When I think about the perfect getaway, the first thing that comes to mind is not just a beautiful location, but a place where you can completely unwind while indulging in unforgettable food. Over the years, I’ve been lucky enough to experience a few luxury resorts where fine dining and ultimate relaxation blend together effortlessly. These resorts not only provide an oasis of tranquility but also elevate the dining experience to a level that makes each meal feel like a celebration. Let me take you through two of my most memorable experiences where relaxation and gourmet food intertwined in the most magical ways.
1. Amanzoe – Porto Heli, Greece
The first time I set foot at Amanzoe, I was instantly transported into a world of pure serenity. Located on a hilltop in Porto Heli, Greece, this resort feels like a hidden paradise, with panoramic views of the Aegean Sea and lush green surroundings that instantly put your mind at ease. But what truly sets Amanzoe apart is how every element of the resort is designed with the intention of soothing your soul.
After checking in, I spent the first few hours lounging by the infinity pool, listening to the sound of the wind rustling through the trees, and letting the gorgeous views do their thing. The whole experience felt like stepping into a dream. But when it came time for dinner, I was ready for a different kind of indulgence—one that would match the peace and luxury of the resort.
The Amanzoe Restaurant specializes in Mediterranean cuisine with an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients. The first dish I had was a beautifully prepared sea bass ceviche, so fresh and vibrant that it nearly took my breath away. The citrusy zing paired perfectly with the delicate fish, and the hint of olive oil added just the right amount of richness. It was the kind of dish that you savor slowly, allowing each bite to linger.
What truly made the experience memorable, though, was the atmosphere. Dining here isn’t just about food; it’s about taking the time to appreciate the moment. The staff was incredibly attentive, but not in an overbearing way. As the sun dipped below the horizon, I was treated to a slow-roasted lamb dish, tender and flavorful, accompanied by a side of seasonal vegetables that tasted like they were picked straight from the garden.
After dinner, I couldn’t resist a walk around the property. With the cool night air and the sound of crickets in the distance, I felt more relaxed than I had in months. Amanzoe doesn’t just offer luxury in its accommodations, it creates an entire experience where fine dining is only one part of the equation—true relaxation and indulgence are the stars of the show.
2. One&Only Reethi Rah – Maldives
The Maldives has always been on my travel bucket list, and when I finally stayed at One&Only Reethi Rah, I realized why it’s known as one of the most luxurious resorts in the world. This resort is the epitome of tropical paradise, with its private villas perched over crystal-clear waters and endless views of the Indian Ocean. If you ever dream of escaping to a place where time seems to stand still, this is it.
From the moment I arrived, the stress of the outside world faded away. The island’s laid-back vibe combined with the impeccable service made it easy to slip into vacation mode. But when it came to food, I knew I was in for something extraordinary. One&Only Reethi Rah offers a variety of dining experiences, but one that stood out for me was Fushi Café, an open-air restaurant right by the beach where the sound of waves crashing added a calming soundtrack to every meal.
I started with a light tuna tartare, expertly seasoned and served with a delicate sesame dressing. The freshness of the tuna, paired with the crunch of cucumber and the savory sesame flavor, was pure perfection. But the real highlight was their pan-seared scallops, which were so tender and flavorful that I couldn’t stop raving about them to the waiter. The combination of sweet, tender scallops and the richness of the saffron-infused butter sauce made this one of the best dishes I’ve had in my life.
One of the unique things about dining at One&Only Reethi Rah is that you have the option to dine in a variety of locations—be it on the beach with your toes in the sand or in the comfort of your own villa. For a special treat, I opted for a private dinner on my villa’s deck, where the resort’s chef personally prepared a five-course meal under the stars. Every dish was a masterpiece, from the fresh seafood to the decadent chocolate mousse for dessert. It was an experience that felt both intimate and extravagant, the perfect way to celebrate the end of a perfect day.
The magic of this resort is that it strikes the perfect balance between relaxation and indulgence. After each meal, I could walk down to the beach and dip my toes in the warm water, or retreat to my villa for a private dip in the pool. The beauty of the surroundings combined with the excellence of the food made each day feel like a dream come true.