Why a Spanish twin-centre at Ikos Resorts is the perfect family getaway

Island delight

Ikos Porto Petro runs along half a mile of rugged Majorcan coastline, punctuated by two pristine bays. A pleasant 10-minute amble from the sleepy fishing town of Portopetro, the resort has been designed to flow like a local village and, as such, it never feels busy, with cosy nooks and quiet corners dotted throughout. However, I must confess that if we weren’t beside a pool, you’d likely find us at the enormous on-site playground. The 319-key property’s decor is in tune with its Mediterranean surrounds, featuring wicker, stone and natural wood, and the air is deliciously scented by the many pine trees that populate the impressive grounds. Within 30 minutes of our arrival, my son was jumping into one of the hotel’s five pools. Surrounded by kids who were happily playing with entertainment staff, we could feel at ease knowing he wasn’t going to get bored.

One of the pools is dedicated exclusively for Deluxe Collection guests and was the quietest of all – perfect for a relaxing nap in the afternoon sun. The food offering is where Ikos Porto Petro really shines, with six options, five of which feature menus curated by international top-class chefs. Children are well catered for, with impressive, nutritional menus at every venue. Our favourite was Asian fusion eatery Anaya, closely followed by Mediterranean restaurant Beach Club, but we would have happily dined anywhere on site. One element of Ikos’s ethos to support local communities allows guests at any of its seven properties to dine out at a nearby restaurant at no extra cost as part of the brand’s all-inclusive offering. We also took advantage of the Tesla programme, which allows guests to book an electric car for one day of their trip, again with all costs included. As with all Ikos hotels, Porto Petro offers everything that families could ask for, with countless amenities easily arranged, including pram hire and babysitting.

Admiring Andalusia

Despite opening during the pandemic, there was much hype and fanfare about Ikos Andalusia – the group’s first foray outside Greece. Since then, it has become a firm favourite with the trade, and for good reason. This sprawling resort (there are 410 rooms and suites, plus two new four-bedroom villas) occupies a sun-soaked stretch of coastline between Marbella and Estepona, an hour from Málaga-Costa del Sol airport. Its breezy, minimalist design is accentuated by swoon-worthy furnishings and decor: think deliciously earthy tones, rustic ceramics and soft lighting. My jaw dropped to the floor when we were whisked to our home-from-home upon arrival – a stunning two-bedroom penthouse (there are two in the property) with views over the Mediterranean.

In-suite welcome amenities included chocolate Lego for Theo and the customary bottle of Taittinger that comes with Deluxe Collection accommodation – an upgrade I’d recommend for clients with the budget to do so (see box). With as much outdoor terrace space as indoor space in the penthouse options, guests won’t want to leave the comfort of their suite. But, alas, they must, because what’s waiting for them is too good to ignore. We happily munched our way around as many of the nine restaurants as we could, devouring seafood aplenty and jamón croquettes galore. We sipped cocktails by the kids’ splash area while our son made his first official holiday friend. One for the memory bank! So, whether your clients want to experience the new Spanish properties, head to the original Greek collection or book one of the upcoming openings (Crete in 2026, Marbella in 2027 and Portugal in 2028), you can rest assured families will feel completely at home and extremely relaxed. They’ll have no fears about their children throwing a tantrum or dropping food on the floor – because this a genuinely family-focused brand. Here the only thing to worry about is switching off and making memories in the sunshine, and if my trip was anything to go by, they’ll be made in abundance.

Deluxe collection

Affluent clients should consider upgrading to Deluxe Collection accommodation: a selection of the best suites that Ikos has to offer, meaning guests will feel pampered and well looked after. As well as having Taittinger chilled and waiting upon their arrival, they’ll also get access to dedicated pool areas, while many of the hotels also offer Deluxe Collection guests their own beach zones with cabanas and uber-comfy loungers. Those staying in these premium suites also benefit from upgraded menus; two complimentary back and neck massages per suite, per stay in the Anne Semonin Paris spa; and access to an upgraded model of Tesla for their day of exploration. There’s even a packing and unpacking service available on request, and when it’s time to depart they’ll be gifted a beautiful bottle of olive oil. Simply divine!

Book it: If Only offers three nights at Ikos Andalusia and four nights a Ikos Porto Petro from £2,059 per person on an all-inclusive basis with return flights from Gatwick and internal flights. The price is based on a June 14 departure.
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