Greek odyssey
ALL RHODES LEAD TO RELAXATION FOR BILLIE SCHWAB DUNN AT THE ELISSA LIFESTYLE RESORT
Splash out and luxuriate in a chic waterfront bungalow, chilling out by your own pool – it will feel like your little private island haven
VIBE
Tucked away on the northeast coast of the largest of the Dodecanese islands, it’s easy to find your zen in the serene environment of this elegant contemporary hotel, on a beachfront in Kallithea. Part of the Ella Resorts’ collection of eco-conscious properties, the five- star adults-only Elissa Lifestyle Resort opened last July. Stepping into the lobby to a warm welcome from the staff sets the tone for a relaxing stay.
STYLE
Each one of its 332 rooms, suites and bungalows is decorated in a palette of earthy tones and soothing shades of blue reflecting its stunning location overlooking the Aegean Sea. And all come with either terraces or verandas to enjoy the sea breezes, along with king-sized beds equipped with top-notch orthopaedic mattresses so you’re sure of a good night’s sleep. But if you want to treat yourself, splash out and luxuriate in a chic waterfront bungalow, chilling out by your own pool – it will feel like your little private island haven.
FOOD AND DRINK
With five dining options on site, foodies will be spoilt for choice. Michelin-star chef Alex Tsiotinis has created mouth-watering menus for Elissa’s signature restaurants. If you have a yen for delectable Japanese cuisine, reserve a table at Pan-asian Masari. Or dine alfresco on the catch of the day and Greek meze while soaking in sea views at Kavos. At Mediterranean grill Fourni, your hardest decision will be whether to order tender meat skewers or fresh fish, but do leave room for the excellent profiteroles. Buffet lovers can feast at Fanes, which serves a mix of Greek and Rhodian dishes. And if you’re on the beach you don’t have far to go to grab a local speciality from Elissa’s street food-style hub. Quench your thirst from a menu of local and international wines and delicious homemade cocktails at one of the resort’s four bars dotted around the hotel, from lobby bar Siana to winetasting in Kelari’s cellar, and pool bars Rodini and Istrio. The Don’t Touch My Bikini cocktail is a popular choice.
SPA
The Ella Wellness and Spa can be found at sister resort Helea, which is a 10-minute stroll away. Complete with steam room, ice room, hammam and saunas there’s an impressive menu of treatments – I opted for a rejuvenating muscle release massage. This is definitely the place to unwind and recharge.
WHAT TO DO
Cool off in one of Elissa’s 15 freshwater pools, or just minutes away guests have private access to a beach and its clear waters. If you want activities, yoga and Pilates are among the classes offered at the fully equipped fitness centre, plus tennis courts and water sports are also available.
A DAY OUT
Rhodes Old Town, only a 10-minute drive from the resort, is a must-visit. One of the best-preserved medieval towns in Europe, this Unescolisted walled town and its labyrinth of cobbled streets are steeped in history. Just an hour’s drive down the east coast is the picture-postcard town of Lindos, regarded as one of the prettiest places on the island, with quaint white buildings hugging the hillside overlooking a stunning sandy beach and the turquoise waters of the Aegean beyond. And it’s well worth climbing the 300 steps up to the incredible hilltop Acropolis monument that dominates the town for the breathtaking views.