Gaia Garden

Gaia Garden is a 3 star family-friendly hotel, on the outskirts of Kos Town. Separate adult and child swimming pools are surrounded by large gardens, containing decorative plants and fruit trees, providing a respite from the heat in their tranquil shade. The location is just 10 minutes walk from the pebble Lambi beach. On your way to and from the coast you could choose to pop into a local bar or the shopping centre, handy if you didn’t bring enough sun cream.

To keep you entertained a wide range of sports and games are offered on-site, including ping pong, billiards, computer games, tennis, volleyball and basketball. You can also maintain your fitness regime at the well-equipped outdoor gym. Prefer to relax? There’s a rooftop Jacuzzi for that.

The all-inclusive service includes three daily meals, served buffet style, with numerous Mediterranean inspired dishes to choose from. The hotel also organises special themed dinners, including Greek nights. If you’re going on a full day excursion, simply order a lunch basket from reception the day before. And if, on your departure day, you have an early flight home an early breakfast service is available from 6am.

Enjoy a refreshing orange juice, a shot of ouzo, a fresh filter coffee or a glass of wine with your dinner or from the outdoor bar, it’s part of the all-inclusive service. Please note drinks served after 11pm incur an additional charge. If you like the British tradition of afternoon tea, you’ll feel right at home with their offering of cakes, pastries and biscuits, alongside hot beverages. Those who are a bit young for caffeinated drinks may prefer an ice-cream instead.

The air conditioned rooms are equipped with WiFi, satellite TV, a hair dryer and a furnished balcony overlooking the lush gardens. If you have a mini human, a cot is available on request, while a mini fridge can be arranged for a supplement. Triple rooms contain either a double bed or two singles, plus a sofa or fold-away bed.

Gaia Garden is just over 2km from the old town of Kos, containing a mind-blowing array of ancient ruins from the Greek, Roman and Byzantine eras. The Castle of Joanites is the biggest attraction, dating from the 14th century when the Knights of St John came to the island. Don’t miss the Plane Tree of Hippocrates, according to legend the tree was planted 2400 years ago by the physician of the same name, an outstanding figure in the history of medicine. The central square is called Eleftherios Square, from where you can see the impressive buildings of Gazi Hassan Mosque and St. Paraskevi Greek Orthodox Church. And if that wasn’t enough there’s a restored Odeon, this music conservatory was originally constructed in the 2nd century. Plus you’ll be able to find numerous impressive examples of mosaics.

From the port (2.5km from the hotel), you could take a ferry to other Greek islands and even the historic Turkish city of Bodrum, where you’ll find plenty of medieval architecture and a popular bazaar but don’t forget your passport! If you’re hiring a car then Alikes Salt Lake, a wildlife refuge home to pink feathery flamingos, is just 20 minutes away from Gaia Garden.