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Privacy NoticeOf all the breathtakingly romantic countries and coastlines that make up the Mediterranean, it really shouldn’t come as a surprise to learn that Greece is the most sought-after hotspot for honeymooners. With full-bodied local wine and sharable delicacies, private beach bays, sunset snorkelling, and a superb selection of luxury, all-inclusive hotels, it’s no wonder Greece truly is the word for a romantic getaway. Whilst the likes of Santorini and Mykonos are popular destinations for those seeking some intimate 1-1 time with their special someone, for those hoping for quieter surroundings and an authentically Grecian sense of tranquillity, look no further than the Ajul Luxury Hotel and Spa Resort, where OK! were lucky enough to stay for four perfect nights…
The Ajul is somewhat off the beaten track
Our stay at the Ajul was incredible
Where to stay Venturing off the beaten track of Agia Paraskevi village – a quaint municipality in the northern Greek region of Halkidiki, famed for its rolling hills and lush green forests – and heading towards the sea, you might just be lucky enough to encounter the exclusively remote hospitality gem that is the Ajul. This incredible 5* resort – just over 100 km from the bustling city of Thessaloniki – is unique for a number of reasons. Not only do the crystalline waters of the Aegean Sea along the horizon provide the perfect paradise getaway for couples, but the unparalleled level of customer service from the onsite staff create the feeling that you’re Greece’s only visitors.
The Ajul is proud of its 5* rating
The stunning hotel is perfect for honeymooners
The resort is based in the region of Halkidiki
This unbelievable vacation spot is the perfect destination for honeymooners, with the retreat’s total harmony with the surrounding rural environment providing an unparalleled level of repose. The celebrity-ready 171 guest room and suite complex – owned by the globally-renowned ZEUS International Hotels and Resort – also boasts a show-stopping collection of varied accommodation types. Whether you’re hoping for an intimate double room with a shared pool on your balcony or an executive sea-view bungalow, the hotel can provide you with a bespoke package to best suit you/your family’s needs.
The resort offers 171 rooms
We were lucky enough to spend our time at the Ajul Luxury Hotel at one of the resort’s handful of jaw-dropping Presidential Villas, complete with two colossal bedrooms, two spa-esque bathrooms, fully-equipped kitchen and dining area, as well as a private pool and direct view of the deep blue sea. Though my partner and I weren’t visiting the Ajul for a particularly special occasion, every evening spent in the palatial property felt like a honeymoon, with the sumptuous terrace of our villa providing the perfect spot to share a bottle of wine – delivered directly to our room with just a phonecall – and watch the sun go down.
The most extravagant properties are the Presidential Villas
Each Presidential Villa boasts a private pool
Where to eat With the Halkidiki region of Greece famed for its deep-rooted gastronomic traditions, we were delighted to learn that the Ajul has created an impressive three on-site restaurants, each boasting local delicacies and only the freshest ingredients. The first worth mentioning is the mammoth buffet Infinity, open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The vast spread caters to, quite literally, every palette. If you’re in the mood for a light and crispy Caesar Salad, the plentiful salad bar gives you the chance to design your own, with the additions of nuts, seeds, meats, sauces, fruit and cheeses allowing you to well and truly make it your own.
The Infinity buffet provided a huge range of local and international delicacies
You can look out over the Aegean whilst tucking into breakfast
Alternatively, the various hot food counters offer a delicious choice of dishes from all over the Mediterranean – you can try everything from a mouth-watering Spanish seafood paella, to a creamy Italian carbonara, to an intricately-layered and uber-tomatoey traditional Greek moussaka. The dishes are also complemented by a varied wine list, to really create the impression you’re at a fine-dining establishment. And what’s more, the colossal banquet is available to all guests without the need to make a reservation, so whether you’re an early bird or a late-riser, you’ll be able fill your boots at your own leisure and pace. Though it’s situated inside the main hotel building, Infinity is the perfect spot for grabbing incredible Aegean sea views.
We tried authentic Greek food at the Thimari restaurant
The Ajul also boasts two lip-smacking al a carte restaurants. The Thimari outdoor pool-side terrace – available to reserve for either lunch or dinner – offers a small but spectacular array of authentically Grecian dishes, each complemented by a carefully selected ouzo or local wine. We trialled the juicy pork gyros, which came with a freshly-baked flatbread and paprika-sprinkled fries, and sides of zesty Greek salad and whipped tzatziki, and we were left, not only immensely satisfied by the plentiful portions and indescribable flavours, but already raring to make another reservation. The charming staff that work at the Thimari were also a huge contribution to why we booked this restaurant. Each server was filled with knowledge of the local produce – much of which was grown in the hotel’s plush gardens – and were always on hand with a warm smile and a joke.
Ambrosia is the hotel’s on-site Italian restaurant
The Italian restaurant gives perfect views of the sunset
Ambrosia, the Ajul’s on-site Italian restaurant set on the romantic terrace of the main hotel, is also available to guests via a reservation. This sweet establishment blends local ingredients with ancient Italian cooking techniques to well and truly provide guests with the richest flavours of the Mediterranean. Whilst I tried a vibrant potato gnocchi, served in a deep tomato sauce, my partner opted for a simple yet spiced Diavola Pizza, topped with tender cured meats and tangy peppers. We specifically relished the fact that, whilst you’re indulging on the delectable taste of Italy, an authentic Greek band of musicians are beside you on the terrace, playing folk melodies that truly tantalised all the senses. Definitely be sure to bag a spot here to watch the sun set over the horizon.
The Anana’s swim-up pool bar was perfect for cocktails
There are several on-site bars
The Ajul is also proud of their numerous bars and cafes – including the Senses bar beside the Ambrosia restaurant, Enki Beach Bar and Meet ‘N’ Eat Square located parallel to the Thimari terrace – all of which offer guests a vast range of both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, and sweet snacks. We spent many an evening enjoying a tipple (or ten!) at the lively Anana’s swim-up pool bar, making special memories whilst we played cards and sipped sweet Cosmopolitans, forever noticing the elaborate and romantic setting around us. What to do The Ajul takes pride (as it should!) in its five marvellous on-site outdoor swimming pools, giving guests – specifically the handful in accommodation without a private pool – the opportunity to mix up their relaxation location. Each of the extensive pools give guests the feeling of invigoration and rejuvenation, as they take a dip surrounded the serene green scenery and in the calm of the fresh Mediterranean air. The Ananas pool bar gives you the chance to swim right up to the counter and order a velvety Pina Colada to sip in the sunshine. This lavish resort also possesses a private beach, where guests have the chance to explore the mesmerising marine life that inhabits the turquoise waters of the Aegean, whilst enjoying either snorkelling and scuba diving, among other exceptional services.
The resort has five on-site outdoor pools
Most properties have their own private pools
The resort even has a private beach
For those keep to maintain their active lifestyle whilst on vacation, the Ajul boasts state of the art tennis, volleyball and basketball activities, or for those that prefer the likes of hiking or archery, the on-site Adventure Park provides daring challenges in its impressive facilities. Whilst you were more likely to find us enjoying an all-inclusive beverage at the pool bar than working up a sweat on the tennis courts, it was a pure joy to see other guests making the most of the incredible facilities the resort has to offer.
The Ajul offers a state of the art spa facility, with trained professionals on hand for bespoke treatments
The spa also boasts a jacuzzi and sauna
The spa has an outdoor pool-side relaxation deck
By far the highlight of our stay at the Ajul was our afternoon spent at the ethereal and, quite frankly, jaw-droppingly lavish on-site spa and wellness centre. We were lucky enough to experience a revitalising and soothing Cretan Massage (highly recommend!), given to us by the charming and knowledgeable spa team and calming both our minds and bodies for a solid hour. Say goodbye to aches and pains and bid adieu to muscular tension, because after this particular treatment, you’ll walk away feeling both physically limberer and emotionally lighter. Receiving a massage alongside your partner also made the treatment feel that bit more special, and afterwards, you can both then indulge beside the stunning heated indoor pool, jacuzzi, sauna and outdoor pool-side relaxation deck.
There are tennis courts for fitness fans
There is an outdoor cinema for families to enjoy
For those holidaying with youngsters, the Ajul offers a delightful outdoor-cinema experience most evenings, where family-friendly movies are played and guests are invited to grab a drink and take a seat by the pool-side loungers. There is also a shopping arcade on the top floor of the main building, so whether you’re hoping to top up on some snacks and the mini market, bag a gift for someone special at the souvenir shop, or purchase something to remember you’re incredible staycation with at the deluxe boutique, the hotel will cater to all you needs. How to book Visit Ajul Luxury Hotel and Spa Resort for more information, or discover more show-stopping properties that ZEUS International has to offer.Story SavedYou can find this story in My Bookmarks.Or by navigating to the user icon in the top right.Follow OK! MagazineFacebookTwitterCommentMore OnTravel
