Situated along the coastline with stunning sea views and surrounded by cypress trees and olive groves, Grecotel Corfu Imperial has plenty to offer, especially if you are in need of some winter sun. This five-star hotel is loved by the rich and famous, including Amanda Holden – who stayed there with her husband and children over the summer, as well as Lydia Bright and Lucy Mecklenburgh – who both escaped to the luxury resort for a joint babymoon late last year. As a result, we just knew we had to see what all the fuss was about, and took a trip there ourselves – and it didn't disappoint! With facilities that make it hard to leave the hotel – from seafront restaurants to three private beaches - there's something for everyone of all ages. What's more, the hotel is within close reach of the airport (a 30 minute car ride), enabling you to enjoy your stay as long as possible before that dreaded trip home.
Grecotel Corfu Imperial boasts three private beaches
Hotel facilities – from a spa to an onsite hairdressers
Across the hotel, there are three sandy beaches, a pebbly beach and a beach designed for diving, as well as a heated pool and two fresh water pools. There are also three boutiques onsite, including a shop selling holiday essentials such as sun cream and bottled water. One of the most stand-out facilities at the hotel is the two-story Elixir Spa, which comprises of a sauna, indoor pool, hammam and a gym, complete with state-of-the-art fitness equipment and a wide range of programmes. The spa also offers specialised treatments ranging from massages to facials, while the hotel's onsite hairdressers will ensure you look your best for special occasions during your stay.
Relax with a drink in the evening at the hotel's terrace bar
26 restaurants and bars
While it's likely guests will want to explore all the dining options that Corfu town has to offer, if you are wanting to stay at the hotel for breakfast, lunch or dinner, there are 26 restaurants across the three Grecotel properties in Corfu. Grecotel Corfu Imperial has an impressive 15 seafront restaurants alone, but Grecotel Eva Palace and Grecotel LUX ME Daphnila Bay Dassia are both within easy reach thanks to the hotel's regular transport options, which include luxury pontoon boats to get to the latter resort.
A buffet breakfast at Mon Repos will ensure you won't go hungry
Corfu Imperial recently introduced The Dine Club half-board dining programme, where children can eat for free and adults are allocated credit towards two meals a day from a selection of participating restaurants. These include Danilia Village, where The Durrells was filmed, as well as a luxury Mediterranean style restaurant at Eva Palace – where you can dine in style by an illuminated pool. For authentic Greek food overlooking the beach, make sure you head to Daphnila Bay's Tavernaki, or alternatively Nafsika By The Pool at Corfu Imperial, boasting sea views and easy access to the much in-demand pool loungers. To make sure you get off to a good start in the day, Mon Repos at Corfu Imperial serves up an impressive buffet each morning. Famous for its lavish breakfast spreads, it certainly didn't disappoint, with a selection of fresh fruits, cheeses, yogurts, cereals, made-to-order eggs, waffles and cooked breakfast options all included. You can also help yourself to fresh juice, coffee, tea, and prosecco – as after all, you are on holiday!
The hotel boasts stunning sea views
If you are looking for something extra-special, or are wanting to explore Corfu's dining options but don't know where to start, the hotel has its very own travel service that are on hand to help you find the perfect option within your budget and time frame. While we were staying, we were recommended Naok Azur, an all-day beachfront bar in Corfu's Old Town.
All bedrooms have a balcony overlooking the sea
Hotel rooms
All of the hotel's rooms have sea views and can sleep from two to six people, with prices starting at €188 per night for the Deluxe Guestroom Sea View room – where we stayed, to €742 per night for the Presidential Suite. Modern and spacious, each room comprises of a balcony, luxury marble bathroom, a sofa and television and table. On arrival, guests not only receive a welcome drink at reception, but a basket of fresh fruit and bottle of wine in their room.
Other room facilities include a mini bar, hairdryer, bathrobe and slippers, satellite TV, a radio, coffee maker, kettle and full WIFI. The hotel also offers private villas on the grounds, and many of which have their own private pools. These are ideal for families or groups of friends wanting to have more space but with the additional access to all of the hotel's facilities.
For more information, visit Grecotel Corfu Imperial