Sani Resort claimed the titles of “World’s Leading Family & Beach Resort” for the sixth consecutive year, “World’s Leading Luxury Green Resort” for the fifth time, and “World’s Leading Cultural Destination Resort” for the third year running. For the first time, Ikos Resorts were named “World’s Leading Luxury All-Inclusive Resort Brand 2024.”
The Sani/Ikos Group celebrated remarkable achievements at the 2024 World Travel Awards, securing three prestigious accolades for Sani Resort and earning a groundbreaking global recognition for Ikos Resorts. These internationally renowned awards celebrate excellence in the tourism and hospitality industry, highlighting the best practices and achievements worldwide.
At this year’s ceremony, held on November 24 in Madeira, Portugal, Sani Resort was named “World’s Leading Family & Beach Resort” for the sixth consecutive year. It also retained the title of “World’s Leading Luxury Green Resort” for a fifth consecutive year, acknowledging its innovative environmental practices in decarbonization, circular economy, biodiversity conservation, and the promotion of eco-tourism. Additionally, Sani Resort secured the “World’s Leading Cultural Destination Resort” award for the third year running, celebrating its internationally acclaimed festivals, Sani Gourmet and Sani Festival. Notably, Sani is the only resort in the 30-year history of the World Travel Awards to achieve these distinctions consecutively.
This year’s awards also marked a major milestone for Ikos Resorts, which for the first time earned the title of “World’s Leading Luxury All-Inclusive Resort Brand 2024,” solidifying its status as a leader in luxury all-inclusive tourism worldwide.
With 12 award-winning luxury resorts in Greece and Spain, the Sani/Ikos Group continues to expand across the Mediterranean, with three new Ikos Resorts under development in Crete (Greece), Marbella (Spain), and Algarve (Portugal). These resorts are set to open between 2026 and 2028, further enhancing the unparalleled hospitality offered by Sani Resort and Ikos Resorts.
World’s Leading Family & Beach Resort
Winning the “World’s Leading Family & Beach Resort” award for the sixth consecutive year, Sani Resort was recognized for its high-quality facilities, exceptional services, and family-focused initiatives. Nestled in a 4,000-acre natural sanctuary in Kassandra, Halkidiki, surrounded by dense pine forests, wetlands, and pristine beaches, families can engage in a variety of activities such as nature exploration, water sports, outdoor adventures, and specialized academies like the Rafa Nadal Tennis Centre, Chelsea FC Football Academy, and Bear Grylls Survival Academy. Dedicated Kids Clubs, staffed by trained professionals, further ensure a memorable stay for younger guests.
The resort boasts 7 km of award-winning Blue Flag beaches and 20 km of forest trails and cycling paths, creating a perfect blend of natural beauty and family-friendly amenities.
World’s Leading Luxury Green Resort
Securing the “World’s Leading Luxury Green Resort” title for the fifth consecutive year, Sani Resort continues to set new benchmarks in sustainable Mediterranean tourism through its Sani Green program. This initiative encompasses a wide range of sustainable practices, including energy efficiency measures, biodiversity protection, eco-tourism promotion, and community empowerment. Collaborations with scientific institutes and NGOs have resulted in experiential activities for guests, such as wetland and forest tours, birdwatching trails, and olive grove excursions.
As the first carbon-neutral resort in Greece since 2020, powered entirely by renewable energy, Sani Resort aims to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2030. Key measures include significant investments in energy-saving systems, large-scale renewable energy projects, electrification of its infrastructure, and zero-waste practices. In 2023 alone, the resort reduced energy consumption per guest night by over 7% and recycled 100% of its gray water through onsite biological treatment systems. Single-use plastics were reduced by 74.4% compared to 2018-19 levels, with plans for complete elimination by 2024. Additionally, the Sani Forest, maintained in partnership with the Forest Research Institute, has sequestered over 150,000 tons of CO₂.
World’s Leading Cultural Destination Resort
Sani Resort also claimed the “World’s Leading Cultural Destination Resort” award for the third time. Its iconic Sani Festival brings together global audiences with diverse music genres, from classical and jazz to rock and pop. Since 1992, it has hosted world-class artists such as Andrea Bocelli, Sarah Brightman, Bonnie Tyler, UB40 ft. Ali Campbell, Tom Odell, Bob Geldof, Jack Savoretti, Al Di Meola, and Jan Garbarek. Highlights of the 2024 festival included performances by pop legend Tom Jones, the Gipsy Kings, and a special tribute to the renowned Greek composer Mimis Plessas.
The Sani Gourmet festival, held annually in July and August, celebrates culinary excellence, showcasing the world’s gastronomic cultures through collaborations with award-winning Michelin-star chefs and emerging talents. The 2024 edition featured chefs like Massimo Bottura, Andoni Aduriz, and Ana Ros, who delighted attendees with signature dishes and innovative creations.
Ikos Resorts: World’s Leading Luxury All-Inclusive Resort Brand 2024
Ikos Resorts achieved a major global milestone at this year’s World Travel Awards, earning the “World’s Leading Luxury All-Inclusive Resort Brand 2024” title. Redefining luxury all-inclusive vacations, Ikos Resorts introduced the innovative concept of “unconditional luxury,” offering guests world-class five-star facilities and services seamlessly integrated into their stay.
With seven owned and operated resorts in Greece and Spain, Ikos Resorts deliver exceptional experiences, including Michelin-starred menus, a curated selection of 300 international wines, 24/7 room service, kids’ clubs, and family-friendly activities. Guests can also enjoy local dining experiences through the “Ikos Dine Out” service and explore destinations with the complimentary “Local Drive Adventure,” featuring Tesla cars, nature hikes, and museum passes.
Three new Ikos Resorts are underway in Crete, Marbella, and Algarve, set to open between 2026 and 2028, further establishing the brand’s commitment to excellence in luxury hospitality.
