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Ikos Resorts
Choosing which of the seven family-friendly all-inclusive beach hotels in the Ikos Resorts collection is no easy decision… they’re all fabulous. But, if you'd like more information, you just need to reach out. Ultimate Global Escapes are certified Ikos experts!
Ikos Hotels are renowned for their unspoilt, handpicked locations in both Greece and Spain, stylish contemporary accommodation with Rooms and Suites overlooking magnificent beaches, gourmet restaurants and first-class facilities. Their award-winning Infinite Lifestyle Concept is widely recognised and firmly places them as one of the World's Top All-Inclusive Resorts designed with both couples and families in mind.
Whether you're looking for an award winning all-inclusive luxury break with your other half or looking for some quality family time, we’re here to help plan your luxury holiday.
Ikos Andalusia
Location: Costa del Sol, Spain
Getting there: 1-hour by car from Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport
Open date: May 2020
Ikos Andalusia is an extremely popular resort and it's easy to see why. It's easily accessed with a short flight from the UK and has all the glitz and glam of nearby Marbella to explore. On site, there's 21 acres of beautifully manicured landscaped gardens, an exclusive beach and no less than 9 pools to choose from.
Ikos Andalusia offers 9 restaurants (1 of which is buffet and the others are à la carte with Michelin star chef designed menus) which are all included within the cost of your stay, along with dining in selected local restaurants as part of the complimentary 'Dine Out' programme. Restaurants provide French, Asian, Italian, Spanish and Greek delights and wine lovers can indulge in the selection of 300 premium wines.
Private balconies, gardens and pools abound at Ikos Andalusia, where 393 contemporary rooms and suites take style, luxury and comfort to fabulous new levels. Guests can also choose to book the Deluxe accommodation which provides exclusive benefits and areas of the resort.
The additional benefits include champagne on ice upon arrival, a personal concierge, upgraded mini-bar, one special meal on the beach, two complimentary massages, and more.
The complex provides a whole host of children’s facilities, all in a beautiful beachfront location. Families can have peace of mind with dedicated clubs for children and teens, and evening entertainment. There's even a football academy available during the summer holidays. All of the restaurants provide healthy children's menus.
If you're keen on exploring the local area, you can take advantage of Ikos' sustainable Local Drive Adventure with a complimentary Tesla. You will also be able to secure a complimentary ticket (per guest) to a museum or historic site with the Culture Pass and paid-for green fees at Los Naranjos golf course.
Highlights
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Diverse dining: Featuring everything from traditional Spanish dishes to Asian fusion.
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Great location: Close to lots of tourist attractions and provides numerous options for day trips.
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Family friendly: All Ikos resorts have excellent facilities for children including a dedicated kids club and family activities.
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Nine swimming pools to choose from: Ideal for spending days at the pool
Considerations:
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Some customers report that the beach is not ideal due to the shingle stones. Sea quality can be varied.
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Some guests may find the resort's atmosphere quieter than others (especially considering the neighbouring city of Marbella)
Ikos Andalusia included facilities
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Tennis courts (Equipment available)
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Aerobics
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Aqua Aerobics
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Basketball
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Beach Tennis
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Beach Volleyball
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Beginners Yoga
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Canoeing (once per day 20mins)
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Cardio training room
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Fitness studio at the Spa
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*Golf
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Cycling
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Paddling (once per day 20mins)
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Pedalos (once per day 20mins)
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Pilates
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Stretching
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Table Tennis
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Zumba
Extra Cost
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Football Escapes Academy
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Catamaran
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Inflatables
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Private boat tours
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Private excursions
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Private yacht rental
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Tennis Academy
Photo: Deluxe One Bedroom Suite with Sea-View
Ikos Aria
Location: Kos, Greece
Getting there: 20 minutes by car from Kos airport
Open date: May 2018
If Greek island luxury is what you crave in your next holiday, look no further than the 5-star Ikos Aria, on the stunning shores of Kos. Ikos Aria exudes everything Ikos is renowned for, beautiful unspoilt locations, luxury accommodation, exquisite culinary offerings, a wealth of facilities, exemplary service and Greek hospitality, providing guests with the ultimate holiday experience.
Ikos Aria is situated in the small town of Kefalos with direct access to a 850m white sand Blue Flag beach. From the beach, you can swim or paddleboard across the shore.
The 374 sophisticated rooms and suites are decorated in calming, neutral shades and feature elegant pendant lighting, in addition to light wood and wicker furnishings. You can sunbathe on your own private terrace or balcony, or upgrade for your own private garden or heated pool. Some Deluxe Bungalow Suites enjoy a prime beachfront location, and all Deluxe Collection accommodation includes exclusive benefits, such as a welcome bottle of champagne, two complimentary massage treatments (per room, per stay), personal concierge service, dinner on the beach and access to an exclusive beach area and deluxe pool.
Restaurants include 1 buffet restaurant and 7 a la carte restaurants (with menus designed by Michelin starred chefs). A collection of 300 Greek and international wine labels, selected by the sommelier is served from the Ikos wine collection in all restaurants. There's also a complimentary range of signature cocktails and branded international and local spirits, soft drinks, tea and coffee. The buffet restaurant offers a special quiet zone for adults, as well as sweeping views out over the Aegean Sea. There’s also around-the-clock room service for out-of-hours cravings.
The Ikos Green programme’s commitment to sustainability makes this an eco-friendly hotel that supports local communities and protects natural habitats.
Ikos Aria is primed for peace and relaxation. This beachfront beauty is a fabulous choice for families and adults, thanks to everything from the football academy for youngsters to the soothing adults-only spa. Being a family friendly resort, Ikos Aria’s Heroes Kids Club is a great addition, offering creche facilities for 6 months to 4 years old’s (creche at extra cost) and a multi-lingual Mini Club (ages 4-12) and Teen Club (ages 13-17) to keep toddlers to teens entertained throughout their stay. There’s also a Football Academy which takes place throughout the week (except Sundays) catering for various age ranges and a Tots Football Academy for little ones at Ikos Aria (football academy is at extra cost).
Activity-wise, you get to sample things like mountain biking, tennis and yoga classes which are all included in your stay. Guest relations can help organise excursions (at extra cost) such as a Catamaran trip, private boat tour or yacht hire.
You have your pick of pools here. There is one main pool, one deluxe collection pool, one beach pool and one adults-only pool and a splash pool. There’s the added bonus of pool and beachside waiter service, so you’ll be able to get snacks and drinks delivered to your lounger.
Highlights:
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Ikos Aria is a sun-soaked 47 acre luxury resort.
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Guests have access to an 850 metre stretch of pristine, sandy Kefalos beach to enjoy with unlimited beach drinks and snacks lounger service.
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Large amount of extra facilities available from tennis courts, yoga classes and tours
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Beautiful infinity pool with breathtaking views.
Considerations:
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The resort layout can be spread out, making some amenities a bit of a walk from certain accommodations.
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Some of the beach does contain rocky sections
Ikos Aria sports and facilities
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4 floodlit tennis courts (equipment available)
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Aqua Aerobics
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Mini Basketball
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Beach Volleyball
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Beginners Yoga
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Canoeing (once per day 30 mins)
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Cardio training fitness room
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Fitness studio at the spa
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Introductory diving lesson at the hotel pool
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Mini Football
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Paddling (once per day 30 mins)
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Pedalos (once per day 30 mins)
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Pilates
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Stretching
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Table Tennis
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Windsurfing (1 hour / stay) (license required)
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Giant Chess
Facilities at extra cost:
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Catamaran
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Football Academy
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Inflatables
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Private Boat Tours
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Private Excursions
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Private Yacht Rental
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Ringos
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Scuba Diving
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Tennis Academy
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Water Skiing
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Windsurfing Academy
Photo: Deluxe One Bedroom Bungalow Suite with Private Pool
Ikos Olivia
Location: Halkidiki, Greece
Getting there: 50 minutes by car from Thessasaloniki airport
Open date: 2015
Ikos Olivia’s chic design of subtle elegance sits serenely among 22 acres of lush greenery shaded by ancient olive trees and fragrant firs. Unfurling along the white sands of the Gulf of Toroneos, Ikos Olivia offers sophisticated suites, turquoise pools and fine dining experiences. And from aquatic adventures to gourmet cuisine, everything is included in your stay. This sumptuous, all-inclusive resort encapsulates quality – with first-class service, exquisite accommodation, exceptional dining options and a multitude of activities for adults and children alike. Voted the number one all-inclusive hotel in the world in the 2021 Travellers’ Choice Awards by Tripadvisor, a stay here is certainly going to be one for the holiday hall of fame.
Stroll across long stretches of white sands, bask in the shallow turquoise waters of the Gulf of Toroneos, and splash in the four glittering swimming pools. Enjoy the lagoon pool with a swim-up bar, the children’s paddling pools, and 450 metres of Blue Flag sandy beach, the perfect place to watch a dramatic Halkidiki sunset.
The resort has recently been renovated. From the tranquil new garden entrance to five fully redesigned restaurants, the all-new The Garden Restaurant to the sensational new Deluxe Bar with its sunset deck, an enhanced world of Unconditional Luxury awaits.
Ikos Olivia’s diverse dining experiences invite you to explore the aromatic tastes of Asia, Italian delicacies, traditional French gastronomy, Greek flavours and more. In five elegant venues, fully redesigned for the 2024 season, and the all-new Wine & Dine Garden, offering local produce in an intimate setting, discover a world of unrivalled all-inclusive dining. Menus crafted by Michelin-starred chefs combine fresh Mediterranean flavours and local ingredients with global influences, while a wine list of more than 300 premium labels awaits. Enjoy a signature cocktail, light bites by the pool, and an authentic local experience with the complimentary Dine Out programme.
Ikos Olivia lies in the traditional Greek village of Gerakini, home to a laidback beach area with bars and tavernas. Nearby Skala Gerakini is a popular spot for sunset walks, and it’s worth visiting the picturesque village and beach of Afytos, where you’ll discover charming whitewashed buildings, cobblestone streets and authentic restaurants (about 18 miles away). With the all-inclusive offering, you can spend a day exploring Halkidiki in a luxury Tesla with your complimentary Drive Adventure experience. You’ll also receive complimentary museum tickets to one local cultural site of your choice, including the Museum of Byzantine Culture, the Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki and the Gerovassiliou Wine Museum.
The elegant rooms and suites are situated in the main building or in contemporary bungalows throughout the hotel grounds. Stylish rooms offer floor-to-ceiling windows, calming colour schemes and ocean blue accents. The in-room minibar is restocked daily, and premium amenities include a Nespresso coffee machine, soft bathrobes and Anne Semonin toiletries. You can relax on your private furnished balcony or terrace, or enhance your stay by booking a room with a private garden or private pool.
Double Rooms have inland views overlooking the road, with the option to upgrade for calming sea views, whereas Panorama Junior Suites offer a spacious, open-plan design with uninterrupted views across the Aegean Sea. The Two Bedroom Bungalow Suite Beachfront accommodation offers the utmost privacy in a prime beachfront location. Suites in the Deluxe Collection include extra privileges, such as a bottle of champagne on arrival, a complimentary massage treatment, personal concierge service and access to an exclusive Deluxe Pool and an exclusive beach area.
There's plenty to entertain at Ikos Olivia with regular stage shows and performances, live music, musicals and beach parties. There are also several bars and for night owls a nightclub is open until 2am. Children too can enjoy various activities organised by the excellent Ikos childcare team including a mini disco.
All Day Bar Open daily from 10.00 - 24.00
Lobby Bar Open daily from 09.00 - 02.00
Beach Bar Open daily from 10.00 – 18.00
Main Pool Bar Open daily from 10.00 – 18.00
Deluxe Pool Bar Open daily from 10.00 – 18.00
Adults Only Bar Open daily from 20.30 – 24.00
Night Club Open daily from 23.00 – 02.00 (except Thursdays)
*operating hours are subject to change
Highlights:
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A variety of water sports and recreational activities are available (as found in all resorts).
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Stunning, scenic location.
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Five a la carte restaurants and the renowned Dine Out experience.
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Laid back vibes.
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Particularly impressive attention to detail from the staff.
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Easy to navigate.
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An adult only pool is available for those seeking some chilled out time.
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Pristine beach offering crystal-clear waters and ample loungers.
Considerations:
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The entertainment (especially for children), can be inconsistent.
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The laid back and relaxing atmosphere may not be for everyone.
Photo: Double Bungalow with Garden View
Ikos Oceania
Location: Halkidiki, Greece
Getting there: 35 minutes by car from Thessasaloniki airport
Open date: 2015
The second resort for the Ikos family, Ikos Oceania is also in Halkidiki on another glorious stretch of Mediterranean coastline.
Perched above the jade-blue waters of the Aegean Sea, Ikos Oceania promises a luxurious, all-inclusive stay. You can take a refreshing dip in the sea view infinity pool, or rejuvenate at the fabulous spa, while children enjoy engaging kids’ club activities and the lively kids’ pool. The nearby natural sandy beach offers sun bed service and a beach bar, and the on-site restaurants present menus curated by Michelin-star chefs as part of the exceptional all-inclusive plan, so you can expect first-class service.
Ikos Oceania sits less than two miles away from the second largest town in Halkidiki, Nea Moudania. The town is best known for its fishing port, but it’s also home to lively seafront tavernas, bars and boutiques. Meanwhile, the 15-acre resort is nestled in a more secluded location with access to an exclusively-serviced 350-metre long beach. You can also explore the spectacular beaches and pine forests around the Halkidiki peninsula with a day’s complimentary Local Adventure in a luxury Tesla and free museum passes for the Museum of Byzantine Culture, the Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki or the Gerovassiliou Wine Museum. The distance from the resort to Thessaloniki airport is around 31 miles.
Large floor-to-ceiling windows in the luxuriously understated 290 rooms and suites fill the rooms with natural light, and the pale blue and white colour schemes create a calming, coastal ambiance. Each contemporary room is equipped with a complimentary minibar, which is restocked daily as part of the all-inclusive package. Rooms range from doubles to Deluxe Two Bedroom Family Suites, which feature a spacious living room, two separate bedrooms, two bathrooms and a furnished private balcony with spectacular Aegean Sea views. You can also upgrade for your own private garden.
Suites in the Deluxe Collection come with exclusive benefits and dedicated areas, including access to the deluxe pool. Further privileges include a welcome bottle of champagne, two complimentary massage treatments (per room, per stay), upgraded minibar amenities and more.
Spend days on the picturesque beach, which is lined with pine trees, sun loungers and umbrellas. There’s a casual beach bar, where you can order light snacks and refreshments – or you can enjoy fabulous waiter service. If you would like some time to yourself, take advantage of the dedicated Babewatch staff who will take care of your little ones (complimentary for half an hour), while you swim in the calm waters. You can also play a game of beach volleyball or participate in a range of complimentary non-motorised water sports, from canoeing to windsurfing. Motorised water sports and private boat tours are also on offer for a supplementary charge.
The Ikos Spa has seven private treatment rooms and an extensive menu that offers all manner of treatments by Anne Semonin, from after-sun therapies to anti-ageing facials. There’s even a Junior Spa menu for children aged 12 to 16. Other spa facilities include a heated indoor pool and Jacuzzi, a steam room, a sauna, a fitness studio and a beauty corner with a hair salon, nail salon all using Anne Semonin products. The indoor pool is enclosed by large windows that overlook the pool, grounds and Aegean Sea. Children under the age of 16 can swim here during specific ‘Splash Hours’ (with adult supervision).
There are plenty of resort activities to keep you busy. You can head to the tennis courts, participate in an organised fitness class or take a pedalo out on the water. Otherwise, you can hire a mountain bike, enjoy an introductory diving lesson (in the hotel pool) and play a game of basketball. All ages are well catered for with the complimentary kids’ club and seasonal teens’ club – plus there’s a creche for children between the ages of 4 months and 3 years old as well as a babysitting service (additional charges apply). Every evening, the Ikos Theatre presents an array of entertainment from musical shows to movie screenings, and kids can look forward to the discos.
Ikos Oceania is renowned for its high-quality dining. Their five a la carte restaurants and Mediterranean buffet restaurant cater for a wide range of tastes. The menus are designed by Michelin-starred chefs, and there's children's menus and baby food in each of them upon request.
The hotel’s Dine Out programme offers an authentic taverna-style experience at nearby Nea Moudania, where you can enjoy local specialities and wines. Complimentary transport can be arranged, although restaurant reservations are required. There are also five bars located throughout the resort, where you can order classic and custom cocktails, handcrafted by in-house mixologists.
There's 8 pools for you to sunbathe by; two of which are for babies, one specifically designed for families, two adult only, one in the spa, a main pool and one is reserved for the Deluxe Collection guests. Three of the pools are infinity edged, offering a fabulous view of the Aegean.
One thing to note; the resort is on a hillside and therefore may be unsuitable for guests with mobility issues. Ikos Olivia is a suitable alternative.
Indigo Main Bar Open daily from 09.00 - 02.00
Almyra Beach Bar Open daily from 10.00 - 18.00
Aqua Pool Bar Open daily from 10.00 – 18.00
Helios Bar (Adult Only) Open daily from 20.30 – 24.00
Lounge Bar (Deluxe Collection) Open daily from 10.00 – 20.00
Astra Club Open daily from 2300 – 0200 (closed Thursdays)
Highlights:
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Long private beach with a complimentary 30 minute 'Babewatch' babysitting service (the service is available at all resorts)
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Infinity pool with heart melting views
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Adult only pools
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Splash zone for young children
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Peaceful environment
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6 restaurants to choose from
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Ideal for your first Ikos experience
Considerations:
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One of the earliest hotels in the Ikos brand to open, it may not feel as luxurious as some of the more modern additions to the Ikos portfolio.
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The resort is compact and rooms can feel smaller
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Offers fewer facilities than some other Ikos resorts
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The hilly terrain might pose some difficulties for guests with mobility issues.
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The spa can get booked up very quickly so it is advisable to book as soon as possible.
Photo: Junior Suite with Private Garden