From the moment you step foot into the lobby you know you are somewhere special. This is a spectacular beachfront, family-friendly resort that redefines the all-inclusive concept. Accommodation is suitable for both small and large families with rooms in either the main hotel building or spacious bungalows scattered through the resort. A quick email to Ikos Olivia before arrival ensured that our bungalow was equipped with all the necessary items for our 10 month old (high chair, steriliser, baby bath etc) and the small convenience shop on site is well stocked with baby essentials should you need them. For the adults, a Nespresso machine, daily stocked minibar, soft robes and large bottles of Anne Semonin products all add to the luxury.
Dining is truly special with four a la carte restaurants specialising in French, Asian, Greek and Italian cuisine with menus designed by celebrity and Michelin-starred chefs. There are special menus for the children and even a fresh chef-made baby puree menu available for the very little ones. The a la carte restaurants all require a reservation but this can be arranged either via the hotel app or the concierge desk. For more relaxed dining, the impressive Mediterranean buffet restaurant has something for everybody. If this wasn't enough, room service is also included as part of the package.
By day, Ikos Olivia offers an extensive programme of activities for both children and adults. Children are well looked after with their own pool and playground, children's clubs, mini disco, and a creche for the little ones operating in line with UK Ofsted standards. Babysitting can even be arranged. And for extra peace of mind the resort even has a medical centre on-site to deal with any health problems.
The beach and pool areas are fantastic with drinks and snacks brought to your super-comfortable sun loungers. They even clean your sunglasses for you whilst you sip on your frappe (or something stronger!). It's worth noting that there is no getting up early to reserve sunbeds - this is not allowed and means that there is always a sunbed free somewhere in the resort.
By night, the resort has entertainment for everyone: piano music in the lobby bar, a musical theatre-style show in the outdoor theatre or a White Night Beach Party! We loved them all and so did the children. Several bars are scattered throughout the resort and, whether it is a pre-dinner G&T or an expertly crafted espresso martini, these are all included in the package.
Life is so good at Ikos Olivia that we didn't even think about leaving the resort!
The Risley Family