I stayed in luxurious adults-only hotel and felt like I was in a Vogue photoshoot
by Siobhan McNally · Manchester Evening NewsAs I leapt off the jetty onto the white catamaran for sundowners off Corfu's lush north-east coastline, I found myself humming a line from Duran Duran's 1982 hit Rio.
Despite looking more like a mackerel caught in a fishing net than a supermodel stretching out her tanned 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 became famous.
This holiday, exclusively available through British Airways Holidays, is set in the ultra-chic 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 quiet and discreet resort in Greek goddess-style robes.
Both couples and families will adore 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 last year. Some early reviews mentioned slow service, but I was overwhelmed by the number of staff servicing my room and refilling 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 chic interior design offers a neutral canvas for the vibrant blue of the Ionian Sea, while outside, a team of gardeners maintain fields of purple verbena. Due to the resort's size, all areas must be accessed by golf buggy, however, the most desirable villas boasting sea views are just steps away from the beach.
The gentle golden sand is caressed by warm, shallow waters, and there are rows of comfortable sun loungers to relax in, with staff on hand to cater to your every need. If you manage to make it to the water's edge, Albania is so close that you could practically wave to its inhabitants.
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 fond of 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 area, the kumquat is considered the national fruit of Corfu due to colonial settlers' penchant for planting in the island's tropical-like climate. A delightful ice-cream flavour can be found at Papagiorgis Gelateria in town, where I also opted for kumquat liqueur over the fluorescent orange versions sold on the streets.
While Corfu may not be the destination for ancient Greek ruins, as there are few to none, it is certainly the place for unadulterated luxury at Ikos Odisia. And the best part? 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 likely too affluent to worry).
Book the holiday
British Airways Holidays is offering a seven-night all-inclusive stay at the five-star Ikos Odisia hotel in Corfu starting from £1,379pp. This offer includes travel from Gatwick on selected dates in April with 23kg baggage allowance, but bookings must be made by November 17. Visit britishairways.com/corfu for more details. For further information, visit ikosresorts.com or visitgreece. gr/islands/ionian-islands/corfu/