Golden Mare Barbati Hotel, Corfu

★★★★
  • Outdoor swimming pool with sun terrace
  • Wellness club with sauna & massages (additional charge)
  • Gym
  • Main buffet restaurant
  • Lobby & pool bar (during all-inclusive hours), rooftop bar (surcharge)
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi
  • 24-hour reception
  • Shuttle service to the beach (runs several times daily)
  • Table tennis & pool table (some activities with extra charge)
  • Cinema room & reading lounge
  • Mini-market/shop on site
Golden Mare Barbati Hotel
7.8/10
Reviewed by Tripplo Axel Hernborg, Travel expert
from £ 650 per person
from £ 100 per night

✅ Top 3 pros

Stunning hillside location & superb views

The elevated position offers some of the best panoramas of the Ionian Sea, Corfu Town, and the Albanian mountains in the distance—sunrises here are absolutely magical.

Easy beach access & free shuttle

Just around 300 metres to Barbati Beach, with a complimentary shuttle bus making it hassle-free—especially for families and those wanting an easy beach day.

Well-rounded All Inclusive Package & Entertainment

All main buffet meals, included drinks throughout the day, regular live music, and a weekly Greek evening ensure plenty of variety for a fun yet relaxed holiday experience.

❌ 3 cons to be aware of

Steep hillside setting with lots of steps

The sloped layout means quite a few stairs and inclines. It’s not the best choice for guests with reduced mobility, though the shuttle service is helpful.

Rooftop bar not part of All Inclusive

The “Golden View” rooftop bar is superb for sunset drinks, but bear in mind that it’s not included in the all-inclusive—budget for some extra treats if you fancy cocktails with a view.

Pool & buffet can get busy in peak season

During high season, the restaurant and poolside areas may get crowded. Visiting at off-peak hours or arriving earlier in the day will make for a more relaxing stay.

More about the hotel

Hotel NameGolden Mare Barbati
AddressTzavrou – Kassiopi – Sidari Road, 490 83 Barbati, Corfu, Greece
Category4 stars
Number of Rooms120
Check-infrom 15:00
Check-outby 11:00
MealsAll-Inclusive (AI drinks typically available 10:00–23:00)
BeachBarbati Beach, approx. 300 m (pebble beach, crystal-clear waters)
ShuttleFree minibus to Barbati Beach at least 5× per day
Languages at ReceptionGreek, English, some German
PhoneNot available
EmailNot available
Opening/Last RenovationNot available

Overview & Hotel Highlights

Golden Mare Barbati is a family-friendly, 4-star, all-inclusive hotel perched on Corfu’s north-eastern coast. The elevated position above Barbati Bay gives panoramic views over the Ionian Sea for 2025 and is only a short walk to the pebbly beach below. Expect a large pool area, a compact wellness centre with sauna and treatments, daily entertainment, and a complimentary shuttle running to and from the bay. It’s a great choice for those seeking relaxation seaside, with the option for adventure and scenic exploring nearby.

First Impressions & Cleanliness

The lobby is bright, contemporary, and welcoming—plenty of areas maximise the splendid sea view. Rooms are well equipped for a fuss-free holiday: 40″ satellite TV, electronic safe, air conditioning, and free Wi-Fi as standard. Housekeeping earns positive reviews for both rooms and shared spaces. While the restaurant and pool can be busy in peak season (as with many popular coastal hotels), the atmosphere remains pleasant and well-organised. Linen is changed regularly and pool/beach towels are available against a deposit.

Value for Money

As a 4-star all-inclusive hotel, Golden Mare Barbati delivers solid value: buffet meals, drinks from 10:00–23:00, entertainment day and evening, and complimentary poolside sunbeds. The regular beach shuttle is a particular plus for quick seaside escapes. Not all facilities are included—the rooftop “Golden View” bar, some wellness treatments, and select activities come at a surcharge—but overall, it’s excellent value along one of Corfu’s most scenic stretches.

Beach, Pool & Swimming

Barbati Bay is a real highlight: a gorgeous, pebbly beach with strikingly clear, deep water that’s perfect for snorkelling. The beach is around 300 metres away (downhill)—use the convenient hotel shuttle if you wish. On site, the sun terrace has a large freshwater pool and children’s section, with free loungers and umbrellas (towels against a deposit). From here, there are wonderful views and easy access to quiet coves and swimming spots, making it a true playground for families and keen swimmers alike.

Food & Drink

The main “Royal” restaurant serves breakfast (07:00–10:00), lunch (12:30–14:30), and dinner (19:00–21:30) as a buffet, with teas, coffees, and snacks available in the afternoon (16:00–17:00). Expect international/Mediterranean cuisine with Greek touches and plenty for vegetarians. All-inclusive drinks (10:00–23:00) cover local beer and wine, soft drinks, coffee/tea, and local spirits, with international brands occasionally available. You’ll find the “Aneta” lobby bar, the “Kalimera” pool bar (both on the all-inclusive), and the “Golden View” rooftop bar—which enjoys a fabulous panorama, but drinks there are not included within the all-inclusive package.

Activities, Sports & Wellness

Guests can join in with light activities such as yoga (seasonal), aqua aerobics, table tennis, and mini-competitions. Evenings bring live music and at least one Greek themed event per week. The small gym allows for workouts and the wellness club (extra charge) offers massage, a sauna, and beauty treatments. A library and cinema room provide the perfect hideaways for low-key moments or rainy spells.

Who is it for? Golden Mare Barbati is well-suited to couples and families who want beautiful sea views, proximity to the beach, and convenient all-inclusive holidaying. Nature lovers will appreciate tranquil walking trails, while more active types can enjoy snorkelling and hiking nearby Mount Pantokrator. If you have significant mobility limitations, be aware: this hilly setting isn’t suitable for everyone.

Golden Mare Barbati Hotel - Photo of the hotel
Photo of the hotel
Golden Mare Barbati Hotel - Hotel interior
Hotel interior
Golden Mare Barbati Hotel - Example of a hotel room
Example of a hotel room
Golden Mare Barbati Hotel - Hotel pool
Hotel pool
Golden Mare Barbati Hotel - Restaurant/Bar
Restaurant/Bar

Location & Ionian Sea Views

Barbati Beach – Crystal-clear waters only 300 metres away

Set above Barbati Bay on Corfu’s northeastern coastline, the hotel offers spectacular views and convenient beach access—about a 300-metre walk (downhill to the sea) or hop on the hotel’s complimentary shuttle, which runs several times a day directly to the Blue Flag pebble beach. Here you’ll find clear waters ideal for snorkelling, paddleboarding, or setting off on a boat trip along the coast.

Shuttle & Transport

A dedicated minibus shuttles guests between the hotel and the beach at least five times a day. Corfu Airport (Ioannis Kapodistrias, CFU) is around 40–45 minutes away by car (traffic dependent). Car hire can be arranged locally, and regular buses connect you to Corfu Town and further northwards towards Nisaki/Kassiopi from the main road.

Surroundings & Attractions

It’s a quick drive to both Nisaki (approx. 2.3 km) and Ipsos (approx. 4 km). Walkers can head up Mount Pantokrator, Corfu’s tallest mountain, while culture seekers will love Corfu Old Town (a UNESCO World Heritage Site, about 17–20 km away). Corfu Port is just under 19 km. Along the nearby coastline, you’ll discover traditional tavernas, seaside bars, and small coves perfect for exploration.

  • Corfu Airport (CFU): approx. 40–45 minutes by car
  • Corfu Town (UNESCO Old Town): approx. 17–20 km
  • Barbati Beach: approx. 300 m (shuttle several times daily)
  • Nisaki Beach: approx. 2.3 km
  • Ipsos: approx. 4.1 km
  • Corfu Port: approx. 18–19 km
  • Mount Pantokrator: approx. 14 km drive to the start of hiking trails

Rooms & Facilities

Room Types & Capacity (120 rooms)

Accommodation ranges from standard double rooms (sleeping 2 adults, with an extra bed option for up to 2+1), family rooms/suites (for up to 4 people—either 4 adults or 2 adults and 2 children), and depending on season, junior suites. Many rooms offer full or partial sea views, and accommodation is spread across the main hotel building and several bungalows along the hillside.

Facilities

All rooms feature air conditioning, 40″ LCD satellite TV, free Wi-Fi, electronic safe, tea/coffee making set, welcome toiletries, hairdryer, slippers, and contemporary bathrooms with shower. A fridge/minibar and a furnished balcony or terrace come as standard. Travel cots and highchairs are available on request.

View Options

Depending on the room type, you can enjoy direct sea views towards the Albanian mountains, partial sea views, garden/olive grove or Mount Pantokrator outlooks. Top tip: book a direct sea view room if you enjoy sunrises!

Food & All Inclusive

Buffet Restaurant & Mediterranean Cuisine

The “Royal” restaurant serves all meals buffet-style in 2025: breakfast 07:00–10:00, lunch 12:30–14:30, and dinner 19:00–21:30. The cuisine is international with a Greek flourish, and vegetarians are generally well provided for. Afternoon snacks, coffee and tea are available from 16:00–17:00. A weekly Greek theme night adds local flavour.

Bars

The “Aneta” lobby bar and “Kalimera” pool bar serve all-inclusive drinks (10:00–23:00), with opening hours until 23:30. Drinks included: soft drinks, filter coffee/tea, draught beer, house wine, and local spirits, as well as some international brands depending on stock. The “Golden View” rooftop bar offers superb 360° views and an à la carte menu, but is not part of the all-inclusive package.

Pool, Spa & Wellness

Relax by the Pool with Sea Views

The pool terrace is home to a large freshwater pool plus a separate shallow area for children—ideal for relaxed swims. Complimentary sunbeds and umbrellas are provided poolside, and pool/beach towels can be borrowed against a deposit. The position overlooks Barbati Bay, perfect for unwinding with an island vibe.

Spa & Gym

The compact wellness club (extra charge) provides classic and therapeutic massage, face and body treatments, and a sauna. A well-equipped gym is available for daily workouts, with a quiet lounge and cinema room for downtime—even on cloudy days.

Service & Staff

Welcoming Greek Hospitality

The Golden Mare Barbati team is highly rated for their friendliness and attentive service. The animation staff keep the atmosphere buzzing with daytime activities, and offer laid-back evening entertainment—often including live music and a weekly Greek-themed night.

Reception & Concierge (Languages)

The 24/7 reception staff speak Greek, English, and occasionally German. Services include wake-up calls, luggage storage, pool/beach towels (deposit required), access to a doctor on call (extra charge), and a complimentary shuttle bus to the beach several times a day.

Sustainability & Responsibility

Sustainability efforts focus on efficient air conditioning, optional towel changes, and a regular shuttle to the beach to reduce car journeys. Toiletries are olive-based for a local touch, although there is currently no official eco-certification.

From the perspective of a travel specialist, Golden Mare stands out for its breathtaking views and its simple, reliable all-inclusive concept. My recommendation: choose a sea view room, don't miss the Greek night, and start your day with a swim in Barbati Beach’s clear waters—for the perfect taste of what this hotel has to offer.

Axel Hernborg
Axel Hernborg Travel expert

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How far is the hotel from the beach?

About 300 metres. Alternatively, the complimentary shuttle bus runs several times a day between the hotel and Barbati Beach.

Is the hotel All Inclusive and what does it include?

Yes. Buffet meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), afternoon snacks, and selected drinks from 10:00–23:00 (soft drinks, house wine, beer, local spirits) are included.

Is there a rooftop bar?

Yes—the “Golden View” rooftop bar offers stunning 360° views, but drinks here are not included in the all-inclusive package.

What are the check-in and check-out times?

Check-in from 15:00, check-out by 11:00.

Is the hotel suitable for guests with reduced mobility?

The hilly location and steps mean it is not ideal for those with mobility issues. There are lifts in some buildings, but some areas remain steep to access.

Are poolside sunbeds and towels available?

Poolside sunbeds and umbrellas are complimentary. Pool towels can be borrowed for a returnable deposit.

What kind of sea view do rooms offer?

Depending on room type, you can book a full sea view, partial sea view, or a garden/mountain outlook. For the best view, select a “sea view” room.

What wellness options are available?

Massage, body and facial treatments (extra charge), and a sauna. There’s also a small gym for workouts.

What languages are spoken at reception?

Greek, English and occasionally German.

How far is Corfu Town and the airport?

Corfu Town is about 17–20 km away, with Corfu Airport (CFU) around a 40–45-minute drive.

Tripplo's verdict: I Golden Mare Barbati Hotel a hotel worth staying at?

Tripplo’s verdict: Is Golden Mare Barbati worth it? Absolutely – if you love sea views, want to be close to the beach and value a hassle-free all-inclusive break. The position above one of Corfu’s clearest bays, the handy free shuttle and the range of thoughtful amenities provide a worry-free holiday base. If you’re after gourmet dining or secluded luxury, a small boutique hotel may be more your style; but for a sunny Corfu week with outstanding value, Golden Mare is a trustworthy choice.
Axel Hernborg
Travel Expert Axel Hernborg is an expert in budget-friendly European travel and the founder of Tripplo.co.uk, a leading platform for travel deals. With over 15 years of experience, he shares valuable tips on how to explore Europe affordably. His articles are based on personal experience and in-depth knowledge. On Tripplo.co.uk, he helps travellers find the best deals and make the most of their travel budget.