The Peligoni Club stands out from typical resorts in a way that feels refreshingly unique. Imagine a place where the focus shifts from sandy beaches and regimented rows of loungers to the tranquil excitement of a floating pontoon, extending out into the sparkling Ionian Sea. Here, families come alive as children leap off the pontoon in groups, while teenagers lounge about in between swims. Since its inception in the 1980s and its revival under the Shearer family in 2005, the club has stayed true to its relaxed vibe. The Shearers have managed to blend this laid-back spirit with continual enhancements, creating an environment that both children and parents can enjoy. Vogue’s Jessica Diner, in her quest for the ideal family getaway where adults can unwind and kids can thrive, decided to explore what this hidden gem has to offer.
The club boasts around 100 stunning villas, each offering a distinctive charm—from chic stone houses to modern glass structures. These accommodations allow families to retreat into their own spaces while remaining connected to the vibrant activities happening by the sea. One of the most appealing features is the kids’ club, which is operated by TARKA, a London-based children’s camp renowned for its engaging programs. The camp takes childcare to an exhilarating level, enabling kids to engage in thrilling activities each day. Diner’s own children found themselves paddling around on kayaks and paddleboards each morning, returning sun-kissed and joyfully exhausted—exactly the kind of fatigue parents hope for on a family holiday. Meanwhile, the youngest was entertained in the creche, allowing the grown-ups some much-needed time to relax.
The aesthetic of the Peligoni Club leans towards a deliberately unpretentious style. With whitewashed walls, soft-hued stone, cozy shaded courtyards, and simple rattan furniture, the design exudes an inviting and homely feel. Olive trees and vibrant bougainvillea adorn the pathways, creating a landscape that feels more like a welcoming sailing hub than an upscale hotel. This understated yet appealing environment is part of what makes the Peligoni experience so charming and memorable.
At the heart of the Peligoni Club’s allure is its deep connection to the water. Families can indulge in an extensive range of water sports by purchasing a watersports pass for the week, allowing kids to spend their days kayaking, sailing, paddleboarding, and snorkeling. For the more adventurous, water skiing is also on the table. The club organizes activities based on age groups, ensuring that both younger and older children can engage in suitable yet exciting experiences. Meanwhile, parents have the luxury of time to invest in yoga, tennis, or a rejuvenating massage at the Goat Shed Spa. You can curate a week full of activity or simply relish the freedom to do nothing at all—both options are equally valid and embraced.
The Peligoni Club fosters a warm community vibe, with many families returning year after year. Diner learned that some guests have been visiting for 14 summers straight, a testament to the loyalty this charming venue inspires. In fact, some children return decades later to work in the very restaurant where they spent their youth, exemplifying the deep affection families develop for the Peligoni experience. It’s this enduring connection that truly speaks to the quality of what the club provides, more than any glossy brochure ever could.
In essence, the Peligoni Club is a hidden paradise that offers a refreshing escape for families seeking both adventure and relaxation. It effortlessly combines a relaxed aesthetic with engaging programs and luxurious amenities, making it a destination that feels like home away from home. Whether it’s enjoying exhilarating watersports or simply savoring quiet moments in the sun, the Peligoni Club has something to offer everyone, creating cherished memories that families will carry long after they leave its enchanting shores.