Hotel Thomas Bay

Simple, unfussy and close to the beach, the Thomas Bay was made for quiet breaks in the sun. In the centre of San Stefanos on Corfu’s northwest coast, this place will hit the spot if you’re after peace and quiet. It doesn’t go overboard on facilities, so it’s perfect for recharging your batteries.

The pool is a particular highlight. It’s a no-nonsense, rectangular affair bordered by terraces and palm-planted lawns. There’s an al fresco bar serving drinks and lunchtime snacks, and the peaceful atmosphere is broken only by the croaking of frogs in the nearby stream.

Inside, the hotel is as smart as its salmon-pink exterior. In terms of the rooms, they’re fairly straightforward décor-wise. Twin beds dressed with russet-red or pink covers have been teamed with neutral tones. Balconies and TVs round things off and air-conditioning is available for a small charge.

As for food, meals are served in the dining room. For breakfast, you can go Greek with yoghurt and honey, cereals or fruit, or pay a little extra for a cooked breakfast. At dinner, meanwhile, the emphasis is on international dishes with one or two Greek choices.

The location is a plus point, too. The hotel is on the main street, close to restaurants, shops and bars. And the beach is a five-minute walk away, down the hill. Lining a wide bay, its sands shelve gently into the sea, so it’s perfect for nervous swimmers.