Serenely snuggled by the paradisiacal emerald-tinted nirvana of the Ionian Sea, the majestic tranquillity of the family-owned Mar-Bella Collection has from the time of its palatial inception in the late 1960s, since everlastingly served as an ethereal resort assemblage within Greece’s impeccably unspoilt habitats of Corfu and Parga, not to forget being recognised by the prestigious Condé Nast Traveller’s 2022 Hotlist.
An invigorating resort odyssey born from Vassilis Dracopoulos senior and his ardent infatuation with Corfu’s magical settings during a visit to the fishing village of Benitses, this enkindled passion had ignited a dream vision to share his passion for the island and its picturesque habitat with his nearest and dearest, purchase a sweeping stretch of lush vibrant land bearing a charming home inside the scenic village of Agios Ioannis.
Over five decades later and with an ultra-luxe collection of three idyllic retreats of MarBella, Elix, Mar-Bella Collection and Nido, Mar-Bella Collection glitterati belles, beaus, and well-heeled family cliques have the privilege to partake and indulge in a resplendent assortment of tropical pastel-hued vacationing abodes, as they luxuriate under the cosy golden lit sun beams whilst they release their inhibitions to the lush, rejuvenating grandeur of the iridescent rippling waves.
To have this Hellenic Elysian bestow on me the pleasure to call both their libertine retreats of Elix Mar-Bella Collection and Nido Mar-Bella Collection mine for the week had kindled a euphoric sensation as I was set to experience a wondrous exotic getaway with a gourmet attire of sybaritic dining, and impeccable hosting all the while swathed in a cocoon of rich heritage, with a sprinkling of in vogue panache.
Elix, Mar-Bella Collection: An Aquamarine Ionian Rendezvous.
An hour’s drive from Aktion National Airport (PVK) abundant with heavenly soothing vistas of the Greek countryside, the Elix, Mar-Bella Collection rejoices in its snugly nestled mise en scène amongst the untainted rapture of the village of Perdika, seeking to shield their refined guests in an armour of hushed rustic serenity to take to one’s heels and escape from the taxing hustle of corporate city life.
An effortlessly arresting medley of an in-vogue modish blueprint that meticulously blended into the resort’s natural unspoilt surroundings to evoke a luxe spa-like ambience, the architectural aesthetics of the sweeping high ceiling lobby saw exquisite embellishments of solid stone elements, and chocolate wooden features against a smooth cream backdrop all adorned with vibrant hanging tapestries, not to neglect the towering gleaming windows designed to illuminate the space with lashings of natural balmy rays, whilst neatly mounting those captivating vistas of the resorts environ and infinity panoramas.
Greeted with ceremonial pomp by the debonair concierge bearing a flute of two of flaxen sparkles, the team wasted not a nanosecond to release me from my hefty vacation belongings, and leisurely chaperone me to the luminous habitation of the reception area as the check-in comrades bedecked in crisp snow white attire, had the proceedings concluded in a blink of an eye before being escorted into the deluxe indulgence of my extravagant respite dwellings.
A Heavenly Oasis of Infinity Abodes.
A rather bountiful 146 dazzling rooms and suites grace their unruffled presence within this silken five-star establishment, with each “humble” abode bedecked in a cloak of modest homely grandeur swirled with a modish flair of marble-clad bathrooms, Nespresso machines and sleek wide-screen TVs against local furnishings, and intricate charming lighting accessories, all the while commanding breathtaking views of the turquoise Ionian ripples and manicured gardens.
Always the Mar-Bella Collection perfectionists evermore seeking to rescript the definition of grandiosity, my 72 residing hours were meticulously chosen to be spent within the placid panoramic vicinity of the collections Junior Suite, generously kitted out with its own private pool. Stretching out and over to a rather sizeable scale at 36m2, this plush striking suite took a bow to a slick, bohemian beach-like imagination with a warm cream colour palette, against earthy pine-toned stone flooring, low hanging lamps and patterned throw cushions gracefully placed on the crisp linens of the king size bed, not to miss out on the statement masterpiece of the bed headboard scrupulously woven with nimble intricacy.
As the clement rays began to make their descent, a set of glistening glass sliding doors had unearthed the suite’s private balcony terrace engulfed in masses of white hues as pure as the driven snow, bedecked with its own 100m2 lido oasis amongst the Edenic backdrop as my gaze shifted to the much-welcomed presence of a gallant gentleman, armed with charm whilst bearing a sundowner affair of chilled pale rose and delectable cold cuts to whet the appetite, and have yours truly geared to dabble in an evening of epicurean affairs, and Grecian glamour.
Regional Gastronomy With A European Panache
The Elix, Mar-Bella Collection clique have tirelessly stood true to their word of honour, to serve up to their glitterati guests and gourmet connoisseurs an ambrosial dining encounter. This Premium All Inclusive offers up prime quintessential Greek produce and flavours neighbouring sapid Italian delicacies, set against a leisurely yet lavish fresh Mediterranean buffet feast of the utmost calibre, chosen to echo mellow sophistication within an attire of the resort’s iridescent backdrop.
No feasting escapade should be commenced sans a sunset aperitif inside the striking terrace bounds of Elix’s lobby bar, Ruby. Attired in a classic chic setting of wooden seating encircling a spotless black granite table dotted with agile botanicals, the cocktail catalogue seeks to embrace the alfresco Summer mood with a sublime array of quintessential tipple favourites, all whipped up by the talented and sprightly mixologist brigade.
The aperitif hour had embarked with a rejuvenating gin and tonic concoction, where the dry yet smooth gin medley was swirled with a floral calmness and sweet touch of honeysuckle nectar over lashings of ice and fresh cucumber twirls. Hesitant to depart from the solace of my luxurious habitat, a luminous dainty martini coupe bearing my favoured cosmopolitan graced its ruby-tinged presence into my hand, chilled to perfection with that sweet yet lightly tart cranberry juice, twirled with the bitter orange dash from the Cointreau whetting the appetite for my evening repast.
Descending over the twinkling azure of the Ionian Sea whilst set amongst abundant trappings of glossy pale wood and stone features, the all-day dining den of Saffron has taken immense glee in its casual hearty buffet affair, streaked with a flair of debonair sophistication for dining enthusiasts to indulge in a bountiful plethora of mouthwatering salads, prime meat cuts, and just plucked out the sea oceanic delectables neighbouring piping hot pasta dishes.
The salad station saw an array of vibrant fresh leafy greens neatly perched beside sweet bold red ripe tomatoes, creamy soft avocado, and mild butter-like olives with a nut-like hint, while the barbecue station revealed lightly herbed tender lamb and beef joints, brimming with caramelised juices across from the seafood station, housing meaty king prawns revealing a delicate flaky flesh touched with a dab of melted butter.
The breakfast banquet at Saffron proved itself an equally epicurean joy, with boundless stations all hosting a selection of native international specialities dotted around the space. Where a myriad of warm bread and out-of-the-oven croissants were resting by the theatrics of the eggs station showcasing freshly flipped omelettes and perfect poached eggs, the aromatic allure of the pastry station should have been assumed criminal, with fluffy hot pancakes and crunchy waffles bathing in lashings of thick chocolate, topped with lush seasoned strawberries to cut through the deep sugar fest.
Also awaiting their becoming diners and al la carte enthusiasts for a dalliance with Greek fine dining, lies the haute cuisine anchorage of Pearl offering an artfully curated menu of Corfiot comforts by Sotiris Evaggelou, whereas the beachside resting place of Azure welcomes their dazzling vacationers to appease their carefree cravings on a fete of upscale deluxe burgers, thin crust pizzas and tantalising ice cream.
A Wellness And Recreational Haven
Relaxation is an art form at Elix, Mar-Bella Collection with their blissful wellness and spa sanctuary. Geared towards the ultimate body mind and soul programme, the spa and their gifted therapists offer a setting to shun away the monotony of the mundane life with enrapturing deep tissue massages and fragrant facials, all the while using SOTHYS nature-driven creations that focus on the union of innovative cosmetic technology, with an awe-inspiring spa odyssey tailored to the five senses in a celestial backdrop.
For adrenaline geared holidayers, the hotel’s gym comes decked up with the latest gadgets to gear up their sweats, using the latest workout equipment kits for the ultimate total body programme, not to forget the immersive natural playground to quench one’s thirst for adventure and nature, from access to the pristine golden powder soft beach to the stunning hiking trails showcasing captivating views of the sparkling coastline for guests to lose themselves in this picturesque discovery of raw, breathtaking nature.
Nido, Mar-Bella Collection: A Paradisiacal Utopia of Serene Tranquility, And Unrivalled Luxury on Corfu’s Ionian Coastline
Perching with statuesque poise on a timber-cocooned cliff, within the charming Grecian milieu of Agios Ioannis Peristeron just a trivial 16-minute miles from Corfu International Airport, the intimate retreat trappings of the Nido, Mar-Bella Collection unabashedly basks in its glitterati stature not only as the embodiment of a lavish adult-only escape but also proudly sits as an illustrious member of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World, presenting the epitome of five-star unruffled splendour.
Navigating past an imposing orangery, crisp dewy gardens and powerfully heady aromas from real orange blossom flowers, my gaze sat fixated on the extraordinary Herculean exterior doused in a peach and tiled terracotta complexion reminiscent of a Corfiot Venetian style villa, before being enveloped in an ambrosial incense of musky jasmine and lavender perfuming the colossal grand high ceiling reception, which unearthed many an ornate embellishment of elaborate woodcarvings, avant-garde artworks and a sassy cocktail bar bejewelled in dragon jade marble.
As the zealous Nido, Mar-Bella Collection hosts proved victorious in their mission to have the check-in customs accomplished in a painless whirlwind fashion, the team wasted not a further nanosecond to have me snugly buried into the pure unblemished whitewashed comforts of the resort golf-cart, and whisked up the hill to be transported to my tropical recess habitation; sparking welcome beverage in hand of course.
Celestial Suite Abodes
A discerning collection of 70 suites and ultra-luxe villas eagerly await the presence of their glitterati visitants, all groomed to a demure yet classy neutral palette designed to beam the spotlight on the boudoir’s crowning glory of an outdoor private pool or spa bath, whilst unashamedly governing the island’s epic tip-tier snapshots of the radiant Ionian Sea and flourishing verdant grounds.
Gliding into my suave urbane abode of the Deluxe private pool suite, the chambers vibed to an echo of refined minimalist finesse with a sleek dose of glamorous verve, reaching out to an unsparing 105m2 and draped in an armour of sandy-toned pigments, dark wood furnishings and immaculate pearl toned bedding.
Yearning for a perfectly chilled glass of pale rose as I observed the flaxen balmy glint retire amongst the orange sunset skies from the arresting spectacle of my private veranda, a brief buzz of the bell unshackled me from the hypnotic spell of Corfu’s scenic surroundings, to have me in the company with of a slick bottle of salmon toned champagne bubbling with gusto from first pour, and accompanied by a mini dessert platter of artisan chocolate dipped strawberries. With the gallant staff member confirming the evening’s dinner reservation hour, a glorious spare two hours left me to afford some rare unhurried TLC in the tepid pool waters, alongside a 2nd four of pink sparkling before the night-time encounter of homegrown cooking delights.
Indulgent Epicurean Crusades
The top-drawer Nido, Mar-Bella Collection team have religiously succeeded in capturing their aperitif mavens and bon-viveur savants, with a stellar selection of tipple and gourmet menus as guests embarked on a flavoursome circuit across the Mediterranean that is gratifying both to the eyes and tastebuds.
Netting in on honing on Corfu’s beloved fresh ingredients, the fanciful, al-fresco hideaway of Apaggio plays to widely adored ancestral Greek favourites, with an imaginative spin served up of black truffle pasta, and melted brown butter lobster on a bed of silken creamed risotto by former Alain Ducasse student Sotiris Evaggelou, whilst the glittering infinity poolside locale of Aquavit focuses on a light fare of healthy salads, and sapid nutritious bites to be savoured with enticing classic cocktails.
Far too predictable now for my penchant for a pre-dinner cosmopolitan cocktail, a simple yet invigorating Margarita concoction had set the tone for the evening rendezvous at the resort’s jade-apparelled, aperitif saloon of Heritage. The lingering sugary honeyed had blended in a breeze with the citrus-tinged liquor and salted rim, while my second beverage medley of the Aperol Spritz made for a bitter-sweet, herbal extravagance before the dusky feasting gala at San Giovanni.
Reclining on a chequered, open-air rooftop base under a twinkling sky blanket of vivid stars, diners are received with enchanting panoramic spectacles of this idyllic location, all while savouring on a bounteous jamboree from the sunrise breakfast hours to the twilight interval. An array of piquant cheese platters saw smooth mild cheddar, served with cream daintily peppered Feta and velvet like Brie, as tenderised chicken cuts were gingerly smidgens with a sprinkling of seasoned salt and fresh lemon juice. Not yet satiated with my opening dining platter, my cravings for some maritime nourishment ushered me to the umami-rich grilled salmon fillets, before concluding with the dense, yet juicy smoked octopus, and a glass of crisp dry Assyrtiko.
A Restorative Arcadia
Mindful soundness rests at the heart of the Nido, Mar-Bella Collection, zeroing in on physical and mental invigoration with a harmonic assortment of signature spa treatments using THAT, iconic Sothys skincare, whilst an assemblage of fitness and bespoke adventure discoveries allows one to disconnect from the stresses of everyday life, from adrenaline revved water-sports within the neighbourhood white sanded Blue Flag beach, to an astounding season of complimentary fitness and wellbeing weeks hosted by Oyogo’s fitness and stress releasing professionals.
In Conclusion
It is undeniably unequivocal that the Mar-Bella Collection stands tall in its pedigreed prestige as a heavenly nirvana of uninterrupted and unspoilt lavish serenity, elevated with a plentitude of breathtaking unblemished vistas, gloried suite and villa shelters, and toothsome culinary temptations that give rise to an unprecedented holiday memoir.
A flawless depiction of Ionic prosperity , the Mar-Bella Collection cadre have faultlessly continued to thrive in their quest to respect and protect deep-seated inborn soul of this resort portfolio all the while tirelessly striving to meet the desires of the modern jet-set wanderer for a nearcation getaway evocative of a luxuriant Grecian home from home.
