Our Story

Our story begins in the late 1960’s when Vassilis Dracopoulos senior visits the fishing village of Benitses and falls in love with the beautiful island of Corfu. Sitting on Corfu’s lush shoreline, and overlooking the iridescent Ionian Sea, Vassilis Dracopoulos Senior had a dream – to share his love for the island with family and friends. It’s a tale of vision, challenges and unconditional hospitality which is still unfolding over five decades later.

MarBella is born

Vassilis buys an expanse of land with a tiny house on it at Agios Ioannis Peristeron to entertain his family and friends. He soon realises the potential and builds a complex of 62 rooms with a swimming pool. The wonderful view of the calm sea and crystal clear waters give rise to the name “MarBella” meaning Beautiful Sea in Italian – marking the start of a long and loving journey for the Dracopoulos family.

A growing reputation

In 1970, 300 rooms are added, together with a tunnel offering easy and direct access to the beach. Now considered one of Corfu’s most significant landmarks, the hotel’s worldwide reputation for excellent service and facilities continues to grow. Vassilis’ vision has blossomed into a luxurious trendsetting development but never at the expense of the natural environment or its people.

Celebrating 50 years

Realising a growing demand for sophisticated adult-only holidays, Nido, opens its doors in 2018. In 2019 the Collection celebrates its 50th year having welcomed over one million families. Mar-Bella Collection has evolved as a third-generation family-owned collection of hotels. Each with its own unique character, yet all sharing the same passion, passed down from generation to generation. And supported
by our wonderful team who we care for as part of our very own family too.

A new era

In 2021, Elix in the Parga region of the Greek mainland is being added to our family with a focus on ultra-modern hospitality and outdoor adventures. 50 glorious years on, the Dracopoulos family’s dedication to offer refined level of hospitality is stronger than ever. Our three distinct properties meet the desires and demands of travellers no matter their age or needs. Our guests continue to return for unforgettable holidays, time and again as they journey through every phase of their life.

Our purpose

Today, we continue the long love affair with these crystal-clear Ionian waters which link and define each of our hotels. It’s a Collection where, like all families, each member is distinctly individual. At all times the family is at the heart of everything we do. We welcome families of all shapes and sizes from across the world. And we understand what they need. Giving each one of them the space, freedom, and time to connect with each other.

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