Review: Domes Miramare, Corfu

_Location: The leafy grounds of Domes Miramare can be found on the lower left side of Corfu, with views across the Ionian Sea to the mainland. The airport is a 30-minute drive away while Corfu Town is less than 45 minutes.

_{First impressions:} Travelling during the pandemic meant that our arrival came with the additional features of Perspex screens around the reception area, masked staff and an endless supply of hand sanitiser. My mind was put at ease when I was offered a Covid test, something all guests were offered on arrival. Covid protocols aside, I knew from the moment I stepped through the doors of this Luxury Collection property that I was going to love every second of my stay. The lobby offers perfect ocean views and has a very trendy feel with modern art installations and a decor of neutral tones alongside subtle hues of blue and green. Despite the contemporary look, Greek heritage and culture remain a key feature, reflected by the ancient olive tree that sits at the heart of the lobby.

_{The facts:} Once the summer home of the Onassis family, this property has played host to countless royals and celebrities. Now an adult-only hotel (guests have to be over 16) Domes Miramare has 113 rooms, suites and villas. The accommodation is split across two areas – on one side of the main lobby you’ll find blocks of rooms that flank the main pool; on the other side you’ll find Pavilion suites, many of which boast their own pools. These suites are booked as part of an exclusive Haute Living package, giving guests access to private areas including a dedicated pool for HL guests, a lounge where free-flowing, complimentary snacks and drinks (including alcohol) are served all day and a mini spa. These areas are hidden away from the main resort, ensuring peace and serenity. The property has several dining venues. Makris, which is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, offers an exquisite menu filled with Mediterranean dishes. The cuisine at sushi and cocktail venue The Raw Bar proved utterly divine, while the Verde Pool Bar serves delicious salads and snacks. Guests can dine à la carte, but many opt for a half-board package. The property also has an outdoor gym and offers watersports.

_Explore: Now, take my word for it when I say you won’t want to leave the hotel. It’s a glorious place and you’ll feel revitalised and rejuvenated by the laid-back pace of life here. But I urge you to drag yourself away from the cocktails and sumptuous mezze platters and explore the delights of Corfu. Corfu Town, particularly the Old Town, is awash with cobbled streets full of shops and restaurants, and plenty of cultural sites. The Achilleion Palace is well worth a visit, and once you’ve had your dose of history head to the coffee shop next door for sweeping views from the mountaintop. Beach lovers have plenty of options. Paleokastrista is the most popular, while Agios Georgios and Agios Stephanos are quieter and a little more off the beaten track. Dassia beach is another great option with a secluded shoreline circled by lush greenery. Want to venture farther afield? Domes Miramare offers guests the option of chartering a boat to explore the nearby islands of Paxos and Antipaxos.

_Wow: The access to the sea is unrivalled, since very few hotels in Corfu have direct access to a beach, as it’s illegal to build hotels within 100 metres of the shore. Domes Miramare guests benefit from a private beach at the centre of the property, while two steps leading into the shallow, azure ocean run across the whole property, providing access to the water from anywhere in the resort. The waters here are the perfect shades of blue – this alone will entice you to return to Domes Miramare. I know I’ll certainly be back!

Domesmiramare.com