The key to a successful family holiday is finding a place that offers something for everyone – and on that front the Sani Resort cannot be bettered. Sheltered in a nook of Greece’s Kassandra peninsula, its five hotels and marina are spread over a 1,000-acre estate, surrounded by pine forests, wetlands and the perfect blue waters of the Aegean Sea. The size of the place could feel overwhelming, but the clever design, welcoming staff and electric Volvos shuttling between venues make it feel more like a collection of intimate corners where everyone can find what they are looking for in a holiday.
There are cabanas overlooking the beach, pools for seemingly every occasion (kid-friendly, adults only, indoor, outdoor, private, infinity), opulent spas and 40 restaurants and bars. But Sani goes beyond the usual holiday delights. Sporty kids can enrol in the football or tennis academies (in association with Chelsea FC and Rafa Nadal respectively) while the adventurous throw themselves into the Bear Grylls survival camp or around the on-site Go Ape-style rope course. Younger families can take advantage of the ‘Babewatch’ complimentary on-beach babysitting service while older ones enjoy birdwatching and even beekeeping sessions in the nature reserve.
If that weren’t enough Sani also hosts its own food and music festivals every summer featuring Michelin-starred chefs and artists such as Tom Odell and Sarah Brightman. It all adds up to a genuine haven for families looking to reconnect without once hearing the two words all parents dread – “I’m bored”.
Neighbourhood:
Greece’s first carbon-neutral resort, Sani is carefully woven into a vast nature reserve containing a forest, coastline and teeming wetland which guests can explore via regular, eco-friendly guided tours.
Nearby:
The charming village of Afytos is well worth a day trip. Perched on a clifftop, it offers mesmerising views and some of the best restaurants on the peninsula.
Time Out tip:
Time your trip with the carefully curated Sani Gourmet food festival, which runs on Saturday nights across July and early August. 2023 saw Michelin chefs including Akira Black, Hélène Darroze and Christian Le Squer preparing tasting menus that will linger long in the memory of those lucky enough to attend.