Atrium Prestige Thalasso Spa Resort and Villas

Built on the southern tip of Rhodes island, the Atrium Prestige Thalasso Spa Resort is like luxurious mirage that stands out against the undeveloped surrounding landscape. Modern white buildings and gorgeous pools appear particularly stunning when lit up at night, while green lawns and tiled walkways with crisp white umbrellas and cushioned lounge chairs lend style. The hotel is built to allow guests to appreciate -- from almost every angle -- the beautiful blue sea and lagoon pools. The lobby is grand with marble floors, blue and gold decor, and floor-to-ceiling windows. Outside on a terrace, blue canopy beds overlook the beach. Meandering pools, waterfalls, and pebble ponds provide added luxury to the property and make the hotel feel like an exclusive island. An infinity pool appears to drop off into the sea, while the lagoon pools are relaxing and romantic with nearby flower and vegetable gardens. One lagoon pool winds around an island with a small chapel, and the other has a wooden bridge with glass railings and a kiddy pool. Two glass elevators overlook the pools and sea.

The hotel is located on a desolate road in an area called Lachania. The location -- on the southeastern shores of Rhodes island -- is removed from the tourist sights and Rhodes International Airport, which takes an hour and 30 minutes by car to reach. The beach, though, is a quick walk from the hotel. Guests should consider renting a car to explore the island, as taking a taxi to popular tourists sights can be costly. A car trip to Lindos takes about 40 minutes. Rhodes, with popular medieval attractions like the Ancient Olympic Stadium and Grand Master of Knights Palace, takes about one-hour-and-a-half to reach by car.

There are Deluxe Rooms, Bungalows, and Villas available. All are infused with a bit of luxury and privacy -- marble bathrooms, velvet furniture, and (in some) private pools. Contemporary and classic furnishings are mixed with fun modern touches like electronic “Do Not Disturb” signs and LED shower ceiling lights. Flat-screen TVs, minibars, Wi-Fi, and tea- and coffeemakers are included in all rooms. Bedding is a bit underwhelming for this caliber of hotel, however. Bathrooms have two sinks, whirlpool tubs, and rainfall showerheads; some have hot tubs and bidets. Deluxe Rooms have balconies with garden or sea views, and some have private pools. Upgraded two-level Villas are the ultimate in posh living, offering wooden pergolas with outdoor showers, mini-gyms, and hot tubs with ceiling starlight effect.

The hotel’s private shingle beach has wooden-planked walkways, rattan umbrellas, and white cushioned lounge chairs. The Akteon beach bar has a terrace right on the sand, while back at the hotel the casual H20 pool bar welcomes sun-seekers, and the Kalithea main bar has a dazzling third-floor terrace with an open, circular roof. Arched windows offer beautiful views from the Lachania pool restaurant serving Greek cuisine. The Aegean restaurant offers an extensive buffet (where free breakfast is served) and gorgeous views. The gourmet Thalassa restaurant has a lovely wooden terrace and surrounding lagoon. There are also barbecue, Asian, and Italian restaurants; half-board rates are available. A sleek amphitheater offers evening entertainment with views of the sea and the infinity pool. The modern spa has a heated sea-water pool with massage jets, and a hammam. The spa offers various body and massage treatments using natural products, and beauty services in the salon. A kids playground on a vast lawn overlooking the sea offers a stunning place to play.