Miraggio Thermal Spa Resort, Halkidiki - hotel review

When the hotel you’re staying at has a pillow and mattress menu in your room, it’s clear comfort is the top priority.

And choosing between the “hypoallergenic properties of pure virgin wool”, “natural rubber foam flakes” or “duck down and feathers” is about the biggest headache you’ll have while staying at Miraggio Thermal Spa Resort.

It oozes serenity and immediately feels as though you’re a world away from the rat race of London on arrival. Just over an hour’s drive through rolling hills and largely untouched countryside from Thessaloniki international airport, it sits next to the beach on a remote tip of the Kassandra Peninsula, north-east Greece, offering stunning views across the Aegean Sea.

Neighbouring Sithonia Peninsula, the second of three “fingers” which form part of the Halkidiki region, sits the other side of the water and completes the breath-taking view. The beach therefore takes centre stage and waves lapping gently within earshot of some of the resort's 300 rooms and suites at night adds to the tranquility.

During the day, sun-lovers can hire pillow and mattress-bedecked “cabanas” which provide the ultimate comfort while sinking champagne or a Piña colada from the nearby beach bar while taking in the view across the cove.

But it’s the resort’s array of pools in the Myrthia Thermal Spa, set across two floors in 3,000 square metres of tranquil space overlooking the sea, which are the jewel in its crown.

It is fed by an underground spring which was stumbled upon by accident while under construction in late 2015. This, along with its close proximity to the sea, allows for hydrotherapy and thalassotherapy thermals - in other words the health benefits of hot spring water and seawater - to be brought together. Abundant in zinc, potassium, calcium sulphates, sodium and magnesium, the mineral-rich waters are said to have “healing” properties and stimulate the body’s detoxification process.

The spa also has a steam room, Finnish sauna, herbal sauna, tepidarium, cold plunge walking path and two experience showers. After soaking for the afternoon before a massage in the upstairs treatment rooms, the stresses and strains of London had worn off by the end of the first day. For those who like to keep active, on-site cycling guide Vassilis immerses guests into the lush surroundings and mythological sites.

Just a few miles’ ride along windy, olive tree-lined roads is secluded St Nicholas Church, built on the former site of an ancient temple to Greek god Poseidon. It sits on a small rocky peninsula with waves softly lapping around, offering one of the best views across the Aegean Sea and perfect for some personal reflection time.

More adventurous cyclists can also ascend the surrounding hills and retrace the steps of philosopher Aristotle, who was born in the Halkidiki region, with further stunning views across towards mainland Greece and Mount Olympus.

Having worked up a thirst my group headed back to Sommelier’s 8 Wine Bar, where local wines are available in abundance and one of the army of attentive Greek staff is on hand to talk through them. Cocktails are also served until late at the resort’s main bar.

As for food, Portofino offers hearty Italian dishes but lacks the quality of main restaurant Kritamo and the Oasis Pool Restaurant, which both serve up great tasting Mediterranean and Greek classics.

Details:

Garden view standard double rooms start from around £118 in low season and £272 in high, with breakfast included. For half board packages add around £35 per night per person and £46 for full board; miraggio.gr