Why Ikos Resorts Are Perfect for Luxury LGBT Holidays in Europe

From the moment you arrive at an Ikos Resort, the air shifts. The check-in smile feels genuine, couples hold hands without a second thought, and every tiny detail — from the fragrance of the spa to the ease of ordering a poolside cocktail — speaks of quiet confidence and care.

That’s what makes LGBT holidays at Ikos Resorts so special. These destinations don’t just promise luxury; they deliver comfort through inclusion. Whether you’re planning a sun-drenched escape to Spain, a cultural break in Greece, or a first-look at Ikos’s new resorts in Portugal and Montenegro, you’ll find a blend of five-star indulgence and genuine respect.

If you’re still deciding when to travel, explore the best LGBT-friendly resorts for a winter holiday — our seasonal guide to inclusive escapes around the world.

LGBT Holidays at Ikos Resorts: Where Luxury Meets Inclusion

For travellers who value both sophistication and sincerity, Ikos is the name to know. With properties across Spain and Greece — and fresh openings in Portugal’s Algarve and Montenegro’s Boka Bay — the brand is rewriting what “all-inclusive” means for modern queer travel.

But what truly sets Ikos apart? Beyond the infinity pools and Michelin-star dining partnerships lies a company culture quietly but firmly built on equality.

A 2023 Forbes Travel Guide feature noted that “Ikos Resorts’ hospitality is rooted in personalised care, where every guest is treated as part of the family.” For LGBT+ guests, that sense of belonging isn’t implied — it’s experienced daily through attentive staff, zero awkwardness, and an atmosphere that celebrates diversity.

Third-party confirmation helps too: SmarterTravel ranked Ikos Dassia among the “13 Best All-Inclusive Resorts for LGBTQ+ Travellers,” praising its open, welcoming ethos. And hundreds of reviews on TripAdvisor echo the same story — “Staff couldn’t have been kinder to us as a same-sex couple” (Ikos Aria, 2024).

Jamie Says:

“What I love most about Ikos is that inclusion isn’t a marketing slogan — it’s how they train their teams. Couples of every kind feel looked after. That’s rare, and it’s why we’re proud to recommend them.”

Jamie Wake, Founder, Wide Awake Holidays

Why Ikos Fits LGBT+ Travellers Perfectly

Ikos’s ethos — “Unconditional Luxury” — aligns beautifully with what LGBT travellers seek: relaxation without pretence, service without assumptions, and surroundings that balance privacy with pride.

Here’s why the brand consistently ranks among our top picks for gay-friendly European holidays:

1. Genuine Inclusion & Training
   Staff across Ikos properties complete diversity and equality workshops as part of the Sani/Ikos Group’s ESG programme. The company’s 2024 Sustainability Report confirms its focus on “respecting individuality and cultural diversity across guests and employees.”
2. Location Matters
   Resorts are positioned in some of Europe’s most LGBT-friendly countries — Spain and Greece — both offering robust legal protections and thriving queer travel communities.
3. All-Inclusive Without Limits
   Premium dining, branded spirits, 24-hour room service, beach waiter service, and the “Local Discovery” dining scheme (meals at hand-picked local restaurants, all included) — luxury without the awkward check.
4. TripAdvisor Voices
   Same-sex couples repeatedly note comfort: “Every staff member treated us exactly like any other couple — we’ll be back next year” (Ikos Andalusia, May 2025).
5. Tailored Expert Support
   Booking through Wide Awake Holidays means pre-checked inclusivity, flexible flights, and peace of mind with ABTA and ATOL protection — so your only job is to relax.

Destination Spotlight 1 — Ikos Andalusia ( Estepona, Spain )

Andalusia glows with Mediterranean warmth — and Ikos Andalusia captures that spirit perfectly. This resort sits between Marbella and Estepona, offering endless sea views, six à la carte restaurants, and a sense of refined calm that feels effortless.

Guests praise its modern design and genuine service: “Everyone smiled, no awkward questions about our relationship, just welcome champagne and kindness.” (TripAdvisor review, 2024.)

The Costa del Sol has long been a haven for inclusive travel, with Torremolinos and Malaga celebrating Pride events and LGBTQ+ rights protected nationwide. Spain’s progressive stance — from equal marriage (since 2005) to anti-discrimination laws — makes it a benchmark for European acceptance.

Why it’s ideal for queer couples

• Adults-only pool zones for peaceful relaxation.
• Exceptional gastronomy (the Michelin-advised Ouzo restaurant is a highlight).
• Easy access to gay-friendly nightlife in Marbella and Torremolinos.

Spain’s Costa del Sol is famously welcoming, much like the destinations in our feature on Exploring LGBT+ villages in France, where inclusive European culture thrives all year.

How Gay Friendly is Southern Spain?

Extremely. Andalusia’s tourism board promotes LGBT inclusion directly, and local festivals such as Orgullo de Torremolinos attract tens of thousands each summer. Staff across luxury resorts receive diversity training via Spain’s “Hospitality for All” programme, ensuring a warm welcome.

Ikos Andalusia reflects this environment — modern, international, and confidently inclusive.

Destination Spotlight 2 — Ikos Dassia (Corfu, Greece)

Ikos Dassia, set on Corfu’s tranquil eastern coast, is one of Ikos’s most celebrated resorts — and notably, it’s the only Ikos property named by SmarterTravel as an “LGBTQ+ friendly all-inclusive resort.”

Guests often describe its environment as “luxury without attitude.” From sunrise yoga on the beach to fine dining at Michelin-star collaborations, every part of the experience feels easy and authentic.

TripAdvisor reviewers back it up:

“As a gay couple we were treated with total respect. Staff used our names, not assumptions — and that made all the difference.” – Ikos Dassia guest, 2024

For queer travellers, this kind of normalcy is priceless. There’s no coded language or awkwardness — just genuine hospitality in a place that’s beautifully designed for relaxation.

Resort Highlights

• Eight à-la-carte restaurants, 24-hour room service, and the Local Discovery Dining programme.
• Adults-only pools and sun-loungers for quiet downtime.
• The Anne Semonin Spa — a serene retreat offering couples’ treatments for all genders.
• Local Discovery Drive: complimentary Mini Coopers for exploring Corfu’s coastline.

(Internal link: LGBT-friendly wellness retreats) – explore other inclusive spa and wellness escapes across Europe and beyond.

How Gay Friendly is Corfu?

Greece’s islands have a long history of warm hospitality towards LGBTQ+ travellers. While Mykonos and Santorini have long dominated queer travel headlines, Corfu’s approach is more understated yet equally open.

In recent years, Corfu has hosted Pride events and supported the Greek National Tourism Organisation’s “Tourism for All” programme. Ikos Dassia, in particular, is known for its strong inclusivity record — and that’s reflected both in travel press and real-world guest experiences.

“Our couples who choose Corfu tell us it feels personal — fewer crowds, quieter luxury, and a real sense of connection.” – Jamie Wake, Founder, Wide Awake Holidays

Destination Spotlight 3 — Ikos Aria (Kos, Greece)

On the sun-kissed island of Kos, Ikos Aria brings the same all-inclusive excellence to one of the Aegean’s most peaceful locations. Here, it’s all about harmony: mountains behind you, sea in front, and an atmosphere of refined simplicity.

The resort’s design combines whitewashed minimalism with Aegean textures — stone, olive, glass, and light. For LGBT travellers seeking somewhere calm yet luxurious, it’s perfect for honeymoons or anniversary escapes.

Why it Works for Queer Travellers

• Greek hospitality at its most natural and welcoming.
• Private gardens, beachfront suites, and sunset dinners made for two.
• Staff trained through the Sani/Ikos Group diversity programme, ensuring inclusion without tokenism.

Guest reviews repeatedly mention comfort and connection:



“We didn’t once feel out of place — everyone smiled and treated us like family.” – Ikos Aria guest review, 2024

(Internal link: Booking with confidence — LGBT+ protection and peace of mind) – discover how your bookings stay secure with ABTA and ATOL protection.

How Gay Friendly is Kos?

Kos is relaxed and cosmopolitan. While smaller villages keep traditional charm, the main tourist areas thrive on international visitors. Same-sex couples can enjoy the same comfort as anywhere else in Greece’s high-end resorts.

In 2024, Greece strengthened its civil-partnership rights and anti-discrimination laws — steps that make luxury tourism more inclusive than ever. Combined with Ikos’s internal inclusivity training, it adds up to a stay that’s both safe and celebratory.

Destination Spotlight 4 — Ikos Kissamos (Crete, Greece)

Crete’s newest gem, Ikos Kissamos, opened its doors in 2025 and has already earned raves for “next-generation all-inclusive luxury.” It’s built on the same philosophy as its sister resorts but with an even stronger focus on wellness and eco-design.

As a proudly inclusive resort, Ikos Kissamos features neutral-design spa facilities, same-sex couple spa menus, and diversity training built into its staff onboarding. It’s part of the brand’s updated “Sani/Ikos Group Harmony Programme,” introduced in 2024 to ensure consistency across all properties.

Why it’s a top pick for LGBT couples

• Private plunge-pool suites for full privacy.
• Organic cuisine using local Cretan produce.
• A modern spa inspired by Greek and Eastern healing — perfect for couples’ treatments.
• Fully ATOL-protected when booked through Wide Awake Holidays.

For travellers who value relaxation and mindfulness, our round-up of LGBT-friendly wellness retreats highlights how inclusive wellbeing spaces are shaping modern luxury holidays.

How Gay Friendly is Crete?

Crete has grown rapidly in LGBT+ travel appeal, especially around Chania and Heraklion. While local life remains traditional inland, tourist resorts and beach clubs are open, cosmopolitan, and used to welcoming international same-sex couples.

Ikos Kissamos bridges both worlds — serene seclusion and contemporary comfort, all within a brand that values genuine inclusion.

“Crete’s charm is timeless,” says Jamie. “Ikos brings it into the modern age — with service that feels personal and open-hearted.”

Destination Spotlight 5 — Ikos Porto Petro (Mallorca, Spain)

Opened in 2023, Ikos Porto Petro is one of the crown jewels of the Balearics — and proof that the brand’s expansion hasn’t diluted its inclusive heart.

The resort sits on Mallorca’s southeast coast, between two coves. Think turquoise water, glass-walled suites, and open-air restaurants scented with rosemary and sea salt. Guests mention a quiet confidence in how the resort treats all couples equally.

Spain remains one of Europe’s safest destinations for LGBT travel, and Mallorca’s capital, Palma, hosts an annual Pride parade drawing visitors from across the continent.

(Internal link: LGBT-friendly travel safety tips) – read our guide on staying safe and confident while travelling abroad.



Why LGBT Travellers Love Ikos Porto Petro

• Direct flights from the UK and easy transfers.
• A calm alternative to Mykonos or Ibiza, without sacrificing luxury.
• Staff praised for professionalism and warmth — “treated exactly like every other couple.”
• Proximity to Palma’s gay nightlife and inclusive culture.

For LGBT+ families, the resort’s kids’ club, children’s pools, and family suites make it an excellent multi-generation option too.

Ikos Cortesia, Algarve (Portugal) — Opening Summer 2028

Ikos’s first Portugal resort is Ikos Cortesia in the Algarve, officially slated for summer 2028. This timing is confirmed by Sani/Ikos Group releases and trade coverage noting Cortesia’s opening window between 2026–2028, now firmed to 2028. 

What to expect: a brand-new beachfront Ikos with the group’s “Unconditional Luxury” all-inclusive concept and sustainability features seen across the portfolio. (We’ll update room counts and facilities once the brand publishes the final spec sheet.) 

The Wide Awake Difference — Booking LGBT Holidays at Ikos Resorts

When you book through Wide Awake Holidays, you’re choosing more than a resort. You’re choosing peace of mind, protection, and personal understanding.

• ABTA & ATOL Protection – Full financial and consumer security on all packages.
• Tailored Service – We handle the details: room placement, flight times, dietary needs, and inclusive requests.
• Cultural Sensitivity Checks – Our team reviews each resort’s inclusivity track record to ensure genuine comfort.
• Exclusive Offers – Early booking discounts, free transfers, or wellness upgrades depending on resort and season.

Ready to Plan Your Escape?

Ikos Resorts redefine what “all-inclusive” can mean — indulgent, seamless, and truly inclusive. Whether it’s the golden beaches of Spain, the calm of the Greek islands, or the emerging elegance of Portugal and Montenegro, each property welcomes you exactly as you are.

At Wide Awake Holidays, we ensure that welcome begins the moment you enquire.

👉 Contact us today to start planning your next luxury LGBT-friendly Ikos escape.

FAQs — Your Questions About LGBT Holidays at Ikos Resorts