The Olivar Suites, Corfu: A Design-Led Retreat Set Within a Historic Olive Grove
120 Suites I 2 Restaurants & Bars I Beachfront location I Private Pools
Set on the southeastern coast of Corfu, The Olivar Suites occupies the grounds of a former 18th-century olive mill, now reimagined as a contemporary, design-led retreat. The original structure remains at the heart of the property, anchoring a layout that unfolds like a small village across a 27,000 m² olive grove. Mature trees, preserved and integrated into the landscape, shape both the architecture and the atmosphere, creating a setting defined by space, shade, and a quiet connection to the island’s agricultural past.
The 120 suites are arranged in low-rise buildings across the estate, each positioned to ensure privacy and a clear sense of separation. This layout allows the property to feel both expansive and intimate, with pathways leading through the grove towards the beach, the central pool, and the restored mill. Traditional Corfiot construction elements—stone walls, enclosed courtyards, and simple volumes—are interpreted through a contemporary architectural language, resulting in spaces that are restrained, tactile, and carefully proportioned.
Generous layouts and a strong emphasis on outdoor living define accommodation. Most suites feature private pools, often set within enclosed courtyards or gardens, alongside shaded terraces designed for dining and relaxation. The integration of indoor and outdoor space is consistent throughout, with large openings framing views of greenery or the Ionian Sea and allowing natural light to define the interiors.
Inside, the design follows a muted palette of natural tones—wood, stone, and soft textiles—paired with clean lines and understated detailing. Even in the more expansive categories, the focus remains on clarity of space rather than ornament. Executive and two-bedroom suites introduce separate living areas, while the Ionian Beachfront Suites extend directly towards the shoreline, combining private pools with immediate access to the sea. Riviera Suites, positioned on the upper level, open onto wide balconies with unobstructed views across the water.
The beachfront forms a central point of the property. A stretch of sandy shoreline, approximately 200 meters long, is equipped with sunbeds and umbrellas, with service extending from the hotel throughout the day. Just behind it, the main pool offers a larger communal setting, framed by loungers and low planting, with direct visual and physical connections to the sea.
Dining takes place primarily at Flya, the hotel’s all-day restaurant located between pool and beach. The menu draws on Corfiot, Greek, and Mediterranean influences, moving from a morning buffet to à la carte dishes later in the day. The kitchen focuses on seasonal ingredients and contemporary compositions, with indoor and outdoor seating that adapts to the time of day.
Olibar, set within the restored olive mill, introduces a different spatial experience. The historic structure has been preserved and adapted into a bar serving coffee, fresh juices, cocktails, and light dishes from morning into late evening. Its architecture—arched openings, high ceilings, and a more enclosed atmosphere—retains a sense of the building’s original function while positioning it as a social focal point within the hotel.
Wellbeing is approached through a combination of treatments, movement, and access to the surrounding landscape. The spa incorporates olive oil into its therapies, drawing on a material that is intrinsic to the site itself. A sauna and fitness room complement the offering, while yoga and Pilates sessions are available either privately or in small groups.
At The Olivar Suites, the presence of the olive grove, the restored mill, and the proximity to the sea define the experience. Mornings often begin on a private terrace overlooking the gardens, followed by time at the beach or pool, and later a return to the suite’s enclosed outdoor space—ending with dinner by the water or a drink inside the old mill as evening settles over the coast.
Sustainability Criteria
- The hotel treats all its employees equally and cares about their well-being via fair and equal pay, and overtime compensation
- 80% of the staff are local
- The hotel promotes equal opportunity and diversity
- The hotel features primarily local brands
- Sourcing from local businesses is preferred
- The hotel offers activities that engage the local culture and community
- The hotel supports various charities, including the national emergency service (EKAB), through financial contributions and in-kind donations
- Landscaping with native and endemic plants from sustainable sources
- Use of non-harmful cleaning products
- Avoiding pesticides in the vegetable garden and/or green areas around the hotel
- The Olivar Suites has eco sensors in rooms to regulate temperature when room is empty
- There is energy saving cooling/heating technology in guest rooms and public areas
- Energy-efficient building (insulation, walls, windows)
- The hotel is equipped with energy-saving LED lighting
- Property offers electric car charging stations and E-bike rentals
- The hotel uses glass bottles instead of plastic bottles
- All departments are free of single-use plastic
- Hotel rooms are free of single-use plastic (including amenity packaging)
- Products in recycled packaging are preferred
- Waste is seperated and recycled
- Electric equipment are adequately disposed or returned
- Purchase products in bulk
Features & Activities
- 24h Room Service
- Bar at Hotel
- Beach
- Concierge Service Available
- Gym at the Hotel
- Hotel Close to Nature
- Pool at the Property
- Hotel offers mind, body wellness retreats
- Water Sports
- Yoga Room and Classes
Certifications
Location
Direct access to the beach at Messonghi, combined with proximity to Corfu Town (22 km) and the airport (20 km), places the hotel in a location that is both connected and removed.