Ikos Dassia
All holidays are relaxing but there’s something especially comforting about knowing your bills have been paid for before you even set foot on a plane. That’s why we love all the Ikos hotels. They’ve reinvented what it means to be an all-inclusive luxury hotel in the 21st century, and their outpost on Corfu, the delightful Ikos Dassia, is no exception.
Situated on the east coast, just 20 minutes north of Corfu Town, Ikos Dassia combines 5-star facilities and superstar service with one of the most impressive all-inclusive programmes to be found. It includes à la carte dining at a choice of seven restaurants, plus additional restaurants outside the resort, 24-hour room service, free-flowing champagne, branded spirits in all the bars (including in your room’s own minibar, which is replenished every day), 300 local and international wines, waiter service on the beach and by the pool, use of the excellent spa facilities, a sunset cruise and a host of other extras.
As in all Ikos resorts, you also get use of a Tesla car for a day, which you can use to explore the island. It’s essential to book this in advance as the cars are in high demand. This is coupled with an access pass to three of the island’s best museums and attractions, including the Old Fortress at the centre of Corfu Town.
If this is starting to sound like too much to remember then take comfort in knowing that there’s also a sleek app, designed to help with everything from making and amending restaurant bookings to selecting spa treatments and getting advice on sightseeing.
Luxurious rooms, suites and villas are spread across 25 verdant acres and feature spacious balconies, private gardens and in some cases private pools. Fine golden sand runs for 600 metres in front of the resort. Beachside childcare is offered free of charge for 30 minutes a day for children over four. There’s a wide choice of pools. The kids’ clubs are run by Little Guests, which operates in line with UK Ofsted standards. And activities range from tennis and basketball to Zumba and canoeing. They really have thought of everything.