Sunshine Corfu Hotel & Spa

A sentry hut and a pair of lion statues flank the gate that leads down to the Sunshine Corfu Hotel's main entrance -- the first of many steep paths that guests must navigate to get around the resort. The extensive complex is built into the hillside and cascades through a forest of olive and pine trees to a white-pebble beach and a lovely turquoise sea. The reception and restaurant sit at the top of the eight-story building, while pools and other facilities are on lower levels, connected by lots of stairs and three elevators (which can be slow and get busy). Interiors are generally bright and well-maintained, though much of this resort has a tired, dated feel and is in need of modernization. Most guests are couples and families from France -- hence some of the signs and entertainment are in French. It is not recommended for those with mobility challenges.

The hotel is set into a sloping hillside along the coast near the small Corfu resort village of Nisaki -- on the east coast of the island. The setting is spectacular, with superb views over the Ionian Sea and Albanian coastline beyond. A couple of small tavernas, an ATM, and a general store are located just outside the resort, though the walk up is a little steep. There's also a bus stop that connects to various towns and villages along the coast, though car hire or cab is generally recommended. Local coves, such as Kaminaki and Agni,and the resort of Nissaki are a five- to 10-minute drive away. The bustling Corfu City, known for its UNESCO-designated Old Town and historic buildings, is about a 45-minute drive away, while Corfu International Airport -- also known as Ioannis Kapodistrias Airport -- is a bit farther. 

The resort has 313 rooms, suites, and one- and two-level bungalows, spread between the main building and two-story blocks in the style of a small village. Decor is a mix of tile floors, traditionally styled redwood furniture, and sea-themed artwork. While rooms are generally clean, they're dated and in need of a makeover. Standard amenities could also use updating, such as the tube-style TVs (with one English-language news channel), aging mini-fridges (with free bottled water on arrival), and safes. 

All units extend to furnished balconies or terraces, most with lovely sea views (though a few advertised as sea-view are only partial or obscured by trees). Bathrooms are functional, outfitted with shower/tub combos, wall-mounted hairdryers, and generic toiletries; many past guests report cleanliness issues. Suites have slightly more contemporary furnishings, plus gold accents and flat-screen TVs.

There are two main swimming pools at the Sunshine; one is lively with daytime animation and a kids' section, and the other is quieter for more peaceful relaxing. Both have sun terraces with plentiful lounge chairs and lovely views. Guests also have exclusive access to a lovely pebble beach where water sports are available (for a fee). A kids' club with outdoor play area is also on hand, though some guests reports that much of the activities are only in French. Evening entertainment also largely caters to the French clientele. 

A spa offers various massage and body treatments, plus a whirlpool tub, a sauna, and a steam room; all are available for a fee, though typically a free 15-minute massage voucher is offered. There's no full gym, but a handful of treadmills and free weights are on-site, as well as a sea-view tennis court and beach volleyball court. Wi-Fi costs extra and is reportedly unreliable. 

The spacious main restaurant has wall-to-wall windows overlooking the sea and serves a varied buffet breakfast of hot and cold items, plus freshly made pancakes. Lunch and themed dinner buffets are also served here. There are also an Italian eatery with a pizza oven and outdoor sea-view terrace, and a Greek-style taverna overlooking the pool. Food gets mixed reviews, but most agree it's more than decent. 

The all-inclusive plan covers all buffet meals in the main restaurant, plus a meal once a week in an a la carte restaurant (reservations required). Locally produced alcoholic beverages including draft beer, spirits, wine, and cocktails are included by the glass (mostly small plastic), as well as soft drinks. Select bottles of Greek wine and branded spirits are available for an extra fee. Snacks including ice cream and cookies are provided for free at specific times. Spa facilities and treatments and motorized water sports are not included in the plan.