Is this Greece’s best-kept secret?

Words: Agatha Zarzycki

On crescent-curved Valtos Beach in northwestern Greece, Parga Beach Resort overlooks the iridescent Ionian Sea and hilltop-perched Venetian castle of its namesake town. Centuries-old olive trees and rich flora weave through chic pools, delectable dining and kids’ play areas (think Grecian jungle meets lavish, family-friendly abode). This mainland resort is full of multi-generational magic which puts it neck and neck with Greek’s most picturesque isles. Here’s why. 

Lust-after location

If the turquoise sea splashing on to a sandy beach isn’t blissful enough, you can elevate euphoria by ordering drinks and food straight to your (superbly spaced out) sun-lounger – or to one of seven pools, or that lush garden nook you love – through the hotel’s app. It’s worth pulling yourself away from the hotel rapture (for a little while at least) to visit the quaint, coastal town of Parga, just 20 minutes by foot. Its cobbled streets are brimming with traditional tavernas and boutique shops selling everything from handmade textiles to artwork and olive oil.

Luxurious, laidback digs

Venetian, bungalow-style accommodation offers unhindered sights of glorious greenery and aquamarine pools (almost) too pretty to dip into. Interiors are spacious but minimalistic, incorporating earthy hues and community craftmanship such as cream-coloured local stone that nods to nature and the hotel’s heritage. Treat yourself to the two-storey, loft-style Maison Bliss suite, which has an all-yours balcony, terrace and plunge pool. Families feeling fancy can opt for the 40sqm Aura suite, where two adults and two children (or three adults and one child) can have both plush privacy and garden get-togethers.

Foodie fabulosity

Alongside multiple bars, the resort’s three restaurants are so impressive there’s no need to go anywhere else, and guests have both all-inclusive and half-board options. The newest addition is elegant Kokona, inspired by Greek tavernas and serving wood-fired comfort dishes – the provatina lamb is exceptional – plus Greek wine and spirits such as tsipouro, traditionally distilled from grape pomace. Meanwhile, both grown-up and little jet-setters will love chilled-out, seaside Thálassa, offering Mediterranean classics from Epirus and beyond such as pork gyros, chicken souvlaki and moussaka (don’t worry, as the buffet dinner will please the fussiest of eaters), and weekly Greek and BBQ nights with live entertainment. For an extra special occasion, the resort’s fine dining gem Alseléa dazzles with creative seafood plates and sights of the castle.

Spa serenity

It’s no secret that nature supports our wellbeing, and the resort’s Blossom Wellness Centre takes this to another luscious level. There are the traditional indulgences, including purifying hammam rituals, and more fascinating (but equally delightful) pampering options, such as a collagen-boosting rice and soy facial and a restoring cocoa body treatment. During ‘The Tibet’, pouches of Himalayan rocks and Dead Sea salts, along with warm almond oil drops, are placed on the body for a decongesting and balancing effect. The outdoor wellness corners (dotted around the resort) also deserve praise. The best one? A private beachside tent for massages featuring the soothing soundtrack of the sea.

Multi-gen adventures

We can all use a digital detox, and Phiome Kids’ Club (for ages four to 12) has just the thing: flora and fauna–inspired play zones that stir up the senses. Little travellers can create their own assault course, garden and participate in an ocean-exploration workshop, while teens and adults can also experience water-fuelled wanderlust, including yachting and a sunrise kayaking tour amid olive groves – or along the famous Acheron River. The resort offers a variety of guided walking tours – day trips to the Necromanteion, an ancient Greek temple said to be the entrance to the underworld, is top of our list.

Book your holiday

All holidays with British Airways Holidays are ATOL protected and include a generous baggage allowance and a 24-hour holiday helpline. Secure your Greece holiday now with a low deposit at Parga Beach Resort and enjoy flexible payments until you fly.*

*Full balance due four weeks before departure for short-haul holidays. Subject to availability. T&Cs apply. See ba.com/deposits.