My fervent love for the idyllic island of Corfu has always been unwavering and bordering on a slight obsession.
This extreme adoration was heightened recently after a summer break at the brand-spanking new Corfu Palma Boutique Hotel – a quaint, yet luxurious dwelling nestled in the picturesque town of Dassia.
Upon arriving at the pristine, minimalist-effect hotel, my other half and I were made to feel welcome and at ease – as if we had just stepped into the home of a life long friend. The Greeks have always been known for their warm hospitality and passion of the pleasures of life, and this was made very clear to us during our stay.
The charming manager Spyros Ioannidis greeted us personally and spoke about the drive and intention behind this luxurious home from home. He explained that there was a vision for a glamorous boutique style hotel with an emphasis on warm, bespoke service. We discovered this ethos ourselves via the accommodating nature and warm smiles of the staff, the surprise platters of sweet treats and fruit in our contemporary-styled suite, and the option to order at no extra charge from the enticing a la carte menu if we didn’t fancy anything from the buffet – a rarity at half/full board type hotels.
But we always did fancy everything from the plentiful buffet – an alluring selection of traditional Greek dishes such as Moussaka, roasted meats, grilled fish and fresh, crunchy salads, which we lavishly drizzled with some of the finest organic olive oil I have had the pleasure of tasting.
The spacious outdoor swimming pool was ideal for long lazy laps when the Greek sun bathed us with its sweltering rays, and the pool bar staff ensured our fruity cocktails were readily replaced when necessary.
On our second day, we indulged in full aromatherapy body massages courtesy of talented therapists using almond oil infused with the relaxing scents of lavender. I was impressed by the vast range of natural and organic beauty products on sale and offered complementary in guest rooms. In the blissful small spa area, we also discovered a warm room boasting a state-of-the-art sauna and large jacuzzi, which could be booked for private sessions with your favourite person. This is of course perfect for those (like my prudish self) who would rather kebab their left arm than share a hot tub with 6 random strangers.
Ten kilometres away, we discovered the eclectic Corfu town centre where we discovered quaint cafes, bustling bars and chic boutiques. Directly opposite the hotel resides a massive bakery offering traditional cheese and spinach pastries and cream-laden cakes – perfect for satisfying those naughty sugar cravings.
A mere 5 minute walk away took us to a striking beach and a St Tropez style beach club called Malibu Summer where we spent one afternoon lounging on a plush beach bed draped in white linen curtains as we nursed Pina Coladas and gorged on avocado-laden salads.
Luckily for us, travelling back home was stress free and a quick taxi ride away, as Corfu Palma Boutique Hotel is only 12 kilometres away from Corfu Airport. As we drove away from this humble yet glam holiday haven, we made a mental note to return again soon. I’ve heard that sunbathing weather in this beautiful island lasts until the very end of October.
Let us drink ice cold rose, dine on freshly-caught fish and prolong the summer for as long as we can….
For more information on booking an autumn break or spring/summer holiday at Corfu Palma Boutique hotel find out more here.