Discover Ultimate Corfu Island Escape At Luxurious Adults-Only Hotel

Corfu, the second-largest of the Ionian Islands, is renowned for its natural beauty, rich history and vibrant culture. And Corfu has been in the spotlight recently thanks to The Durrells, the popular TV program about the life of writers Gerald and Lawrence Durrell’s on Corfu in the 1930s. Over the centuries, Corfu was ruled by the Romans, Byzantines, Venetians, French, and British, each leaving their mark on the island’s architecture, culture, and traditions. The Venetian influence is particularly notable, with well-preserved fortresses, narrow cobblestone streets and elegant mansions.

Where to Stay

Mar-Bella Collection, a family-owned hotel group, has two properties in Corfu, MarBella and Nido plus Elix, in Parga, on the mainland. The two Corfu hotels are about seventeen kilometers south of Corfu Town, built into a hill above the pebbled beach. MarBella is aimed at families while Nido is exclusively for adults.

For a relaxing child-free holiday, Nido, a member of Small Luxury Hotels, is pretty special with fine dining, private pools and a pretty pebbled beach. The modern decor, amenities and attentive service create a serene and intimate atmosphere. The spa and wellness center offer a range of excellent treatments, massages and therapies. Yoga and fitness classes are also available for anyone so inclined. Each of the 70 suites offer panoramic views of the sea or the lush gardens and many have private plunge pools. Nido’s swimming pool is a real delight too, a vast infinity pool overlooking the coastline.

Breakfast and more casual dinners are served in San Giovanni or Aquavit, beside the pool. Enjoy local specialties such as sofrito, pastitsada and bourdeto. But Apaggio, the fine dining restaurant on the rooftop terrace, is the real star. Maybe they haven’t actually arranged for the stunning sunsets but the Apaggio’s outdoor setting is superb. And the excellent modern, seasonal Greek menu by Sotiris Evaggelou, one of Greece’s leading chefs who trained under Alain Ducasse, deserves high praise. Try the starter of sea bass sashimi and grilled red porgy with smoked aubergine salad as your main.

What to See and Do

One of the main attractions of Corfu is its capital city, also named Corfu or Kerkyra. The Old Town of Corfu is a UNESCO World Heritage site and features a unique blend of Venetian, French and British architectural styles. Its charming alleyways, colorful buildings and historical landmarks such as the Old Fortress and Achilleion Palace make it a delight to explore. Also be sure to visit the fascinating music museum of The Philharmonic Society of Corfu in the heart of the old town. Founded as a music academy in 1840, to provide free music education which it still does, it also has a marvellous collection of instruments, scores and memorabilia.

Everyone comes to the Greek islands for sea and sand. Corfu’s coastline has plenty, from the popular Paleokastritsa and Glyfada to hidden gems like Agios Gordios and Sidari, with crystal-clear waters and picturesque surroundings.

For hikers in the cooler months, the island’s countryside and hiking trails provide ample opportunities to immerse oneself in nature and enjoy breathtaking views. For ambitious walkers, Corfu Trail is a 220 kilometer route crossing the entire island, from south to north. The route has been gradually created by friends of the island, and thanks to the wise planning—which manages to combine large part of the beautiful natural landscapes of Corfu—Corfu Trail has become one of the most popular long hiking routes in Greece. Cycling is another great way to explore. Take an organised tour with Cycle Corfu or rent bikes from one of the many bike rental shops.

Beyond the bustling capital, Corfu is dotted with traditional villages like Pelekas and Benitses, where visitors can experience the local way of life, taste traditional cuisine, and engage with the island’s rich cultural heritage.

Further afield, island hopping is easy from Corfu. Take one of the numerous cruises from Corfu harbour or if staying at the Mar-Bella or Nido, they offer group or private cruises to nearby islands like Paxos and Antipaxos, where visitors can discover secluded beaches, charming villages, and stunning natural landscapes.

Practicalities

Suites at Nido, part of the Mar-Bella Collection, start from 218 euros on a bed and breakfast basis.

British Airways has daily flights from London Heathrow to Corfu and has just started offering flights from London Gatwick three days a week. BA Holidays offers flights and seven nights at Nido, Mar-Bella Collection from £804 per person on a bed and breakfast basis, staying in a Junior Suite.