As I hopped off the jetty onto a pristine white catamaran for sundowners off Corfu’s verdant north-east coastline, I found myself humming a line from Duran Duran’s 1982 hit Rio.
Despite resembling more of a mackerel caught in a fishing net than a supermodel stretching out her bronzed limbs on the mesh trampoline during our sunset sail, the glamorous setting of my holiday made me feel like Simon Le Bon’s girlfriend – the one before he shot to fame.
This exclusive holiday, available only through British Airways Holidays, is set in the ultra-stylish world of Corfu’s all-inclusive five-star Ikos Odisia. Here, everyone feels like they’re part of a Vogue photoshoot, with staff wafting around this serene and discreet resort in Greek goddess-style robes.
Both couples and families will fall in love with it here, as even the children play quietly. And if they don’t, well, there are always the complimentary children’s clubs.
Odisia, one of seven in the luxe Ikos portfolio, only opened its doors last year, reports the Manchester Evening News. Some early reviews mentioned slow service, but I was astounded by the number of staff servicing my room and restocking the mini bar. I had to keep reminding myself that it was all included rather than having to take out a mortgage for a KitKat Chunky.
The style of the place is unique. Gnarled 200-year-old olive trees grow among the simple, clean lines of low rise luxury villas, sympathetically built in 60 acres of lush gardens on the secluded Dassia Bay.
The hotel’s stylish interior design provides a neutral backdrop for the vibrant blue of the Ionian Sea, while outside, a team of gardeners keep fields of purple verbena in check. Due to the resort’s vast size, all areas must be accessed by golf buggy, however, the most sought-after villas with sea views are just a stone’s throw from the beach.
The soft golden sand is gently lapped by warm, shallow waters, and there are rows of comfy sun loungers to unwind on, with staff ready to cater to your every whim. If you manage to make it to the water’s edge, Albania is so close that you could practically give its residents a wave.
Food and drink
While the local wine at most all-inclusive resorts might be more suited to your chips, Odisia boasts a wine cellar of 300 varieties to complement the Michelin-star inspired a la carte menus offered in the resort’s five gourmet restaurants. With a view over the bay, the Greek restaurant Elia is the most stylish and offers the best vistas.
I was particularly taken with the very authentic tapas at the Spanish restaurant Oliva, and Italian Fresco is an excellent breakfast choice if you enjoy your eggs with a sea view.
I could have happily eaten pork gyros, chips and Mythos beer at the beachside Sea Grill every day. However, if you exhaust the restaurant options, Odisia can organise a Dine Out experience.
Things to do
Even the watersports are more subdued, with options like pedalos, canoes and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), as well as wind-surfing and beginner scuba lessons. My attempt at SUP across the bay was my sole exercise for the entire stay.
However, there are also tennis courts, football, a gym, and the usual array of exercise classes. I had intentions to try yoga but never found a gap between meals long enough to digest and attempt a downward dog. The stunning wellness spa, complete with an infinity pool, is also complimentary for guests. I received a rather firm neck and shoulder massage, which felt somewhat unnecessary given how relaxed I already was.
Evening entertainment is understated don’t anticipate doing the hokey-cokey. Instead, expect soothing jazz tunes as you slide off your seat after one too many margaritas.
Author Gerald Durrell put Corfu on the map with his books about his eccentric family, The Durrells. You have the option to stay in one of the family’s houses, and there are Durrell-related tourist attractions scattered around the island.
However, with only one road leading into Corfu town and one road out, be prepared for traffic jams when leaving Odisia. There’s a complimentary shuttle bus into town, but unless you’re interested in cheeky Olympian-style fridge magnets, don’t anticipate a hub of historical excellence.
Despite not being native to the region, the kumquat has become a symbol of Corfu due to colonial settlers’ fondness for planting it in the island’s tropical-like climate. You can enjoy a delightful ice-cream flavour at Papagiorgis Gelateria in town, where I also chose kumquat liqueur over the bright orange versions sold on the streets.
While Corfu may not be the go-to destination for ancient Greek ruins, as there are few if any, it is certainly the spot for pure luxury at Ikos Odisia. The best part?
There’s no need to carry your wallet around (terms and conditions apply some activities incur additional costs unless you opt for the deluxe package, in which case, you’re probably too wealthy to worry).
Book your holiday
British Airways Holidays offers a seven-night all-inclusive stay at the five-star Ikos Odisia hotel in Corfu starting from £1,379pp. This deal includes travel from Gatwick on selected dates in April with a 23kg baggage allowance, but bookings must be made by November 17. Visit britishairways.com/corfu for more information. For further details, visit ikosresorts.com or visitgreece.gr/islands/ionian-islands/corfu/.