The Greek islands are known for their rich history, spectacular beaches and vibrant culture and Rhodes, the largest of the Dodecanese, is one of the most popular amongst tourists from across the globe. Set in the southeastern Aegean Sea, its sunny weather and mountainous landscapes make it a unique summer holiday destination that is the perfect place for a short-haul escape this summer.
The upscale adults-only Casa Cook Rhodes, situated just a stone’s throw from the island’s picturesque coastline, offers a sanctuary of serenity and refinement where discerning travellers can relax and unwind away from the hustle and bustle of the main tourist throng. It’s not all crowded streets and packed restaurants on Rhodes, and if you’re seeking somewhere that feels private, exclusive and is the very epitome of modern luxury, then look no further.
I can, of course, speak from experience, because I checked in myself for a few nights to find out what it was all about – and it’s safe to say that from the dreamy setting to the mouth-watering cuisine and great service, it didn’t disappoint. In fact, quite the opposite.
Hotel
Flanked by rugged mountains, the 90-room resort enjoys a unique and secluded setting that makes it feel really private, and a world away from the island’s more bustling holiday hotspots – but although it’s not set on the beach, there is one just a short walk away, and another, larger one accessible in around 15 minutes by car. I’ll be honest; I usually gravitate straight towards beachfront properties when planning my summer getaways, but I have to say, after my experience here, I’m converted. It turns out that other settings can feel just as idyllic, and in that respect, Casa Cook Rhodes really has got something special to offer.
If you’ve ever visited a Casa Cook hotel before, then you’ll be no stranger to their typically sleek, minimalistic design, and the Rhodes iteration is no different – think low, white-washed buildings, rustic woods and artisanal, woven accents that together, create a relaxed, sophisticated and somewhat bohemian vibe. Exuding effortless sophistication and offering a laid-back atmosphere, you can’t help but be swept up into the ‘holiday vibe’ the moment you arrive – but in the most peaceful, refined and understated of ways.
Now, let’s discuss that setting. The hotel’s stylish villas are peppered amidst lush tropical gardens of palms and olive trees and various shapes and sizes of cacti, and cascades of blooming flowers, in contrast to the rather arid mountain landscapes that surround the resort. But it’s precisely these that help to create such an exclusive hideaway feel. The fact that it’s adults only helps, but there’s just something about being nestled amidst these towering peaks, which can be seen from every corner of the resort, that makes you feel like you’re in your very own private escape.
There are two pools, each surrounded by expansive decking, wooden, padded sun-loungers in earthy tones and woven parasols made from natural materials.
It might interest you to know that Casa Cook Rhodes was, in fact, package holiday company Thomas Cook’s first and only boutique property, before it ceased trading in its original guise back in 2019 and ownership was transferred over to the Fosun Group.
Rooms and suites
The hotel is home to 111 accommodation options in total, including 90 rooms and 18 suites, some of which enjoy access to their own private pool. The rest – including our Double Standard room – also enjoy pool access, with a ground-level daybed to relax on and soak up some rays and a table with two chairs out on our private terrace. We loved sitting here with a cup of coffee in the mornings, made using our in-room machine, and bringing a nightcap here in the evenings to enjoy whilst enjoying the peacefulness of the evening. During the day, the mountain views are really quite something, and if you look (and listen) carefully, you might spot a mountain goat or two, as we did. The next room category up also has a hammock, where you can lay back to read a book or take a nap.
Inside, rooms exude a rustic vibe, and are the epitome of laid-back luxury. Think pure white walls and bedding, which reflect the villas’ white-washed exteriors, and local artisanal touches like hand-woven pendulum light shades over the bed, jute rugs on the floor, and jute bags adorning the walls with neutral, earthy tones and rustic wood accents featuring throughout.. Black-and-white patterned cushions on the bed added a pop of additional interest and helped to create a minimalistic yet endlessly stylish vibe.
Our room featured a spacious walk-in-shower with complimentary toiletries, and a small separate bathroom with twin sinks and a vanity area, plus a hairdryer. There was also a small fridge in the bedroom for keeping drinks cool.
For more space, you could opt for the Split Level Suite, the Prestige Suite or the Premium Villa, the latter two of which enjoy those sought-after private pools.
Food and drink
Casa Cook Rhodes is home to two eateries. The Kitchen Club, located beside the main pool, is the first, and it’s here that a decadent breakfast buffet is served each morning. In fact, it was one of the most impressive buffets I’ve seen, with table upon table piled high with Greek delights like dolmades, houmous and taramasalata, and an endless array of condiments, spreads, yoghurts, fruits and nuts. There’s a hot section too, while you’ll find all the usual suspects like eggs, bacon, sausages and beans – and an entire table of indulgent pastries and cakes that are just begging for a place on your plate.
In the evening, The Kitchen Club transforms into an a la carte eatery, and for those staying on a half board basis, serves up a mouth-watering three-course menu inspired by Mediterranean flavours and with an emphasis on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and innovative culinary techniques.
Inspired by the local tradition of sharing and gathering, chef Dimitris Sourdis’ menu comprises Meze plates from Greece and its neighbours, but with a twist, with an array of meat and seafood options, which are grilled over a charcoal flame. If you’re staying on a room only basis, you can choose whatever you want rather than following the set menu structure.
Most ingredients are sourced from the island’s farms, and the herbs are grown right on site.
The kind of fare on offer here is just what you want on a hot day – light, refreshing and delicious. The service, too, was worthy of mention, and was well polished – although during peak times, with many guests sitting down to dine at once, it did slow down somewhat.
Set against that spectacular mountain backdrop, eating under the stars here was a special experience all round.
One of the highlights of dining for breakfast and dinner time at The Kitchen Club – apart from the food of course – was the company. I don’t just mean my husband, but also the cats, which were a prominent feature at mealtimes and added an extra layer of entertainment to the experience. There were at least five or six kittens that could be seen playing in the bushes and around the feet of the guests – something everyone seemed to enjoy. Of course, they wouldn’t say no to a morsel of food or two, but they were so endearing that it was hard not to fall in love with them, and we found ourselves eagerly looking out to see if we could spot them each time we arrived and sat down to dine.
To do
Beyond its luxurious accommodations and delectable dining options, Casa Cook offers a wealth of activities and experiences to enhance your stay in Rhodes. There are daily yoga sessions on the terrace of the hotel’s very own shala, as well as a fully-equipped gym if you’re keen to keep up your fitness routine during your stay – and a luxurious spa, where we enjoyed a relaxing and restorative massage to round off our stay.
There’s plenty to explore on the island, and you can hire bikes from the reception area. We opted to rent a car so that we could visit the nearby beaches with ease – and head further afield to the historic town of Lindos, which features an array of quaint restaurants, trendy beachfront bars and the famous Lindos Acropolis.
In a nutshell
For a sophisticated adults-only escape in a unique and idyllic setting, Casa Cook Rhodes is the place to be. Exuding a sense of modern luxury and a laid-back atmosphere, is the perfect spot to enjoy a sun-soaked escape.
Factbox
Price per night (Summer 2024): Starting from €400 per night. Prices may vary depending on room type and season.
Address: Kolympia Beach, Rhodes, Greece
Telephone: +30 2241 200 007
Website: casacook.com/rhodes
All imagery credit: Casa Cook Rhodes
