Arriving and departing the MarBella Corfu are very different experiences. After a week of lazy afternoons, great food, exquisite local wine, exceptional service, relaxing spa treatments and all those 'oh wow' stunning views, I left the resort a lot more relaxed than I was when I arrived.

The recently renovated MarBella Corfu sits proudly, perched looking down towards the Ionian Sea and offers beautiful views towards mainland Greece.

The resort remains a family hotel, after a hotel was initially built in the 1960s by the current owner's grandfather as a place for friends and family to stay when visiting (must have been a popular guy). The hotel was then developed over the years to become what is now the MarBella Corfu. There is still the feeling that this is an independent, family business despite the vast size of the resort. Intimate service, bright personalities and staff and guests who return year after year made me feel exceptionally welcomed throughout the stay.

The Luxury Travel Bible checked into one of the resort's two Presidential suites. The suite was beautiful, light and airy featured a decadent décor and amenities that TLTB always appreciates such as a Nespresso coffee maker, free Wi-Fi, organic Apivita bathroom products plus a private Jacuzzi on the terrace. The suite also has awe-inspiring panoramic views over resort and the Ionian Sea and coastline. Sitting, taking in the view I was starting to feel like I was on top of the world!

Another accommodation option that would suit TLTB readers would be the Superior Family Garden view suites. Perfect for mum,dad and the kids. Little luxies will love to run around within their own safe private garden.

As any luxury traveller would expect the cuisine on offer was fresh and delicious. There are a number of varied dining options, eleven in total, available to guests within the resort.  To set you up for the day, head to the  La Terraza restaurant for a delicious buffet breakfast and for that added touch of luxury there is the option of a glass of champagne to help wash down the traditional Greek breakfast. The Luxury Travel Bible particularly enjoyed dining at the Greek Restaurant, for an intimate dinner - mmm , that Feta was to die for!

The resorts bar was a great spot for pre-dinner drinks and the friendly barmen can offer some advice about what cocktail to enjoy the sunset with. Everyone sitting up at the bar certainly enjoyed the spectacle of watching the fruity drinks being created.

Before arriving in Corfu it was recommended we try the delicious, local wild strawberries, fraoules. This local delicacy features on the menu of Cascade Restaurant,  which serves a range of Greek dishes.  Greek Coffee and Kumquat Liquor  are my new favourite beverages and I'd travel back to Greece just for the Beef Stifado.

The resort has a saltwater and a freshwater pool and also at the Kid's Club a children's pool  (with its very cool water slide) and a toddler pool, but TLTB's favourite place to get horizontal was on a sun lounger at the resort's private beach. The only strenuous activity TLTB undertook was a regular, cooling-off dip in the ocean and ordering a snack or beverage from the beach-front Dolphin Restaurant & Bar.

Located next to the resort's very own charming chapel (perfect for destination wedding snaps), is the  APIVITA SPA. The Luxury Travel Bible loved the range of indulgent treatments on offer and the fact that despite the diverse menu the staff clearly know their stuff. A particular favourite was the 'Marbella Well Being Massage' which erased any lasting memories of desk dwelling. The Apivita products used in the spa are all  organic and have been produced using Greek flora. The range is  available to purchase in the spa and is also used in the guest bathrooms.

For anyone who can drag themselves off the sun loungers there are plenty of more energetic activities from archery to  sea kayaking, water ski and parasailing. Those wishing to explore further afield , above or below the waves, can choose from trekking, mountain biking and scuba diving.

A new activity for the 2014 is the Aerial Yoga. Classes can be taken either in the resort or on the lawns, where guests can swing, hang and relax in yards of fabric in yoga poses - lots of fun and surprisingly relaxing!

Corfu is a beautiful, interesting island to explore. TLTB took part in an extremely interesting and informative tour of the old town with Ichnos Excursions, and the hotel concierge are able to arrange tours of the island. However, one of the best ways to experience the Corfu is by arranging a speed boat to pick you up from the resort's dock to whizz you around the island and view if from a different angle.

MarBella Corfu will appeal to numerous age groups and various types of travellers, but as long as your common goal is to enjoy a relaxing escape, you'll be in luck here.

 

Ultimate Luxury:  The Presidential Suite's views are stunning and relaxing in your own Jacuzzi on the terrace is rather indulgent too.

Most Indulgent Moment: Booking a speed boat to take you from the resort's dock into the centre of Corfu town - 'For Your Eyes Only' was filmed in Corfu, so enjoy the James Bond moment..

Insider Secrets: The fun, oversized donkey statue in the grounds of the hotel has no real meaning or significance - the owner just liked it so, bought it for his hotel.

The Little Things: Staff members who remember your coffee order, from breakfast (Frappuccino) to after dinner (strong Greek coffee) - even more impressive considering the size of the resort!

Junior Luxies: They will love this resort! The resort's Kids Club is secluded from the rest of the resort and fun activities and care is offered from 4 months old up to 12 years old.

Dent in the platinum:

Luxury Resorts Link: www.marbella.gr

Luxury Facts: Classic Collection Holidays ( 0800 294 9318; classic-collection.co.uk) offers 7 nights at MarBella Corfu from £785/£988 per person this September. Prices based on 2 adults sharing a deluxe room on half board/all inclusive basis. Prices include return flights from London Gatwick (other UK departure airports are available) to Corfu and private transfers. City tours available from Ichnos Excursions can be arranged at the hotel's concierge desk - http://toursincorfu.gr/en/

Sarah Bryans 16/6/14