Dimitra Beach Resort Hotel

Arriving at the Dimitra Beach Hotel, with its sleek low-rise reception building crisp white against the usually blue sky, it's hard to believe this vacation complex dates as far back as the early '70s. A thorough makeover in 2016 resulted in a particularly fresh and immaculate finish, nowhere more so than the bright, spotless lobby where white-on-white interiors are punctuated with splashes of colorful contemporary artworks. This property is built into a gently sloping hillside, with rows of snow-white bungalows that tier down towards the hotel's private black-sand- and pebble-beach. The grounds cover an impressive 40 acres, and include swathes of manicured lawns dotted with sculpted shrubbery and sub-tropical flora, plus numerous vantages points to soak in the gorgeous panoramic views of the Aegean Sea that stretch as far as the Turkish coast. The vibe is friendly, peaceful, and particularly relaxing, mostly attracting British couples and joined by a fair share of families with kids over the school holidays. Steps and stairs around the complex means it can be tricky to navigate. 

The Dimitra Beach Hotel is set on a hillside on the southeastern corner of the Greek island of Kos. While there are two other resort properties on either side of the hotel, there's almost nothing in the way of dining or entertainment within walking distance. Agios Fokas thermal springs, where hot water fills a natural beachside pool at the foot of a cliff, are about an eight-minute drive away or a bus runs from just outside the hotel. It's also around a 15-minute drive (or 25-minute bus journey) to Kos town, which brims with bars, cafes, and restaurants. Other local attractions include Neratzia Castle (12-minute drive) and the Ancient Agora ruins (15-minute drive). Kos Island International Airport is a 35-minute drive away. The port of Kos, for ferry service to other Greek islands and Bodrum, is 13 minutes away.

The complex is made up of 254 guest rooms, bungalows, and suites. Most were revamped in 2016 and finished in a palette of white-on-white, with marble floors, padded headboards, and simple modern furniture. Older rooms combine slightly dated furnishings with tile floors and colorful artwork. All rooms open to spacious furnished balconies or terraces, and every one has a sea view -- some premium rooms directly overlook the beach.  

Standard amenities include TVs (either old-style tube TVs or 43-inch flat-screen), individually-controlled air conditioning, mini-fridges, and coffee- and tea-making facilities; some older rooms also include kitchenettes. In-room Wi-Fi is free of charge and surprisingly zippy. Newer bathrooms are separated from the sleeping area with frosted glass (which some feel lack privacy). All have walk-in rainfall showers, toiletries, and hairdryers, plus bathrobes and speakers connected to the TV. 

Features here are focused on the sunshine and water. As well as direct access to its own section of black-sand- and pebble-beach, the hotel features a grand total of six pools, three for adults (including one with a whirlpool section and another with a swim-up bar) and three pools for children. The main pools are large, with plentiful loungers and sea views, plus there's a spacious sun deck with even more comfy sunbeds and parasols. A summer kids' club includes lots of poolside activities during the day and an evening mini-disco. 

With three restaurants and four bars on-site there's no shortage of drinking and dining options. The main restaurant overlooks the sea with an alfresco terrace, and serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner buffet-style (breakfast is always included and there are also optional half-board and all-inclusive rates). The other two eateries are Italian and Greek a la carte, plus lunch-time barbecues. Reports suggest food quality is excellent across all three restaurants. Evening entertainment usually takes the form of Greek music and dance shows. Decent spa facilities (including an indoor pool) are available in the neighboring sister hotel, Michelangelo. Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel.