Embrace the simple serenity of Corfu and prepare to be entranced by this island’s natural beauty. A slower pace of life goes hand-in-hand with this newly-opened hotel’s laidback atmosphere, where sunset cocktails and long lazy lunches take priority over the daily irks of modern life. Sophie Ritchie takes to a sunbed to share more
Nestled on a stretch of stunning beachfront in south east Corfu, Avali, Mar-Bella Collection, Corfu is a sparklingly new boutique, adult-friendly hotel from the Mar-Bella Collection group. Featuring modern 76 rooms and suites, Avali showcases just how mesmerisingly tranquil the surrounding Grecian coastline can be.
Located about a half hour’s transfer away from the island’s main airport, it’s unsurprising that its name itself translates to ‘a small bay’ – the property is undeniably gorgeous, but it’s the natural island surroundings that truly take one’s breath here. Avali sits between Corfu’s lush rolling hills and a secluded stretch of sandy pebbled beach on the sparkling Ionian sea, giving a guest 360 degree eyefuls of mesmerising scenery whether having breakfast or gazing out from a room’s balcony.
The island’s southern region presents a slower, more authentic pace of life compared to the north – here, secluded beauty in the form of small villages and ancient olive groves set the scene for a tranquil getaway.
Arrive at Avali’s swish lobby and get ready to set down both your baggage, both the physical and emotional variety. Somehow, the everyday stress of daily life soon melts into the horizon like one of the island’s disappearing cotton candy sunsets after crossing the threshold of this stylish all-inclusive.
Within the walls of this five-star stay, relaxing becomes one’s top priority. Sleep in, gaze across the surroundings with one of Corfu’s famous kumquat liqueur-based cocktails in-hand and simply press pause on reality until it’s time to head home. All stays here are offered on a Premium All-Inclusive basis, meaning guests can maximise their time (and appetites) when soaking up the Avali lifestyle. Even better, it’s also available to book as part of British Airways Holidays, helping busy travellers with a holiday package that takes almost all of the stress away from planning a getaway.
The newest opening from the family-owned Mar-Bella Collection group, Avali is certainly the coolest of the family. Contemporary in style with a laid-back bohemian feel, this modern hotel is ideal for loved-up couples, groups of friends, curious solo travellers and free-spirited young families (although note that your children need to be aged 6+ to join you on the sun loungers). Paired with the welcoming and friendly attitude of Avali’s hotel team, you’ll be feeling settled into these ambient surroundings in no time.
For those curious to explore the other two nearby Mar-Bella Collection sister properties (both located within strolling distance or a short transfer), residents from all three hotels can take advantage of a Dine Around programme. Utilising a daily allowance, guests can try out a tastebud Odyssey of their own and book into any of the group’s à la carte restaurants for an edible safari.
Much like a watering hole in the wild, expect to find the majority of fellow Avali guests surrounding the expansive outdoor infinity pool, where shimmering turquoise waters are complimented with an easy-access beach bar for a distinct beach club vibe. The ideal recipe for gaining some R&R, simply combine a towel, absorbing book and regular SPF top ups for a resulting few dreamy hours spent horizontal in the radiant sun. The pebbled beach is also just a few steps away, giving residents the choice of both a pool or refreshing sea dip before lunchtime rolls around.
The Room
“Sleep and you shall find.” Interiors throughout Avali evoke a feeling of peaceful rejuvenation with simple but sleek furnishings and soothing colour palettes, creating a sense of barefoot luxury that can be felt in every space, be it bar or bedroom.
The minimalist design found within its four floor array of spacious rooms and suites is complimented by the addition of all the modern mod cons – Nespresso coffee machines, ample-stocked mini fridges, soft bathrobes and olive oil-infused toiletries for the ultimate Grecian touch. Doused in serenity from tip to toe, from fabric headboards through to expansive balconies, even an afternoon nap feels next level here.
For those looking to truly splash out, a prestigious Panorama Junior Suite Private Pool also comes with its own private infinity pool – ideal for a truly exclusive front crawl session. A Deluxe Double Room Private Pool also offers their own smaller version of the above – as well as incredible eyefuls across the shimmering Ionian waters.
The Food & Drink
A foodie’s dream come true, Avali offers a range of gastronomic options with its all-inclusive dining options. The majority of feasting takes place in Zardini (Tzardini in Corfiot, meaning ‘small garden’) an all-day Mediterranean-Asian fusion restaurant found at the heart of the hotel.
Its large open kitchen serves a daily buffet breakfast that showcases the mouth-watering finery of local ingredients – think all of the devourable Greek classics, from creamy thick yoghurt to hot dishes, as well as juicy fresh fruits, phyllo pastries, dainty cakes as far as the stomach can see and even a honey bar with various flavours.
Whether you’re a one trip wonder or enjoy piling up your plate until your swimsuit no longer fits, there’s a feast for everyone here. Later on, a further mix of à la carte and buffet fusion selections of Mediterranean and Asian dishes can be enjoyed for lunches and dinners.
Further tipples can be ordered at the Lobby Bar and Cicada Pool Bar, the latter of which further serves as a chic day-time hangout serving beach snacks in the form of club sandwiches, Greek salads and hefty plates of crispy fries. Come night fall, it transforms into an evening destination filled with cocktails and live entertainment, embodying the laid-back ambience of Avali.
Save room and remember that good things come to those who wait – Avali’s upcoming 2026 season will also see the opening of Stià Grill Restaurant (meaning ‘fireplace’ in Corfiot). For those with a penchant for holiday snacks, a tempting poolside food truck is slated to open for further light bites throughout the day.
The Wellness
1 Ideal for gym bunnies, maintaining your Strava antics at Avali couldn’t be easier. There’s both an indoor and outdoor fitness area, both of which come packed with a range of weights and cardio equipment. It’s worth noting that the indoor space isn’t currently air-conditioned, so bring a towel and prepare to get a serious sweat on.
2 Whether working out or just enjoying the fine art of lounging around, a little TLC goes a long way. Tucked around the corner from Avali’s infinity pool awaits a pretty outdoor spa kiosk, where guests can book in for additional indulgent spa treatments in the form of back massages and facials, enjoyed in a private beach setting.
3 Take to the water! Nestled on the ocean’s edge awaits an on-site watersports centre with stand-up paddle boards, canoes and kayaks. Embrace your inner mermaid and spend a few hours engaging your core on the waves – this is blue health as its best.
Take two: Things to try
1 Explore Corfu’s Old Town with a food tour
Food and drink are absolutely integral to this small island and its diverse history, blending the diverse flavours of its traditional Mediterranean roots with a strong Venetian influence. Taking place on a daily basis during peak season in small groups, The Corfu Food Tour gives curious gourmands the opportunity to wander through the narrow streets of Corfu’s Old Town and savour many of these unique artisan creations curated by some of the best local traders of Corfiot cuisine. Learn fascinating facts from the sharp-witted team before devouring a host of sweet and savoury goodies along the way – what could be better? corfuwalkingtours.com
2 Immerse yourself in local culture with an Govenors Olive Oil tasting
Forget the typical wine tasting. Hosted in ultra sleek upstairs surroundings within the Old Town, embark on an olive oil adventure with an exclusive High Phenolic Extra Virgin Olive Oil tasting. The expert Governor Olive Oil team will lead you in a captivating journey of olive oil tasting, enlightening guests on the art of extra virgin olive oil, whilst pairing these tidbits with delectable food combinations. Our personal highlight has to be the olive oil ice cream – a mouth-watering combination! theolivehouse.gr
The Wordrobe Verdict
Embrace the simple serenity of Corfu and prepare to be entranced by this island’s natural beauty. A slower pace of life goes hand-in-hand with Avali’s laidback atmosphere, where sunset cocktails and long lazy lunches take priority over the daily irks of modern life.
Ideal for switching off and soaking it all in instead, this brand new stay ticks all the boxes when it comes to a chic all-inclusive that doesn’t compromise on quality or ambience.
Make it happen
Getaways with Avali can be booked via British Airways Holidays. British Airways Holidays is one the UK’s leading and most trusted tour operators. From their selection of carefully chosen hotels to their dedicated 24-hour helpline, they take every element of their customers’ holidays seriously. Their hotels span 600 locations in 100 countries, packaged with British Airways and other airline partner flights. Car hire, in partnership with Avis & Budget, airport transfers and sightseeing experiences can also be booked as part of a package on ba.com, or by calling their destination experts.
Words by Sophie Ritchie, editor
Corfu Holidays – British Airways Holidays offers seven nights, at the 5* Avali Mar-bella Collection, from £1189pp + €52.50pp (Environmental Fee, payable locally) travelling on selected dates between 1 May – 31 May 2026 inclusive. Includes economy (Euro Traveller) return flights from London Gatwick, one checked bag per person and accommodation on an all-inclusive board basis. Book by 21 November 2025. For reservations visit britishairways.com/corfu
20% Hotel Saving Included.
Prices are correct at the time of submission and are based on 2 people sharing. “Book by” dates are supplied based on the availability of the package price at the time of submission, these are subject to availability.
