The antidote to an overbooked life? Space to think, freedom to do what you want when you want, and a peaceful place to come back to your senses. Ekies is that magical place. Growing up, owner Alexandra Efstathiadou spent her summer holidays here, overlooking the crystal-clear Vourvourou Bay on the peninsula of Sithonia, Chalkidiki's 'second finger'. She jumped at the chance to buy the hotel for herself, and her whimsical reinvention layers various design styles, ranging from minimalist to high-design, along with legendary Greek hospitality. Each of the 76 rooms and suites are different; all are stunning.
Everything you need to restore your stress-battered psyche is within these grounds. Follow a path across the landscaped lawn to the peaceful swimming pool, before continuing to the open-air spa, where staff can prescribe personalised treatments for whatever's ailing you. Claim a sun lounger on the beach, where the shallow water is safe for small children, then sip cocktails on the deck as you marvel at sunsets that bathe the sea and pine-forested mountains in a silvery glow. Irresistible extras - a romantic tree house, a hammock dangling above the water - take you beyond relaxation to the carefree days you knew as a kid. True rejuvenation!
Highs
- Truly fantastic gourmet food in the waterfront restaurant, Bubo Greek Fine Dining (some of the best we've ever eaten), plus the option of intimate fine dining meals in the treehouse
- Impeccable design with iconic furnishings and fun details - Acapulco and Panton chairs, oversized light bulbs, parasols that resemble lampshades
- Wonderful staff - everything is done with big smiles
- A picture-perfect location close to magnificent beaches and only 90 minutes from Thessaloniki airport
- Ideal for memorable family holidays, and a good option for couples during the quieter shoulder months
Lows
- The hotel beach is narrow with murky water and a limited number of loungers, and can get noisy during summer; there are plenty of others beaches nearby (which are more beautiful)
- The smallest rooms have low ceilings and poor storage
- Several rooms have open-plan bathrooms, which won’t suit everyone (separate loos, though)
- Mosquitoes are around but the hotel provides natural insect repellent and tabs
Best time to go
The hotel is open from April to October. It’s busiest during the summer months, which are particularly popular with families. Spring (late April-May) and autumn (September-October) are perhaps the best times in terms of weather - warm but not too hot - and are popular with couples. It's wise to book early, especially for Easter, July and August.
Our top tips
The passage between the islands of Diaporos and Agios Isidoros is known as the 'blue lagoon' for its tranquil blue-green water. Rent a motorboat and spend the afternoon exploring and swimming. Further down the coast, there are secret coves - accessible only by water - tucked into the pine-covered slopes.
Location
Ekies All Senses Resort is located on secluded Vourvourou Bay on the peninsula of Sithonia, the 'second finger' of Chalkidiki (Halkidiki), mainland Greece. It’s about 80 minutes from Thessaloniki and its airport.
By Air:
Thessaloniki (110km away) is the nearest airport. It’s the hub for northern Greece and served by many international flights - click on the links below for a list of airlines. There’s also an airport at Kavala (211km away).
From the Airport
The hotel can arrange transfers or you can hire a car. The hotel has a small car park.
Detailed directions will be sent to you when you book through i-escape.com.
More on getting to Greece and getting around
Airports:
- Thessaloniki International 110.0 km SKG
- Kavala Alexander The Great International 211.0 km KVA
Other:
- Beach 0.1 km
- Shops 0.5 km
- Restaurant 0.5 km
Our guests' ratings...
Based on 9 independent reviews from i-escape guests
Feedback is only from guests who have booked and stayed through i-escape