opportunity to board a romantic dinner cruise or eat onsite at the Deck Bar & Grill, Comodo (Italian cuisine), Platea (Greek food), Kum Kuat (Pan Asian) or Celeste (French Provençale). Your bedroom will have a terrace or balcony, with views of either the sea, the mountains or landscaped gardens. Toddlers, children and teens have their own programmes of activities, overseen by Worldwide Kids UK childcare specialists, and they’ll love the hotel’s waterpark.
Domes of Corfu, Autograph Collection
Located beneath pine and cypress-covered cliffs, this is the only luxury resort found on the sought-after blue flag awarded Glyfada beach. It’s an already magical setting augmented by fragrant gardens and Corfiot-style architecture. A creche and kids’ club takes their cue from the Montessori approach and two-bedroom suites cater ably for family groups. But couples too will love the sense of retreat here, with a fine dining restaurant and a romantic seafront taverna adding to the appeal. There are more restaurants besides and three bars, all following the gentle theme of Odysseus’ journey and time on Corfu.
The Olivar Suites
Stay in a late 18th-century olive oil mill where your standalone suite will include either a private pool and garden or a sundeck. Sophisticated yet earthy, the decor is contemporary and in keeping with the rural surroundings – much like Flya, the hotel’s all-day fine dining restaurant. The ocean-view pool area is akin to a natural lagoon – albeit with plush loungers and the Olibar bar and eatery serving tasty meze. Tailor-made in-room private spa treatments are available for the VIP pamper experience and you can work out in the fitness centre.
MarBella Nido Suite Hotel & Villas Corfu
Sister property to Marbella’s aforementioned Corfu hotel, this one is reserved for adults. Wake up to sea views from your veranda with a private pool or whirlpool. A member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World, it has three restaurants; a casual all-day dining venue on a pretty terrace, a gourmet fine dining establishment set beside the beach and an eatery beside the infinity pool. Ideal for a honeymoon or anniversary stay, the Nido Suite Hotel is tranquil and offers an array of experiences with romance in mind – including spa treatments for two.