Daily Mirror (Northern Ireland)
IT’S ALL GO IN GREECE Zakynthos
The restart of international travel is getting tantalisingly close and that long-awaited family beach getaway is within sight. We reveal some of our favourite Greek destinations for a sunshine action break.
Here’s a membership club without the catches.
The Peligoni Club, a glamorous, all-bells, all-whistles beach club in the north of Zakynthos, doesn’t feature any main accommodation area. Instead, by booking a week’s membership, guests can choose between villas, cottages and B&BS dotted near the sea or in nearby hills. You gain access to all the fabulous facilities and activities at the club.
From learning to sail, windsurfing and paddleboarding to waterskiing, tennis and bike tours, you’ll never hear the words “we’re bored”. Grown-ups can relax in the spa or head out to explore the island, visiting rural villages and its rugged coastline.
Adult membership £735, child (aged 4-13) £665 for all watersports in July.
Seven nights at Kostas Cottage costs from £990. Departs July. Flights extra. peligoni.com
Parga
Marbella Elix is a fabulous new hotel opening next month in the unspoilt region of Parga on Greece’s mainland.
Crowning a pine-covered hillside, it is fronted by a beautiful long sandy beach and is the ultimate spot for a five-star family getaway.
They’ve partnered with UK activity operator Adventureful who will keep budding Bear Grylls types entertained with a vast programme of events, from bushcraft to kayaking and mountain biking.
It will include kids’ and teens’ adventure clubs.
Each contemporary-styled room has gorgeous views across the Ionian Sea and there’s an array of dining options, from fine dining to meals on the beach with the sand between your toes.
■ Seven nights from £1,106pp, half board. Departs July. olympic holidays.com/marbella.gr
Crete
Families with older children who love to go exploring will love this brilliant seven-day guided group hiking trip.
It takes you along the rocky landscapes of Crete’s spectacular Samaria Gorge and White Mountains.
Someone will transport your luggage as you explore tiny, remote villages and coastal towns. Plus you get the chance to dine with a local family.
Touring this way also means you are able to dive into secluded swimming spots, ramble through aromatic pine forests and pass through the Iron Gates – the Gorge’s narrowest point, with facing rocks 1,000ft high.
■ Seven nights from £779, B&B in September. gadventures.com