I stayed in luxurious adults-only hotel so big you need a golf buggy to get around it

As I jumped 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 backdrop 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-glamorous world of Corfu's all-inclusive five-star Ikos Odisia. Here, everyone feels as if they're part of a Vogue photoshoot, with staff floating 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 luxurious Ikos portfolio, only opened its doors last year. Some early reviews mentioned slow service, but I was astounded by the number of staff servicing my room and replenishing the mini bar. I had to keep reminding myself that it was all included rather than having to remortgage for a KitKat Chunky.

The style of the place is unique. Twisted 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 cosy 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 wave to its residents.

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

The watersports on offer are more low-key, with activities such as pedalos, canoes and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), as well as wind-surfing and beginner scuba lessons. My sole exercise during my stay was a SUP trip across the bay.

However, there are also tennis courts, football, a gym, and the usual array of exercise classes. Despite my intentions to try yoga, I 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 so don't expect to be doing the hokey-cokey. Instead, anticipate 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 expect a hub of historical excellence.

Despite not being indigenous, the kumquat has become Corfu's national fruit due to colonial settlers' fondness for planting it 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 for more details. For further information, visit or